PORT MACQUARIE

• Latitude: -31.4183
• Longitude: 152.898
• East Australia
• Port in Australia

Address: Port Macquarie NSW Australia

Phone number: +61 2 6581 8000

Web-site: https://www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au

Port Macquarie is a prominent coastal town in New South Wales, Australia, known more for its tourism and stunning natural landscapes rather than heavy industrial maritime activities. It is situated at the mouth of the Hastings River, where it meets the Pacific Ocean. Although it has a maritime presence, Port Macquarie isn't a major commercial shipping port compared to others in Australia.

Key Features and Specifications

1. Location:

   • Coordinates: Approximately 31.4333° S latitude and 152.8995° E longitude.
   • Proximity: Around 390 kilometers north of Sydney and 570 kilometers south of Brisbane.

2. Infrastructure:

   • Marinas: Port Macquarie has a few marinas such as Port Macquarie Marina and Lady Nelson Wharf which cater to recreational vessels and yachts.
   • Facilities: These marinas offer a range of facilities including berthing, fueling, boat maintenance, and repair services.
   • Public Wharf: There is also a public wharf primarily used for small commercial operations, fishing activities, and recreational boating.

3. Depth:

   • Given that the port is focused on lighter and recreational vessels, the depth of the water in the harbor is not suitable for large commercial shipping. Depths generally range around 2-5 meters, but specific details should be verified depending on the purpose.

4. Navigational Aids:

   • Port Macquarie has several navigational aids including buoys, beacons, and lights to assist safe passage into and out of the Hastings River mouth.

5. Harbor Services:

   • Pilotage: Not a major requirement due to the size and type of vessels typically berthed.
   • Towage: Limited towage services, primarily catering to small tonnage and recreational crafts.
   • Security: The port area generally has basic security measures fitting its operational scale.

6. Weather and Tides:

   • Climate: Temperate coastal climate with warm summers and mild winters.
   • Tidal Range: Tidal movements are moderate but detailed tidal charts should be consulted for safe navigation.

7. Primary Uses:

   • Tourism: A significant focus on tourism, with various sightseeing cruises and water-based activities.
   • Recreational Boating: Popular with private boaters and yachters.
   • Fishing: Both commercial and recreational fishing activities are common.

Nearby Facilities and Attractions

• Koala Hospital: One of the world's very few hospitals dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of koalas.
• Beaches: Several picturesque beaches such as Town Beach, Flynns Beach, and Lighthouse Beach.
• Nature Reserves: Coastal walks and reserves including Sea Acres National Park with its rainforest boardwalk.
• Historic Sites: The town boasts some historic sites dating back to the British colonial era, including ruins of penal settlements.

Connectivity

• Road: Well-connected by road via the Pacific Highway.
• Air: Port Macquarie Airport offers flights to major cities.
• Sea: While not a primary freight port, small vessels can navigate to the marinas and wharfs.

Economic Role

Port Macquarie plays a lesser role in heavy industrial maritime operations but contributes significantly to the local economy through tourism, recreational activities, and light commercial fishing. The focus on preserving natural beauty and catering to leisure activities makes it a vibrant and attractive destination.

For detailed and frequently updated information, consulting nautical maps, local port authorities, or maritime guides specific to New South Wales is recommended.