BONAIRE

• BQBON
• Latitude: 12.1498
• Longitude: -68.3212
• North Coast South America
• Port in Caribbean Netherlands

Location: Caribbean Netherlands

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Bonaire, Caribbean Netherlands

General Information:

• Port Name: Port of Kralendijk
• Location: Kralendijk, Bonaire, Caribbean Netherlands
• Geographical Coordinates: Approximately 12.1508° N latitude and 68.2765° W longitude
• UN/LOCODE: BQKRK

Port Overview:

The Port of Kralendijk is the main seaport on the island of Bonaire, part of the Caribbean Netherlands. It serves as a vital hub for both commercial shipping and cruise tourism.

Facilities:

1. Commercial Docks:

   • North Pier: For general cargo and container ships.
   • South Pier: Typically used for fuel and bulk cargo.
   • Container Handling Facilities: Equipped to handle modest volumes of container traffic.
   • Cargo Storage: Onshore cargo storage facilities are available for goods awaiting transfer.

2. Cruise Ship Terminal:

   • Dedicated Berths: Equipped to handle large cruise ships. The infrastructure includes modern passenger facilities, enabling easy and efficient boarding and disembarking.
   • Amenities: Passenger terminal facilities include waiting areas, customs, and immigration services.

3. Fishing and Small Vessels:

   • Designated Areas: Specific zones for fishing boats and smaller vessels with appropriate docking facilities.

4. Maritime Support Services:

   • Pilotage: Compulsory for all large vessels.
   • Tug Services: Available to assist with docking and undocking.
   • Bunkering: Fueling services for vessels.
   • Repair and Maintenance: Basic repair and maintenance services are available.

Nautical Features:

• Depths:

  • Alongside Depth: Varies, typically around 12–15 meters (39–49 feet) at commercial berths.
  • Approach Channel Depth: Deep enough to accommodate large commercial and cruise vessels.

• Tidal Range: Generally low tidal range, with variations typically between 0.3 and 0.6 meters (1–2 feet).

Navigation:

• Harbor Entrance:
  • Marked by buoys and beacons.
  • Safe and wide enough for standard shipping traffic.
• Restrictions:
  • Certain draft restrictions may apply depending on berth availability and current port conditions.
  • Environmental restrictions may be in place to protect Bonaire's renowned coral reefs and marine life.

Environmental Considerations:

• Reef Protection: Bonaire is famous for its marine ecosystems, so strict regulations are in place to protect underwater habitats.
• Waste Management: Adherence to international standards for waste disposal to prevent marine pollution.

Inland Connections:

• Transportation: Well-connected by road to facilitate the transfer of goods to and from the port. The road network allows easy access to the rest of the island.
• Air Transport: Close proximity to Bonaire International Airport (BON) for air cargo and passenger transfers.

Economic Role:

• Imports:

  • General cargo: Consumer goods, construction materials, etc.
  • Fuel: Significant due to the energy needs of the island.

• Exports:

  • Limited, but includes local products like salt and local crafts.

• Tourism: A major part of port activities due to the high volume of visiting cruise ships, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Security and Regulations:

• ISPS Code Compliance: The port complies with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
• Customs and Immigration: Facilities for the efficient processing of cargo and passengers.

Conclusion:

The Port of Kralendijk in Bonaire is a well-equipped and strategically important port serving both commercial and tourism needs. With modern facilities, environmental considerations, and a strong economic impact on the local community, it stands as a crucial maritime hub for the Caribbean Netherlands.