CAIRNS

• AUCNS
• Latitude: -16.9345
• Longitude: 145.778
• East Australia
• Port in Australia

Location: Australia

Cairns is a key marine port located on the northeast coast of Australia, in the state of Queensland. It is a significant gateway for both domestic and international maritime traffic, serving not only commercial and cargo operations but also passenger cruises and recreational vessels. Below is a detailed description and specification of the Port of Cairns:

Overview

• Location: Cairns, Queensland, Australia
• Coordinates: Approximately 16.922° S latitude, 145.774° E longitude
• Management: Operated by Ports North, a Queensland Government-owned corporation

Port Specifications

Facilities and Infrastructure:

• Berths: Cairns has multiple berths for different purposes, including:

  • Multi-user cargo berths for general cargo, bulk commodities, and container shipments.
  • Cruise terminals designed to cater to large cruise vessels, with modern amenities.
  • Marina berths at the Cairns Marlin Marina, which provide facilities for yachts and smaller recreational vessels.

• Channel Depth:

  • The primary navigational channel has a depth of around 8.3 meters (27 feet) at its shallowest.
  • There are regular dredging operations to maintain the required depth for safe vessel passage.

• Wharf Facilities:

  • The port has extensive wharf infrastructure, capable of handling different types of cargo, including providing facilities for loading and unloading.
  • Services available include water, electricity, fueling, and waste removal.

Cargo and Shipping:

• Types of Cargo:

  • General cargo
  • Bulk commodities (such as sugar, minerals)
  • Containers
  • Livestock

• Volume:

  • Though varied annually, the port handles a significant throughput of goods, bolstered by its proximity to agricultural and mineral-producing regions.

Cruise and Ferries:

• Cruise Ship Facilities:

  • Cairns is a popular cruise ship destination, with facilities to handle large cruise liners.
  • The terminal offers customs and immigration services, good passenger amenities, and easy access to the city center.

• Ferry Services:

  • Regular ferry services operate from Cairns to nearby destinations, including the Great Barrier Reef and various island resorts.

Marina:

• Cairns Marlin Marina:
  • A world-class marina providing over 140 berths for vessels up to 140 meters in length.
  • Facilities include water, power, Wi-Fi, and on-site restaurants and shops.

Fishing and Aquaculture:

• The port supports a vibrant fishing industry, with facilities for commercial fishing fleets and seafood processing.
• Cairns is also a hub for aquaculture, particularly prawn farming.

Accessibility

• Land Connectivity:

  • Cairns has good road and rail connections facilitating cargo movement to and from the hinterlands and industrial zones.
  • Close proximity to Cairns Airport enhances its connectivity for cargo and passenger logistics.

• Sea Routes:

  • Well-positioned for maritime routes that connect to Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and other Australian ports.
  • The port is a crucial access point for tourist activities, particularly those related to the Great Barrier Reef.

Environmental and Safety Measures

• Environmental Protection:

  • Strict environmental regulations are in place to protect the adjacent marine ecosystems, particularly the Great Barrier Reef.
  • Programs for sustainable development and pollution control are actively implemented.

• Safety Infrastructure:

  • Comprehensive maritime safety measures, including modern navigational aids, pilotage services, and emergency response facilities.
  • Regular safety drills and coordination with local authorities ensure high levels of operational security.

Economic and Cultural Significance

• Economic Hub:

  • The port significantly contributes to the local economy, being a focal point for trade, tourism, and employment.
  • Cairns also supports indigenous trade and cultural exchanges, enriching its cultural landscape.

• Tourism Gateway:

  • As the primary port of entry for trips to the Great Barrier Reef and tropical North Queensland, it draws a significant number of tourists.
  • Provides tours and other recreational opportunities, making it a pivotal part of the Cairns tourism industry.

In summary, the Port of Cairns is a versatile and vibrant port, integral to Australia's maritime infrastructure, catering to a variety of commercial, tourism, and recreational needs, all while maintaining strong environmental and safety standards.