GRAND ISLE

• USGIJ
• Latitude: 29.2563
• Longitude: -89.9693
• Gulf of Mexico
• Port in US

Location: Grand Isle LA US

Grand Isle is a small town located on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, at the southern tip of Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, United States. While Grand Isle itself may not be a major commercial port, it plays an important role in the region's maritime activities, particularly related to fishing, tourism, and offshore oil and gas operations. Here are some key points and specifications about Grand Isle's maritime facilities:

1. Location:

   • Coordinates: Approximately 29.2307° N latitude and 90.0048° W longitude.
   • Situated in the Gulf of Mexico, near the Mississippi River Delta.

2. Port Facilities:

   • Marinas: Grand Isle hosts several marinas that cater to recreational boating and fishing. These marinas provide docking facilities, boat rentals, fuel supplies, and maintenance services.
   • Commercial Docks: There are docks that support local fisheries and smaller-scale commercial activities, including shrimping and crabbing.

3. Offshore Support:

   • Oil and Gas Industry: Grand Isle serves as a support base for offshore oil and gas exploration and production in the Gulf of Mexico. This includes logistics, supply runs, and transportation services for offshore platforms.
   • Heliports: Helicopter services may be available for rapid transport to and from offshore facilities.

4. Fishing Industry:

   • Grand Isle is renowned for its fishing industry, both commercial and recreational. It is famous for its annual Tarpon Rodeo, the oldest fishing tournament in the United States.
   • Facilities are available for processing and shipping seafood products.

5. Tourism:

   • Beaches and Recreation: The island is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors for its beaches, fishing, and wildlife. Facilities include beach access, rental properties, and local dining establishments.
   • Wildlife and Nature: Grand Isle State Park offers camping, bird watching, and nature trails.

6. Transportation and Access:

   • Highways: Connected to the mainland by Louisiana Highway 1, which provides access to regional centers such as New Orleans and Houma.
   • Air Access: The nearest major airport is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, approximately 110 miles to the north.

7. Environmental and Navigational Considerations:

   • Weather: The area is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, requiring robust emergency preparedness and infrastructure resilience.
   • Water Depths: Channels and docking areas are suitable for smaller vessels rather than deep-draft ships. Detailed hydrographic surveys would be necessary for specific navigational information.

8. Community and Infrastructure:

   • Despite its small size, Grand Isle has essential services, including police, fire departments, and medical facilities to support both residents and visitors.

For commercial operators or maritime enthusiasts planning activities in or around Grand Isle, it is recommended to consult local maritime authorities, NOAA nautical charts, and regional maritime service providers for the most current and specific information. This ensures safe and efficient operations tailored to the unique characteristics of this coastal community.