TULEAR

• MGTLE
• Latitude: -23.3719
• Longitude: 43.6679
• East Africa
• Port in Madagascar

Location: Toliara Toliara Region 601 Madagascar

Certainly! Toliara (also known as Tulear) is an important port located on the southwestern coast of Madagascar. Here's an overview of the port and its specifications:

General Description

Location: Toliara (Tulear), Madagascar Coordinates: Approximately 23°21' S latitude, 43°40' E longitude

Port Specifications

Port Type: Coastal Natural Port

Harbor Type:

• Open Roadstead: The port provides anchorage along a stretch of water where the seabed conditions may vary from sheltered areas to open exposed conditions.

Draught:

• Approach Channel: Typically suitable for vessels with a draft of up to 10 meters.

Port Infrastructure:

• Berthing Facilities: The port has limited berthing facilities with several quays suitable for small to medium-sized vessels.
• Cargo Handling: Basic cargo handling equipment is available, including mobile cranes and forklifts. The port handles various types of cargo, including containerized goods, bulk, and general cargo.
• Storage: Some limited warehousing and open storage areas are available near the quay.

Anchorage:

• Vessels usually anchor offshore due to the limited berthing space. The anchorage area has good holding ground and is generally safe except during the southwest monsoon when swells can be significant.

Pilotage:

• Available but compulsory for larger vessels to ensure safe navigation into the anchorage and berthing areas.

Tides and Weather Conditions:

• Tides: Tidal variations are modest. Sailors are advised to consult recent tidal charts for precise data.
• Weather: Toliara experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The cyclone season runs from November to April, which can affect port operations during severe storms.

Services Available

• Bunkering: Limited fuel supply available primarily through fuel barges.
• Fresh Water Supply: Available but limited.
• Repairs: Minor repair facilities are available; however, major repairs are generally not feasible in Toliara.
• Medical Facilities: Basic medical services available in Toliara city.
• Customs and Immigration: Standard customs and immigration services operational to handle vessel clearance processes.

Connectivity

• Road: The port is connected by road to major cities including Antananarivo (the capital) and other regional towns.
• Air: Toliara is served by a regional airport providing connections to national and some international destinations.
• Rail: No direct rail connections to the port.

Key Exports and Imports

• Exports: Seafood, especially shrimp and fish, agricultural products, minerals, and semi-precious stones.
• Imports: Machinery, chemical products, foodstuffs, and general consumer goods.

Future Developments

While Toliara is already a key economic hub on the southwest coast, plans or ongoing potential improvements may include modernizing infrastructure, expanding berthing facilities, and increasing cargo handling capabilities to accommodate larger vessels and higher traffic.

This overview provides a snapshot of the capabilities and characteristics of the Port of Toliara. It is advisable to contact port authorities or logistic companies for the most up-to-date and detailed information.