PORT ANTONIO
- Latitude: 18.182 •
- Longitude: -76.457 •
- Caribbean Sea •
- Port in Jamaica
Address: Jamaica
Port Antonio is a picturesque port town located on the northeast coast of Jamaica, in Portland Parish. Known for its lush greenery and scenic beauty, it has long been a haven for tourists and sailing enthusiasts. Here is a detailed description and specification of Port Antonio:
Location
- Coordinates: Approximately 18.1767° N latitude, 76.4513° W longitude
- Nearest Major City: Kingston, the capital of Jamaica, located roughly 90 km (56 miles) to the southwest.
Port Facilities
Port Antonio has two primary areas serving marine traffic:
West Harbour (Errol Flynn Marina):
- Marina Services: Modern yachting facility named after the famous Hollywood actor, Errol Flynn, who popularized the area. It offers a full suite of services to yachters and boaters.
- Berths: Available for yachts up to 300 feet in length.
- Depth: Varying depths that can accommodate various types of vessels; typically around 12-15 feet.
- Amenities: Fuel dock, water supply, waste disposal, Wi-Fi, 24-hour security, and on-site customs and immigration services.
- Maintenance Services: Repair services, ship chandlery, and technical support available.
East Harbour:
- Primarily serves smaller fishing boats and local marine traffic.
- Depth: Shallower waters compared to West Harbour, less suitable for large vessels.
Cargo and Passenger Handling
Port Antonio is not primarily a commercial cargo port; it is more focused on tourism and recreational boating. However, some minor cargo handling for local needs does occur.
- Tourism: The port sees a number of cruise ships, especially smaller, boutique cruise lines, given its scenic appeal and less commercial nature.
Transportation and Connectivity
- Road Access: Port Antonio is connected to other parts of Jamaica via the A4 highway, making it accessible for road transport.
- Air Access: The nearest airport is the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston. The Ken Jones Aerodrome, located closer, services small aircraft.
- Local Commute: Taxis and minibuses are common for local commuting.
Nearby Attractions
- Blue Lagoon: A famous natural lagoon known for its strikingly clear blue waters.
- Frenchman's Cove: One of the most beautiful beaches on the island, with a river that flows directly into the sea.
- Rafting on the Rio Grande: One of the island's popular eco-tourism activities.
- Navy Island: A small island located in the harbor, historically significant and accessible by boat.
Weather and Tidal Conditions
- Climate: Tropical, with relatively stable temperatures throughout the year, averaging between 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F).
- Seasonal Considerations: Hurricane season runs from June to November; however, the port is considered relatively protected due to its geographic location.
Security and Safety
- Port Antonio is generally considered safe, and the marina has robust security measures in place, including 24-hour security personnel and surveillance cameras.
Port Authority Contact
- Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ)
- Contact Information: Often required for official maritime activities such as berthing, customs, and immigration procedures.
Economic and Strategic Importance
While not a major commercial hub, Port Antonio is extremely valuable for tourism, contributing to the local economy and preserving an important cultural and historical heritage of Jamaica.
This overview should provide a comprehensive understanding of Port Antonio, making it clear why it remains a key location for tourism and maritime activities in Jamaica.