MELBU

• NOMEL
• Latitude: 68.498
• Longitude: 14.8065
• Norwegian Coast
• Port in Norway

Location: Melbu Nordland Norway

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Melbu, Norway

General Overview: Melbu is a small yet strategically significant port located in the Nordland county of Norway. It is situated in the Vesterålen archipelago, providing essential maritime services to the region. The port caters primarily to local fishing industries, cargo shipping, and passenger ferry services.

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 68.5050° N latitude and 14.7983° E longitude
• Geographical Context: Positioned on the Hadsel Island, Melbu sits within close proximity to the Vestfjorden, making it an accessible point for both regional and international maritime activities.

Historical Significance:

• Melbu has a rich maritime history linked to the fishing industry, which has been the backbone of its economy. The area around the port has been historically significant in the processing and exportation of fish and seafood products.

Port Infrastructure:

1. Berths and Quays:

   • Number of Berths: Several
   • Quay Length: Varies, with sufficient space to accommodate small to medium-sized vessels
   • Draft Depth: Moderate depths, typically around 6-8 meters, accommodating fishing vessels, ferries, and small cargo ships

2. Facilities:

   • Cargo Handling: Equipped with basic cargo handling facilities, including cranes and forklifts for offloading and loading goods
   • Storage: Limited covered storage facilities and open yard spaces for temporary storage of goods
   • Fishing Infrastructure: Facilities for landing, processing, and storing fish, including cold storage units

3. Passenger Services:

   • Ferry Terminal: Facilities for passenger ferries that connect Melbu with nearby islands and mainland Norway. The Hurtigruten coastal express service occasionally stops here.
   • Amenities: Waiting areas, ticket offices, and basic passenger services

4. Navigation and Safety:

   • Navigational Aids: Modern navigational aids including buoys, lights, and radar systems
   • Harbor Control: Port authority provides essential harbor management, including vessel traffic control and safety regulations

5. Utilities:

   • Fueling Services: Availability of marine fueling stations providing diesel and other fuel types for vessels
   • Water Supply: Freshwater supply available for vessels docking at the port
   • Repair Services: Basic repair and maintenance services for marine vessels

Economic Role:

• Fishing Industry: Central hub for the local fishing fleet, contributing to the processing and exportation of seafood
• Transport Links: Provides crucial transport links for goods and passengers, supporting the local economy through connectivity with other regional ports and the mainland

Environmental Considerations:

• Sustainability Initiatives: Efforts to minimize environmental impact through pollution controls and sustainable fishing practices
• Waste Management: Systems in place for the management and disposal of waste generated by port activities

Future Developments:

• Potential future enhancements to the port infrastructure to support increasing demand and sustainability goals, including upgrades to berthing facilities and expanded storage capacities.

Contact Information:

• Port Authority: Local maritime authority responsible for the management and operations of Melbu port

Visitor Information:

• Melbu is not only a commercial harbor but also a gateway for tourists, with scenic views and local cultural attractions in the vicinity.

Given its modest size and regional importance, Melbu port remains a vital element of Nordland county's maritime infrastructure, supporting both economic activities and community connectivity.