LAUTOKA

• FJLTK
• Latitude: -17.614
• Longitude: 177.446
• East Australia
• Port in Fiji

Location: Fiji

Lautoka Port Overview

Location: Lautoka is the second-largest city in Fiji and is located on the western coast of Viti Levu, the largest island in Fiji. Lautoka Port serves as a major maritime gateway for the country.

Port Specifications

1. Coordinates: Latitude 17.6167° S, Longitude 177.4667° E

2. Port Type: Deep-water, multipurpose port

3. Facilities:

   • Berths: Lautoka port has multiple berths, including specialized berths for container ships, bulk cargo ships, and passenger vessels.
   • Container Terminal: Equipped with container handling facilities, including gantry cranes and reach stackers.
   • Warehousing: Available for the storage of various types of cargo, including refrigerated warehousing for perishable goods.
   • Bulk Handling: Facilities for handling bulk commodities such as sugar, which is a major export product for the region.
   • Passenger Terminal: Available for cruise ships and ferry services.

4. Depth:

   • The port has sufficient draft to accommodate large ocean-going vessels. Specific depths may vary at different berths, generally ranging from 10 to 13 meters.

5. Cargo Types:

   • Exports: Primarily sugar, molasses, wood chips, and bottled water.
   • Imports: General cargo including machinery, vehicles, and consumer goods.

6. Navigation:

   • The port has a well-marked channel with navigational aids to assist in vessel entry and exit.
   • Pilots are available and typically required for larger vessels.

7. Operational Hours:

   • The port operates 24/7 to accommodate the needs of maritime traffic and cargo handling.

8. Security:

   • Lautoka port adheres to international security standards, including the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code to ensure the safety of ships and port facilities.

9. Supporting Services:

   • Bunkering: Fueling services for vessels.
   • Ship Repair: Basic repair and maintenance services.
   • Provisions: Supply of food, water, and other ship needs.

10. Accessibility:

• Lautoka is well-connected by road, offering easy transportation to and from the port area for both cargo and personnel.
• The port is approximately 24 kilometers from Nadi International Airport, facilitating air-sea cargo connections.

Economic and Strategic Importance

• Economic Hub: Lautoka is a critical economic hub for Fiji, particularly for the sugar industry, which is of historical and economic significance.
• Tourism: The port also plays a vital role in Fiji's tourism industry, accommodating numerous cruise ships that bring tourists to the island.
• Regional Trade: It serves as a critical node for regional trade and shipping routes in the South Pacific.

Environmental and Regulatory Aspects

• Environmental Protection: The port is engaged in initiatives to minimize its environmental impact, including waste management and pollution control measures.
• Regulatory Compliance: Lautoka Port complies with national and international maritime regulations to ensure safe and efficient port operations.

Contact Information

Lautoka port administration can be contacted for more detailed specifications, tariff information, and operational guidelines. Specific contact details would generally include phone numbers, email addresses, and possibly a dedicated port authority website.

Conclusion

Lautoka Port is a multi-faceted maritime facility that plays a crucial role in Fiji's economy, handling a diverse range of cargo and serving as a gateway for international trade and tourism. With its comprehensive facilities and strategic location, the port continues to be a linchpin in the Pacific maritime network.