MARSA ALAM

• EGRMF
• Latitude: 25.0744
• Longitude: 34.8961
• Red Sea
• Port in Egypt

Location: Marsa Alam Red Sea Governorate Egypt

Marsa Alam is a town located on the western shore of the Red Sea in Egypt, renowned for its stunning marine life, coral reefs, and the diving opportunities it offers. Though primarily known as a tourist destination, Marsa Alam also has a port that serves several functions, including tourism, fishing, and commercial shipping. Below is a general description and specification of the Marsa Alam marine port.

Description

Marsa Alam Port serves as both a gateway for tourists exploring the Red Sea and as a port for fishing and smaller commercial vessels. The port is not as large or industrially significant as other major Egyptian ports like Port Said or Alexandria, but it plays an important role in the local economy by supporting tourism and local commerce.

Specifications

1. Geographic Location:

   • Coordinates: Approximately 25.067° N latitude and 34.897° E longitude.
   • Climate: The region has a warm desert climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it ideal for year-round marine activities.

2. Facilities:

   • Berthing:
     • Marsa Alam Port typically accommodates smaller vessels such as fishing boats, yachts, and small cruise ships.
   • Depth:
     • The depth ranges from 5 to 10 meters, suitable for shallow-draft vessels.
   • Marine Services:
     • Basic amenities for fueling, water supply, and minor repairs are available.
   • Passenger Terminals:
     • Facilities may be available for passengers traveling by sea, although large-scale passenger traffic is limited.

3. Cargo and Commercial Operations:

   • Type of Cargo:
     • Mostly limited to local commerce, including fishing products, dive supplies, and goods for the local market.
   • Customs and Regulations:
     • The port operates under Egyptian maritime regulations, and customs facilities handle the limited import and export operations.

4. Tourism and Recreational Facilities:

   • Diving and Snorkeling:
     • The port is an important hub for diving excursions, given its proximity to renowned dive sites such as the Elphinstone Reef.
   • Charter Services:
     • Facilities for chartering boats for diving, snorkeling, and coastal tours are available.
   • Marina:
     • The port may include a marina equipped to handle yachts and leisure vessels.

5. Infrastructure:

   • Transport Links:
     • The port is connected to Marsa Alam International Airport (approximately 70 km to the north) and local road networks.
     • Public and private transportation services facilitate travel between the port and key locations in Marsa Alam.

6. Security and Safety:

   • Port Security:
     • Security measures are in place to ensure the safety of vessels and passengers.
   • Navigation Aids:
     • Modern navigation aids and port control systems assist in the safe movement of vessels.

7. Environmental Considerations:

   • Regulations:
     • The port adheres to environmental guidelines to protect the marine ecosystem, particularly the coral reefs and marine life that are vital to the area's tourism.

8. Management and Operation:

   • The port is typically managed by local port authorities in coordination with national maritime agencies, ensuring regulatory compliance and efficient operations.

While Marsa Alam's marine port may not have the extensive facilities found in larger ports, it plays a crucial role in supporting both the local economy and the tourism industry that is vital to the region. Its strategic location on the Red Sea makes it a key entry point for marine tourism activities.