GEORGETOWN

• GYGEO
• Latitude: 6.79997
• Longitude: -58.1781
• North Coast South America
• Port in Guyana

Location: Guyana

Georgetown, the capital city of Guyana, is home to a significant marine port known as the Port of Georgetown. This port is the primary maritime gateway for the country and plays a crucial role in its trade and economic activities. Here’s a detailed description of the Port of Georgetown, including its specifications and features:

Location

• Latitude: Approximately 6.8 degrees North
• Longitude: Approximately 58.2 degrees West
• Geographical Position: The port is located on the banks of the Demerara River, about 15 km from the Atlantic Ocean.

Port Specifications

Infrastructure

• Berths and Wharf: The Port of Georgetown features several berths and wharves capable of accommodating both cargo and passenger vessels. The main wharves include:

  • Main Stelling Wharf: Used primarily for general cargo and container handling.
  • Oil Terminal Berths: Specialized berths for handling petroleum products.
  • Passenger Terminals: Facilities to support ferry and passenger vessel operations.

• Drafts: The port has varying draft depths, typically ranging from 5.5 meters to 10 meters, which limits the size of vessels that can dock at its facilities.

• Storage Areas: There are significant onshore storage facilities, including warehouses, open storage areas, and container yards.

• Handling Equipment: The port is equipped with cranes, forklifts, and other cargo-handling equipment to facilitate efficient loading and unloading of goods.

Navigational Aids

• Tidal Conditions: Georgetown experiences a tidal range, which must be considered during navigation and docking procedures.
• Pilotage: Pilotage is compulsory for vessels navigating to the port given the challenging river conditions. Experienced pilots guide ships from the Atlantic Ocean through the Demerara River to the port.
• Navigational Markers: The river channel is marked with buoys and beacons to ensure safe passage.

Types of Cargo

• General Cargo: The port handles a variety of general goods, including machinery, vehicles, and other manufactured products.
• Containers: Containerized cargo is a significant part of the port’s operations, supported by container handling and storage facilities.
• Bulk Cargo: Bulk commodities like bauxite, sugar, rice, and lumber are commonly processed through the port.
• Liquid Cargo: Specialized terminals handle petroleum products and other liquid cargo.

Services and Facilities

• Customs and Immigration: The port is supported by customs and immigration services, facilitating efficient processing of imports and exports.
• Ship Repair and Maintenance: Basic repair and maintenance services are available, although more extensive repairs might require alternative arrangements.
• Bunkering and Fresh Water: Bunkering and fresh water facilities are available for vessels calling at the port.
• Logistics and Transport: The port is well-connected with road networks, supporting inland transportation of goods.

Challenges

• Siltation: The Demerara River experiences siltation, requiring regular dredging to maintain navigable depths.
• Infrastructure Development: Continuous efforts are needed to upgrade port facilities to handle increasing volumes and larger vessels.

Economic Importance

• Trade Hub: The Port of Georgetown is the principal hub for Guyana’s international trade, facilitating imports and exports critical to the country’s economy.
• Employment: The port generates significant employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly, through associated industries such as logistics and transportation.

Overall, the Port of Georgetown is a vital maritime infrastructure asset for Guyana, supporting its economic activities and providing essential connectivity for regional and international trade.