GALLE ANCH

• Latitude: 5.99576
• Longitude: 80.206
• East Coast India
• Anchorage in Sri Lanka

Address: Galle Southern Province Sri Lanka

Phone number: +94 11 2421204

Web-site: http://www.slpa.lk/port_galle.asp

Galle Port (GALLE ANCH) - Sri Lanka

Overview: Galle Port, often referred to as Galle Anch, is one of the significant ports located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. This historic seaport has been pivotal since ancient times for maritime trade and continues to serve as a vital harborage for commercial and leisure vessels.

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 6.03°N latitude and 80.22°E longitude.
• Distance from Colombo: Roughly 119 kilometers south of the commercial capital, Colombo.

Port Specifications:

1. Harbor Type: Natural Harbor with breakwater protection.
2. Purpose: Predominantly used as a secondary commercial port, yacht marina, and for naval and coastguard operations. It also supports local fishing activities.
3. Navigation:
   • Approach: The approaches to Galle Port are straightforward, but close attention must be paid due to the presence of reefs and shallow waters around the harbor entrance.
   • Pilotage: Compulsory for all merchant vessels. Pilot boarding is usually arranged about 1.5 miles south of the breakwater.
4. Depth:
   • Anchorage depths: Approximately 10 to 15 meters, but depths may vary closer to shore.
   • Channel depth: The main channel is maintained to handle medium-sized vessels.
5. Berth Specifications:
   • Commercial Quay: Capable of accommodating vessels up to 165 meters in length with alongside depths of up to 10 meters.
   • Fishing Berths: Specifically designated areas for local fishing vessels.
   • Yacht Berths: Facilities for pleasure crafts and yachts with modern amenities.
6. Facilities:
   • Cargo Handling: General cargo, bulk, and breakbulk; storage facilities available although limited in comparison to larger ports like Colombo.
   • Warehousing: Covered storage and open yard areas.
   • Bunkering: Limited facilities available.
   • Freshwater Supply: Available.
   • Repair Services: Basic repair services for smaller vessels and fishing crafts. More comprehensive services are sought in Colombo.
7. Infrastructure:
   • Road Access: Well-connected by road; the Southern Expressway significantly cuts transit time to Colombo.
   • Rail Access: Galle is connected to the national railway network, facilitating movement of goods inland.
   • Security: ISPS-complaint with customs, immigration, and other standard port security measures in place.

Port Services:

• Ship Chandlers: Local suppliers provide provisions and essential supplies.
• Medical Facilities: Basic medical facilities are available within the port area, with better-equipped hospitals in the city of Galle.
• Waste Disposal: Solid and liquid waste disposal facilities as per international standards.

Communication:

• VHF Channels: Port communications typically use VHF channels 16 and 12 for ship-to-shore and shore-to-ship communications.
• Port Authority Contacts: Managed by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA).

Historical Significance:

• Galle Port is acclaimed for its historical value, with the adjacent Galle Fort being a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fort and its surroundings are a major tourist attraction, reflecting the port's blend of commercial and cultural significance.

Strategic Importance:

• While Galle port is not the largest in Sri Lanka, it plays a vital role in regional marine activities and acts as an alternate harbor to Colombo for smaller vessels, naval operations, and regional trade. It also acts as a gateway for tourism operations related to Southern Sri Lanka’s coastal belt.