TIKSI

• Latitude: 71.6476
• Longitude: 128.899
• CIS Pacific
• Port in Russia

Address: Tiksi Sakha Republic (Yakutia) Russia

Tiksi is a notable Arctic seaport located in the Sakha (Yakutia) Republic of Russia. Given its strategic positioning by the Laptev Sea, Tiksi plays a crucial role in serving as a gateway to the Northern Sea Route. Below are the description and specifications of the Tiksi Marine Port:

Port Description:

1. Location: Tiksi is situated on the southern coast of the Laptev Sea near the delta of the Lena River. Coordinates approximately at 71.64° N latitude and 128.87° E longitude.

2. Climate: Tiksi experiences a harsh Arctic climate characterized by extremely cold winters and short summers. Ice covers the sea for the majority of the year, usually from October to June.

3. Access: The port is accessible by sea during the ice-free period typically spanning a few brief months in summer. Icebreakers are often required to aid in navigation outside of this period.

4. Infrastructure: The port encompasses a range of infrastructure to support maritime and logistics operations, though the specifics can vary. Facilities often include cargo handling areas, warehouses, fuel storage, administrative buildings, and basic amenities for crew and personnel.

Port Specifications:

1. Draft: The draft in Tiksi port can be limited due to shallow waters and ice conditions. However, it typically accommodates vessels with a draft of up to 7 meters (subject to current conditions).

2. Berthing Facilities:

   • Number of Berths: Tiksi has several berths designed to handle various types of cargo, particularly general cargo, fuel, and materials for the local region.
   • Berth Length: Specific lengths can vary, but the port has been known to handle vessels up to medium size Arctic-class ships.

3. Cargo Handling: The port handles a mix of cargo types:

   • General Cargo: Bulk shipments, construction materials, consumer goods for local inhabitants.
   • Fuel: Oil and diesel are commonly handled to support local communities and industries.
   • Supplies: Essential supplies for scientific expeditions, local industries, and infrastructural needs.

4. Ice Conditions:

   • Ice Presence: The port is encased in ice for most of the year and relies heavily on icebreaker assistance.
   • Ice Management: The Russian icebreaker fleet plays a significant role in ensuring supply routes remain open during critical months.

5. Navigational Aids: The port is equipped with various navigational aids to assist vessels, including buoys, beacons, and leading lights specially designed for Arctic conditions.

6. Proximity: The port is connected by a regional road network. Despite its remote location, there is an airstrip nearby, Tiksi Airport, for air transport and emergency services.

Importance:

• Strategic Role: Tiksi's importance has grown due to its strategic location along the Northern Sea Route which is becoming increasingly navigable due to climatic changes.
• Economic Impact: The port significantly supports local communities and the regional economy by facilitating the import of vital goods and supplies.
• Research and Development: Tiksi serves as a base for scientific expeditions, particularly those studying Arctic and climate change.

Challenges:

• Extreme Weather: The port operates under extreme weather conditions that can impede operations and require specialized equipment and procedures.
• Logistics: The remote location necessitates efficient logistical planning and robust infrastructure to ensure reliable supply chains.

Tiksi remains a vital Arctic port, embodying the challenges and potential of maritime activities in one of the harshest environments on Earth.