ST JOHNS

• AGSJO
• Latitude: 17.1245
• Longitude: -61.8528
• Caribbean Sea
• Port in Antigua & Barbuda

Location: St. John's Antigua & Barbuda

Marine Port Description and Specification: St. John's, Antigua & Barbuda

Overview: St. John's, the capital city of Antigua and Barbuda, hosts the primary marine port for the country. This port is critical for both cargo and passenger operations, accommodating a steady flow of commercial shipping as well as a bustling cruise industry.

Location:

• Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 17.1216° N latitude and 61.8425° W longitude.
• Accessibility: The port is easily accessible from the North Atlantic Ocean and serves as a strategic maritime hub in the Caribbean region.

Port Infrastructure:

1. Cargo Facilities:

   • Berths: Multiple berths are available, each designed to handle different types of cargo, including containerized, bulk, and break-bulk cargo.
   • Equipment: The port is equipped with cranes, forklifts, and other material handling equipment to efficiently manage loading and unloading operations.
   • Storage: Warehousing and open storage areas are provided for various goods, including refrigerated storage for perishable items.

2. Passenger Facilities:

   • Cruise Terminals: Dedicated cruise terminals accommodate numerous cruise ships, particularly during high season. These terminals are equipped with passenger amenities, including customs and immigration facilities, shops, and tourist information centers.

3. Draught:

   • Depth: The port offers sufficient draught for handling large vessels. The main channel and harbor area are regularly dredged to maintain a navigable depth, typically around 10-12 meters (32-39 feet).

4. Navigation:

   • Pilotage: Pilotage services are available and often required for large vessels to navigate safely into the harbor.
   • Tugboats: Tug assistance is also readily available to aid in berthing and unberthing operations.

Port Services:

• Bunkering: Fueling services are offered for vessels calling at the port.
• Water Supply: Fresh water is available for ships.
• Provisions: Ships can be provisioned with food, beverages, and other necessities.
• Waste Disposal: Facilities for the disposal of waste and bilge water are provided according to environmental regulations.

Security:

• ISPS Code Compliance: The port adheres to the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, ensuring robust security measures are in place.
• Customs and Immigration: Efficient customs and immigration procedures facilitate the smooth clearance of goods and passengers.

Economic Impact:

• The port of St. John's is a significant contributor to the local economy, supporting trade and tourism. It plays a vital role in importing goods essential for the island's industries and the livelihood of its residents.
• The cruise sector brings a substantial number of tourists to Antigua, providing revenue and employment opportunities for the local community.

Development and Expansion:

• Recent and ongoing improvements aim to increase capacity and enhance the port's facilities. This includes the construction of new berths, upgrading existing infrastructure, and implementing advanced technology for better operational efficiency.

Conclusion: The port of St. John's in Antigua and Barbuda stands as a well-equipped and strategically important maritime facility in the Caribbean. Its comprehensive services, modern infrastructure, and adherence to international standards make it an integral hub for cargo and passenger operations in the region.