SANDY POINT

• Latitude: -32.7435
• Longitude: 18.016
• South Africa
• Port in South Africa

Location: South Africa

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Sandy Point, South Africa

General Overview: Sandy Point is a small port situated on the west coast of South Africa. It forms part of the Western Cape province and is located near St. Helena Bay. Due to its strategic location on the South African coast along the Atlantic Ocean, Sandy Point serves as a noteworthy spot for various maritime activities, including fishing, commercial shipping, and recreational boating.

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 32.7246° S latitude, 18.0358° E longitude
• Nearest Major Cities: Cape Town (approximately 160 km south) and Saldanha Bay (approximately 80 km south)
• Access: Well-connected via road networks from major cities; Cape Town International Airport is the nearest major airport.

Port Specifications:

1. Harbor Type:

   • Natural Harbor: The port utilizes the natural coastal indentation to provide anchorage and docking facilities.
   • Breakwater Protection: Presence of artificial structures to protect the port waters from rough sea conditions.

2. Water Depth:

   • Entrance Channel Depth: Suitable for medium-sized vessels; depths generally range from 5 to 7 meters.
   • Quay/Berthing Depth: Depths around the berthing areas can vary but are sufficient for moderate-sized fishing and commercial vessels.

3. Berthing Facilities:

   • Commercial Quays: Several berths designed for fishing fleet and smaller commercial vessels.
   • Recreational Docks: Provision for yachts and smaller pleasure crafts.

4. Cargo Handling Capabilities:

   • Primary Cargo: Predominantly seafood due to the vibrant local fishing industry. Occasional handling of various general cargo.
   • Equipment: Basic lifting and handling equipment, including cranes and forklifts, primarily suited for the requirements of the fishing industry.

5. Support Facilities & Services:

   • Fueling Stations: Availability of marine fuel bunkering for local and visiting vessels.
   • Storage: Limited warehousing and cold storage facilities for fisheries.
   • Repair Services: Basic ship repair and maintenance services, primarily targeted at the fishing fleet.
   • Customs and Immigration: Facilities for customs clearances and marine immigration formalities.

6. Navigation & Safety:

   • Navigational Aids: Includes lighthouses, buoy markings, and harbor lights to assist with safe navigation in and out of the port.
   • Tug Services: Limited tug assistance for maneuvering larger vessels.
   • Security: Basic port security measures and compliance with international maritime safety standards.

7. Environmental Considerations:

   • Conservation Measures: Being close to ecologically sensitive areas, stringent measures are in place to prevent marine pollution and protect local biodiversity.

Economic & Strategic Importance:

• Fishing Industry: A major hub for the commercial fishing industry, contributing significantly to local employment and economy.
• Tourism: Attracts recreational boating and fishing enthusiasts, thereby boosting local tourism.

Connectivity:

• Effective road connections facilitating the transportation of goods to and from the port.
• Proximity to rail networks and airports provided by the Western Cape infrastructure.

Challenges:

• Potential limitations in accommodating larger ocean-going vessels due to depth and infrastructure constraints.
• Seasonal weather variations impacting marine operations, particularly during winter months when the Atlantic can be particularly rough.

Conclusion: Sandy Point in South Africa is a small yet vital port predominantly supporting the local fishing industry while offering moderate facilities for commercial and recreational maritime activities. Its natural location, coupled with essential maritime infrastructure, makes it a significant asset for the region’s economic and social landscape.