GEORGETOWN SOUTH

• Latitude: 23.506
• Longitude: -75.7695
• Caribbean Sea
• Shelter in Bahamas

Location: Georgetown Exuma Bahamas

Georgetown, located on Great Exuma Island in the Bahamas, is a notable port primarily used for servicing the local community and tourism activities, rather than large-scale commercial shipping. Below is a general description and specification:

Port Description:

1. Location: Georgetown is situated on the eastern side of Great Exuma, one of the principal islands in the Exumas chain in the Bahamas. The port is nestled within Elizabeth Harbor, which provides natural protection.
2. Function: The port primarily serves local needs, facilitating supplies, goods, and services for the island’s population. It also caters to the vibrant yachting and boating community, acting as a hub for tourists and private vessels.
3. Geographical Coordinates: Approximately 23.5130° N latitude and 75.7652° W longitude.

Specifications:

1. Facilities:

   • Docks and Piers: The port has limited docking facilities suited for smaller vessels, including private yachts, small cargo vessels, and ferries.
   • Marina: The Exuma Yacht Club is a key feature, offering marina services, which include docking, water, electricity, fuel, and repair services.
   • Mooring: There are several mooring buoys available within Elizabeth Harbor.

2. Depth:

   • Channel: The entry channel to Elizabeth Harbor has variable depths but generally accommodates vessels with moderate draft limits.
   • Berths: Depths at berths are adequate for small to medium-sized vessels, typically not exceeding about 3 to 4 meters in depth at the docks.

3. Navigational Aids:

   • Markers and Buoys: The harbor and approach channels are adequately marked with navigational aids, including buoys and light markers to guide vessels safely into the port.
   • Charts: Nautical charts are essential for navigation due to the varying depths and need to avoid coral heads and shallow areas.

4. Services:

   • Customs and Immigration: Available for clearing in and clearing out. Georgetown is often the first port of call for yachts coming to the Exumas.
   • Provisioning: Basic provisioning and supplies can be obtained locally.
   • Fueling: Fuel is available for purchase.
   • Water Supply: Potable water is available, though it may be limited.

5. Approach:

   • Wind and Weather: Primarily influenced by prevailing Caribbean trade winds. Navigators should be aware of seasonal weather patterns, including hurricane season.
   • Pilotage: Not typically required for private yachts, but guidance and local knowledge are valuable for safe entry.

6. Connectivity:

   • Road Access: Limited road infrastructure connects the port with the rest of Great Exuma Island.
   • Air Access: Exuma International Airport (GGT) is located approximately 15 kilometers northwest of Georgetown.

Georgetown serves as a significant marine and tourism hub in the central Bahamas, offering essential services for boaters and playing a critical role in the island’s connectivity and support. While it may not be equipped to handle large commercial vessels, it is ideally suited for leisure and smaller-scale maritime activities.