JACMEL

• Latitude: 18.2301
•
• Longitude: -72.5352
•
• Caribbean Sea
•
• Port in Haiti

Address: Jacmel Haiti

Marine Port Description and Specification: Jacmel, Haiti

General Overview: Jacmel is a port town on the south coast of Haiti, facing the Caribbean Sea. Historically renowned for its French colonial architecture and vibrant cultural scene, Jacmel also serves as an important maritime gateway for southern Haiti. Although not as large as some of Haiti's main ports, Jacmel still supports local economic activities, including trade and tourism.

Geographical Location:

• Latitude: Approximately 18.2347° N
• Longitude: Approximately 72.5360° W

Accessibility:

• Navigational Channel: Typically navigable for small to medium-sized vessels, with careful attention to local maritime conditions.
• Tidal Range: The tidal fluctuation is moderate, as is typical for the Caribbean region. Mariners should consult local tide tables and ensure timing aligns with their draft requirements.
• Weather Conditions: The port experiences a tropical climate with a wet season (May to November) and a dry season (December to April). Peak hurricane season runs from June to November, requiring contingency planning for maritime operations during this period.

Port Infrastructure:

• Berthing Facilities: The port features basic berthing facilities suitable for smaller cargo ships, fishing boats, and local ferries. Amenities include some rudimentary quays and anchorage points.
• Depth: The natural depth alongside the quay is relatively shallow. Depths vary but are typically around 3 to 5 meters. Deeper-draft vessels may face limitations and might need to anchor offshore.
• Cargo Handling: Cargo handling operations are generally manual or use basic equipment, reflecting the port’s scale. The type of cargo handled includes agricultural produce, essential goods, and some building materials.
• Warehousing: Limited warehousing facilities available. Temporary storage solutions and small warehouses can accommodate moderate cargo volumes.

Port Services:

• Pilotage: Pilotage services may be required for navigation assistance, depending on the vessel size and local maritime regulations.
• Tug Services: Availability of tug services is limited. Ships often rely on their own maneuvering capability or smaller local tugboats.
• Fueling: Fueling options are limited and vessels may need to make arrangements in advance for bunkering services.
• Repairs: Basic repair services may be available, but comprehensive repair facilities are not present in Jacmel. Vessels requiring significant repairs are advised to seek nearby larger ports.
• Customs and Immigration: Provisions exist for customs and immigration processing, although the scale is suited to smaller volumes of cargo and passenger processing.

Commercial Activity:

• Industries: The port supports local industries including fishing, agriculture, and artisanal crafts. Jacmel is also known for coffee exports.
• Tourism: Tourism plays a vital role, with the port serving as an entry point for visitors drawn to Jacmel’s cultural festivals, beaches, and artistic heritage.

Challenges and Considerations:

• Infrastructure Development: The port's infrastructure is in need of modernization and expansion to increase operational capacity and safety.
• Environmental Concerns: Preservation of the coastal ecosystem is crucial, and environmental regulations must be adhered to by vessels operating in the area.
• Security: Security measures should be assessed for adequacy, particularly given the socio-economic challenges faced by Haiti.

Conclusion: The Port of Jacmel, though limited in scale and capacity compared to larger ports, serves as a critical hub for the surrounding community. Continued investment in infrastructure and services could enhance its operational efficiency and expand its role in regional trade and commerce.