ISLA DE MARGARITA
- Latitude: 10.9491
- Longitude: -63.8501
- North Coast South America
- Port in Venezuela
Address: Venezuela
Isla de Margarita, often referred to simply as Margarita Island, is a significant island located in the Caribbean Sea and is part of Venezuela. Here, I will provide a brief description and some specifications related to the island's primary port facilities.
Isla de Margarita Overview:
Isla de Margarita is one of the top tourist destinations in Venezuela, known for its beautiful beaches, pleasant climate, and duty-free shopping. The island is part of the Nueva Esparta state and includes the smaller islands of Coche and Cubagua. Margarita Island has a bustling economy primarily driven by tourism, fishing, and trading activities.
Primary Ports on Isla de Margarita:
Port of El Guamache (Puerto Internacional El Guamache)
This is the major port on Isla de Margarita, and it primarily handles both cargo and passenger traffic, including cruise ships.
Location:
- Coordinates: 10°57′N 64°8′W
- Situated in the southeastern part of Margarita Island, near Punta de Piedras.
Specifications and Facilities:
- Type: Deepwater port
- Berths: Multiple berths for accommodating different types of vessels including container ships and passenger vessels.
- Cargo Handling: Facilities for containers, break bulk, and Ro-Ro cargo.
- Passenger Facilities: Terminal for cruise ships and ferries, providing amenities such as waiting areas, customs, and immigration services.
- Storage: Warehousing and open storage areas are available for different types of goods.
- Depth: The depth at the berth can accommodate medium to large-sized vessels, specific depths should be confirmed with port authorities as they may vary.
Port of Punta de Piedras
- Mainly serving ferry transport between Isla de Margarita and the mainland of Venezuela.
Other Small Ports:
- Small fishing ports and marinas are scattered around the island, primarily serving local fishing communities and recreational boating.
Environmental and Operational Considerations:
- Tides and Currents: The port area experiences relatively moderate tides, but exact tidal information should be checked for navigation planning.
- Weather Conditions: The Caribbean climate means the island can be subject to tropical storms and hurricanes, particularly during the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November.
- Regulations: All port operations follow Venezuelan maritime regulations, including customs and immigration controls for passengers and cargo.
Accessibility:
- By Sea: Regular ferry services connect Margarita Island to Puerto La Cruz and Cumaná on the Venezuelan mainland.
- By Air: Santiago Mariño Caribbean International Airport (PMV) located near Porlamar serves international and domestic flights, providing easy access to the island.
Economic and Strategic Importance:
Isla de Margarita serves as a critical node for both tourism and logistics in the Caribbean region, making its ports vital for economic activities in the area. The presence of duty-free zones also enhances its attractiveness for trade and commerce.
Contact Information:
For specific current information, shipping schedules, or berth availability, it’s recommended to contact the port authority directly.
Port Authority Contact:
- Autoridad Portuaria de Puerto Internacional El Guamache
- Phone: +58 (contact number to be confirmed based on latest directory)
- Email/Website: (to be updated with current website or email)
This overview provides a foundational understanding of port facilities on Isla de Margarita. For detailed inquiries and operational specifics, direct communication with port authorities or shipping agents is advisable.