SAN FERNANDO

• TTSFE
• Latitude: 10.2822
• Longitude: -61.4702
• North Coast South America
• Port in Trinidad & Tobago

Location: San Fernando Trinidad & Tobago

San Fernando is an essential port city located on the southwestern coast of Trinidad and Tobago. It holds significance due to its strategic location and functionality as a hub for both commercial and industrial activities in the southern part of Trinidad.

General Features:

1. Location: San Fernando lies along the Gulf of Paria. Its coordinates are approximately 10.2833° N latitude and 61.4667° W longitude.

2. Function: The port primarily supports the industrial activities in the region, including petroleum and petrochemical-related businesses. It also facilitates the handling of various types of cargo, including bulk, break-bulk, and containerized goods.

3. Accessibility: The port is easily accessible by road, connecting to major highways that link it with other parts of Trinidad.

Port Specifications:

1. Facilities:

   • Wharves/Piers: The port includes several wharves designed for different purposes, including the handling of liquid bulk (primarily petroleum) and general cargo operations.
   • Storage: The port offers warehousing facilities, open storage areas, and specialized storage for hazardous materials.

2. Depth: The draft at the berths varies, accommodating medium-sized to large vessels. The exact depth may be subject to periodic changes due to dredging activities and should be verified in current nautical charts or from port authorities.

3. Equipment:

   • Cranes: The port features various types of cranes, including mobile and fixed cranes, suitable for loading and unloading different cargoes.
   • Other Handling Equipment: Forklifts, conveyor belts, and other material handling equipment are also available to move goods efficiently.

4. Support Infrastructure:

   • Roads and Railways: Well-maintained road networks link the port to industrial zones and city areas. Rail connectivity is limited and primarily used for specific cargo transport if available.
   • Utilities: The port is equipped with essential utilities, including freshwater supply, electricity, and telecommunications.

5. Services:

   • Pilotage: Pilotage services are available and often mandatory for entering and leaving the port.
   • Tug Assistance: Tugs are available to assist with maneuvering vessels in and out of berths.
   • Customs and Security: Efficient customs services and stringent security protocols are enforced to ensure compliance with international regulations.

6. Environmental and Safety Protocols: The port adheres to stringent environmental regulations to minimize the impact on the surrounding marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Safety protocols are rigorously followed in handling hazardous materials and general operations.

Industrial and Economic Importance:

San Fernando serves as a critical support point for Trinidad’s energy sector, especially given its proximity to the Point Fortin area, which hosts major oil refineries and natural gas processing facilities. The port thus supports ancillary industries, including manufacturing, shipping, and logistics services, contributing significantly to the local and national economy.

Administrative and Contact Information:

For the most accurate and current information, including berthing requests, fee structures, and operational guidelines, visitors and commercial entities should contact the port authority directly.

• Port Authority Contact: Clients should reach out to the Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (PATT) or the relevant administrative bodies overseeing port operations in San Fernando.

Conclusion:

San Fernando's port is a vital asset in Trinidad & Tobago's maritime infrastructure, offering robust facilities and services for the efficient handling of industrial and commercial cargoes. With ongoing developments and upgrades, the port continues to play a crucial role in the economic landscape of the region.