FORT DE FRANCE

• MQFDF
• Latitude: 14.5932
• Longitude: -61.0506
• Caribbean Sea
• Port in Martinique

Location: Martinique

Web-site: https://www.port-martinique.com/

Fort-de-France is the capital and largest city of Martinique, a French overseas department in the Caribbean. It is an important marine port situated on the west coast of the island, along the Baie de Fort-de-France. Here are some key points and specifications related to the port:

General Information:

• Country: Martinique
• Location: West Caribbean Sea
• Coordinates: 14.6° N latitude, 61.1° W longitude
• Timezone: GMT-4

Port Specifications:

• UN/LOCODE: MQFDF
• Port Type: Coastal Natural
• Harbor Size: Medium
• Shelter: Good (protected by a natural bay)

Port Facilities:

• Anchorage: The port provides suitable anchorage options for vessels.
• Piers and Wharves: The port has multiple docking areas equipped to handle different types of vessels, including cargo ships, cruise liners, and ferries.
• Container Terminal: Equipped to handle containerized cargo, with facilities for loading and unloading.
• Cargo Storage: Available facilities for the storage of dry and liquid bulk, general cargo, and refrigerated goods.
• Ro-Ro Facilities: Available for roll-on/roll-off cargo, supporting vehicles and machinery.
• Passenger Terminals: There are terminals for passengers, primarily serving cruise ships and ferries.

Services:

• Pilotage: Compulsory for vessels, with services available 24/7.
• Tugboats: Tugs are available for assisting vessels during docking and undocking.
• Bunkering: Fuel bunkering services available.
• Ship Repairs: Limited facilities for minor repairs and maintenance.
• Chandleries: Supplies and provisions available to ships.
• Waste Reception: Waste disposal facilities available for ships.

Navigation:

• Approach: The approaches to the port are well-marked, with navigational aids like buoys and lights.
• Depth: Varying depths, generally accommodating vessels with a draft up to 11 meters.
• Tides: Tidal range approximately 0.3 to 0.5 meters.

Access:

• Road Connectivity: Well-connected to the interior through a network of roads.
• Airport: Martinique Aime Cesaire International Airport is approximately 10 kilometers from the port.

Economic Role:

Fort-de-France port is a key economic hub for Martinique and plays an essential role in the import/export of goods. The port supports various industries on the island, including agriculture (notably bananas, rum, and sugar), manufacturing, and tourism.

Tourism and Recreation:

Fort-de-France is a popular destination for cruise ships. The port is close to several attractions, including the historic Fort Saint Louis, the Schoelcher Library, and vibrant local markets. Its proximity to downtown Fort-de-France makes it convenient for visitors to explore the city.

Environmental Considerations:

As a coastal port, Fort-de-France adheres to international environmental regulations, including waste management and spill response protocols, to minimize environmental impact on the Caribbean Sea.

Recent Developments:

Efforts are ongoing to modernize and expand the port facilities to accommodate growing traffic and larger vessels, thereby enhancing its capacity and efficiency.

Contact Information:

For specific operational details and updates, it’s advisable to reach out directly to the port authority or visit their official website.

This comprehensive description encapsulates the vital role of Fort-de-France as a significant marine port in Martinique, reflecting its capabilities and facilities for handling diverse maritime needs.