SAN PEDRO
- Latitude: 17.9283 •
- Longitude: -87.9785 •
- East Coast Central America •
- Port in Belize
Address: Belize
San Pedro, located on Ambergris Caye, is one of Belize's premier locations both for tourism and maritime activities, although it is primarily known as a major tourist destination rather than a large commercial port. Here’s a detailed description and specifications:
General Overview:
San Pedro is a town on Ambergris Caye, the largest island of Belize. Historically a fishing village, it has grown into a bustling tourism hub. The marine infrastructure in San Pedro caters more to passenger ferries, private yachts, and smaller vessels rather than large freight and commercial shipping.
Port Facilities:
Docking and Mooring: The town features several docks and marinas that accommodate a range of vessels from small fishing boats to luxury yachts. The primary docking facilities cater to water taxis and ferry services that connect San Pedro with other parts of Belize, including Belize City and Caye Caulker.
Water Depth: The waters around the docks have limited depth, generally suitable for smaller vessels. Large commercial vessels or deep-draft ships typically do not use San Pedro as a primary port of call.
Services: Available services include fuel stations, water and electricity supply for docked vessels, minor repair facilities, and waste disposal amenities. Additionally, San Pedro has several dive shops and tour companies offering marine-related recreational services.
Navigational Aids: Buoys and channel markers guide vessels safely to the docks. While San Pedro lacks extensive harbor infrastructure found in major commercial ports, the navigational aids in place are adequate for its typical maritime traffic.
Logistics and Connectivity:
Passenger Transport: Water taxis and ferries are the main modes of maritime transport for passengers, facilitating easy movement between islands and the mainland. Companies such as Belize Water Taxi and San Pedro Belize Express operate frequent services.
Cargo Transport: For larger shipments, nearby ports such as the Port of Belize in Belize City handle the bulk of commercial cargo. For smaller cargo loads, there are facilities in San Pedro for the unloading of goods transported by smaller vessels.
Customs and Immigration:
- Entry and Clearance: San Pedro is equipped with customs and immigration offices to handle the entry and clearance of international visitors. Vessels entering Belizean waters can clear through these offices if San Pedro is their first port of call.
Amenities and Additional Services:
Tourism Infrastructure: San Pedro boasts a wealth of amenities for tourists including hotels, resorts, restaurants, bars, and shops. Marine activities like snorkeling, diving, and fishing charters are widely available.
Provisions and Supplies: Several stores and supermarkets in San Pedro provide provisions for visiting vessels. Boat owners and operators can find necessary supplies for their voyages within the town.
Conclusion:
San Pedro in Belize, while not a major commercial marine port, plays a critical role in regional maritime travel and tourism. Its facilities are well-suited for passenger transport, recreational boating, and small-scale cargo handling. For larger commercial shipping needs, nearby ports like the Port of Belize in Belize City serve as the primary hubs. San Pedro remains an essential node for connecting the beautiful islands of Belize and accommodating the influx of tourists drawn to its stunning maritime environment.