BAHIA MALAGA

• Latitude: 3.9733
• Longitude: -77.3271
• West South America
• Port in Colombia

Location: Buenaventura Valle del Cauca Colombia

Bahía Málaga is a prominent bay located on the Pacific coast of Colombia in the department of Valle del Cauca. It is known for its strategic positioning, natural beauty, and ecological significance.

General Description:

• Location: Bahía Málaga lies approximately 100 kilometers west of the city of Cali and is situated in the vicinity of the towns of Buenaventura and Juanchaco.
• Ecological Importance: The bay is part of the larger region known as the Chocó biogeographic area, characterized by its high biodiversity and unique ecosystems. The bay and surrounding area are known for mangrove forests, numerous species of marine life, and are a notable site for whale watching, particularly for humpback whales.
• Access: The bay and its ports can be reached by sea and road, with nearby Buenaventura serving as a major access point.

Port Specifications:

Port Name: Bahía Málaga Naval Base (ARC Málaga)

Type: Military and support facility, with some capacity for commercial and logistic operations.

Coordinates: 3°55′00″N 77°19′00″W

Features:

1. Berthing Facilities:

   • The port includes berthing facilities primarily intended for naval ships.
   • Limited facilities may be available for commercial vessels, particularly those supplying the area or involved in logistic operations.

2. Depth and Tidal Information:

   • The depths in the bay vary, with deep waters suitable for larger vessels.
   • The area experiences significant tidal changes, which need to be factored in for navigation and docking.

3. Infrastructure:

   • The port infrastructure is relatively basic compared to major commercial ports like Buenaventura.
   • There are some facilities to support naval operations, including maintenance and resupply.

4. Navigation Aids:

   • The bay is equipped with standard navigation aids to assist in safe entry and departure.
   • This includes buoys, lights, and maritime communication systems.

5. Safety and Environmental Measures:

   • Given the bay's ecological significance, strict environmental regulations are likely in place.
   • Safety protocols adhere to both maritime standards and specific regulations governed by the Colombian Navy.

Economic and Strategic Importance:

• Military Use: The primary use of Bahía Málaga is as a naval base for the Colombian Navy, which leverages the strategic location for maritime security and defense operations.
• Commercial Support: Although not a major commercial port, it does support some commercial activities including goods delivery for the region.
• Tourism: The surrounding area of Bahía Málaga is popular for eco-tourism, particularly for activities such as whale watching, bird watching, and exploring the rich biodiversity of the Chocó region.

Nearby Connections:

• Buenaventura: As the nearest major port, Buenaventura accommodates a significant portion of Colombia's maritime commerce on the Pacific coast.
• Cali: The closest large inland city, providing economic and logistic support for operations in Bahía Málaga.

Conclusion:

Bahía Málaga, while primarily a military port, plays an important role in regional maritime operations and ecological tourism. Its strategic location and natural features make it a significant asset for Colombia's Pacific coast.