KEY WEST
- Latitude: 24.567 •
- Longitude: -81.76 •
- Gulf of Mexico •
- Port in US
Address: US
Key West Port, United States
General Overview: Key West Port is a crucial maritime facility located at the southernmost point of the continental United States, specifically in Key West, Florida. The port plays a vital role due to its strategic location, serving as a hub for cruises, cargo, and recreational vessels. Additionally, it sits in a prime position for trade and tourism, providing access to the Caribbean and beyond.
Location:
- Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 24.5551° N latitude and 81.7800° W longitude.
- Region: Florida Keys, Monroe County.
Specifications:
- Type of Port: The Port of Key West is a versatile seaport welcoming cruises, commercial maritime activities, and pleasure boats.
- Facilities:
- Cruise Ship Berths: The port has several berths that cater to cruise liners, including Mallory Square Dock, Pier B, and the Outer Mole Pier.
- Cargo Handling: Limited compared to larger commercial ports, handling mostly small-scale goods and supplies. The port is not a major cargo hub.
- Maritime Services: Offers a range of maritime services to visiting vessels, including fueling, provisioning, and maintenance.
- Marinas: Key West has multiple marinas accommodating both transient and permanent yachts and smaller vessels.
Navigation and Access:
- Draught Restrictions: Varies across different berths. Cruise berths typically allow a draught of up to approximately 30 feet.
- Navigational Aids: A comprehensive system of buoys, markers, and lighthouses guides ships safely to and from the port.
- Tidal Information: Tides in Key West are relatively mild with a tidal range of approximately 2.5 feet.
Customs and Security:
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP): Provides customs, immigration, and agricultural inspection services.
- Security Measures: Enforced under the guidelines of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code to ensure the safety and security of port infrastructure and passengers.
Economic Impact:
- Tourism: One of the largest contributors to the local economy; the port is a popular destination for international and domestic cruise liners, bringing numerous tourists to the city.
- Commercial Activities: Although not a large cargo port, the commercial activities include fishing, local goods distribution, and providing supplies to the Florida Keys.
Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives:
- The port places a strong emphasis on environmental protection, with measures in place to manage and mitigate pollution.
- Initiatives include waste management programs, fuel spill prevention, and efforts to protect local marine life and habitats.
Connectivity and Transportation:
- Road Access: Easily accessible via U.S. Route 1, which connects Key West to the mainland.
- Airport: Close proximity to Key West International Airport for seamless air-sea connections.
- Intermodal Connections: Limited but adequate for passenger transfer and light cargo logistics.
Key Contact Information:
- Port Authority: Managed by the City of Key West Port Operations.
- Website: City of Key West Port Operations
Conclusion: Key West Port is a vital maritime gateway primarily focused on passenger cruises and local maritime activities. While not a major cargo hub, it significantly contributes to the regional economy through tourism and small-scale commercial operations. The port continues to invest in maintaining effective operations, security, and environmental sustainability.