PETERBOROUGH

• CAPBH
• Latitude: 44.2961
• Longitude: -78.3167
• Great Lakes
• Marina in Canada

Location: Canada

Port of Peterborough, Canada

Overview: The Port of Peterborough, located in the city of Peterborough in Ontario, Canada, is primarily an inland port known for its historical significance and role in regional transportation, particularly via the Trent-Severn Waterway. While not a major commercial maritime port like those on the coast, it serves as a niche hub for recreational boating, small cargo shipments, and tourism and historically supported local industry.

Location:

• Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 44.3° N latitude and 78.3° W longitude.
• Accessibility: Situated along the Otonabee River, which flows into Rice Lake, and connected to the Trent-Severn Waterway, which links Lake Ontario to Georgian Bay.

Port Facilities:

• Marinas and Docks: The port includes several marinas that provide docking facilities for recreational boats and small cargo vessels. These marinas are equipped with basic amenities for boaters, such as fuel stations, electricity, water, and repair services.
• Cargo Handling: While not a major cargo port, the Port of Peterborough can handle small freight operations, often supporting local industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
• Storage Facilities: Limited storage facilities are available, catering primarily to the needs of small-scale operations and tourism-related activities.
• Passenger Services: The port often sees a significant amount of recreational traffic, including tour boats and pleasure craft. Services for passengers include dining, shopping, and easy access to downtown Peterborough via nearby infrastructure.

Access Channels:

• Trent-Severn Waterway: This significant navigational route includes a series of locks and canals allowing vessels to travel from the Bay of Quinte on Lake Ontario to Port Severn on Georgian Bay, passing through Peterborough.
• Draft Limitation: The Trent-Severn Waterway typically accommodates vessels with a draft of up to about 6 feet (1.8 meters), which implies most cargo and recreational vessels using the port tend to be shallow-draft.

Operational Details:

• Seasonal Operations: The port and its associated waterways are generally operational during the warmer months (typically May through October), as winter freeze conditions limit navigation.
• Customs and Border Control: While not a primary international entry point, arrangements for customs and border services can be facilitated for international travelers via the larger ports in the vicinity.
• Navigation Aids: The waterway and port include various navigation aids to ensure safe passage, including buoys, lights, and markers maintained by the Canadian government.

Nearby Infrastructure:

• Transportation Links: The Port of Peterborough is well-connected to regional road networks, including Highway 7 and Highway 115, providing access to major Canadian metropolitan areas like Toronto.
• Airport: The Peterborough Airport (CYPQ) is located about 8 kilometers southwest of the city and offers services for general aviation.
• Rail Service: Limited rail service is available, predominantly for freight, with connections to larger national rail networks.

Economic and Community Impact:

• Tourism: A substantial portion of the port's activity derives from tourism, bolstered by attractions such as the Peterborough Lift Lock, a key feature of the Trent-Severn Waterway.
• Local Industry: The port supports local manufacturing and agricultural sectors by facilitating the efficient movement of goods and resources within the region.

Environmental and Regulatory Aspects:

• Environmental Regulations: Activities at the port comply with Canadian environmental regulations aimed at preserving the water quality and surrounding natural habitats.
• Historical Preservation: The area includes various historically significant sites, with efforts in place to preserve them while promoting educational tourism.

While the Port of Peterborough is more modest compared to Canada's larger commercial ports, it plays a vital role in the local economy and lifestyle, with a focus on recreational boating, tourism, and small-scale cargo operations.