PORTO BELO ANCH

• Latitude: -27.1256
• Longitude: -48.5503
• East Coast South America
• Anchorage in Brazil

Location: Brazil

Port Description: Porto Belo Anchorage, Brazil

General Overview: Porto Belo Anchorage is located in Porto Belo Bay, a sheltered area off the southeastern coast of Brazil in the state of Santa Catarina. This natural harbor provides protection from the south and southwest swells, making it a suitable anchorage point for vessels. Porto Belo is known for its scenic beauty, clear waters, and serves both commercial and recreational maritime activities.

Location and Accessibility:

• Coordinates: Approximately 27°09'S latitude and 48°31'W longitude.
• Nearest Major City: Florianópolis, the capital of the state of Santa Catarina, is about 60 kilometers to the north.
• Access: Vessels arrive via the South Atlantic Ocean. The anchorage is accessible year-round, though navigational care is needed due to the presence of reefs and shallows in the surrounding waters.

Anchorage Characteristics:

• Water Depths: Typically ranging from 10 to 20 meters in the designated anchorage areas. Depth can vary, so precise depth-sounding and consultation with local nautical charts are recommended.
• Sea Conditions: Generally calm due to the protection offered by the surrounding land and islands. However, local weather conditions can affect sea state.
• Holding Ground: Mostly sandy and suitable for anchoring. It is crucial for masters to ensure the anchor is well set.

Facilities & Services:

• Port Facilities: Porto Belo is primarily an anchorage; extensive port facilities are limited. Basic services may be available, but major repairs and resupply typically require travel to larger ports like Itajaí or Florianópolis.
• Pilotage: Generally not compulsory but recommended for unfamiliar vessels due to local navigational hazards.
• Tug Assistance: Limited availability. Vessels might need to arrange towage services from nearby ports if required.
• Bunkering: Not widely available in Porto Belo. Bunkering services can be arranged through larger ports in the region.
• Water and Provisions: Basic supplies can be sourced locally, but extensive provisioning might necessitate travel to larger cities.

Shipping and Cargo:

• Primarily serves small commercial vessels, yachts, and cruise ships. The port can facilitate passenger transference to shore via tender boats.
• Cargo handling facilities are limited. Porto Belo Anchorage is not a major cargo hub but may handle small-scale cargo operations.

Restrictions & Regulations:

• Environmental Protection: The area is known for its ecological significance, and there are stringent local and national regulations regarding pollution and environmental protection.
• Local Regulations: Adherence to Brazilian maritime laws and local regulations is mandatory. Vessels are advised to consult with local authorities or agents for detailed compliance requirements.

Tourism and Recreation:

• Porto Belo is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches and marine activities such as diving and snorkeling. The tranquil waters and beautiful surroundings attract numerous recreational vessels.

Noteworthy Considerations:

• Weather: The region experiences a subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Inclimate weather, including occasional storms, can affect anchoring conditions.
• Navigational Alerts: Mariners should be aware of local fishing activities and vessels, as well as seasonal whale migrations that may occur offshore.

Conclusion: Porto Belo Anchorage offers a picturesque and safe mooring location for vessels operating in the southern Brazilian waters. Despite its limited port infrastructure, it serves as a functional spot for anchoring, especially for smaller vessels and recreational maritime activities. For detailed operational planning, direct contact with local maritime agents or port authorities is advisable.