LIVINGSTON

• GTLIV
• Latitude: 15.8203
• Longitude: -88.7439
• East Coast Central America
• Port in Guatemala

Location: Guatemala

Marine Port Description: Livingston, Guatemala

Overview

Livingston is a unique port located on the Caribbean coast of Guatemala in the department of Izabal. It serves as a gateway to the Rio Dulce, a key waterway leading to Lake Izabal, and is situated near the Gulf of Honduras. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 15.8250° N latitude and 88.7600° W longitude. The port is renowned for its cultural blend, combining Garifuna, Maya, and Ladino influences.

Port Specifications

• Geographical Coordinates: 15.8250° N, 88.7600° W
• Country: Guatemala
• Location: Livingston, Department of Izabal
• Waterway: Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Honduras

Harbor Characteristics

1. Type of Harbor: Natural
2. Approach: The approach to Livingston is via a narrow and often shallow channel at the mouth of the Rio Dulce. Navigational aids and pilots are recommended due to the shallow bars and shifting sandbanks.
3. Draft Limitation: Ships calling at Livingston typically have a draft limitation of around 10-12 feet (3-3.7 meters) due to the varying depths and siltation in the channel.
4. Channel Depth: The entry channel to the Rio Dulce requires careful navigation, with depths varying significantly based on recent weather and sediment deposits.
5. Tidal Range: The tidal range is relatively small but can still affect depth and draft limitations.

Facilities and Services

1. Berths: Due to its small size, the port has limited berthing facilities. Most vessels anchor offshore, and cargo/freight is transferred to and from the port via smaller boats or barges.
2. Cargo Handling: Primitive cargo handling capabilities, primarily suited for small-scale operations. Major cargo includes local agricultural products, fish, and minor trade goods.
3. Passenger Services: Livingston is a popular stop for tourists exploring the Rio Dulce and Lake Izabal. Regular small boat services connect Livingston to neighboring ports like Puerto Barrios and Belize.

Accessibility

• Road: No direct road access due to its secluded location. All access is primarily by water.
• Air: The nearest major airport is the Puerto Barrios Airport (PBR), approximately 30 km away by boat.

Nearby Facilities

• Customs and Immigration: Available to handle the port’s modest traffic, ensuring compliance with national regulations.
• Supplies and Fuel: Limited availability of marine supplies and fuel. Vessels often stock up in larger ports like Puerto Barrios before approaching Livingston.
• Repair Facilities: Minimal, mostly limited to small boat and basic engine repairs.

Special Considerations

• Environmental: The area is surrounded by rich biodiversity, including coastal wetlands and tropical forests. Efforts to protect the environment mean strict regulations on waste disposal and emissions.
• Cultural: Livingston is home to the Garifuna community, famous for its unique culture, music, and cuisine, which significantly enhances the port’s appeal as a tourist destination.

Conclusion

Livingston is a small but culturally significant port that plays a unique role in Guatemala's maritime landscape. Its challenging navigation, limited facilities, and vibrant cultural backdrop make it an interesting though less conventional maritime destination.