ISLA CATALINA

• Latitude: 18.3605
• Longitude: -69.027
• Caribbean Sea
• Port in Dominican Republic

Address: La Romana La Romana Dominican Republic

Phone number: +1 (809) 000-0000

Web-site: https://www.portofislaCatalina.com

Isla Catalina Marine Port - Dominican Republic

Location: Isla Catalina, often referred to as Catalina Island, is situated just south of the mainland in the Dominican Republic, near the city of La Romana. It lies in the Caribbean Sea and is a popular destination for cruise ships and tourist excursions. The geographical coordinates are approximately 18.3619534° N latitude and -69.0093316° W longitude.

Functionality and Key Features:

1. Port Type:

   • Primarily a cruise ship port used for tourism activities. It is not a commercial shipping harbor but rather caters to the visiting cruise lines and private vessels.

2. Capacity and Traffic:

   • The port is designed to accommodate large cruise ships. It can handle one large cruise ship at a time, making it highly exclusive and less crowded compared to larger commercial ports.
   • Ferry services and smaller excursion boats also operate from the island, bringing visitors to and from the mainland.

3. Facilities:

   • Pier/Dock Facilities: The main docking facility is a floating pontoon that allows passengers to disembark directly onto the island. The pontoon is designed to accommodate the draft and beam of large cruise ships.
   • Terminals and Berths: There is no traditional terminal building since it is primarily a natural island setting. Instead, temporary facilities such as tents and gazebos are often set up along the beach to provide welcome services to tourists.
   • Passenger Services: Includes restrooms, gift shops, and small dining facilities or kiosks. There are shaded areas and seating to provide comfort to visitors.

4. Navigation and Access:

   • Waters are relatively calm, and navigation is straightforward due to clear marine charts and navigational aids marking the approach.
   • The port does not handle cargo or freight operations and is equipped purely for passenger services.

5. Environmental Considerations:

   • Isla Catalina is renowned for its coral reefs and marine biodiversity, making it a priority to preserve the natural environment. The cruise lines and tour operators must follow strict environmental protocols to minimize their impact on the ecosystem.
   • The island offers various outdoor activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and nature walks, attracting eco-tourists and adventure seekers.

6. Nearby Attractions and Logistics:

   • The island itself is a primary attraction with white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and a rich array of marine life.
   • Close proximity to La Romana provides an easy gateway for additional tours and excursions to the mainland, including visits to the Altos de Chavón and the famous beaches of Bayahibe and Punta Cana.
   • Safety and medical services are rudimentary, focusing mostly on first aid and emergency response, with complex cases needing transport back to the mainland.

Specifications:

• Latitude/Longitude: 18.3619534° N, -69.0093316° W
• Max Draft: Approximately 8 meters (dependent on tide conditions)
• Docking type: Floating pontoon
• Operating Hours: Dependent on cruise and ferry schedules, generally daylight hours due to navigational safety
• Environmental Impact Measures: Strict adherence to ecological guidelines, waste management, and controlled tourist traffic.

Summary

Isla Catalina Marine Port serves as a bespoke destination for cruise ships, providing a blend of natural beauty and limited but vital facilities for ensuring a comfortable visit for tourists. Its operations focus on preserving the island's pristine environment while offering engaging activities for visitors.