ISLA DE MARGARITA

• VEIDM
• Latitude: 10.9491
• Longitude: -63.8501
• North Coast South America
• Port in Venezuela

Location: 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.