HARBOR ISLAND

• USHJS
• Latitude: 47.5697
• Longitude: -122.346
• US West Coast
• Marina in US

Location: Seattle WA 98134 US

Web-site: http://www.portseattle.org/Maritime/Pages/default.aspx

Harbor Island is a man-made peninsula located within the Elliot Bay area in Seattle, Washington, USA. It's notable as a pivotal site for maritime operations, given its strategic location and robust infrastructure. Here's a detailed description and specifications of Harbor Island as a marine port:

Geographic and Operational Context

• Location: Harbor Island is situated at the mouth of the Duwamish River, nestled between the West Seattle Bridge and the downtown Seattle waterfront.
• Coordinates: Approximately 47.5881° N latitude, 122.3525° W longitude.
• Accessibility: The island is connected to the mainland by several bridges and is accessible by both sea and land routes.

Port Facilities and Infrastructure

1. Berths and Docks:

   • Multiple deep-water berths for handling a variety of vessel types, including container ships, bulk carriers, and general cargo vessels.
   • Specialized terminals for handling petroleum products and other hazardous materials.

2. Terminals:

   • Container Terminals: State-of-the-art container handling facilities equipped with gantry cranes and automated systems for efficient loading and unloading.
   • Bulk Cargo Terminals: Areas designated for bulk commodities such as grain, coal, and mineral ores.
   • Breakbulk Terminals: Facilities for the handling of non-containerized cargo, such as machinery and construction materials.

3. Storage Facilities:

   • Extensive warehouse space for temporary storage of goods.
   • Open storage yards for large equipment and bulk goods.
   • Refrigerated storage units for perishable commodities.

Navigational and Operational Specifications

• Water Depth: The channels and berths have been dredged to accommodate large ocean-going vessels with significant draft requirements.
• Tidal Information: The port operates with real-time tidal data to ensure safe docking and undocking procedures.
• Navigational Aids: The harbor is equipped with modern navigational aids including buoys, beacons, and radar systems to guide vessels safely to their berths.

Support Services

• Pilotage: Compulsory pilotage is required for large vessels, ensuring experienced pilots assist in navigating the complex harbor waters.
• Tug Services: Harbor Island has several tugs to assist with maneuvering vessels into and out of berths.
• Customs and Immigration: On-site U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities streamline the process of cargo and passenger clearance.
• Security: The port is secured by advanced surveillance systems and is compliant with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

Environmental and Safety Compliance

• Pollution Control: Harbor Island adheres to stringent environmental regulations to minimize the impact of port operations on the surrounding ecosystem, including oil spill response readiness and wastewater management.
• Safety Protocols: Comprehensive safety measures are in place, including designated safety zones, emergency response teams, and regular safety drills.

Economic and Operational Significance

• Trade Volume: Harbor Island handles a significant portion of Seattle's maritime trade, including imports and exports, which spans diverse industries.
• Economic Impact: The port's operations contribute significantly to the local and regional economy through job creation, investment, and trade activities.

Future Developments

• Expansion Plans: Ongoing upgrades are aimed at expanding capacity, improving efficiency, and accommodating larger vessels through infrastructure improvements and technological advancements.

Harbor Island is a vital component of Seattle's maritime infrastructure, providing crucial connectivity and services for international and domestic trade routes. Its continuous improvements and strategic location underscore its importance in the Pacific Northwest's maritime landscape.