AILUK ISLAND
- Latitude: 10.2217 •
- Longitude: 169.979 •
- North Pacific •
- Port in Marshall Islands
Address: Ailuk Island Marshall Islands
Ailuk Island Marine Port Description and Specification
General Information
- Location: Ailuk Island is part of the Ratak Chain in the Marshall Islands, situated in the central Pacific Ocean. The coordinates are approximately 10.1611° N latitude and 169.9794° E longitude.
- Country: Republic of the Marshall Islands
Port Characteristics
- Port Type: Small-scale, minor port primarily servicing local fishing vessels and small cargo ships.
- Operational Authority: Managed under the Maritime Administration of the Marshall Islands with oversight from local governmental bodies.
- Primary Use: The port is mainly utilized for inter-island transportation, fishing operations, and supply delivery to the local population.
Infrastructure
- Berthing Facilities: Limited docking space suitable for small to medium-sized vessels. Berths are typically unpaved and natural, with some areas having basic infrastructure.
- Depth: Due to the reef formations around Ailuk Atoll, the water depth is relatively shallow, restricting access for larger, deep-draft ships.
- Navigational Aids: Basic navigational aids are in place, including buoys and beacons. Updated navigational charts and careful maneuvering are essential due to coral reefs and shallow areas.
- Warehousing and Storage: Minimal storage facilities available. Supplies and goods are generally offloaded directly and moved to inland storage as needed.
- Fuel and Supplies: Limited fuel supply available; ships needing significant refueling typically do so at larger ports.
- Facilities: Very basic amenities. Crew and passengers should ensure they have necessary supplies before arrival.
Services
- Pilotage: Not generally available. Ship captains should have knowledge of the local waters.
- Towage: Towage services are minimal and not consistently available.
- Repairs: No significant ship repair facilities present. Minor repairs may be possible using local resources.
Accessibility
- Access Channels: Entry through designated channels is necessary to avoid coral reefs and shallow zones. Vessels must navigate carefully.
- Customs and Immigration: Limited customs and immigration facilities. Inbound and outbound clearances are subject to national regulations of the Marshall Islands.
Communication
- Port Communication: Communication primarily via VHF radio on standard maritime frequencies.
- Emergency Services: Basic emergency services. No dedicated port medical or emergency response teams.
Environmental Considerations
- Tidal Range: Low tidal variation. However, weather conditions can impact water levels and navigational safety.
- Environmental Protection: Emphasis on preserving the marine environment, given the island’s ecological sensitivity. Strict anti-pollution measures enforced.
Economic Activity
- Trade: Limited to inter-island trade, local fishing activities, and supply deliveries.
- Main Commodities: Food supplies, building materials, and essential goods for the local population.
Key Considerations
- Voyages to Ailuk Island should be well-planned due to the limited infrastructure and services.
- Mariners are advised to possess detailed charts and navigational instruments suitable for shallow, reef-strewn waters.
- Coordination with local authorities and updates on weather conditions are essential for safe passage and docking.
Contact Information
Maritime Administration of the Marshall Islands
- Phone: (Marshall Islands specific number)
- Email: (official email)
- Website: (official website)
Note: Exact contact details to be referenced from the latest resources from the Marshall Islands Maritime Administration.
This concise overview should aid mariners in preparing for arrival and operations at Ailuk Island Marine Port. Additional details may require direct contact with local maritime authorities.