KARAUL

• Latitude: 70.0652
• Longitude: 83.2043
• CIS Pacific
• Port in Russia

Address: Russia

Karaul is a minor harbor or maritime port locality situated in the northern region of Russia, primarily in the Krasnoyarsk Krai area. This area is characterized by its challenging Arctic conditions, making maritime operations somewhat demanding and necessitating specialized infrastructure to handle the environmental constraints. The port is typically used by vessels engaging in activities pertinent to the Arctic region, including research ships, supply vessels, and possibly some fishing activities, given its remoteness and climatic challenges.

Port Specifications:

1. Location: Karaul is located along the coastlines of the Arctic Ocean. The exact coordinates can be important for navigational purposes but are generally situated in the northern latitudes.

2. Climate: The port experiences severe Arctic weather conditions. Ice cover can be prevalent for much of the year, necessitating the use of icebreakers or ice-class vessels for access during certain periods.

3. Infrastructure:

   • Docking Facilities: Typically limited, with docking facilities capable of servicing small to medium-sized vessels. The facilities would include basic mooring structures suitable for handling coastal supply vessels and possibly research ships.
   • Cargo Handling: Due to the minor status of the port, cargo handling capabilities are expected to be minimal, geared towards essential supplies rather than extensive commercial freight.
   • Warehousing: Limited warehousing facilities focused on keeping critical supplies and equipment protected from the harsh weather.

4. Navigation: Given the Arctic conditions, advanced navigational aids would be necessary. These could include:

   • Ice Navigation Systems: To assist ships in negotiating ice-filled waters.
   • Lighthouses or Beacons: Essential for safe navigation in treacherous waters and limited daylight during winter months.
   • Communication Systems: To coordinate safe passage and docking within the ice-prone area.

5. Access:

   • Sea Access: Limited to periods when the ice retreat permits, usually during the summer months. The use of icebreakers and tundra-adapted vessels is common.
   • Road Access: Likely very restricted if present at all. Overland routes would be seasonal and primarily accessible via snowmobiles or other winterized vehicles during certain periods.

6. Services:

   • Fueling Stations: Essential for resupplying vessels with the necessary fuel to return to more resource-abundant ports.
   • Emergency Services: Including basic medical facilities and search and rescue operations suitable for Arctic conditions.

7. Operational Seasonality: The operations are heavily seasonal, with a significant reduction in activity during the long Arctic winters when ice conditions can cause the port to be largely inaccessible.

8. Significance: While not a major commercial port, Karaul plays a crucial part in supporting scientific research, local communities, and limited commercial activities that are conducted in the Arctic region. It may serve as a logistical base for northern exploration and supply missions.

Overall, the port of Karaul exemplifies essential Arctic maritime infrastructure, providing crucial support amidst one of the world's most challenging environments.