PEDRA LUME
- Latitude: 16.7607 •
- Longitude: -22.8919 •
- West Africa •
- Port in Cape Verde
Address: Pedra Lume CV-0510 Cape Verde
Marine Port Description and Specifications: Pedra Lume in Cape Verde
Location: Pedra Lume is located on the northeastern coast of the island of Sal, one of the islands in the Cape Verde archipelago in the central Atlantic Ocean. The port is situated in a geographical area known for its historical salt pans and strikingly clear blue waters.
Coordinates: Latitude: Approximately 16.7569° N Longitude: Approximately 22.9245° W
Historical Significance: Pedra Lume is historically significant due to its salt mines, which have been an important part of the local economy. The salt pans (Salinas de Pedra Lume) are located inside a volcanic crater, and the use of this natural site for salt extraction dates back to the 18th century. The port area was originally developed to facilitate the export of salt.
Port Structure: The port of Pedra Lume is relatively small and is primarily suited to handling smaller vessels. Given its historical use, much of the port infrastructure revolves around facilitating local industry, particularly salt production and tourism.
Port Specifications:
- Type: Small commercial and historical port.
- Berth Information:
- Number of Berths: Limited; typically 1-2 main berths accommodating small cargo and fishing vessels.
- Berth Length: Approximately between 30-50 meters.
- Depth: The approach and berthing depths range between 3-5 meters, making it suitable for shallow draft vessels.
- Cargo Handling: Historically, the port handled salt exports. Currently, the volume and types of cargo handled are minimal and largely depend on local economic activities and specific needs.
- Facilities:
- Storage: Limited storage facilities aimed at salt and small cargo. No extensive warehousing facilities.
- Services: Basic services for vessel docking, including mooring and minor repairs.
- Amenities: Minimal port amenities, focusing more on tourism and historical interest at the nearby Salinas de Pedra Lume.
- Navigation:
- Approach Channel: The approach to Pedra Lume is straightforward for small vessels but should be approached with caution due to potential underwater hazards typical in volcanic island formations.
- Aid to Navigation: Limited; mariners should be prepared with updated charts and local knowledge is beneficial.
Current Usage: Today, Pedra Lume is more of a historical and tourist site than a bustling commercial port. Visitors are drawn to the unique experience of floating in the saline waters of the crater, reminiscent of the Dead Sea experience. Minimal commercial shipping occurs, with some traditional fishing and local transport operations potentially utilizing the port's facilities.
Environmental and Cultural Notes: Pedra Lume is part of an ecologically sensitive and culturally rich region. Environmental considerations are paramount, given the salt pan’s historical and ecological value. tourist activities are regulated to ensure sustainability and preservation of the site.
Summary: While historically significant for its salt extraction, the port of Pedra Lume in Cape Verde is now a small-scale port with limited commercial activity. The port features minimal infrastructure, focusing mainly on small vessel accommodation and supporting the tourist industry. Its striking location within a volcanic crater and preservation of traditional salt mining methods make Pedra Lume a unique and culturally significant landmark within Cape Verde.
For more detailed and operational information, port authorities and local management contacts should be consulted.