PASSAMAQUODDY BAY

• USLB2
• Latitude: 44.8619
• Longitude: -66.9869
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Passamaquoddy Bay is located at the border between the United States and Canada, specifically between the state of Maine in the U.S. and the province of New Brunswick in Canada. As such, it is an international body of water supporting marine activities in both countries. Here, I will provide more details with a focus on its location in the U.S.

Location:

• Geographical Coordinates: Approximately between 44.9°N to 45.1°N latitude and 66.9°W to 67.1°W longitude.
• Area: The bay itself covers an area of roughly 120 square miles.
• Nearby Cities/Towns: Eastport, Lubec (in Maine, USA); St. Andrews, Deer Island (in New Brunswick, Canada).

Marine Facilities and Infrastructure:

1. Eastport:

   • Port Size and Capacity: Eastport is the easternmost deepwater port of the United States, capable of accommodating large ocean-going vessels.
   • Facilities: Includes a cargo terminal, warehouses, and support facilities for loading and unloading a variety of goods.
   • Navigation: The shipping channel is well-marked and maintained for safe passage. Pilotage is available and often required for larger vessels.

2. Lubec:

   • Port Facilities: Primarily serves smaller vessels, including fishing boats and recreational crafts. The town has basic docking and mooring facilities.
   • Access: Lubec is connected to Campobello Island (Canada) by the Roosevelt Campobello International Bridge, aiding cross-border access.

Navigational Considerations:

• Tides: The bay has some of the highest tidal ranges in the world, which can reach up to 28 feet. This significant tidal variation impacts docking and navigation schedules.
• Currents and Flow: Strong currents and whirlpools are present, particularly around areas like the Old Sow Whirlpool near Eastport and Deer Island.
• Navigational Aids: Buoys, lights, and radar beacons are in place to assist with navigation, especially important given the tidal influences and current patterns.

Economic Activities:

• Trade: Eastport is an essential point for export and import, including shipments of paper, seafood, and other goods.
• Fishing: The bay is significant for commercial and recreational fishing activities. Species such as lobster, scallops, and various kinds of fish are commonly caught.
• Tourism: Scenic beauty, whale watching, and recreational boating are notable draws for tourists to the region.

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations:

• Protection: The bay is subject to environmental protection regulations from both U.S. and Canadian authorities to protect marine habitats and water quality.
• Cross-Border Coordination: Agencies from both countries coordinate to handle maritime activities, border security, and environmental conservation to ensure compliance with international and local laws.

Additional Information:

• Accessibility: Routes to Passamaquoddy Bay can be accessed through highways leading to Eastport and Lubec from interior parts of Maine.
• Utilities: The ports in the bay are well-served with necessary utilities, including freshwater, electrical hook-ups, and fuel services to support maritime operations.

Passamaquoddy Bay’s strategic location and the natural deepwater harbor make it a significant marine port area for both the U.S. and Canada, facilitating efficient trade and maritime activities in the northeastern Atlantic region.