COROZAL

• BZCZH
• Latitude: 18.3857
• Longitude: -88.3824
• East Coast Central America
• Marina in Belize

Location: Belize

Marine Port Description and Specification: Corozal, Belize

General Overview: Corozal is a town located in northern Belize, near the Mexican border. It is a notable location for its proximity to the Caribbean Sea and serves as a point of entry for marine traffic, though it is not among the largest or busiest ports in the country. Corozal primarily serves local trade, fishing activities, and small-scale logistics operations.

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 18.3944° N latitude and 88.3885° W longitude
• Region: Northern Belize, close to the Mexico–Belize border
• Accessibility: Situated along the Corozal Bay, which is part of the larger Chetumal Bay

Port Specifications:

• Type: Minor commercial port, fishing port
• Primary Use: Local trade, fishing, small cargo handling, and tourism
• Harbor type: Natural harbor with sheltered waters

Facilities and Infrastructure:

• Docks and Berths: Limited number of small docks and berths suitable for fishing vessels, small cargo ships, and personal boats
• Storage Facilities: Basic warehousing options available for storing goods
• Customs and Immigration: Checks available for cross-border work, particularly with proximity to Mexico
• Navigation Aids: Basic navigational aids including buoys and markers
• Support Services: Includes small ship repair services, fuel availability, and provisioning for vessels

Depth and Draft:

• Maximum Depth: Varies; generally suitable for vessels with a shallow to moderate draft
• Tidal Range: Tidal influences of the Caribbean Sea dictate water levels, typically minor adjustments needed for smaller craft operations

Operational Information:

• Working Hours: Typically operates during regular daylight hours; variations possible based on local needs and conditions
• Pilotage: Not generally required, but local guidance or tug assistance available upon request for maneuvering within the bay
• Cargo Handling: Primarily general cargo with some capacity for handling perishables and fishing catch
• Security Measures: Basic security and safety measures in place; close-knit community helps in maintaining oversight

Connectivity:

• Land Access: Good road connections to nearby urban centers such as Corozal Town and beyond to Chetumal in Mexico
• Air Access: Close to Corozal Domestic Airport for small aircraft operations
• Other Transport Links: Easy access to local bus services and private transport options

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations:

• Environmental Protections: Adherence to local and national environmental regulations, especially concerning fishing and marine life protections
• Regulatory Oversight: Governed by Belize Port Authority and other relevant local and national agencies

Key Notes:

• Strategic Importance: Less for large-scale commercial activity but significant for local economy, fishing industry, and cross-border interactions with Mexico
• Community Impact: Plays a vital role in sustaining local livelihoods and contributing to the socio-economic fabric of the region

Conclusion: The Corozal marine port in Belize, though modest, is crucial for the local trade, fishing operations, and cross-border activities. It offers basic yet essential facilities and remains an important point for the local economy, providing necessary infrastructure for small-scale maritime activities.