GONAIVES
- Latitude: 19.4445 •
- Longitude: -72.7081 •
- Caribbean Sea •
- Port in Haiti
Address: Gonaïves Artibonite Haiti
Gonaïves is a coastal commune in Haiti, in the department of Artibonite. It serves as the capital of the Artibonite Department and is an important commercial and transportation hub in the region. While not a major international port, the marine facility in Gonaïves serves the local community and supports regional trade and transportation with the following specifications and characteristics:
Port of Gonaïves Overview
- Location: Gonaïves is located on the western coast of Haiti, along the Gulf of Gonâve, part of the Caribbean Sea.
- Coordinates: Approximately 19.45°N latitude and 72.68°W longitude.
- Function: The port supports regional trade, fishing activities, and small-scale commercial shipping. It is not a major international shipping hub but is vital for local economic activities.
Port Infrastructure
- Berths: The port typically has limited berthing facilities, accommodating smaller vessels rather than large international shipping containers or tankers.
- Cargo Handling: Primarily supports the handling of mixed cargo including agricultural products, manufactured goods, and other regional trade items.
- Draft: The depth of the water near the port is generally shallow, suitable for smaller ships and boats. Specific draft information should be obtained from local port authorities for precise navigation planning.
- Facilities: Basic facilities for docking and unloading cargo; modern infrastructure is limited.
- Harbor Type: Open roadstead with limited protection from larger waves and storms.
Port Services
- Customs Services: Available but may not be as extensive as at larger international ports. Inspect in accordance with national regulations.
- Security: Basic port security measures in place; travelers and shippers may need to coordinate with local authorities for up-to-date security protocols.
- Storage: Limited warehousing and storage facilities available; most goods are typically transferred quickly to inland locations.
Accessibility
- Road Connections: Accessible by road which links the port to the rest of the Artibonite Department and other regions of Haiti.
- Nearby Facilities: Proximity to local markets and urban amenities of Gonaïves city.
Economic and Strategic Relevance
- Regional Trade: Supports the distribution of locally produced goods including agricultural products like rice and beans.
- Fishing Industry: Serves as a base for local fishing activities, providing essential fishery resources to the community.
- Community Impact: Vital for local economic sustenance and serves as a conduit for goods and services needed by the local population.
Challenges
- Infrastructure Development: There is a need for significant investment in port infrastructure to modernize facilities and improve efficiency.
- Weather Vulnerability: Susceptible to weather events such as hurricanes and tropical storms, impacting port operations and safety.
Contacts and Further Information
- Port Authority: For detailed and current information, coordination with Haiti’s national port authorities or local maritime administrative offices in Gonaïves is recommended.
- Emergency and Operational Contact: Ensure to have contact information for local maritime and emergency services.
The port of Gonaïves, while not a major global maritime hub, plays a critical role at the local and regional level in Haiti. Its development and upgrading can significantly impact the economic prospects of the region it serves.