LA DIGUE

• Latitude: -4.34757
• Longitude: 55.8271
• East Africa
• Port in Seychelles

Location: Seychelles

Web-site: https://www.virtualseychelles.sc/index.php/discover/seychelles-islands/inner-islands/la-digue

La Digue Island Port, Seychelles - Description and Specifications

General Overview:

La Digue is one of the islands within the Seychelles archipelago. Known for its relatively unspoiled natural beauty, it is one of the world's famous tourist destinations due to its stunning beaches, unique boulder formations, and serene environment. The main port on La Digue is small but essential for connecting the island with the main Seychelles islands, particularly Mahe and Praslin.

Location:

• Country: Seychelles
• Island: La Digue
• Coordinates: Approximately 4°21′S 55°50′E

Port Infrastructure:

• Type: Small harbour / ferry terminal
• Primary Use: Passenger and Cargo Transport
• Facilities: Basic amenities, including waiting areas for ferry passengers, some cargo handling facilities, and small administrative offices.
• Accessibility: The port is easily accessible from the main village, La Passe, on La Digue.

Connectivity:

• Ferry Services: Regular passenger ferry services operate between La Digue, Praslin, and Mahe. These are the primary modes of transport for locals and tourists.
• Cargo Services: Limited but functional; primarily supports the import of goods necessary for daily life on the island, including food, building materials, and other essentials.

Marine and Navigational Specifications:

• Approach Channel: Generally straightforward for smaller vessels; approach pathways are well-charted.
• Depth: Suitable for small to medium ferries and cargo boats. Depth details should be verified with local authorities for larger vessels.
• Mooring Facilities: Berths are available mainly for ferries and small cargo vessels.
• Navigation Aids: Basic navigational aids including buoys and lights to guide vessels during entry and departure.

Environmental Aspects:

• Tide: Generally mild tides, typical of the Indian Ocean.
• Weather: Tropical; marine operations could be influenced by cyclonic weather patterns or seasonal monsoons.
• Conservation: High emphasis on maintaining environmental integrity due to the island’s ecological and tourist significance.

Operational Considerations:

• Administrative Authority: Managed under the purview of Seychelles Port Authority along with local administrative bodies.
• Customs and Regulations: Subject to Seychelles national regulations, with local customs checks in place for cargo.
• Safety: Essential safety measures enforced, but smaller scale compared to larger international ports.

Services:

• Passenger Services: Ferry ticketing and booking offices, passenger waiting areas, and minimal convenience facilities.
• Cargo Handling: Limited to essential supplies, with manual handling predominating due to scale.
• Tourism Support: Onsite information about local tourism operators, bike rentals, and other tourist services.

Conclusion:

The port of La Digue in the Seychelles is a small but vital hub for connecting the island to the rest of the archipelago. Despite its limited size, it supports significant passenger movement and essential cargo operations, ensuring the sustainability and connectivity of La Digue to the greater Seychelles region. Always check with local maritime authorities for the most current navigational and operational data before planning any activity.