FUTUNA ISLAND

• Latitude: -14.2957
•
• Longitude: -178.16
•
• South Pacific
•
• Port in Wallis & Futuna

Address: Wallis & Futuna

Futuna Island, one of the islands within the French overseas territory of Wallis and Futuna in the South Pacific Ocean, is known for its remoteness and sparse population. The primary port on the island is not highly developed compared to major international ports, reflecting the relatively low volume of maritime traffic and economic activity in this region.

Port of Futuna Island: Key Description and Specifications

1. Location:

   • Coordinates: Approximately 14.2760° S latitude and 178.1447° W longitude.
   • Region: South Pacific Ocean, part of the French overseas collective of Wallis and Futuna.

2. Facilities:

   • Type: Small harbor facility.
   • Berths: Limited number of berths suitable for smaller vessels. Large commercial ships generally do not frequent the port due to its limited infrastructure.
   • Navigation: Basic navigational aids may be present; however, mariners should be prepared with detailed charts and local knowledge.

3. Primary Use:

   • Local Transportation: Primarily supports local and inter-island transportation.
   • Resupply and Trade: Used for the resupply of goods, food, and necessities for the island's population.
   • Fishing: Fishing boats and smaller commercial vessels are common.

4. Infrastructure:

   • Cargo Handling: Basic cargo handling facilities with limitations on heavy or large cargo.
   • Storage: Limited storage facilities; most goods are moved quickly upon arrival.
   • Passenger Services: Minimal passenger services, though small passenger boats may operate between islands.

5. Access and Connectivity:

   • Road Access: Roads connecting the port to other parts of the island are typically narrow and may be unpaved in some areas.
   • Air Connectivity: The island is also served by a small airport, Pointe Vele Airport, which can facilitate some connectivity for passengers and smaller cargo consignments.

6. Customs and Regulations:

   • Customs: As part of the French overseas territory, standard French customs regulations apply.
   • Immigration: Entry requirements are subject to French immigration laws.

7. Environmental Considerations:

   • Conservation: Due to the natural beauty and ecological significance of the island, there may be environmental regulations in place to protect the coastal and marine environments.
   • Climate: The region is tropical with a wet season that could impact shipping schedules.

8. Challenges:

   • Isolation: The island’s remote location means that supply chains can be disrupted by weather or geopolitical issues.
   • Infrastructure: Limited port infrastructure may pose challenges for larger vessels and complex logistical operations.

Additional Notes

• Development Plans: There may be occasional initiatives to improve infrastructure, but significant developments are unlikely due to the economic scale and remote nature of Futuna Island.
• Community: The port supports the local Futunan community and is crucial for maintaining the lifeline of goods, services, and communication with the outer world.

For maritime operations, it is crucial to liaise with local authorities for up-to-date information on port conditions, available services, and any navigational warnings or restrictions.