DAUPHIN ISLAND

• Latitude: 30.2514
• Longitude: -88.079
• Gulf of Mexico
• Port in US

Location: US

Dauphin Island is a barrier island located in the Gulf of Mexico, and it serves as a significant maritime location off the coast of Alabama, USA. Below is a description and some potential specifications typically associated with ports like Dauphin Island:

Location and Accessibility:

• Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 30.2500° N latitude and 88.0750° W longitude.
• Accessibility: Dauphin Island is accessible by sea, air, and land (via bridge from the mainland).
• Proximity: Located at the mouth of Mobile Bay, making it an essential hub for maritime activities in the region.

Port Infrastructure:

• Docking Facilities:

  • Various docking facilities suitable for fishing vessels, pleasure boats, and small to medium-sized cargo ships.
  • Potential inclusion of public boat ramps and private marinas.

• Berthing Capacity:

  • Usually limited, given the island's size and primary focus on smaller vessels.
  • Drawbridges and docking piers customized for the local fishing and recreational fleet.

Services:

• Cargo Handling:

  • Limited cargo handling facilities, primarily oriented towards local fisheries and smaller cargo operations.

• Fueling Stations:

  • Availability of marine fuel (diesel and gasoline) for vessels.

• Maintenance and Repair Services:

  • Basic maintenance services such as minor repairs, hull cleaning, and engine servicing.

Navigation and Safety:

• Lighthouse/Navigation Aids:

  • Presence of navigational aids including buoys and potentially lighthouse services for safe passage.

• Tidal Information:

  • Subject to Gulf of Mexico tidal patterns, with potential shallow draft areas around the island.

• Weather Considerations:

  • Susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes, impacting port operations during severe weather events.

Economic Activities:

• Primary Industries:

  • Predominantly fishing (commercial and recreational) and tourism.

• Commercial Fishing:

  • Significant focus on shrimping, crabbing, and other gulf-based fishing activities.

• Tourism:

  • Attractions include beautiful beaches, estuaries, bird-watching, and a relaxed island atmosphere.

Environmental Considerations:

• Ecosystem Protection:

  • Measures in place for the protection of local wildlife and marine ecosystems.

• Regulations:

  • Adherence to state and federal regulations to minimize environmental impact from maritime activities.

Additional Facilities:

• Harbormaster Office:

  • Coordination and management of docking and marine services.

• Customs and Immigration:

  • Limited customs facilities available, not a primary port of entry for international traffic.

Development:

• Plans for Expansion:
  • Any proposed expansions would be subject to environmental impact studies and economic feasibility analyses.

Connectivity:

• Transport Links:
  • Connectivity to mainland Alabama via the Gordon Persons Bridge.
  • Proximity to Mobile, Alabama, which provides broader logistical support and services.

This description amalgamates general port attributes which might be expected for a location like Dauphin Island, focusing on its limited but strategic maritime capabilities. For exact and current specifications, consulting the local port authority or relevant maritime databases is advised.