SAVANNA LA MAR

• JMSLM
• Latitude: 18.2073
• Longitude: -78.1344
• Caribbean Sea
• Port in Jamaica

Location: Savanna la Mar Westmoreland Parish Jamaica

Savanna-la-Mar Marine Port, Jamaica

Overview: Savanna-la-Mar, often abbreviated as Sav-la-Mar, is a principal coastal town located in the parish of Westmoreland, on the southwest coast of Jamaica. The town is known for its rich history and has served as a minor port in the past. While not a major shipping hub like Kingston or Montego Bay, it serves the local economy and caters primarily to regional shipping needs.

Port Specifications:

1. Location:

   • Latitude/Longitude: Approximately 18.219° N, 78.133° W
   • Located on the southwestern coast of Jamaica.

2. Harbor Characteristics:

   • Type: Small coastal port.
   • Navigational Challenges: Coastal waters around the port may be shallow; tidal variations and weather conditions can impact navigation.

3. Facilities:

   • Berths/Docks: Limited in capacity, primarily suitable for smaller vessels.
   • Cargo Handling Equipment: Includes basic handling apparatus such as cranes and forklifts, primarily for general cargo.
   • Storage: Small-scale warehousing facilities are available for storage of goods awaiting distribution.

4. Services:

   • Pilotage: Guidance services for vessels navigating local waters.
   • Towing and Tug Services: Available on-call for assistance within the harbor area.
   • Bunkering: Limited fuel supply services for vessels.

5. Port Operations:

   • Handles primarily regional trades, including small-scale imports and exports.
   • Capable of supporting local fishing fleets, small cargo operations, and passenger vessels.
   • Typical cargo includes agricultural products, building materials, and basic commodities.

6. Customs and Regulations:

   • Governed by Jamaican Maritime Authority regulations.
   • Standard customs procedures apply for import/export through the port.
   • Security measures in place to ensure safe operations in compliance with international standards.

7. Port Access:

   • Road Network: Connected via local and regional roads facilitating access to and from nearby towns and cities within Westmoreland.
   • Nearby Infrastructure: Proximity to local businesses and services in Savanna-la-Mar, including banking, lodging, and retail.

8. Development and Expansion:

   • Potential for development to boost capacity exists but would require significant investment.
   • Current focus on maintaining operational efficiency and supporting the regional economy.

Environmental and Safety Concerns:

• Marine Ecosystem: Coastal activities monitored to mitigate environmental impact.
• Safety Protocols: Strict adherence to safety standards to protect workers and visitors.

Conclusion: Savanna-la-Mar is a modest but important local port facility catering to the needs of the southwest region of Jamaica. It plays a vital role in supporting the agriculture and fisheries sectors and serves as a key access point for regional maritime activities. The port's development potential remains significant, with opportunities for increasing capacity and enhancing service offerings as demand grows.