BOCAS DEL TORO

• Latitude: 9.34694
•
• Longitude: -82.2446
•
• East Coast Central America
•
• Port in Panama

Address: Bocas del Toro Bocas del Toro Panama

Bocas del Toro Marine Port Overview, Panama

Location: Bocas del Toro, located on the northern Caribbean coast of Panama, serves as a strategic marine gateway within the Caribbean Sea. The town is situated on Isla Colón, the main island in the Bocas del Toro Archipelago.

Coordinates: Approximately 9°20'N latitude and 82°15'W longitude.

Port Type: Primarily a coastal harbor offering services catering to smaller vessels, eco-tourism, and local cargo operations.

Specifications

Port Infrastructure:

1. Docks/Piers:

   • Multiple small docks, primarily designed for leisure boats, fishing vessels, and small cargo ships.
   • Limited facilities for large commercial vessels due to size and draft restrictions.

2. Berthing Facilities:

   • Berths suitable for yachts and smaller maritime vessels.
   • Few berths available for medium-sized cargo ships or ferries.

3. Terminal Facilities:

   • Basic passenger terminals equipped with customs offices for international travelers.
   • Cargo handling facilities are limited, with basic amenities for local trade goods.

Draft and Navigation:

• Draft:

  • Limited depth, accommodating vessels with shallow drafts. Specific maximum draft details should be confirmed with port authorities for safety.

• Navigation:

  • Entry channel and harbor area are suited for small to medium-sized vessels.
  • Navigational aids like buoys and lights are present, but larger vessels may face restrictions due to water depth and approach channels.

Services Offered:

1. Cargo Handling:

   • Primarily supports local cargo and agricultural exports.
   • Limited container handling capabilities; mostly general cargo operations.

2. Fuel and Supplies:

   • Basic refueling services available for marine diesel.
   • Provisions and marine supplies can be sourced in the town.

3. Repair and Maintenance:

   • Limited repair facilities, mainly basic maintenance and small craft repair services.
   • For extensive repair needs, vessels may need to rely on larger facilities either in mainland Panama or other nearby destinations.

4. Passenger Services:

   • Regular ferry services connect with the mainland, supporting both locals and tourists.
   • Custom and immigration services for international travelers via marine routes.

5. Security:

   • Basic port security measures in place, with local maritime and national police presence.
   • Compliance with international standards may be limited due to the port's size and infrastructure.

Economic and Strategic Importance:

• Tourism Hub:

  • Acts as a significant point of entry for tourists visiting the Bocas del Toro Archipelago, known for its pristine beaches, biodiversity, and recreational activities.

• Local Economy:

  • Supports local fishing, agriculture, and small-scale trade, playing a vital role in the region's economy.

Environmental Considerations:

• Conservation Efforts:
  • The region is renowned for its biodiversity, with several conservation areas protected for marine and terrestrial wildlife.
  • Environmental regulations are in place to preserve the natural habitat, with restrictions on certain activities to mitigate ecological impacts.

Conclusion: Bocas del Toro Marine Port serves as a crucial small-scale hub on Panama’s Caribbean coast, emphasizing eco-tourism and local trade. While it has limited infrastructure for large commercial activities, its strategic location and natural beauty make it vital for tourism and local economies. For more detailed and updated information, stakeholders should contact the Bocas del Toro port authorities directly.