MATA UTU

• WFMAU
• Latitude: -13.2815
• Longitude: -176.174
• South Pacific
• Port in Wallis & Futuna

Location: Mata Utu Wallis Wallis & Futuna

Mata Utu Marine Port - Wallis & Futuna

General Overview:

Mata Utu, the capital of Wallis and Futuna, serves as the principal port of entry for the island territory. Wallis and Futuna is a French overseas collectivity consisting of three main islands and several small islets in the South Pacific. Mata Utu is located on Uvea (Wallis Island) and plays a critical role in the archipelago’s connectivity and logistics.

Location Specifications:

• Geographic Coordinates: Approx. 13°17'S latitude and 176°10'W longitude.
• Time Zone: UTC +12:00.
• Region: Pacific Islands.

Port Facilities and Infrastructure:

• Type of Port: Natural harbor with supplementary infrastructure.
• Berthing Facilities: Limited due to the size of the port, typically accommodating smaller vessels.
• Wharf Length: Approximately 50 meters.
• Depth: Usually between 6 to 9 meters, suitable for small to medium-sized vessels.
• Cargo Handling Facilities: Basic facilities for the handling of general cargo. Specialized equipment or cranes may not be available.
• Storage: Limited warehousing and open storage areas; lacks extensive modern warehousing facilities.
• Navigational Aids: Equipped with basic aids such as beacons and buoys for safer entry and departure.
• Pilotage: Usually compulsory for incoming vessels; pilot services can be requested.
• Tug Assistance: Limited or non-existent, generally performed by the ship's own crew.
• Anchorage: Vessels may need to anchor offshore and use smaller boats for lightering cargo and personnel.

Usage:

• Main Activities: Import and export of goods, fishing activities, inter-island transport.
• Types of Cargo: Predominantly general cargo, including food supplies, building materials, and consumer goods. Imports are essential due to limited local production.
• Passenger Services: Occasional cruise ship visits and inter-island ferries.

Services:

• Customs: Basic customs facilities available for cargo inspection and clearance.
• Immigration: Services provided for crew and passengers of international vessels.
• Public Amenities: Limited; essential services like fresh water, food supplies, and basic medical facilities are available in the town of Mata Utu.
• Bunkering: Generally not available, or very limited if present.
• Repairs: Basic repair facilities; complicated or major repairs may require services from external providers or at other locations.

Communication and Contact:

• Port Authority: Managed under the local government of Wallis and Futuna.
• Contact: Communication typically through marine VHF channels or local port authority offices.

Challenges:

• Limitations on Vessel Size: Due to depth constraints and limited infrastructure, Mata Utu can only handle smaller vessels.
• Dependency on Imports: High dependency on imports for everyday goods and materials, making the port crucial for the local economy.

Summary:

Mata Utu Marine Port is critical for Wallis & Futuna, providing essential connectivity for the transport of goods and people. While the port has basic facilities, its limited infrastructure constrains its ability to accommodate larger vessels and a wide range of cargo. Nonetheless, it remains a vital hub for the sustenance and development of the territory.