QUINCY

• USMQI
• Latitude: 42.2452
• Longitude: -70.9763
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Phone number: +1-509-787-3715

Web-site: http://portofquincy.org

Quincy is a city located in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, and it has a port that historically played a significant role in maritime industries, especially shipbuilding. Although not as prominent as some of the larger ports in the U.S., Quincy's port and maritime facilities have specific characteristics and offerings.

Port of Quincy Overview

Location

• Geographical Position: Quincy is situated on the western shore of Quincy Bay, which is part of the larger Boston Harbor.
• Coordinates: Approximately 42.2529° N, 71.0023° W

Key Features

• Harbor Type: Coastal natural harbor enhanced with man-made structures.
• Docking Facilities: Historically supported shipbuilding docks, cargo handling, and repair facilities.

Infrastructure

• Shipyards: Quincy was home to the Fore River Shipyard, one of the most significant shipbuilding facilities in the U.S., which has since reduced in activity but still has infrastructure that can serve maritime operations.
• Cargo Terminals: Smaller in comparison to major ports, designed to handle diverse cargo types but with a focus on specific import and export needs.
• Storage and Warehousing: Offers limited but efficient storage solutions for goods needing transshipment.

Navigation

• Channel Depth: Varies, typically suitable for medium-sized vessels.
• Tidal Information: Subject to the tidal patterns of Boston Harbor; docking schedules may need adjustments based on the tidal charts.
• Navigational Aids: Equipped with standard aids including buoys, beacons, and light signals to assist in safe navigation.

Services and Facilities

• Customs and Immigration: Basic customs facilities to handle international cargo, though many larger clearances happen via Boston.
• Ship Repair and Maintenance: Facilities for routine maintenance; heavier repairs may still be regionally supported.
• Bunkering Services: Available, though scale may be limited compared to larger ports.
• Pilotage: Compulsory pilot services offered for larger vessels navigating into the port.

Economic and Strategic Importance

• Local Economy: Supports local industries including fishing, smaller-scale cargo shipping, and recreational boating.
• Strategic Role: Historically significant for naval shipbuilding and repair, supporting defense and commercial maritime needs.

Connectivity

• Road Access: Well connected to the wider Massachusetts road network and close to major highways like I-93.
• Rail Access: Limited compared to major ports, but there are regional connections supporting cargo transfer.
• Proximity to Major Ports: Close proximity to Boston, allowing auxiliary support and services from the larger Boston port facilities.

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

• Environmental Protection: Subject to state and federal environmental regulations aimed at protecting marine ecosystems and coastal water quality.
• Regulatory Compliance: Must comply with U.S. Coast Guard regulations, EPA guidelines, and other maritime safety and environmental standards.

Future Development

• Efforts have been occasionally made to revitalize Quincy's port facilities to support modern maritime and commercial activities, but these are often influenced by broader economic and regional strategic plans.

Conclusion

Quincy, Massachusetts, while not among the largest or most active U.S. ports, remains a port of historical significance with a range of facilities supporting regional maritime activities. Its strategic importance has evolved, shifting towards supporting local industries and serving as an auxiliary facility to nearby larger ports.