CASTRIES

• Latitude: 14.0142
•
• Longitude: -61.0025
•
• Caribbean Sea
•
• Port in St. Lucia

Address: Castries St. Lucia

Web-site: http://www.slpac.com

Castries Marine Port, St. Lucia: Description and Specifications

Location:

• Castries is the capital city and major port of St. Lucia, located on the northwest coast of the island in the Caribbean Sea.
• Coordinates: Approximately 14.01° N latitude and 60.99° W longitude.

Port Overview:

• The Port of Castries serves as the main harbor for commercial shipping, cruise liners, and private yachts visiting St. Lucia.
• It is managed by the St. Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) and is a significant hub for tourism, imports, and exports.

Facilities and Infrastructure:

1. Cargo Handling:

   • The port has facilities for handling a variety of cargo, including containerized goods, bulk cargo, and general goods.
   • Berths available for cargo vessels, with modern loading and unloading equipment to facilitate efficient cargo movements.

2. Cruise Ship Terminals:

   • The port caters to the booming cruise industry with several berths capable of accommodating large cruise ships.
   • Duty-free shopping, tourist information centers, and transport services are available in proximity to the cruise terminals.

3. Passenger Services:

   • Passenger terminals are equipped with modern amenities to handle the influx of tourists.
   • Facilities include immigration and customs services, ample waiting areas, and transport connections for onward travel within St. Lucia.

4. Yachting:

   • The port has designated areas for private yachts and smaller vessels, complete with moorings and marine services.
   • The nearby Rodney Bay Marina also supplements yachting facilities available in Castries.

5. Port Services:

   • Towage and pilotage services are available for vessels navigating in and out of the port.
   • Bunkering, fresh water supply, waste disposal services, and minor repair facilities are also offered.

Depth and Navigational Information:

• The entrance channel and berthing areas have varying depths suitable for different classes of ships. Specific depth information should be obtained from SLASPA.
• Proper navigational aids and lighting systems are in place to ensure safe entry and exit of vessels.

Connectivity:

• Road links connect the port to other parts of St. Lucia, making the transport of goods and passengers efficient and relatively quick.
• Proximity to George F. L. Charles Airport (primarily domestic flights) and Hewanorra International Airport (international flights) enhances connectivity.

Security and Regulations:

• The port adheres to international security standards and is compliant with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
• Local regulations and customs procedures are enforced to ensure secure and efficient port operations.

Economic Impact:

• Castries Port is crucial for St. Lucia's economic activities, especially tourism, given the frequent cruise ship visits.
• It is also fundamental for the importation of goods and export of local products, including bananas, cocoa, and other agricultural products.

Development and Upgrades:

• Ongoing and planned developments aim to enhance port efficiency and capacity, particularly to keep up with the growing tourism sector and increasing cargo demands.
• Investments in modern facilities and infrastructure improvements are part of the port’s strategic development plans.

Contact Information:

• St. Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA)
  • Address: Manoel Street, Castries, St. Lucia
  • Phone: +1 758-452-2893
  • Website: SLASPA Official Website

The Port of Castries continues to play a vital role in St. Lucia’s economy, balancing its functions between commercial maritime activities and catering to international tourism.