CUMANA

• VECUM
• Latitude: 10.4702
• Longitude: -64.1209
• North Coast South America
• Port in Venezuela

Location: Cumana Sucre 6101 Venezuela

Cumaná is a significant marine port located in Venezuela, situated on the northeastern coast of the country. Here is a description and some key specifications for Cumaná Port:

General Description

1. Location:

   • Latitude / Longitude: Approximately 10.4583° N / -64.1820° W.
   • Geography: Located where the Manzanares River meets the Gulf of Cariaco, providing strategic access to the Caribbean Sea.

2. Significance:

   • Cumaná Port serves as an important gateway for trade in the northeastern region of Venezuela, facilitating imports and exports.
   • Historically rich, the city of Cumaná is one of the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlements on the South American mainland.

3. Economic Role:

   • The port plays a crucial role in the local economy, supporting industries such as agriculture, fisheries, and manufacturing.
   • It also serves as a hub for transportation and logistics within the region.

Port Specifications

1. Harbor Type: River Port

2. Terminals and Facilities:

   • Cargo Terminals: Facilities for handling general cargo, bulk goods, and containerized cargo.
   • Fishing Terminal: Serves the local fishing industry, providing docking space and processing facilities.
   • Passenger Terminals: Occasionally handles passenger vessels, including ferries and cruise ships during certain times of the year.

3. Berthing Facilities:

   • Multiple berths with varying lengths and depths to accommodate different types of vessels.
   • Depths around the port can range, but dredging activities are often conducted to maintain navigable channels.

4. Navigation and Approach:

   • Pilotage: Available and typically compulsory for larger vessels to ensure safe navigation into and out of the port.
   • Tug Services: Tugboats available to assist in maneuvering vessels, especially larger or heavily laden ships.

5. Loading and Unloading Equipment:

   • Cranes: Mobile and fixed cranes to handle containers and bulk goods.
   • Forklifts and Pallet Jacks: For efficient material handling on the docks.
   • Conveyor Systems: For bulk material movement.

6. Storage:

   • Warehouses: Covered storage spaces available for protecting cargo from the elements.
   • Open Storage Areas: For larger items and bulk goods that do not require cover.
   • Refrigerated Storage: Facilities for perishable goods.

7. Customs and Security:

   • On-site customs authorities for the clearance of goods.
   • Security measures in place, including surveillance and patrolling.

8. Logistics and Transportation:

   • Road Connectivity: Well-connected to the national road network for the distribution of goods inland.
   • Rail Connections: Limited, but road transport compensates efficiently for goods movement.
   • Air Links: Closest major airport is in Cumaná city for ancillary cargo needs and passenger traffic.

Regulatory and Management Bodies

• Managed and regulated by Venezuelan port authorities, ensuring compliance with national and international maritime standards and practices.
• Security regulations adhere to the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code to maintain high safety standards.

Environmental Considerations

• Efforts are made to minimize the environmental impact through regular monitoring of water and air quality.
• Port policies addressing waste management, pollution control, and sustainable practices to mitigate the impact on the local ecosystem.

Challenges and Developments

• Natural Challenges: Periodic maintenance and dredging are necessary to keep navigable channels clear due to sediment deposition.
• Modernization Efforts: Ongoing initiatives to upgrade infrastructure, including better cargo handling equipment and improved port facilities to enhance efficiency and capacity.

Cumaná Port plays a pivotal role in Venezuela's maritime activities, contributing significantly to the regional economy and serving as a key hub for trade in the northeastern part of the country.