USELESS LOOP

• AUUSL
• Latitude: -26.1098
• Longitude: 113.41
• West Australia
• Port in Australia

Location: Australia

Web-site: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Useless_Loop

Useless Loop is a remote coastal community and maritime facility located in the Shark Bay region of Western Australia. Renowned primarily for its salt production operations, Useless Loop hosts one of the world's purest salt fields. Here are some specifications and details about the port:

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 26.1527° S, 113.4074° E
• Region: Shark Bay, Western Australia
• Accessibility: The area is remote and typically accessed via private roads or by sea.

Port Description:

• Primary Purpose:
  • Salt production and exportation.
• Operator: Shark Bay Salt Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of Mitsui & Co. Ltd.
• Harbor Type: Coastal harbor, naturally sheltered by Dirk Hartog Island and surrounding land formations.

Infrastructure & Facilities:

• Berthing Facilities: The port is equipped with facilities to handle bulk carriers that transport salt.
• Loadout Facilities: Conveyor belt systems and ship loaders for efficient loading of bulk salt.
• Support Facilities: Limited support facilities given its remote location. Most infrastructure is dedicated to industrial salt production and shipment.

Navigation & Accessibility:

• Draught: Suitable draught for bulk carriers but specific depth details should be verified through updated maritime charts.
• Navigational Aids: Standard navigational aids for coastal waters. Mariners should refer to local navigational charts and tide tables.

Environmental Considerations:

• Pristine Environment: Located within the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, known for its pristine marine and coastal environments.
• Conservation Measures: Stringent measures are in place to protect the local ecosystem.

Economic Contribution:

• Main Export: High-quality solar marine salt.
• Market: Salt exported mainly to Asia for industrial and food processing applications.

Logistics and Climate:

• Climate: Arid with hot summers and mild winters. Weather conditions can affect navigability.
• Logistical Challenges: Remote location poses logistical challenges including transportation and limited access to public infrastructure.

Given its special-purpose nature, the port of Useless Loop is not a general-purpose commercial port but is crucial for the salt industry in Australia. Mariners and stakeholders planning operations in this region are advised to coordinate closely with Shark Bay Salt Pty Ltd and local authorities for detailed and up-to-date information.