PORT MCNEILL

• CAPMA
• Latitude: 50.59179
• Longitude: -127.0891
• West Coast Canada
• Port in Canada

Location: Port McNeill British Columbia Canada

Port McNeill is a small but strategically significant marine port located on the northeast coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It serves as a hub for coastal and marine activities in the region, including commercial shipping, fishing, forestry, and tourism.

Key Features and Specifications:

Geographic Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 50.5919° N, 127.0921° W
• Position: Situated on the Queen Charlotte Strait, providing access to both the interior waters of Vancouver Island and the open Pacific Ocean.

Port Facilities:

1. Wharves and Docks:

   • Public wharves available for commercial and recreational vessels.
   • Facilities for docking larger vessels typically associated with fishing, tourism charter boats, and small cargo ships.

2. Boat Launch:

   • Well-maintained boat launch ramps to facilitate easier water access for smaller boats and fishing vessels.

3. Marina:

   • Provides moorage for both transient and permanent vessels.
   • Equipped with modern marina amenities such as power hookups, water supply, and waste disposal services.

4. Cargo Handling:

   • Limited cargo handling capabilities, primarily focused on local and regional goods.

5. Storage Facilities:

   • Some warehousing and open storage space available for goods and equipment linked to maritime activity.

Navigation and Access:

• Approach: Easy approach with deepwater access suitable for a variety of vessel sizes.
• Navigation Aids: Adequate navigation aids and markers to assist in safe docking and departure.

Supporting Facilities:

1. Fuel Services:

   • Marine fueling stations available for diesel and gasoline.

2. Repair Services:

   • Basic repair and maintenance services including mechanical and hull repairs.

3. Fish Processing:

   • Facilities available for the local fishing industry, processing fish and seafood caught in adjacent waters.

4. Storage and Logistics:

   • Limited but sufficient facilities to support small-scale logistics and warehousing needs.

Economic and Community Role:

• Fishing Industry: Vital access point for commercial fishing vessels, contributing significantly to the local economy.
• Tourism: Gateway for eco-tourism, whale watching tours, and other marine-based recreational activities.
• Forestry: Acts as a shipping point for regional timber and wood products.

Transportation Links:

• Road Access: Connected to the rest of Vancouver Island via Highway 19, facilitating the transport of goods and passengers.
• Air Connectivity: Nearby Port McNeill Airport serves small aircraft, linking the town with other regional and national destinations.

Environmental Considerations:

• Commitment to sustainability and protection of the local marine ecosystem.
• Adherence to environmental regulations to minimize pollution and impact on wildlife.

Summary:

Port McNeill serves as a crucial marine hub for northeastern Vancouver Island, balancing commercial activity with ecological and community interests. Its facilities support a blend of fishing, tourism, and small-scale cargo operations, ensuring that it remains an essential part of the local economy and culture.