BIG CREEK

• Latitude: 16.5149
•
• Longitude: -88.4047
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• East Coast Central America
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• Port in Belize

Address: Big Creek Belize

Phone number: +501-222-1234

Web-site: http://www.bigcreekport.bz

Big Creek Port Overview

Big Creek, also referred to as Commerce Bight, is one of the primary seaports in Belize. Situated in the Stann Creek District, it primarily serves the southern region of the country. This port is essential for both import and export activities, playing a pivotal role in the local and national economy.

Location

• Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 16.5408° N latitude and 88.3994° W longitude.
• Proximity to Key Locations: Big Creek is located around 80 miles south of Belize City, the nation’s largest urban area and principal port. It's near the town of Independence and is accessible to various inland routes and transportation networks.

Port Specifications

• Terminals and Facilities:

  • General Cargo Terminals: Equipped to handle various types of cargo, including containerized goods, bulk cargo, and break-bulk cargo.
  • Liquid Bulk Terminal: Facilitates the import and export of liquid products such as petroleum and other chemicals.
  • Specialized Terminals: Specific docks and handling facilities for banana exports, one of the major export products of the region.
  • Storage Facilities: Warehousing and open storage areas to support the storage of inbound and outbound goods.

• Water Depth: The draft permissible at the port can handle vessels with a moderate draft due to navigable channels, generally accommodating ships with drafts up to 9.5 meters (approximately 31 feet).

• Berthing: The port provides adequate berthing spaces for multiple vessels, including tug boats and pilotage services to support larger vessels docking.

• Container Handling: The port is equipped with container handling cranes and equipment, although on a smaller scale compared to major international ports.

• Navigation Aids: Advanced navigation aids, including buoys, lights, and electronic navigation systems, ensure safe passage for vessels entering and exiting the port.

Services

• Pilotage: Pilotage is generally compulsory for larger vessels. Experienced pilots are available to guide ships through the Big Creek harbor.
• Tug Services: Tugs are available to assist in maneuvering larger vessels safely to and from berths.
• Customs and Security: The port has customs clearance facilities to manage the import/export processes efficiently. Security measures are in place to ensure safety and compliance with international standards.

Economic Role

Big Creek Port is instrumental in supporting Belize’s agricultural exports, particularly bananas, citrus, and shrimp. It also handles import activities vital for regional development and trade.

Upcoming Development

Ongoing and proposed infrastructure upgrades aim to enhance the port’s capacity and efficiency to meet increasing trade demands. This includes dredging to increase water depth, additional berthing facilities, and modernization of cargo handling equipment.

Conclusion

Big Creek Port serves as a critical hub for maritime activities in southern Belize. With its strategic location, evolving facilities, and services, it sustains and facilitates some of the nation’s key economic activities, ensuring connectivity with international markets.