DANGRIGA
- Latitude: 16.9692 •
- Longitude: -88.2193 •
- East Coast Central America •
- Port in Belize
Address: Dangriga Stann Creek Belize
Marine Port Description and Specification: Dangriga, Belize
General Overview: Dangriga is the capital of the Stann Creek District in southern Belize. The town serves as an important coastal hub and has a modest yet functional port that primarily handles local and regional maritime traffic. Dangriga is known for its vibrant Garifuna culture, and the port plays a pivotal role in the economic activities of the town, providing an essential link for trade and transportation.
Location:
- Latitude: 16.9685 N
- Longitude: 88.2201 W
- Harbor Type: Coastal Breakwater
Port Specifications:
Depths:
- Anchorage Depth: Typically ranges from 3.6 to 9.1 meters (12 to 30 feet).
- Cargo Pier Depth: Approximately 4.2 meters (14 feet).
- Maximum Vessel Size: The port accommodates small to medium-sized vessels, with a vessel length up to 60 meters (200 feet) and a draft not exceeding the cargo pier depth.
Facilities:
- Cargo Handling: Facilities are relatively basic, with equipment available for handling breakbulk cargo. No specialized container handling or heavy lifting equipment.
- Storage: Limited storage space is available. Some open storage and covered warehouses are present but are not extensive.
- Customs and Administrative Offices: Services for customs, immigration, and port administration are provided.
- Operational Hours: The port operates during daylight hours, generally from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with limited services available on weekends and holidays.
Transportation Links:
- Road Access: The port has good road connectivity to the rest of the Stann Creek District and beyond, with the Hummingbird Highway linking to the interior and other important regions.
- Air Transport: Dangriga has a small airport, the Dangriga Airport (DGA), providing domestic flights to other major airports in Belize.
- Marine Services: Regular ferry services can connect the port to nearby coastal and island communities.
Economic Functions:
- Fishing Industry: Dangriga is well-known for its fishing activities, and the port supports local fishermen by providing docking and market facilities.
- Tourism: As a gateway to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and the southern cayes, the port supports tourism-related activities including boat tours and recreational fishing.
- Agricultural Exports: The region surrounding Dangriga is known for producing citrus fruits, bananas, and other agricultural products that are sometimes exported through the port.
Security and Safety:
- Port Security: The port follows basic security protocols, including restricted areas and surveillance.
- Emergency Services: Basic emergency services are available, including fire response and medical first aid.
Developments: The government and local authorities have considered various plans to modernize and expand the port facilities, aiming to boost its capacity and improve infrastructure to better support economic growth and trade.
Overall, the Port of Dangriga serves as an essential maritime hub for southern Belize, providing vital services for both the local community and the regional economy. While it may not have the extensive infrastructure of larger ports, it plays a critical role in meeting the needs of its users.