VANIMO

• PGVAI
• Latitude: -2.67866
• Longitude: 141.286
• North Australia
• Port in Papua New Guinea

Location: Vanimo Sandaun Province Papua New Guinea

Marine Port Description and Specifications: VANIMO, Papua New Guinea

General Information:

• Location: Vanimo, Sandaun Province, Papua New Guinea
• Coordinates: Latitude: 2.6744° S, Longitude: 141.3035° E
• UN/LOCODE: PGPVM

Port Overview: Vanimo is a minor port located on the northern coast of Papua New Guinea, near the border with Indonesia's Papua Province. It primarily serves the town of Vanimo and the surrounding regions, facilitating the import and export of goods. The port's strategic location makes it an essential maritime hub for trade between Papua New Guinea and Indonesia, as well as other regional destinations.

Facilities and Infrastructure:

1. Berth Specifications:

   • Berths: Vanimo has limited berthing facilities primarily designed for small to medium-sized vessels. Specific berth dimensions and maximum vessel capacities may vary, so it is advisable to contact the Port Authority for up-to-date details.
   • Draft: The port has limited draft capabilities, suited for vessels with a shallow draft. The draft depth at various points should be checked prior to arrival.

2. Cargo Handling:

   • Types of Cargo: The port handles a variety of cargo types including general cargo, containerized goods, and bulk commodities. Due to its size, the port may have limitations in handling large volumes.
   • Equipment: The port is equipped with basic cargo handling equipment, including forklifts and cranes. More specialized equipment may not be available on-site.
   • Storage Facilities: Limited on-site storage and warehousing facilities are available. For larger storage requirements, arrangements may need to be made in advance.

3. Port Services:

   • Pilotage: Pilotage services may be available but are not mandatory for all vessels. Checking availability and requirements beforehand is recommended.
   • Tugs: Tug services are limited and may need to be arranged in coordination with the port authorities.
   • Bunkering: Limited bunkering facilities are available. Fuel arrangements should be confirmed in advance.
   • Water and Provisioning: Freshwater supply and basic provisioning services can be availed, although specific requests should be made beforehand.

4. Customs and Security:

   • Customs: The port has a customs office to handle the necessary import/export documentation and inspections.
   • Security: Port security is maintained as per international regulations to ensure the safety of vessels and cargo. However, given the port's size and resources, security measures may be more basic compared to larger ports.

Connectivity:

• Road Access: The port is accessible via local roads connecting Vanimo with other parts of Sandaun Province and the Papua New Guinea Highlands.
• Sea Access: The port’s sea approach is relatively straightforward, but navigation aids and updated charts are recommended due to possible variable conditions.

Future Plans:

• There may be ongoing or planned developments to upgrade facilities and expand capacity. Enquiries should be made with local port authorities for the latest project updates and timelines.

Contact Information:

• Port Authority: Maritime Safety Authority of Papua New Guinea or the local Sandaun Provincial Government
• Port Contact: Direct contact information can be obtained through the Maritime Safety Authority’s official channels or via local government offices.

Useful Tips:

• Due to the relative remoteness and limited facilities, it is crucial to plan port calls in advance.
• Engage local agents familiar with Vanimo to facilitate smooth port operations.

Conclusion: Vanimo is a smaller, strategically located port catering primarily to regional and local trade. While limited in capacity and facilities compared to major ports, it plays a significant role in connecting Papua New Guinea's northern coastal trade with neighboring Indonesian territories and beyond. Proper planning and coordination with port authorities and agents are essential for efficient port operations at Vanimo.