MIQUELON

• PMMQC
• Latitude: 47.1075
• Longitude: -56.3677
• East Coast Canada
• Port in St. Pierre & Miquelon

Location: St. Pierre & Miquelon

Port of Miquelon, St. Pierre & Miquelon

General Overview:

The Port of Miquelon is located in Miquelon, one of the main islands in the archipelago of St. Pierre & Miquelon. This French overseas territory is situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, south of Newfoundland, Canada. The port is a critical hub for local trade, fishing, and transportation.

Key Features and Specifications:

1. Geographical Coordinates:

   • Latitude: Approximately 47.1° N
   • Longitude: Approximately 56.4° W

2. Port Type:

   • The Port of Miquelon is a coastal maritime port primarily serving local and regional needs.

3. Facilities and Infrastructure:

   • Berths and Quays: The port has several berths suitable for fishing vessels, small cargo ships, and passenger ferries.
   • Draft: The depth varies but typically accommodates vessels with shallow drafts, suitable for small to medium-sized ships.
   • Storage: Limited storage facilities are available for goods. There might be refrigerated storage for perishable items due to the prominence of the fishing industry.
   • Cargo Handling: Basic cargo handling equipment is available. The port specializes in fishing products, small quantities of goods, and local supplies.
   • Passenger Services: The port includes a terminal for passenger ferries that travel between Miquelon, St. Pierre, and occasionally to Newfoundland.

4. Navigation and Access:

   • Navigational Aids: Standard maritime navigational aids are in place, including buoy markers and lighthouse beacons to facilitate safe entry and exit.
   • Pilotage: Pilotage services may be available but are typically limited due to the small size of the port.
   • Tidal Information: Local tide patterns affect accessibility, and vessels must often time their entry and exit based on tidal movements.

5. Economic and Operational Considerations:

   • Primary Activities: Fishing is a major activity, alongside limited cargo operations and ferry services that transport passengers and goods to and from the archipelago.
   • Trade Links: The port maintains trade connections mainly with St. Pierre and Canada, focusing on regional exchanges and supplies essential for the local population.
   • Fuel and Supplies: Basic bunker services may be available, along with necessary supplies for fishing vessels and small transport ships.

6. Environmental and Safety Regulations:

   • Regulations: The port adheres to French maritime laws and regulations, ensuring environmental protections and safety standards are maintained.
   • Waste Management: Facilities for waste disposal and management are present to handle ship-generated waste, especially from fishing operations.
   • Emergency Services: Basic emergency response services are in place, though extensive resources may require coordination with St. Pierre or external support.

7. Future Developments:

   • Expansion Projects: Occasional upgrades and maintenance projects aim to improve the port’s infrastructure to better serve the local community and boost the efficiency of fishing operations.
   • Environmental Initiatives: Efforts are likely ongoing to improve sustainability practices within port operations, aligning with broader environmental goals.

The Port of Miquelon stands as a crucial maritime gateway for the residents of Miquelon Island, balancing its role in fishing, local trade, and passenger transport within the constraints of its modest size and regional focus.