TETE A LA BALEINE

• CAZTB
• Latitude: 50.681
• Longitude: -59.2395
• East Coast Canada
• Marina in Canada

Location: Canada

Marine Port: Tête-à-la-Baleine, Canada

Location:

• Latitude: Approximately 50.6861° N
• Longitude: Approximately 59.3333° W
• Region: Côte-Nord, Quebec, Canada
• Nearby Body of Water: Gulf of St. Lawrence

Overview: Tête-à-la-Baleine is a small, remote community located on the Lower North Shore of Quebec. The village is known for its rugged coastline, natural beauty, and its significance as a local marine hub within the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Its name translates to "Whale's Head," inspired by the nearby whale-shaped island.

Facilities and Infrastructure:

• Marine Services: The port generally provides basic services suitable for small to medium-sized vessels, primarily supporting local fishing and transportation needs.
• Docking: The port features docking facilities suitable for fishing boats, cargo vessels, and passenger ferries.
• Fuel Supply: Limited fuel storage; primarily serving local vessels.
• Warehousing: Minimal warehousing facilities are available, reflecting the modest economic activity of the region.
• Passenger Facilities: Basic amenities for passengers traveling via ferry, including waiting areas.

Navigation and Access:

• Channel Depth: Variable, often shallow due to the natural coastal landscape.
• Tides: The region experiences significant tidal changes, which can affect docking schedules and nautical navigation. Mariners need to plan accordingly.
• Navigation Aids: Limited but sufficient for local use; lighthouse and buoy systems assist in safe navigation near the port.
• Weather Conditions: The region can be subjected to harsh weather conditions, including high winds and cold temperatures, particularly in winter. Mariners are advised to check conditions before planning voyages.

Economic Role:

• Fisheries: The local economy heavily relies on fishing, with species like cod, crab, and lobster being significant contributors.
• Transportation: The port serves as a critical transportation link for the remote community. It connects with larger ports and communities through seasonal ferry services.
• Tourism: Eco-tourism and adventure tourism (e.g., kayaking, whale watching) are emerging sectors drawing visitors to the scenic and relatively unspoiled natural environment.

Community Impact:

• Population: Small, with a community that relies closely on the port for supplies, transportation, and economic activities.
• Connectivity: The port provides a crucial connection to the outside world, particularly in terms of goods and passenger movement, essential for the isolated community.

Challenges:

• Remote Location: The community’s isolation poses logistical challenges, especially during adverse weather conditions.
• Infrastructure Development: Limited economic resources restrict major infrastructural improvements, relying on periodic governmental support for upgrades and maintenance.

Conclusion: Tête-à-la-Baleine port exemplifies the quintessential remote maritime community hub, playing a pivotal role in the daily lives of its residents. It supports essential local economic activities and maintains their connection with broader markets and communities, despite facing challenges from its remote and rugged location.