LES ESCOUMINS

• CAQLE
• Latitude: 48.3477
• Longitude: -69.3863
• East Coast Canada
• Port in Canada

Location: Les Escoumins QC Canada

Marine Port Description and Specification: Les Escoumins, Canada

Location: Les Escoumins is situated in the province of Quebec, on the north shore of the Saint Lawrence River. It lies approximately 230 kilometers northeast of Quebec City.

Geographical Coordinates:

• Latitude: 48.3479° N
• Longitude: 69.4192° W

Port Type: The Port of Les Escoumins is primarily a regional port, serving as an important ferry terminal and pilot station.

Facilities:

1. Ferry Terminal:

   • The terminal serves as a crossing point for ferries traveling between Les Escoumins and the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River, specifically to Trois-Pistoles.
   • It features facilities for passengers, including waiting areas and parking lots.

2. Pilot Station:

   • Les Escoumins is home to a pilot boarding station for the Laurentian Pilotage Authority.
   • Pilots for both the upriver and downriver routes of the Saint Lawrence board and disembark vessels here.
   • The station includes accommodation and operation facilities for the pilots.

Accommodating Vessels:

• The port caters mainly to ferry vessels and pilot boats.
• The waters around the port can accommodate large commercial vessels for the purpose of embarking or disembarking pilots.

Navigation Guidance:

• The port provides essential navigation services, particularly pilotage, for vessels transiting the Saint Lawrence River.
• The Laurentian Pilotage Authority ensures that qualified pilots are available to safely navigate complex and challenging waters.

Access Channels:

• The marine approach to Les Escoumins requires navigating through the Saint Lawrence River, known for its strong currents and variable weather conditions.
• Vessels typically follow established marine traffic routes with the assistance of nautical charts and pilot services.

Operational Hours:

• The port operates year-round. However, ferry services may be seasonally limited by weather conditions and ice coverage during winter.

Environmental Considerations:

• Located near the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, the port is surrounded by ecologically sensitive areas.
• Operations are managed to minimize the environmental impact on local marine life, including the protection of beluga whale habitats.

Nearby Amenities and Infrastructure:

• Les Escoumins offers essential services and amenities, such as accommodation, restaurants, and fuel stations.
• The town provides road connectivity for further travel within Quebec, including access to major highways.

Contact Information:

• Port Authority: Information can typically be obtained through the local municipality or the Laurentian Pilotage Authority.

Summary: The port of Les Escoumins serves an essential role in regional transportation and maritime navigation on the Saint Lawrence River. It provides critical ferry services and acts as a vital pilotage station, ensuring the safe and efficient transit of vessels in this major commercial waterway.