HANTSPORT SEAPORT

• CAHPT
• Latitude: 45.0683
• Longitude: -64.1679
• East Coast Canada
• Marina in Canada

Location: Canada

Hantsport Seaport Overview

Location: Hantsport Seaport is situated in the town of Hantsport, within the province of Nova Scotia, Canada. The port lies along the Avon River which feeds into the Bay of Fundy, renowned for having the highest tidal variations in the world.

Historical Significance: Hantsport has a rich maritime history, traditionally serving as a key facility for the region’s shipbuilding and export operations. The port played a significant role in the export of gypsum, a crucial mineral used in construction, up until more recent times.

Geographical Coordinates:

• Latitude: Approximately 45.0633° N
• Longitude: Approximately 64.1675° W

Facilities and Infrastructure:

1. Berths and Docks:

   • The seaport generally comprises several berths capable of handling various types of cargo vessels.
   • Historically, it was optimized for bulk carriers, especially those transporting gypsum.

2. Cargo Handling:

   • The port primarily handled bulk cargo, with significant infrastructure supporting the loading and unloading of materials directly onto ships.
   • Modern demands may have diversified cargo handling capabilities but were traditionally limited to bulk commodities.

3. Storage:

   • Considerable storage space was allocated for bulk materials, including covered storage for weather-sensitive materials.
   • Facilities usually included large stockpiles for gypsum and other bulk goods.

4. Equipment:

   • The port would have been equipped with conveyors and cranes capable of handling large tonnage and facilitating the efficient loading of goods onto vessels.

5. Navigation and Tidal Information:

   • The port is situated in the Bay of Fundy, which experiences some of the highest tidal ranges globally, with tide changes exceeding 16 meters.
   • Navigation would be influenced by these tidal variations, requiring precise timing and piloting expertise to ensure safe entry and departure of vessels.

6. Access and Connectivity:

   • The seaport is connected to the local rail network, facilitating the transport of goods to and from inland areas.
   • The proximity to main roadways enables efficient trucking logistics for goods entering or leaving the port.

Port Operations:

• Hantsport Seaport operations have traditionally centered around bulk cargo, with a significant portion dedicated to the gypsum trade.
• The port has seen changes and fluctuations in cargo type and volume over the years, reflecting shifts in regional economic activities and global market demands.

Economic Impact:

• Hantsport Seaport has been a crucial economic hub within Nova Scotia, supporting local industries and providing employment opportunities.
• The export activities facilitated through the seaport have historically contributed significantly to the local economy.

Considerations and Challenges:

• Given the extreme tidal range of the Bay of Fundy, vessel scheduling and port operations must be meticulously planned.
• Seasonal weather conditions can also impact port activities, requiring robust contingency planning.

Future Prospects:

• While the port's traditional focus was on bulk gypsum exports, future opportunities may involve diversification into other cargoes, leveraging the established infrastructure and strategic location within maritime trade routes.

In summary, Hantsport Seaport is a historically significant maritime facility in Nova Scotia that has primarily focused on bulk cargo, particularly gypsum. The port's operations are characterized by its strategic location along the Avon River leading into the Bay of Fundy, requiring careful navigation and timing due to the area's dramatic tidal variations.