PUNTARENAS
- Latitude: 9.97478 •
- Longitude: -84.8191 •
- West Coast Central America •
- Port in Costa Rica
Address: Puntarenas Costa Rica
Puntarenas is a significant port town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Known for being a gateway to the country's rich biodiversity and popular tourist destinations, Puntarenas has a well-developed port infrastructure that supports both commercial and recreational maritime activities. Below is a detailed description and specifications of the port:
Overview
- Location: Puntarenas, Province of Puntarenas, Costa Rica
- Coordinates: Approximately 9.976°N latitude, 84.833°W longitude
- Type: Deep-water seaport
Port Facilities
- Berth Information: The port features multiple berths catering to different types and sizes of vessels, including container ships, general cargo ships, and cruise liners.
- Draught: The port can generally accommodate vessels with a draught up to 12 meters, though specific berths may have varying limitations.
- Wharf Length: The main commercial wharfs extend for several hundred meters, though exact lengths can be obtained via official port documentation.
- Cargo Handling Equipment: The port is equipped with cranes, reach stackers, forklifts, and other necessary cargo-handling equipment suitable for containerized and bulk goods.
- Warehousing: There are ample storage facilities, including covered and open storage spaces, for various types of cargo.
Navigational Information
- Tidal Range: Puntarenas experiences a moderate tidal range, which can influence docking schedules and loading operations.
- Navigational Aids: The port is well-equipped with navigational aids such as buoys, marker lights, and a pilot service to assist in the safe entry and exit of vessels.
- Pilotage: Pilotage is compulsory for incoming and outgoing vessels to navigate the coastal and interior waters safely.
Services
- Customs and Immigration: On-site customs and immigration services streamline the processing of inbound and outbound goods and passengers.
- Bunkering: Fuel and fresh water supply services are available for vessels in port.
- Ship Repair: Basic ship repair and maintenance services are available, though more extensive repairs may require facilities in other ports.
- Security: The port adheres to international security protocols including the ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code to ensure the safety and security of cargo, vessels, and passengers.
Connectivity
- Road Links: The port is accessible via well-maintained road networks connecting to major highways, facilitating efficient inland transportation of goods.
- Rail Links: There is no significant rail infrastructure directly connected to the port, requiring reliance on road transport for cargo movement.
- Air Links: The closest major airport is Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, about 80 kilometers from Puntarenas.
Additional Information
- Tourism: Puntarenas is a popular destination for cruise ships, providing easy access to local beaches, national parks, and other attractions, making tourism a vital part of the port's activities.
- Fishing Industry: The port also supports a thriving fishing industry, with facilities for commercial and local fishing fleets.
Expansion and Development
- Ongoing Projects: There are often ongoing and planned development projects aimed at modernizing facilities, expanding capacity, and improving logistical efficiencies to support growing cargo and passenger traffic.
The Puntarenas port remains an essential component of Costa Rica's maritime infrastructure, serving both the commercial shipping industry and the tourism sector effectively. Further details and specific operational guidelines are best obtained through direct contact with port authorities or official documentation.