BROOME

• AUBME
• Latitude: -17.9898
• Longitude: 122.224
• North Australia
• Port in Australia

Location: Australia

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Broome, Australia

Location: Broome is a coastal town located in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. The port itself lies on the eastern shores of the Indian Ocean, making it a significant spot for maritime activities including tourism, trade, and natural resource exploration.

Geographical Coordinates: Latitude: -17.9610 Longitude: 122.2352

Port Details: Broome Port, officially known as the Port of Broome, is managed by the Kimberley Ports Authority. The port serves as a critical gateway to the Indian Ocean and supports various economic activities within the region.

Facilities:

1. Berths: The port has four approach channel berths which accommodate vessels for both general and specialized cargo handling.
2. Depth: The port has a depth of approximately 10 meters at low tide, which can accommodate a wide range of vessels, including medium-sized cargo and cruise ships.
3. Wharf: The main wharf is about 331 meters long, enabling docking and efficient cargo operations.
4. Cargo Operations: The port handles a variety of cargo including freight, fuel, livestock, and offshore oil and gas supplies.
5. Passenger Terminal: The port also supports cruise ship operations, providing facilities and services for thousands of passengers arriving annually.
6. Storage: There are several storage facilities available including a tank farm for fuel storage, open storage areas, and general cargo sheds.

Navigation:

1. Pilotage: Pilotage is compulsory for vessels larger than 35 meters in length, ensuring safe navigation through the port’s channels.
2. Tug Services: Tug services are available for maneuvering vessels to and from berths, which ensures the safe docking of large vessels.
3. Availability: The port operates year-round and is accessible to vessels 24 hours a day, although vessel movements are subject to tidal conditions due to significant tidal ranges experienced in the region.

Connectivity:

1. Road: The Port of Broome is connected by a well-maintained road network facilitating the transport of goods to and from the port.
2. Air: Broome International Airport provides excellent air connectivity, enabling the transport of high-value or urgent cargo and offering passenger travel services.

Economic Contribution: Broome Port plays a crucial role in the local and regional economy. It supports the fishing industry, tourism sector (especially cruise tourism), and serves as a hub for offshore oil and gas operations. Additionally, it facilitates the export and import activities critical to the Kimberley region’s economic development.

Environmental Considerations: The port follows strict environmental regulations to protect Broome’s unique marine and coastal ecosystems. Measures are in place to manage and minimize the impact of port operations on the surrounding environment.

Future Development: Plans for future enhancements might include expanding the existing facilities, improving the depth of the approach channel and berths, and increasing storage capacities to handle anticipated traffic and cargo growth, aligning with regional economic development goals.

Broome’s marine port is thus a vital asset that bolsters regional commerce, tourism, and resource exploration, making it an essential hub in Western Australia's maritime infrastructure.