ALTAGRACIA

• Latitude: 10.7335
•
• Longitude: -71.5415
•
• North Coast South America
•
• Port in Venezuela

Address: Venezuela

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Altagracia, Venezuela

Port Name: Altagracia Port

Country: Venezuela

Location:

• Geographical Coordinates: Approximately situated at latitude 10.1922° N and longitude 71.2789° W
• Position: Altagracia Port lies on the northeastern coast of Lake Maracaibo, one of South America's largest lakes, providing access to both inland and seaborne trade routes.

Strategic Importance:

• Role: The port is crucial for the regional economy, especially in the distribution of petroleum products, which are significant to Venezuela’s economy.
• Accessibility: Serves as a transit point for goods and resources between the inland regions of Venezuela and international markets. It is part of the network of ports along Lake Maracaibo which connect to the Gulf of Venezuela and the Caribbean Sea.

Port Facilities:

• Berths: Several berthing options available for different types of vessels, including tankers and general cargo ships.
• Terminals: Equipped with terminals for oil products, general cargo, and possibly container handling.
• Storage: Facilities for both liquid and dry bulk storage, including oil storage tanks, warehouses, and open storage yards.
• Cargo Handling: Equipped with cranes, conveyors, and other cargo-handling equipment to facilitate efficient loading and unloading operations.

Port Specifications:

• Channel Depth: Varies, but generally sufficient to accommodate medium to large-sized vessels.
• Tidal Information: Lake Maracaibo itself has brackish water and the tidal variations can impact navigation and berthing.
• Navigational Aids: Buoys, lighthouses, and electronic navigation guidance systems ensure safe passage into and out of the port.

Services:

• Pilotage: Mandatory for incoming and outgoing vessels, with experienced pilots guiding the ships through the channel to the port.
• Towing: Tugboats available to assist in maneuvering larger vessels into berths.
• Bunkering: Fueling services for ships, ensuring they can replenish their fuel supplies.
• Ship Repair: Minor repair services available onsite; major repairs may need to be conducted at other facilities within the regional port network.
• Customs and Immigration: Onsite services facilitate the quick processing of cargo and personnel, ensuring compliance with Venezuelan regulations.

Connectivity:

• Road: Linked to major highways and road networks, facilitating the easy transport of goods to and from the port.
• Rail: Limited rail connectivity may be available, though road transport is more commonly used for cargo movement.
• Air: Closest significant airport is located in Maracaibo, offering both cargo and passenger services.

Economic Impact:

• Employment: The port provides significant employment opportunities for the local communities.
• Trade: Essential for the export of petroleum and import of goods, playing a key role in Venezuela’s trade balance.

Regulatory Framework:

• Authority: Managed by the Venezuelan port authorities in accordance with national and international maritime regulations.
• Security: Compliance with international security standards, including ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code.

Future Developments:

• Expansion: Potential plans for expansion to accommodate increasing trade volumes.
• Modernization: Ongoing or planned initiatives to upgrade facilities and improve efficiency and safety.

Challenges:

• Economic Stability: The Venezuelan economy's fluctuations can impact port operations.
• Environmental Concerns: Pollution control and environmental sustainability are important given the port’s location on Lake Maracaibo.

Note: The information provided may be subject to change and should be verified with the latest reports from port authorities or maritime databases for accuracy.

Conclusion

Altagracia Port is a vital maritime facility in Venezuela, significantly contributing to the country's economy, particularly via the oil trade. Its strategic location and capacity to handle various types of cargo position it as a key logistics hub in the region. Ensuring the port’s continuous development and modernization is essential for sustaining its pivotal role in South America's maritime infrastructure.