ALOFI

• NUALO
• Latitude: -19.0522
• Longitude: -169.924
• South Pacific
• Port in Niue

Location: Alofi Niue

Marine Port Description and Specification: Alofi, Niue

General Overview: Alofi is the capital city of Niue, a small island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. Due to its unique geographical and geological characteristics, the port at Alofi serves as a critical access point for both commercial and leisure maritime activities. Here's an overview of this port's features and specifications:

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 19°03′26″S latitude and 169°55′08″W longitude.
• Region: Located in the southwestern part of Niue, Alofi Bay to be specific.

Port Facilities:

• Type: Small, open-roadstead port with limited dock facilities.
• Harbor: Due to the island's coral reef structure, there is no deep-water harbor. Ships typically anchor offshore, and cargo is transferred via lighters (small boats or barges).
• Wharves/Piers: There are minimal wharf facilities, consisting mainly of a small concrete wharf used by local fishing boats and pleasure craft.

Cargo Handling:

• Main Cargo: General cargo, containerized goods, and bulk commodities needed for the island's consumption, as well as export items like noni juice and local handicrafts.
• Equipment: Minimal dockside equipment; cargo handling is largely manual or with limited mechanization.

Navigation:

• Approach: Ships must navigate through gaps in the coral reef to reach suitable anchorage points. Navigation is generally conducted with caution due to reefs and variable weather conditions.
• Anchorage: Vessels anchor off the coast in designated anchorage areas.

Draft and Size Limitations:

• Maximum Draft: Generally restricted due to the shallow and reef-protected waters. Large vessels may not be able to come close to the shore.
• Vessel Size: Small to moderately-sized vessels are advised. Larger vessels typically remain farther offshore.

Tide and Weather Conditions:

• Tidal Range: The tidal range is generally small, but can impact anchorage and cargo operations.
• Weather: Tropical climate with a cyclone season typically from November to April. Mariners should be aware of potential severe weather and plan accordingly.

Port Services:

• Bunkering: Limited fuel supply available, primarily for local vessels.
• Water Supply: Freshwater supply is limited and needs to be managed carefully.
• Repairs: No major repair facilities; minor repairs can be addressed onshore or with visiting vessels' own resources.
• Waste Disposal: Basic waste disposal services, with emphasis on minimizing marine pollution.

Immigration and Customs:

• Clearance: Vessels must clear through local due processes upon arrival and before departure. Immigration and customs officials are available to facilitate these processes.
• Regulations: Compliance with Niuean maritime and environmental regulations is mandatory.

Additional Information:

• Communication: Basic communication facilities are available, including mobile and satellite services.
• Transport Links: Limited road transport; the primary international link is via Hanan International Airport located inland from Alofi.

Notable Considerations:

• Tourism: Alofi is a gateway for tourism, with the port facilitating access to local attractions like marine protected areas and cave diving sites.
• Environmental Protection: Niue places a strong emphasis on environmental protection due to its fragile ecosystems.

Given Alofi's status as a small and somewhat remote port, it is crucial for visiting vessels to be well-prepared and self-sufficient, particularly in terms of navigation and supplies.