GRAYS HARBOR

• USGHC
• Latitude: 46.95893
• Longitude: -123.8472
• US West Coast
• Port in US

Location: Aberdeen WA 98520 US

Phone number: +1-360-533-9528

Web-site: http://www.portofgraysharbor.com

Grays Harbor, located on the Pacific coast in the state of Washington, is a significant marine port that serves both commercial and recreational purposes. The port has robust infrastructure and facilities that support various activities such as shipping, fishing, and tourism. Below are detailed descriptions and specifications of Grays Harbor:

General Overview:

• Location: Grays Harbor is situated in the southwestern region of Washington State, near the city of Aberdeen.
• Coordinates: Approximately 46° 57' N latitude and 124° 08' W longitude.
• Management: Operated by the Port of Grays Harbor, which is governed by a locally elected board.

Port Facilities:

• Terminals:

  • Marine Terminals: The port has multiple terminals (Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 4) that handle a wide range of cargo, including automobiles, bulk commodities, and forest products.
  • Terminal Layout: These terminals are equipped with deep-water berths, roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) facilities, and ample storage areas.

• Infrastructure:

  • Berths: Deep-water berths capable of accommodating large ocean-going vessels.
  • Cranes and Loading Equipment: Modern loading and unloading cranes for efficient cargo handling.
  • Warehousing and Storage: Dedicated storage facilities for both bulk and breakbulk goods.
  • Rail and Road Connectivity: Excellent connectivity through major highways and rail lines, facilitating smooth inland transportation.

Cargo Handling:

• Types of Cargo: The port handles diverse cargo types, including bulk commodities (like grains and minerals), breakbulk cargo (such as lumber and pulp), and RoRo cargo (notably automobiles).
• Annual Throughput: The port has an impressive throughput capacity, handling millions of tons of cargo annually.

Navigational Information:

• Harbor Depth: The harbor has a maintained depth of about 38 feet, allowing access for deep-draft vessels.
• Tidal Range: Grays Harbor experiences semidiurnal tides with an average tidal range of approximately 10 feet. Mariners need to be aware of tidal variations for safe navigation.
• Navigational Aids: The harbor is well-marked with buoys, beacons, and other navigational aids to ensure safe passage for vessels.

Environmental and Safety Standards:

• Environmental Protection: The Port of Grays Harbor adheres to strict environmental regulations to minimize its ecological footprint, including initiatives for sustainable practices and pollution control.
• Safety Protocols: Comprehensive safety measures and emergency response plans are in place to address potential hazards and ensure the security of operations.

Economic Impact:

• Regional Economy: The port is a major economic driver for the region, providing numerous jobs and supporting local industries.
• Commercial Fishing: The fishing industry, particularly for species like crab and salmon, is also a vital part of the port's activities.

Additional Services:

• Pilotage Services: Mandatory pilotage is required for navigating in and out of the harbor, provided by licensed harbor pilots.
• Customs and Immigration: Fully operational customs and border protection services to handle international cargo.
• Maritime Support Services: Availability of tugboats, bunkering services, and ship repair facilities.

Recreational Opportunities:

• Marinas and Docks: Facilities for recreational boating and fishing, catering to local and visiting maritime enthusiasts.
• Tourism: The surrounding area offers scenic views, wildlife watching, and other recreational activities.

Grays Harbor continues to be a pivotal hub on the Pacific coast, with ongoing improvements and expansions to enhance its capacity and efficiency. Its strategic location and comprehensive facilities make it a preferred choice for maritime operations.