TARFAYA

• MATFY
• Latitude: 27.942
• Longitude: -12.934
• West Africa
• Port in Morocco

Location: Tarfaya Morocco

Tarfaya is a small coastal town situated in the southern part of Morocco, strategically located on the Atlantic coast. While Tarfaya's primary claim to fame is its historical and cultural significance, the port serves as a critical hub for small-scale fishing and minor cargo activities.

Port Overview

• Location: Tarfaya, Southern Morocco
• Coordinates: Approximately 27.9356° N latitude, 12.9173° W longitude
• Status: Secondary port, primarily for fishing and minor commercial activities
• Navigation: The port entry can be challenging due to prevailing weather conditions and limited navigational aids.

Port Facilities

• Berths: Limited number of berths designed primarily for fishing vessels and small commercial boats.
• Docks: One main dock area dedicated to handling fishing catches and small cargo.
• Depth: Shallow waters with an average depth ranging between 2-5 meters, making it unsuitable for large commercial vessels.
• Storage: Minimal storage facilities are available; usually, fresh catch storage and small freight handling are conducted on a quick turnover basis.
• Cargo Handling: Basic cargo handling equipment present, suitable for light goods and fishing products.

Services

• Customs: Basic customs services available, primarily to regulate the entry and exit of small cargo.
• Security: Standard port security measures in place, although not heavily fortified.
• Maintenance: Limited maintenance facilities, often requiring vessels to seek repairs elsewhere for significant issues.

Accessibility

• Roads: Accessible by road, with a connection to the major highway network leading to larger cities like Laâyoune.
• Air Transport: Nearest major airport is Laâyoune Airport, approximately 120 kilometers away.

Economic Role

• Fishing Industry: The port is a hub for the local fishing fleet, which plays a crucial role in the town's economy.
• Trade: Minor trade activities, mainly exporting seafood and importing essential goods.

Limitations

• Weather Conditions: The port can be affected by high winds and strong currents, which can impede entry and docking.
• Capacity: Limited capacity means it is not equipped to handle large commercial shipping operations.

Future Prospects

• Development Plans: There are occasional discussions about developing Tarfaya into a more significant maritime hub, but substantial investments and infrastructural upgrades would be required.

Cultural and Historical Significance

• Historic Site: Tarfaya has a historical significance, including its ties to famous French aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupéry who worked there in the 1920s.
• Tourism: Increasingly popular with tourists looking for cultural and historical experiences.

Conclusion

Tarfaya Port, while small and limited in its current capacity, holds potential for development due to its strategic coastal location. Presently, it serves crucial local needs, mainly in the fishing sector, and acts as a connecting point for minor commercial activities within the region.