UA POU

• PFUAP
• Latitude: -9.41113
• Longitude: -140.11
• South Pacific
• Port in French Polynesia

Location: Papeete French Polynesia

Marine Port Description and Specification: UA POU, French Polynesia

General Information:

• Name of the Port: Ua Pou
• Location: Ua Pou Island, Marquesas Archipelago, French Polynesia
• Latitude/Longitude: Approximately 9.3923° S, 140.0799° W
• Time Zone: UTC -9 hours

Geographical Context:

• Island Characteristics: Ua Pou is one of the Marquesas Islands, known for its dramatic volcanic peaks and lush tropical landscape.
• Proximity to Other Islands: The island is part of the northern Marquesas group and lies south of Nuku Hiva, the administrative capital of the Marquesas Islands.

Port Infrastructure:

• Type of Port: Small commercial and recreational port.
• Facilities:
  • Quay Length: Limited berthing space suitable for small to medium-sized vessels.
  • Cargo Handling: Primarily manual handling; limited mechanized equipment due to the small scale of the port.
  • Passenger Services: Basic facilities available for passenger ferries and small cruise ships.
  • Fueling Services: Limited availability; vessels usually refuel at larger nearby ports.

Navigation and Accessibility:

• Navigation Channel: Entry to the port is straightforward, but pilots may be required for vessels unfamiliar with local conditions.
• Anchorage: Vessels may anchor offshore in designated areas due to space constraints at the quay.
• Tidal Range: Relatively small tidal changes; however, currents and swells can affect docking procedures.

Services and Amenities:

• Customs and Immigration: Basic facilities available; larger vessels may need to clear customs at a more developed port first.
• Port Authority: The local government administrates the port.
• Nearby Amenities: Small shops, limited dining options, and basic medical services available in the nearby village.

Economic and Strategic Role:

• Primary Functions: The port primarily supports local economic activities including fishing, agriculture, and tourism.
• Connectivity: Regular inter-island ferry services linking Ua Pou with other islands in the Marquesas.
• Strategic Importance: Acts as a critical supply point for the local population and a gateway for tourists exploring the Marquesas.

Environmental Considerations:

• Conservation Efforts: Being part of a sensitive ecological region, there are regulations in place to minimize environmental impact, particularly with respect to coastal and marine ecosystems.

Development Potential:

• Expansion Plans: Any development is constrained by the island’s topography and the need to preserve natural beauty.
• Tourism Growth: Increasing interest in eco-tourism and adventure travel could lead to modest upgrades in port infrastructure and services.

Conclusion:

Ua Pou port is a small, vital hub for the local community on Ua Pou Island, balancing modest commercial operations with the cultural and environmental preservation of French Polynesia. The port serves as an essential link in inter-island connectivity within the Marquesas archipelago, facilitating both local livelihoods and tourism.