KAWAIHAE

  • USKWH
  • Latitude: 20.0335
  • Longitude: -155.829
  • North Pacific
  • Port in US

Location: Kawaihae HI 96743 US

Phone number: +1-808-961-6206

Web-site: https://www.hidot.hawaii.gov/harbors/kawaihae/

Kawaihae Harbor, located on the northwest coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, is a significant maritime facility primarily contributing to the region's commerce and marine activities. Here's a comprehensive description and specification of Kawaihae Harbor:

Location:

  • Coordinates: Approximately 20°02′N, 155°50′W
  • Region: Big Island of Hawaii, USA
  • Nearest Major City: Kailua-Kona, about 35 miles south of the harbor

Harbor Specifications:

  • Type: Deep-water commercial harbor
  • Harbor Size: Medium, catering primarily to cargo operations and some recreational activities
  • Pier Details:
    • Pier 1: General cargo, with facilities to handle containerized and breakbulk cargo.
    • Pier 2: Bulk commodities, specifically designed to handle dry bulk materials.
  • Depth: Entrance Channel - approximately 35 feet (10.7 meters)
  • Berthing Area Depth: Generally 30 feet (9.1 meters) or more, enabling the accommodation of medium to large-sized vessels.

Services and Facilities:

  • Cargo Handling: Kawaihae offers facilities for container handling, breakbulk cargo, and bulk commodities. It can accommodate roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) operations.
  • Storage: Ample storage facilities, including open yard spaces and limited covered storage areas.
  • Fueling Services: Available for commercial and some recreational vessels.
  • Harbor Services: Tug services, pilotage, and other essential support services.

Usage:

  • Commercial Operations: The harbor plays a crucial role in the import and export of goods, including agricultural products, construction materials, and consumer goods vital to the island's economy.
  • Recreational Use: Kawaihae Harbor also supports recreational activities, providing docking and mooring facilities for yachts and smaller pleasure craft.
  • Fishing Industry: Supports local fishing operations, with infrastructure in place for offloading catches.

Connectivity:

  • Road Access: Well-connected by road to the rest of the island, facilitating efficient transportation of goods to and from the harbor.
  • Nearby Airports: Kona International Airport is the nearest major airport, providing air connectivity for passengers and air freight operations.

Navigation and Safety:

  • Navigational Aids: The harbor is equipped with modern navigational aids including buoys, markers, and lights to ensure safe passage for vessels, day and night.
  • Security: Enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard and local harbor personnel, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and maritime security protocols.

Environmental Considerations:

  • Protection Measures: Ongoing efforts to mitigate environmental impact, including measures to control pollution, manage sediments, and protect local marine life.
  • Conservation Areas: Adjacent areas might be subject to conservation efforts, ensuring sustainable use of marine resources.

Development and Expansion:

  • Future Plans: Proposals and projects may occasionally be underway to expand and improve the harbor's capacity and infrastructure to keep up with growing demands and technological advancements.

Kawaihae Harbor continues to be a pivotal gateway for commerce and transportation on the Big Island of Hawaii, supporting both economic activities and recreational pursuits in the region.

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