PORT DOUGLAS

• Latitude: -16.4919
•
• Longitude: 145.459
•
• North Australia
•
• Port in Australia

Address: Port Douglas QLD Australia

Port Douglas is a coastal town in the far north of Queensland, Australia. It's well-known as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. While it's more recognized for its tourism industry, the maritime facilities in Port Douglas are worth noting, particularly for recreational boating and fishing rather than commercial shipping. Here’s an overview of its key offerings and specifications:

General Information:

• Location: Far North Queensland, approximately 70 kilometers (about 43 miles) north of Cairns.
• Coordinates: Latitude -16.4833, Longitude 145.4667.
• Timezone: Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST), UTC +10.

Port Facilities:

Marinas and Moorings:

• Port Douglas Marina: This is the main marina in Port Douglas, providing numerous services for recreational vessels.
  • Berths: Over 100 berths available for various sizes of boats.
  • Facilities: Includes fueling stations, freshwater supply, showers, and laundry facilities.
  • Visitor Info: The marina is a popular spot for tourists with many restaurants, shops, and tour operators.

Services:

• Fueling Stations: Available at the marina for both diesel and unleaded fuel.
• Repair and Maintenance: There are limited facilities for minor repairs and maintenance. Major repair services are generally found in Cairns.
• Chandlery: Basic supplies for boating and fishing can be found locally, though extensive needs may necessitate a visit to larger nearby cities.

Access and Navigation:

• Approach: The entrance to the marina is relatively straightforward. However, attention to local tide charts and depths is recommended due to the shallow coastal waters.
• Pilotage: Pilot services are generally not necessary for recreational vessels due to the clear navigational aids and straightforward approach.
• Tides: The region experiences semidiurnal (twice daily) tides. Mariners should consult local tidal charts for specific height and time data.

Usage:

• Recreational Boating: The primary use of Port Douglas’s maritime facilities is for recreational vessels, including yachts and motorboats.
• Tour Operators: Numerous fleets of tour boats operate out of Port Douglas for diving, snorkeling, and trips to the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding islands.
• Fishing: Both commercial and recreational fishing activities operate from the port, taking advantage of the rich marine biodiversity.

Port Regulations and Guidelines:

• Environmental Regulations: Given its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, there are stringent environmental regulations to protect the marine environment. This includes waste disposal and restricted anchoring zones.
• Customs and Quarantine: Travelers and vessels arriving from international waters must comply with Australian customs, immigration, and quarantine regulations.

Attractions and Nearby Resources:

• Great Barrier Reef: One of the biggest draws for visitors, accessible via various tour operators.
• Four Mile Beach: Famous for its long stretch of sandy beach.
• Daintree Rainforest: A World Heritage-listed site, providing opportunities for eco-tourism.
• Dining and Accommodation: Numerous options available catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets.

Contact Information:

• Port Douglas Marina Office: Typically the first point of contact for marine services.

For those visiting by boat, it's advisable to check with local authorities or the marina office for any updates on navigational advisories, berth availability, and specific service offerings before arrival.