GOLFITO BAY

• CRGLF
• Latitude: 8.62325
• Longitude: -83.1552
• West Coast Central America
• Port in Costa Rica

Location: Golfito Puntarenas Province Costa Rica

Phone number: +506 2775 0635

Web-site: URL_to_more_information

Golfito Bay, located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, is home to the port town of Golfito. This port is an important hub for maritime activities, catering to both commercial and recreational vessels. Here’s a detailed description and specification of Golfito Bay as a marine port:

Location

• Coordinates: Approximately 8°38’N latitude and 83°10’W longitude.
• Geographical Context: Situated in a well-protected bay, the port is shielded from the open ocean, which provides calm waters ideal for anchorage and docking.

Port Infrastructure

• Ferry Terminal: Golfito has facilities to accommodate ferries and smaller craft which are vital for local transportation and freight.
• Commercial Docks: The port has commercial docking facilities that handle a range of goods, including banana exports, which are a significant commodity for the region.
• Marinas: There are multiple marinas in the bay, offering services for yachts and recreational vessels. The Golfito Marina Village & Resort is one of the prominent marinas providing comprehensive yachting services.
• Cargo Handling Facilities: The port has equipment for handling general cargo, including containerized goods.

Operational Specifications

• Depth: Varies between different berths but averages around 8-12 meters, making it suitable for medium-draft vessels.
• Anchorage: The bay offers good anchorage conditions, with depths ranging from 10 to 30 meters, and a muddy bottom that provides good holding ground.
• Tidal Range: Tides in Golfito Bay can vary significantly, often up to 3 meters, which necessitates careful planning for docking and undocking operations.

Services and Amenities

• Customs and Immigration: The port has facilities for customs and immigration to handle international arrivals and departures.
• Repair Facilities: Basic repair services are available for small to medium-sized vessels, with more comprehensive services accessible in nearby larger ports.
• Fuel and Supplies: Fueling stations are available within the port, along with provisions for water and other necessary supplies.
• Connectivity: The port is connected by road to other major cities in Costa Rica, with reasonable access to the Pan-American Highway. There's also Golfito Airport for domestic flights.

Environmental and Navigational Considerations

• Weather: The region experiences a tropical rainforest climate, with a marked rainy season from May to November. Navigation during this period may require extra caution.
• Wildlife and Conservation: The surrounding area is rich in biodiversity, and several conservation practices are in place to protect the marine and coastal ecosystems.
• Navigational Aids: The entrance to the bay is well-marked with navigational aids, and local pilots are available to assist in navigating larger vessels safely to the dock.

Economic and Regional Importance

• Economic Role: The port serves as an economic lifeline for the southern region of Costa Rica, supporting both local communities and commercial interests.
• Tourism: Due to its beautiful natural setting, Golfito Bay is also a burgeoning destination for eco-tourism and sportfishing, contributing to the local economy.

Future Developments

• Expansion Plans: There have been discussions about expanding and modernizing the port facilities to cater to increased commercial traffic and larger vessels, which may include improved cargo handling systems and more dedicated berths.

In summary, Golfito Bay is a vital marine port for Costa Rica, offering a mix of commercial, recreational, and logistical services amidst a scenic and biologically rich environment.