HILLSBOROUGH

• GDHIL
• Latitude: 12.4869
• Longitude: -61.4633
• North Coast South America
• Port in Grenada

Location: Hillsborough Carriacou and Petite Martinique Grenada

Hillsborough is a town located on the island of Carriacou, which is part of the nation of Grenada in the eastern Caribbean. The town hosts a port that primarily serves as a small commercial hub and a ferry terminal for the island. Here is a detailed description and some specifications for the marine port in Hillsborough:

Port Description

Location

• Island: Carriacou
• Country: Grenada
• Coordinates: Approximately 12.4879° N latitude, 61.4723° W longitude
• Vicinity: Located along the western coast of Carriacou, facing the Caribbean Sea. The port provides essential connectivity for residents and visitors traveling between Carriacou, the main island of Grenada, and other neighboring islands.

Functions

• Ferry Terminal: The port serves as a terminal for ferries that travel to and from Grenada, Petite Martinique, and other nearby islands.
• Cargo Handling: The port handles limited commercial cargo operations, primarily directed toward supplying goods needed by the local population and businesses.
• Fishing: The port area also supports local fishing activities, which are a significant part of the local economy.
• Yachting: Hillsborough caters to yachting and small pleasure crafts. The area is popular with cruisers, and anchorage is available in the bay.

Port Specifications

Infrastructure

• Piers and Berths: The port has limited infrastructure, including a few small piers and berths. The facilities are generally suitable for small to medium-sized vessels, such as inter-island ferries and fishing boats.
• Depth: The draft at the piers is relatively shallow, typically accommodating vessels with a shallow draft given the natural features of the bay.
• Navigational Aids: Basic navigational aids support the entry and exit of the port, ensuring safe transit for vessels.
• Cargo Handling Facilities: There are minimal cargo handling facilities, and most cargo operations are performed manually or with limited mechanical assistance.
• Passenger Facilities: There are basic amenities for passengers, including a terminal building with waiting areas and ticketing services.

Services

• Customs and Immigration: Services are available to process arrivals and departures, ensuring compliance with national regulations.
• Fuel and Water Supplies: Limited facilities for refueling and freshwater are generally available, catering primarily to local vessels and visiting yachts.
• Maintenance and Repair: Basic repair services for small crafts and fishing boats are available within the port area or nearby.
• Waste Disposal: Proper waste disposal facilities are essential to maintain environmental standards, though these services are basic compared to larger commercial ports.

Connectivity

• Road Access: The port is accessible by road, with connections to other parts of Carriacou. Local transportation options, such as taxis and minibusses, are available for passengers.
• Nearby Facilities: Hillsborough town provides access to accommodations, dining, shopping, and other services catering to residents, travelers, and sailors.

Environmental Considerations

• Marine Protection: Efforts are typically made to protect the marine environment, given the island’s reliance on fishing, tourism, and the pristine nature of the area's waters.
• Sustainable Practices: The port and local community are generally mindful of sustainable practices to preserve the local environment and marine ecosystems.

Conclusion

Hillsborough's port in Carriacou serves as an essential gateway for travel and trade within the Grenadine islands. While it caters more to local needs and smaller vessels, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the island's connectivity and supporting its economy. The facilities are basic, reflecting the scale and economic profile of the region, but they are adequate for the current level of activity on the island.