CAPE MAY

• USCGF
• Latitude: 38.9677
• Longitude: -74.9582
• US East Coast
• Port in US

Location: Cape May NJ US

Cape May Marine Port - Overview and Specifications

Cape May is a historic seaside city located at the southern tip of Cape May Peninsula in Cape May County, New Jersey, USA. The Cape May Port serves both recreational and commercial activities, with a particular focus on fishing, tourism, and some cargo handling.

Port Characteristics

1. Location:

   • Coordinates: 38°56′01″N 74°54′26″W
   • Region: Mid-Atlantic
   • Nearby Major Cities: Atlantic City, NJ; Philadelphia, PA

2. Facilities:

   • Docking Facilities: The port offers various docking facilities suitable for different types of vessels, including commercial fishing boats, recreational boats, and small to medium-sized cargo ships.
   • Loading/Unloading Areas: Dedicated areas for loading and unloading materials and cargo.
   • Storage: Secure storage facilities available for temporary holding and processing of cargo, including cold storage for seafood.
   • Fueling Stations: Available for both commercial and recreational vessels.

3. Harbor Specifications:

   • Draft Depth: Generally ranges between 10 to 16 feet, making it capable of handling medium-sized vessels.
   • Tidal Variability: The tidal range can affect access to certain docking areas and requires skilled navigation at low tides.
   • Navigation: Equipped with necessary navigational aids including buoys, lights, and markers to facilitate safe entry and exit.
   • Breakwater and Jetties: These structures protect the harbor from rough seas and ensure calm waters within the docking area.

4. Services:

   • Customs and Inspections: Available for cargo that requires import/export processing.
   • Fishing Industry Support: Facilities include fish processing plants, ice-making facilities, and wholesale fish markets.
   • Tourism Services: Passenger ferry services to nearby destinations, charter boat services for fishing and sightseeing, and other recreational marine activities.

5. Regulations and Compliance:

   • Port Authority: Managed by local port authority which sets regulations in line with federal, state, and municipal laws.
   • Security: Maritime security and surveillance measures are in place to ensure the safety of vessels and cargo.
   • Environmental Compliance: The port follows environmental regulations to reduce pollution and protect marine ecosystems, including waste management facilities and oil spill response systems.

6. Connectivity:

   • Road Access: Well-connected via local and state highways for easy transportation of goods to and from the port.
   • Rail Access: Limited but supported by nearby rail services for cargo transfer.
   • Air Access: Closest major airport is Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), approximately 45 miles away, providing air freight and passenger services.

7. Economic Impact:

   • Local Economy: Significant contributor to the local economy through fishing, tourism, and some light commercial shipping.
   • Job Creation: Provides employment opportunities in sectors such as marine services, fisheries, tourism, and transportation.

Conclusion

Cape May Marine Port is a vital maritime hub in the Mid-Atlantic region, supporting a diverse range of activities from commercial fishing to tourism. Its strategic location, coupled with its facilities and services, makes it an important port for economic activities in New Jersey. The port is well-managed, ensuring both compliance with regulations and the safety of its operations.