NICARO
- Latitude: 20.7079 •
- Longitude: -75.5499 •
- Caribbean Sea •
- Port in Cuba
Address: Nicaro Holguín Cuba
Port Description and Specifications: Nicaro, Cuba
Overview: Nicaro is a key port located in the Holguín Province on the northeastern coast of Cuba. Primarily known for its nickel and cobalt mining activities, this port serves as a critical export hub for these mineral resources. The port's infrastructure is tailored to support the mining industry, with facilities geared towards efficiently handling and shipping bulk materials.
Location:
- Coordinates: Approximately 20.8000° N latitude and 75.4500° W longitude.
- Proximity: The port city is situated on the Tarafa Bay inlet and is relatively remote, with a direct road and potential rail links to inland mining operations.
Port Facilities and Infrastructure:
- Berths: The port has multiple berths; some are specifically designed for bulk carriers to facilitate the efficient loading of nickel and cobalt ores.
- Draft Depth: Varies by berth but can generally accommodate vessels up to 12 meters in draft, depending on tidal conditions.
- Cargo Handling: Equipped with conveyor belts, cranes, and other machinery necessary for bulk materials handling. Some berths may also have storage facilities such as silos and open storage yards.
- Warehousing: On-site warehouses for storage of processed materials and other cargo.
- Support Facilities: The port provides essential services that include bunkering, potable water supply, and maintenance and repair services for vessels.
Operational Information:
- Port Authority: Managed by the Empresa Terminal Marítima Nicaro, which oversees operations and ensures compliance with national and international regulations.
- Security: Equipped with security protocols and systems such as perimeter fencing, surveillance cameras, and patrolling security officers to safeguard the port and its operations.
- Customs and Clearance: The port has a customs office to handle the requisite documentation and formalities for import and export activities, ensuring compliance with international trade regulations.
Navigational Information:
- Pilotage: Pilotage is typically required for all large vessels to navigate through the bay and to their designated berths safely.
- Tides and Currents: The port experiences moderate tidal ranges, and currents can affect vessel handling, especially during the hurricane season.
- Anchorage: Designated anchorage areas are available outside the main shipping channels, providing safe holding grounds for vessels awaiting berth allocation.
Economic Role:
- Exports: Primarily focuses on the export of nickel and cobalt, contributing significantly to Cuba's national economy.
- Local Industry Support: The port supports the local mining industry by facilitating the effective export of raw and semi-processed materials.
Environmental and Safety Compliance:
- Regulations: Operations comply with local and international environmental regulations to minimize pollution and adhere to safety protocols to protect workers and the local ecosystem.
- Emergency Response: The port has emergency response plans in place for incidents such as oil spills, fire, or other industrial accidents.
The Port of Nicaro remains one of Cuba's prominent industrial ports, playing a vital role in the nation's mining sector and overall economic framework.