BEAUCAIRE

• FRBCA
• Latitude: 43.8047
• Longitude: 4.64161
• West Mediterranean
• Marina in France

Location: France

Beaucaire is a picturesque town located in the Gard department of southern France. While it is more commonly known for its historical significance and cultural heritage, it also has a quaint but functional river port situated on the banks of the Rhône River. The port is strategically positioned for inland waterways rather than coastal shipping, tying into the extensive network of canals and rivers that crisscross this region of France.

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Beaucaire

Location:

• Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 43.8003° N latitude and 4.6450° E longitude.
• River System: Situated on the Rhône River, which is one of the major waterways in France.

Port Infrastructure:

• Berthing Facilities: The port has a number of berths suitable for small to medium-sized river vessels, including cargo barges and passenger boats.
• Docking Space: Limited but efficient, primarily intended for specific types of riverine traffic.
• Depth: The draft is relatively shallow, typical of inland river ports, accommodating vessels with a shallow draft.
• Quay Length: Adequate for simultaneous docking of multiple medium-sized river vessels.

Cargo Handling:

• Primary Function: The port services a variety of transport needs, including the handling of general cargo, agricultural products, and occasional construction materials.
• Loading/Unloading: Equipped with basic loading and unloading facilities, mainly cranes and other simple cargo-handling equipment.

Transport Links:

• Road Connections: Well connected by regional road networks, facilitating efficient transportation of goods to and from the port.
• Rail Links: Nearby rail connections enhance the logistical capabilities, enabling the movement of larger quantities of goods to further destinations.
• Proximity to Major Cities: Close to Avignon and Nîmes, expanding its logistical reach and significance.

Services:

• Maintenance and Repair: Limited facilities for vessel maintenance and repair.
• Fueling Stations: Basic fueling services are available.
• Warehousing: Some storage facilities are present, catering primarily to local industries.

Additional Features:

• Navigation: Governed by the regulations of river navigation, with signaling systems and navigational aids ensuring safe passage.
• Customs: Simple customs and regulatory framework typical of regional inland ports.

Usage:

• Commercial Use: Mainly for the transport of local and regional goods.
• Tourism: Increasingly significant for tourism, offering river cruises and other recreational activities.

Prospects and Development:

• Potential for Expansion: There are ongoing discussions and plans for improving port facilities to boost economic activities.
• Environmental Considerations: Being on a river, there are stringent environmental regulations in place to minimize the ecological impact on the Rhône.

While Beaucaire's port is not among the largest or busiest in France, its strategic position on the Rhône River makes it a crucial node for regional transport and logistics. The combination of historical charm and functional infrastructure gives it a unique standing in the network of French inland ports.