PORT AU PRINCE

• HTPAP
• Latitude: 18.5581
• Longitude: -72.3687
• Caribbean Sea
• Port in Haiti

Location: Port-au-Prince Ouest Haiti

General Description

Port-au-Prince is the capital and largest city of Haiti, and it serves as the country's primary port. Located on the Gulf of Gonâve, it plays a critical role in Haiti's economy by handling the majority of the nation's maritime trade.

Location

• Coordinates: Latitude 18°33'N, Longitude 72°20'W

Port Specifications

Facilities

1. Container Terminals:

   • Facilities for handling container ships with adequate cargo handling equipment.
   • Berths specifically designed to accommodate container handling.

2. General Cargo Terminals:

   • Berths available for general cargo, bulk, and breakbulk vessels.
   • Equipment includes cranes, forklifts, and other cargo-handling machinery.

3. Bulk Terminals:

   • Facilities for handling dry bulk cargo such as cement, grain, and other materials.
   • Liquid bulk handling facilities for petroleum products and chemicals.

4. Passenger Terminals:

   • Limited facilities for cruise and passenger vessels, primarily serving local ferries and regional traffic.

Berthing

• Anchorage: Adequate inner and outer anchorage areas.
• Draft: Varies, with some berths able to accommodate vessels with drafts up to 10.5 meters.
• Length: Berths differ in length, generally ranging from 100 to 200 meters.

Storage and Warehousing

• Open Storage: Yard areas for container storage and other cargo.
• Warehousing: Covered storage options for secure warehousing of goods.

Services

1. Pilotage:

   • Compulsory for all vessels over a certain size.
   • Services available 24/7 to guide vessels safely into and out of the port.

2. Tug Assistance:

   • Tugs are available for assisting with berthing and unberthing operations.

3. Bunkering:

   • Facilities for bunkering are available, providing fuel and other essential supplies.

4. Customs and Inspection:

   • Customs services operating to facilitate import/export procedures.
   • Health and safety inspections as required.

5. Repair Facilities:

   • Limited repair facilities available for emergency services.

6. Connectivity:

   • Road access linking the port to the rest of Haiti.
   • Proximity to the main international airport, facilitating cargo transit.

Nearby Infrastructure

• Industrial Areas:
  • Industrial zones in proximity for efficient logistics and distribution.
• Urban Centers:
  • The city of Port-au-Prince offers various services, accommodations, and amenities.

Environmental Considerations

• Tropical Climate:
  • Subject to seasonal weather variations including hurricanes and rainstorms.
• Conservation Measures:
  • Efforts in place to manage and mitigate environmental impact from port operations.

Security

• Port Security:
  • Measures aligned with international standards including ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) code.
• Surveillance:
  • 24/7 security and monitoring systems to ensure safety and security of the port and its operations.

Challenges

• Infrastructure constraints due to historical damage from natural disasters.
• Ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation projects to modernize facilities.

Port-au-Prince is a vital maritime gateway for Haiti, supporting economic activities and facilitating international trade. Despite challenges, it continues to serve as a pivotal point for maritime logistics and commerce in the region.