STEVESTON

• Latitude: 49.1216
•
• Longitude: -123.176
•
• West Coast Canada
•
• Port in Canada

Address: Richmond BC V7E 3R8 Canada

Web-site: https://stevestonharbour.com

Steveston Marine Port Description and Specification

General Overview: Steveston is a historic fishing village that is part of the city of Richmond, located in British Columbia, Canada. Situated at the mouth of the Fraser River, it plays a significant role in the local maritime activities, primarily focused on fishing, tourism, and recreational boating.

Location:

• Coordinates: 49.1269° N, 123.1835° W
• Region: Southwestern British Columbia, near Vancouver metropolitan area
• Waterway: Fraser River, leading into the Strait of Georgia and the Pacific Ocean

Port Facilities:

• Docks and Wharfs: Multiple public and private docks for fishing boats, pleasure craft, and tour boats. Facilities include floating docks and mooring slots.
• Fishing Fleet: Home to one of the largest commercial fishing fleets in Canada, with numerous vessels dedicated to salmon, herring, and other local fish species.
• Marinas: Several marinas providing mooring facilities, fueling stations, and basic maintenance services.
• Loading/unloading areas: Specialized areas for fish processing and loading fishing cargo are available.

Infrastructure:

• Fish Processing Plants: Local processing facilities that handle the catch from the commercial fleet.
• Storage Facilities: Cold storage for fish and seafood products, along with warehouses for equipment and supplies.
• Fueling Points: Fuel docks available for marine gasoline and diesel.
• Maintenance Services: Limited ship repair and maintenance services, mainly catering to smaller vessels.
• Utilities: Access to water, electricity, and waste disposal services.

Access and Navigation:

• Channel Depth: Varies, generally accommodating vessels with a draft suitable for river ports.
• Tide Information: Tidal information is crucial for navigation; significant tidal fluctuations can occur.
• Pilotage: Not mandatory for small vessels but advisable for larger commercial vessels due to narrow navigation channels and tidal conditions.
• Harbour Master: Steveston has a Harbour Master overseeing operations, safety, and regulations.

Additional Facilities:

• Harbour Authority: Local authority managing port operations and services.
• Shipyard: There are limited shipyard facilities present for smaller vessels.
• Customs and Inspections: Services for customs and inspections primarily focus on fishing catch rather than international shipping.

Tourism and Recreation:

• Fisherman’s Wharf: A bustling spot frequented by visitors and locals alike, featuring seafood markets, restaurants, and shopping.
• Historical Sites: The Gulf of Georgia Cannery and Britannia Shipyards National Historic Sites offer insights into the maritime and fishing heritage of the area.
• Charter Services: Fishing charters, eco-tours, and whale watching tours operate from the port.

Environmental Considerations:

• Protected Areas: Steveston is adjacent to multiple environmentally sensitive areas and bird sanctuaries.
• Pollution Control: Measures are in place to control and manage pollution from fishing and maritime activities, including waste management practices and spill contingency plans.

Economic Impact:

• Fishing Industry: A major economic driver, contributing significantly to local employment and the seafood market.
• Tourism: Attracts numerous tourists, particularly during the salmon fishing season and annual events.

Regulations and Safety:

• Port Security: Adheres to Canadian regulations for port security and safety.
• Fishing Regulations: Governed by federal and provincial regulations focusing on sustainable fishing practices and conservation.
• Search and Rescue: Coverage by Canadian Coast Guard and local volunteer marine rescue organizations.

Steveston’s port not only serves as a hub for the local fishing industry but also as a cultural and historical focal point that draws visitors year-round. It operates with a blend of traditional and modern practices, embodying the dynamic maritime heritage of the region.