TONTOUTA

• NCTON
• Latitude: -22.0429
• Longitude: 166.078
• East Australia
• Offshore Terminal in New Caledonia

Location: New Caledonia

Tontouta in New Caledonia is more commonly associated with the La Tontouta International Airport, New Caledonia's main route for international air travel. However, when it comes to maritime ports, the primary commercial port in New Caledonia is Nouméa, located on the southwest coast of the main island, Grande Terre. Tontouta itself does not have a significant maritime port, but Nouméa serves as the central hub for marine activities in the region.

Nouméa Port Overview

Location:

• Latitude: -22.2730° S
• Longitude: 166.4396° E
• Nouméa Harbour is located on the southwest coast of Grande Terre, the largest island in New Caledonia.

Key Features and Specifications:

• Type of Port: Seaport
• Port Authority: Port Autonome de la Nouvelle-Calédonie (New Caledonia Autonomous Port)
• Facilities: The port includes several terminals for different types of cargo including containerized goods, bulk cargo, and general cargo. It also has dedicated facilities for passenger ferries and cruise ships.
• Depth: The port boasts draft depths of up to 16 meters (52.5 feet) in specific berths, accommodating large vessels.
• Berths: Multiple berths for various types of cargo, including dedicated container terminals, Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) berths, and general cargo docks.
• Cargo Handling Capabilities: Modern cargo handling equipment such as cranes, container lifts, and storage facilities. This port handles a variety of goods including mining products, machinery, foodstuffs, and fuel.
• Container Handling: The port is equipped to handle large volumes of containerized cargo with modern container terminals that include crane capabilities and ample storage space.
• Passenger Services: Facilities for cruise ships and ferry services, providing connectivity for both local and international travelers.
• Connectivity: Well-connected by road to various parts of the island, enhancing the movement of goods to and from the port.

Environmental and Security Measures:

• Security: Secure port facilities meeting international security standards like the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
• Environmental Regulations: Compliance with environmental standards to mitigate the impact of port operations on the local marine and urban environments.

Noteworthy Mentions:

• Economic Importance: Nouméa Port is a critical gateway for New Caledonia, playing a significant role in the import and export of goods. It supports the local economy, especially the mining industry.
• Expansion and Modernization: Ongoing and planned projects aimed at expanding and modernizing the port infrastructure to enhance capacity and efficiency.

Conclusion

While Tontouta itself is not home to a significant maritime port, Nouméa serves as the primary maritime and logistics hub for New Caledonia. The Nouméa Port is well-equipped with modern facilities to manage a variety of cargo and passenger services, playing a pivotal role in the region's economy and connectivity.