POINTE A PIERRE
- Latitude: 10.3265 •
- Longitude: -61.4735 •
- North Coast South America •
- Port in Trinidad & Tobago
Address: Pointe-à-Pierre Trinidad & Tobago
Certainly! Pointe-à-Pierre is a significant marine port located in Trinidad and Tobago. Here is a detailed description and specification of the port:
Port Overview
- Location: Pointe-à-Pierre is situated on the western coast of Trinidad, facing the Gulf of Paria. The port primarily serves the petroleum and petrochemical industries in the region.
- Coordinates: Approximately 10.338° N, 61.454° W.
Port Specifications
Terminal Facilities:
- Type of Port: Deep-water port primarily used for the export of petroleum and petrochemical products. It includes berths dedicated to the operations of the petroleum refinery and associated industries.
- Berths/Wharves: Several berths equipped to handle oil tankers and chemical carriers. The berths are designed to accommodate vessels of various sizes, including large crude carriers (VLCCs).
- Storage Tanks: Large storage tank farms are present within the port area for crude oil, refined petroleum products, and various chemicals.
Depth:
- Channel Depth: The approach channel to the port typically has a depth of around 12 to 14 meters, ensuring that large vessels can safely navigate to the berths.
- Berth Depth: Depths at berths vary, but they typically range from 11 to 15 meters to accommodate tankers of different drafts.
Navigation Aids:
- Lighthouses and Buoys: The port has a well-maintained system of lighthouses, beacons, and buoys to aid navigation, ensuring safe ingress and egress for vessels.
- Tide and Current Information: Detailed tide tables and current charts are available for planning vessel movements, crucial for ensuring safe berthing and unberthing.
Services:
- Pilotage: Compulsory for all arriving and departing vessels. Experienced pilots familiar with local waters are provided.
- Tug Assistance: Tug services are available to assist with the maneuvering of vessels, particularly those of larger size or in challenging weather conditions.
- Bunkering: Facilities are available for the supply of marine bunker fuels.
- Ship Repairs and Maintenance: Basic repair and maintenance services are available, although more extensive repairs would require moving to specialized facilities elsewhere.
Security and Safety:
- ISPS Compliance: The port complies with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, ensuring high standards of safety and security.
- Emergency Services: Equipped with fire-fighting systems, emergency response teams, and environmental protection measures to handle spills or other incidents.
Environmental Considerations:
- Waste Disposal: Facilities for the proper disposal of waste and ballast water management systems to minimize environmental impact.
- Pollution Control: Measures in place to prevent and manage oil spills or chemical leaks, including containment and cleanup protocols.
Key Port Activities
- Export: Primarily engaged in the export of crude oil, refined petroleum products, and various petrochemicals.
- Import: Occasional import of chemicals and other raw materials required for refinery and petrochemical processes.
Connectivity
- Road: Well-connected by road to other parts of Trinidad, facilitating the efficient movement of goods and personnel.
- Pipeline Infrastructure: Extensive network of pipelines linking the port to refineries and storage facilities inland.
Economic Significance
- Pointe-à-Pierre plays a crucial role in the economy of Trinidad and Tobago, given the country's dependency on the petroleum industry. The port supports substantial export activities, contributing significantly to national income.
Summary
Overall, Pointe-à-Pierre is a well-equipped, strategically important port predominantly serving the petroleum sector. Its facilities are designed to handle large volumes of exports and ensure safe and efficient operations. The port's infrastructure, services, and safety measures cater specifically to the needs of the oil and gas industry.