ESSAOUIRA

• MAESS
• Latitude: 31.5074
• Longitude: -9.77404
• West Africa
• Port in Morocco

Location: Essaouira Morocco

Web-site: https://www.essaouira.com

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Essaouira, Morocco

Location and General Information: Essaouira is a coastal city located on the western shore of Morocco along the Atlantic Ocean. The port is historically significant and serves both commercial and tourist functions. It is situated at approximately latitude 31°30'N and longitude 9°46'W.

Port Type:

• Coastal Breakwater
• Seaport

Functions:

• Fishing activities
• Naval repair and construction
• Recreational boating
• Passenger services (historical tourism)

Port Infrastructure:

1. Berthing Facilities:

   • The port has multiple berths, primarily designed to accommodate fishing vessels and small to medium-sized commercial ships.
   • Quay length: Around 500 meters, mainly focused on fishing activities.
   • The berths are equipped with essential cargo handling equipment, but the scale is limited due to the port’s size.

2. Draft Conditions:

   • Depth at the entrance: Approximately 5 meters.
   • Depth alongside the quay: Between 3 to 5 meters, varying with tides.

3. Breakwaters:

   • The port features a breakwater that provides shelter from the Atlantic Ocean swell, ensuring calmer waters within the harbor.

4. Wharves and Piers:

   • Several wharves and piers are available, mainly dedicated to the fishing fleet.

Services:

• Fuel and Water Supply: Available for vessels, although facilities are tailored to smaller vessels.
• Repairs: Dry dock and repair services are available, primarily for fishing boats.
• Navigation aids: The port is equipped with necessary guiding systems, including a lighthouse.
• Customs and Immigration: Services are available for international vessels, given its small-scale international traffic.

Commercial Activities:

• Fishing: One of the main activities, with numerous fishing boats operating out of the port daily.
• Trade: Limited commodity trading; the port primarily handles local and regional cargo.

Tourism:

• Essaouira is a popular tourist destination due to its historical medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tourist boats and small cruises occasionally use the port facilities.
• The port area offers scenic views and is often frequented by visitors exploring the city.

Environmental and Safety Considerations:

• The port adheres to safety and environmental regulations, ensuring maritime and onshore activities minimize impact on the marine ecosystem.
• Waste management and oil spill response measures are in place.

Connectivity:

• Road Access: The port is well connected to the city's road network.
• Airport: Essaouira-Mogador Airport is nearby, providing regional and some international flights.

Future Developments:

• Potential plans for upgrades to facilities to support more significant tourism influx and possibly expanded fishing operations.
• Small-scale infrastructure projects to enhance port capacity and efficiency.

Overall, Essaouira's port functions as a crucial local hub for fishing and historical tourism, with limited but functional commercial services and facilities. Its scenic and historical significance adds to its charm, making it an attractive location for visitors and local industry alike.