SINT EUSTATIUS

• BQEUX
• Latitude: 17.4958
• Longitude: -62.9995
• Caribbean Sea
• Port in Caribbean Netherlands

Location: Sint Eustatius Caribbean Netherlands

Sint Eustatius Marine Port: Overview and Specifications

General Information:

• Location: Caribbean Netherlands
• Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 17.4895° N latitude and 62.9735° W longitude
• Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (UTC -4)

Harbor Type:

• Type: Coastal Natural/Artificial Harbor
• Primary Use: Commercial, Industrial, and Marine Services

Port Facilities and Infrastructure:

• Terminals:
  • A commercial cargo terminal dealing with containerized and general cargo.
  • Oil storage and transshipment terminal (serviced by the NuStar Energy company).
• Berths:
  • Several docking berths are available, with varying depths to accommodate different vessel types.
• Channels:
  • Maintained to accept larger commercial vessels with proper depth markers.

Depth:

• Maximum Channel Depth: Approximately 15-18 meters (49-59 feet), but this can vary by berth.
• Anchorage Depths: Generally range from 12 meters (39 feet) to more than 22 meters (72 feet).

Cargo Capacity:

• Container Handling: Limited, primarily uses geared vessels.
• Bulk Handling: Particularly equipped for oil and petroleum products.
• General Cargo: Standard goods for local and regional supply.

Services:

• Pilotage: Available and often compulsory for larger vessels.
• Tug Assistance: Provided when necessary, especially for tanker operations.
• Bunkering: Fuel and fresh water supply services.
• Repairs: Minor repair facilities available, with emergency services accessible.
• Customs: Efficient customs and immigration services for clearance.

Security and Safety:

• ISPS Compliance: Fully compliant with the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS).
• Surveillance: 24/7 monitoring and port security services.
• Emergency Services: Close coordination with local fire, safety, and environmental response units.

Connectivity:

• Road Access: Well-maintained roads linking the port to other parts of the island.
• Air Access: Close proximity to the F.D. Roosevelt Airport for cargo and passenger transfer.
• Logistics Support: Efficient logistical services, including warehousing, transportation, and handling.

Environmental Considerations:

• Environmental Regulations: Strict adherence to both local and international environmental standards, particularly given the island's commitment to preserving its natural beauty and marine biodiversity.
• Waste Management: Facilities for proper waste disposal and management, including handling of hazardous materials.

Usage:

• Commercial Traffic: Focused on regional trade, particularly cargo services to and from other Caribbean islands, and interaction with larger global routes via transshipment.
• Industrial Activities: Significant activity related to oil storage and transshipment, given the presence of the NuStar terminal.
• Fishing and Recreation: Limited basis; mostly commercial and service-oriented use.

Key Challenges:

• Capacity Constraints: Given its size and focused usage, heavy congestion can occur, particularly when larger transshipment operations are underway.
• Environmental Concerns: Need for continuous vigilance to prevent oil spills and preserve marine life.

Summary:

The Sint Eustatius Marine Port is a strategically located facility in the Caribbean Netherlands that plays a critical role in the region's maritime trade. Specializing in oil transshipment and commercial cargo, it offers various essential services to maritime operators while maintaining stringent security and environmental standards. Despite its relatively small capacity, the port effectively serves its purpose as a vital shipping hub in the Caribbean.