BISSAU
- Latitude: 11.856 •
- Longitude: -15.577 •
- West Africa •
- Port in Guinea-Bissau
Address: Bissau Guinea-Bissau
Marine Port Description and Specifications: Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
Location:
- Port Name: Port of Bissau
- Country: Guinea-Bissau
- Coordinates: Approximately 11.85° N latitude and 15.58° W longitude
- Body of Water: Situated on the Geba River estuary
General Description:
- Type: Natural river port
- Primary Use: Commercial shipping, fishing, and passenger services
- Significance: Main port of Guinea-Bissau, supporting the majority of the country’s maritime trade
Facilities:
- Berths: Multiple berths available for different types of vessels, including container ships, general cargo vessels, and fishing boats.
- Terminals:
- Container Terminal: Handles containerized cargo with storage facilities and equipment for loading/unloading.
- Bulk Terminal: Equipped to handle bulk cargo, including grains and other commodities.
- Fish Terminal: Dedicated facilities for fishing vessels and processing areas.
- Storage: Warehousing facilities for dry and refrigerated cargo.
- Additional Infrastructure: Repair and maintenance facilities, fueling stations, customs offices, and administrative buildings.
Handling Equipment:
- Cranes: Mobile and fixed cranes for container and cargo handling.
- Forklifts, Reach Stackers, and Yard Trucks: Various equipment to handle and transport cargo within the port area.
Capacity and Throughput:
- Annual Cargo Throughput: The port handles a significant portion of the nation's imports and exports, with capacity dependent on current infrastructure and operational efficiency.
- Vessel Accommodations: The port can accommodate vessels with moderate draught limits, subject to river depth and tidal constraints.
Navigation and Access:
- Approach: Accessible via the Geba River, with navigational aids such as buoys and lighted markers to guide vessels.
- Depth: Varies along the berths; detailed hydrographic data should be reviewed for specific draught requirements.
- Tidal Information: The port is affected by tidal variations, which can influence docking and cargo operations.
Services:
- Pilotage: Mandatory pilotage services for berthing and unberthing operations.
- Tug Assistance: Available for maneuvering larger vessels.
- Bunkering: Fueling services available for vessels calling the port.
- Ship Chandling: Provision of supplies and equipment for visiting ships.
- Waste Disposal: Facilities and services for the disposal of shipboard waste.
Security and Regulations:
- Security Measures: Compliance with International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
- Customs and Immigration: Onsite facilities for customs clearance and immigration checkpoints.
- Health and Safety: Health and safety protocols as per international and local regulations.
Economic Significance:
- Trade Contribution: Imports primarily include fuel, machinery, and foodstuffs, while exports are dominated by agricultural products such as cashew nuts and fish.
- Employment: The port is a major employer in the region, supporting both direct and indirect jobs.
Recent Developments and Future Plans:
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Ongoing or planned projects to improve port infrastructure, increase capacity, and enhance operational efficiency.
- Investment Opportunities: Potential for investment in port facilities, logistics, and supportive industries.
Additional Notes:
- The port's operation and efficiency are subject to periodic improvements funded by international aid and government initiatives.
- Stakeholders may include government bodies, private companies, and international organizations working towards port development.
Contact Information:
- Port Authority: Contact details for the port authority or management entity can be found via official government or maritime directories.
This concise overview provides a snapshot of the Bissau marine port, essential for stakeholders, shippers, and logistics professionals engaging with Guinea-Bissau’s maritime activities.