BELLA COOLA
- Latitude: 52.3789 •
- Longitude: -126.785 •
- West Coast Canada •
- Port in Canada
Address: Canada
Bella Coola is a small, remote community located in British Columbia, Canada, at the head of North Bentinck Arm, an inlet of the Pacific Ocean. The port of Bella Coola serves as a crucial access point to this region, primarily supporting the local fishing industry, tourism, and some commercial shipping. Below is a detailed description and specifications for the Bella Coola Marine Port.
Geographic Location
- Coordinates: Approximately 52.3725° N latitude and 126.7536° W longitude
- Region: Central Coast of British Columbia
- Proximity: The port is about 450 kilometers northwest of Vancouver, accessible via Highway 20.
Port Infrastructure
Terminals and Docks:
- The port features a small marine terminal capable of accommodating various types of vessels including fishing boats, smaller cargo ships, and ferries.
- There are multiple docks catering to different needs such as commercial fishing, recreational boating, and tourism-related vessels.
Depth and Approach:
- The harbor has a variable depth, generally ranging from about 1.5 meters to over 6 meters.
- Approach channels are well marked; however, they require careful navigation due to the tidal range and local underwater topography.
Facilities:
- Loading and Unloading: Basic facilities for loading and unloading goods, including a small cargo area.
- Storage: Limited warehousing space available for storage of goods and fishing supplies.
- Fuel and Water: Fueling stations and freshwater supply points are available for vessels.
- Marine Services: Basic repair and maintenance services for boats, including slipways and small workshops.
Activities and Cargo
- Fishing Industry: The port supports a robust fishing industry focused on species like salmon, halibut, and various shellfish.
- Tourism: Bella Coola serves as a gateway for ecotourism, offering marine tours, wildlife viewing, and access to the Great Bear Rainforest.
- Commercial Shipping: While not a major cargo port, it handles some commercial shipping primarily connected to local industry and trade.
Transportation and Accessibility
- Road Access: Connected by Highway 20, which links Bella Coola to the inland town of Williams Lake and beyond.
- Ferry Services: BC Ferries operates seasonal ferry service linking Bella Coola with Port Hardy on Vancouver Island and other coastal communities.
- Air Transport: The nearby Anahim Lake Airport and Bella Bella (Campbell Island) Airport offer limited commercial flights.
Environmental Conditions
- Climate: Bella Coola has a marine west coast climate, with mild, wet winters and cool, dry summers.
- Tidal Range: The port experiences significant tidal variations, which necessitate careful planning for vessel arrivals and departures.
- Weather: Mariners must be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and fog.
Additional Information
- Port Authority: The port is managed by local municipal authorities in conjunction with the Bella Coola Harbour Authority.
- Regulations: Vessel operators are required to adhere to local, provincial, and federal maritime regulations pertaining to safety, environmental protection, and customs.
Summary
The marine port of Bella Coola plays a vital role for its community by supporting local industries, including fishing and tourism. It provides necessary marine services despite its remote location, featuring basic facilities for cargo handling, vessel maintenance, and passenger transport. The beautiful, albeit challenging, natural environment makes Bella Coola a unique and essential part of the British Columbian coastal infrastructure.