PORT HAWKESBURY

• CAPHW
• Latitude: 45.6136
• Longitude: -61.3656
• East Coast Canada
• Port in Canada

Location: Canada

Port Hawkesbury, Canada

Overview: Port Hawkesbury is a significant port located on the eastern coast of Nova Scotia, Canada. It lies strategically on the Strait of Canso, which separates Cape Breton Island from the Nova Scotia mainland. The port allows for efficient maritime activity due to its ice-free waters and deep natural harbor, making it an important node for shipping and transportation.

Key Specifications:

1. Location:

   • Geographical Coordinates: 45°37'N latitude and 61°21'W longitude.
   • Region: Nova Scotia, Canada.
   • Waterway: Strait of Canso.

2. Harbor Characteristics:

   • Type: Natural deep-water port.
   • Water Depth: The port can accommodate large vessels due to its significant depth. Generally, it has a draft depth of around 16-18 meters.
   • Climatic Conditions: The port benefits from favorable weather most of the year, with minimal ice concerns during winter, ensuring year-round operations.

3. Facilities and Infrastructure:

   • Berthing: Multiple berths available, which include dedicated terminals for bulk cargo, container shipping, and general freight.
   • Cargo Handling: Equipped with modern cargo handling equipment suitable for various types of cargo, including dry bulk, liquid bulk (such as petroleum products), and general cargo.
   • Storage Facilities: Warehouses, open storage areas, and tank storage facilities cater to diverse storage needs.
   • Provisions and Bunkering: Availability of bunkering services and ship provisions; crucial for maritime operations.

4. Connectivity:

   • Road Network: Well-connected via major highways, ensuring efficient land transport links.
   • Rail Links: Rail services are available for cargo transfer, enhancing the intermodal transportation network.
   • Air Links: The nearest major airport is located in Sydney, Nova Scotia, providing options for air freight and passenger services.

5. Services Provided:

   • Repair and Maintenance: Basic shipyard facilities for minor repairs and maintenance.
   • Pilot Services: Mandatory pilotage service for inbound and outbound vessels, ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Canso.
   • Tug Services: Availability of tugboats for maneuvering large vessels.

6. Administrative Information:

   • Port Authority: Governed by the local port authority, which handles operational oversight and regulatory compliance.
   • Customs and Security: Canadian customs offices and security measures in place to handle international cargo and ensure port security.

7. Economic Activities:

   • Primary Commodities: The port primarily handles commodities such as coal, petroleum products, gypsum, lumber, and containerized goods.
   • Industrial Presence: Nearby industrial facilities, such as the Point Tupper Industrial Park, support various industrial activities and add to the cargo throughput.

Strategic Importance: Port Hawkesbury plays a crucial role in Canadian maritime logistics due to its strategic position and capacity to handle large vessels. It supports both regional economic activities and international trade, being a critical entry and exit point for goods entering and leaving Canada’s eastern seaboard.

Overall, Port Hawkesbury stands out as a vital maritime hub, contributing significantly to the local and national economy with its well-rounded port facilities and strategic location.