LA CEIBA

• HNLCE
• Latitude: 15.7926
• Longitude: -86.7606
• East Coast Central America
• Port in Honduras

Location: La Ceiba Honduras

La Ceiba is a city situated on the northern coast of Honduras and serves as a significant maritime hub in the region. The port mainly supports the local economy by facilitating the export of goods and the import of essential commodities. Below, you'll find an overview of its specifications and features:

Port Specifications and Infrastructure

1. Location:

   • Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 15.7833° N latitude and 86.8500° W longitude.
   • Access: The port is strategically located along the Caribbean Sea, easing access to transatlantic shipping routes.

2. Port Type:

   • It serves as a multipurpose port handling various types of cargo, including breakbulk, containers, and occasionally passenger vessels.

3. Berthing Facilities:

   • Number of Berths: Several berths that can accommodate different vessel sizes.
   • Berth Length: Ranges generally from 100 to 180 meters, suitable for small to medium-sized vessels.
   • Depth: The draft varies but typically ranges from 6 to 9 meters, limiting the size of vessels that can dock.

4. Cargo Handling Equipment:

   • Cranes: A mix of mobile cranes and fixed cranes for cargo handling.
   • Forklifts: Various sizes to manage different cargo types.
   • Warehousing: Covered storage areas and open yards for cargo awaiting transportation or further shipment.

5. Navigation Aids:

   • Lighthouse: There are navigational aids, such as lighthouses and beacons, to ensure safe entry and exit from the port.
   • Pilotage: Compulsory pilotage is usually available to assist larger ships in docking and undocking procedures.

6. Connectivity:

   • Road: Well-connected by a network of roads facilitating overland transportation to other parts of Honduras.
   • Rail: Limited, with most cargo transported by road.
   • Air: Proximity to Golosón International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Golosón), which supports logistical operations.

Economic and Operational Aspects

1. Primary Exports:

   • Agricultural Products: Bananas, pineapples, and other tropical fruits.
   • Seafood: Including shrimp and fish products.
   • Other Goods: Wood and textiles.

2. Primary Imports:

   • Consumer Goods: Items such as electronics, clothing, and processed foods.
   • Machinery: Industrial and agricultural equipment.
   • Raw Materials: Various raw materials to support local industries.

3. Passenger Services:

   • The port occasionally accommodates small cruise ships and ferries, mainly focused on regional tourist trade and travel.

4. Safety and Security:

   • The port complies with international maritime safety standards and has necessary security measures such as surveillance and controlled access to ensure the safety of cargo and personnel.

Environmental and Regulatory Framework

1. Environmental Considerations:

   • The port has measures in place to minimize environmental impact, including waste management systems and oil spill contingencies.
   • Compliance with both national and international environmental regulations.

2. Regulations:

   • Governed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards and local regulations.
   • Customs and immigration policies are strictly enforced to prevent illicit activities.

Conclusion

The Port of La Ceiba plays a vital role in Honduras's economy by being a critical conduit for trade and transportation. Its facilities, while not as extensive as larger, international ports, are adequately equipped to handle a variety of cargoes and support essential economic functions in the region.