CAP HAITIEN

• HTCAP
• Latitude: 19.7545
• Longitude: -72.197
• Caribbean Sea
• Port in Haiti

Location: Cap-Haïtien Haiti

Web-site: http://www.apn.gouv.ht

Port of Cap-Haïtien, Haiti: Description and Specifications

Geographic Location:

• The Port of Cap-Haïtien is located on the northern coast of Haiti, along the Caribbean Sea. It is situated at approximately latitude 19.7593° N and longitude 72.2048° W.

Port Overview:

• Cap-Haïtien is one of the major cities in Haiti and serves as a principal port for the northern region of the country. It is the second largest port in Haiti after Port-au-Prince.
• The port is strategically important due to its proximity to the neighboring islands and the U.S. market.

Facilities and Infrastructure:

• Berths and Terminals: The port comprises a number of berths used for cargo handling, which includes breakbulk, container, and some bulk cargoes.
• Depth: The harbor has water depths ranging between 7 to 10 meters (approximately 23 to 32 feet), allowing access to a variety of vessels, though it may be limited for larger, deep-draft ships.
• Storage: There are storage facilities including warehouses and open yard areas for the temporary holding of goods.
• Equipment: The port is equipped with cranes, forklifts, and other necessary handling equipment for loading and unloading cargo.

Transportation and Connectivity:

• Road Access: Cap-Haïtien is connected by road to other major cities and regions within Haiti, facilitating the transportation of goods.
• Air Transport: The city is served by Cap-Haïtien International Airport, enhancing the port’s potential for air-sea connectivity.
• Proximity to Markets: Sited relatively close to markets in the Caribbean and North America, the port is well-placed for regional trade.

Services:

• Pilotage: Pilotage is usually available and necessary for navigating larger vessels into the port.
• Tug Services: Tug assistance is typically available for easier maneuvering of ships.
• Customs and Immigration: These services operate at the port to handle international shipping and passenger arrivals.

Trade and Economic Impact:

• The Port of Cap-Haïtien is vital for the local economy, supporting both import and export activities.
• It plays a significant role in the importation of goods such as foodstuffs, consumer goods, fuel, and construction materials, while also supporting exports like agricultural products and textiles.

Challenges:

• As with many ports in developing countries, Cap-Haïtien faces challenges such as the need for modernization of infrastructure, improved logistical efficiency, and capacity expansion to handle larger volumes and newer, larger vessels.

Future Developments:

• Efforts have been ongoing to improve and upgrade the port’s infrastructure and facilities, supported by the Haitian government and international aid organizations. Expansion projects may focus on deepening the harbor, upgrading berths, and enhancing container handling capabilities.

Conclusion: The Port of Cap-Haïtien is a crucial node in Haiti’s maritime network, facilitating significant trade flows for the northern region. While it has capacity constraints and infrastructural challenges, ongoing development efforts aim to enhance its efficiency and service capability, thereby bolstering its contribution to the regional and national economy.