LEVUKA

• FJLEV
• Latitude: -17.6833
• Longitude: 178.827
• East Australia
• Port in Fiji

Location: Levuka Fiji

Levuka is a significant marine port located on the eastern coast of Ovalau Island in Fiji. It holds historical importance as it was the capital of Fiji until 1877. The port serves as a vital trading and commercial hub for the island and plays a crucial role in Fiji's marine operations.

Port Description

1. Location:

   • Latitude: 17° 41' 30" S
   • Longitude: 178° 50' 00" E
   • Ovalau Island, Lomaviti Group, Fiji.

2. Historical Significance:

   • Levuka was the first colonial capital of Fiji.
   • Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical architecture and significance.

3. Port Functions:

   • Handles cargo and passenger services.
   • Supports fishing activities and serves as a point for marine and other logistical supplies.
   • Facilitates import and export services, primarily for agricultural and manufactured goods.

Port Specifications

1. Berthing Facilities:

   • The port has several berths capable of accommodating medium-sized vessels.
   • Modern wharves equipped for handling containerized, breakbulk, and roll-on/roll-off (RO-RO) cargo.

2. Cargo Handling:

   • Equipped with cranes and other material handling equipment.
   • Facilities for cold storage, especially for fishery products.

3. Navigation:

   • Navigational aids include lighthouses and buoys ensuring safe entry and exit of vessels.
   • The harbor is protected by natural and artificial breakwaters.

4. Anchorage:

   • Anchorage areas available near the port, with sufficient depth for medium draught vessels.

5. Depth:

   • Approach channel and alongside depths typically range around 7.9 to 9.1 meters, suitable for medium-sized commercial vessels.

6. Customs and Immigration:

   • Customs and immigration facilities available to handle international shipping and cargo diligently.

7. Storage and Warehousing:

   • Adequate warehousing and open storage area for various types of cargo.
   • Secure storage facilities ensuring the safety of goods.

8. Bunkering:

   • Provision for bunkering services, catering to the fuel needs of visiting and local marine vessels.

9. Connectivity:

   • Good road connectivity to other parts of Ovalau Island.
   • Regular ferry services connecting Ovalau with Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island.

10. Safety and Security:

    • Security measures in place include port security officers and surveillance systems.
    • Compliance with International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code standards.

Economic and Social Impact

1. Economic Role:

   • Essential for the local economy, supporting both international trade and local businesses.
   • Provides employment opportunities for residents on the island and surrounding areas.

2. Tourism:

   • Attracts tourists due to its heritage status and the picturesque landscape surrounding the port area.
   • Services like sightseeing tours and historical walking tours are available for visitors.

3. Fishing Industry:

   • Central to the fishing industry in Fiji, supporting both small-scale and commercial fishing fleets.
   • Facilities for fish processing and export.

In summary, Levuka Port is a multifaceted hub with significant historical importance, contributing extensively to Fiji's marine and economic activities. It provides essential services to the local community while adhering to international standards for port operation and security.