UN/LOCODE: KNBAS📍 Saint Kitts and Nevis
Port of Basseterre, Saint Kitts (UN/LOCODE KNBAS)
❖ Coordinates: 17.3026°N, -62.7177°E
❖ Time Zone: America/St_Kitts
❖ UN/LOCODE: KNBAS
## About the Port
The Port of Basseterre, located in Saint George Basseterre Parish, Saint Kitts and Nevis, is a crucial maritime facility in the Eastern Caribbean. With the UN/LOCODE KNBAS, this port operates within the America/St_Kitts timezone and is situated at coordinates 17.3026058 latitude and -62.7176924 longitude. The port's strategic location allows it to serve as a key hub for international trade, catering to a wide range of vessels, from small ferries to large cargo ships. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO)↗, the port's activities are governed by international maritime laws and regulations, ensuring a safe and efficient maritime environment.
### Port Operations
The Port of Basseterre is managed by the St. Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority (SCASPA), which oversees all aspects of port operations, including vessel traffic management, cargo handling, and security. The port's navigational channel is approximately 10 meters deep, allowing for the accommodation of vessels with a maximum draft of 9.5 meters. The port's berthing facilities consist of a 304-meter-long wharf, capable of handling a variety of cargo, including containers, bulk cargo, and breakbulk cargo.
## History
The Port of Basseterre has a rich history dating back to the 17th century, when it served as a major trading center for the British colonies in the Caribbean. During the colonial era, the port played a significant role in the sugar and tobacco trades, with ships arriving from Europe and other parts of the Americas. In the 20th century, the port underwent significant modernization efforts, including the construction of a new wharf and the introduction of modern cargo handling equipment. Today, the port continues to evolve, with ongoing investments in infrastructure and technology aimed at enhancing its efficiency and competitiveness.
### Historical Development
The port's historical development has been influenced by various factors, including the island's strategic location, natural resources, and colonial legacy. The port's growth has also been shaped by regional and global economic trends, including the rise of international trade and the increasing importance of the Caribbean as a major shipping route. For more information on the history of the port and its development, please visit the St. Kitts and Nevis National Archives↗.
## Infrastructure & Facilities
The Port of Basseterre boasts a range of modern infrastructure and facilities, designed to support efficient and safe maritime operations. The port's facilities include:
* A 304-meter-long wharf, with a draft of 9.5 meters
* A cargo handling area, covering approximately 12,000 square meters
* A container yard, with a capacity for 1,000 TEUs
* A breakbulk cargo facility, with a storage area of 5,000 square meters
* A fueling station, providing bunkering services for vessels
* A ship repair facility, offering maintenance and repair services for vessels
The port is also equipped with modern cargo handling equipment, including cranes, forklifts, and reach stackers. The port's security features include CCTV surveillance, access control systems, and a 24/7 security patrol.
## Economic Importance
The Port of Basseterre is a vital component of Saint Kitts and Nevis' economy, generating significant revenue and employment opportunities. The port's activities contribute to the country's GDP, with cargo handling, shipping, and related services being major contributors. The port also plays a crucial role in facilitating international trade, with a significant portion of the country's imports and exports passing through the port.
### Economic Benefits
The port's economic benefits extend beyond the maritime sector, with spin-off effects in areas such as tourism, manufacturing, and construction. The port's activities also support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are a vital part of the country's economy. According to a study by the World Bank↗, investments in port infrastructure can have significant economic benefits, including increased trade, economic growth, and job creation.
## Trade Routes & Major Cargo
The Port of Basseterre is strategically located on major trade routes, connecting the Caribbean to Europe, North America, and South America. The port handles a wide range of cargo, including:
* Containers, with major shipping lines such as Maersk, COSCO, and Evergreen
* Bulk cargo, including sugar, grains, and minerals
* Breakbulk cargo, such as fruits, vegetables, and manufactured goods
* Project cargo, including heavy machinery and equipment
The port's trade routes include the Caribbean, the Americas, Europe, and Asia, with key trading partners including the United States, the United Kingdom, and China. The port's cargo volumes have been increasing steadily, driven by growing demand for imports and exports in the region.
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
KNBAS
Country
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Province / Region
Saint George Basseterre Parish
Latitude
17.302606
Longitude
-62.717692
Timezone
America/St_Kitts
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Basseterre, Saint Kitts?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Basseterre, Saint Kitts is KNBAS.
Where is Port of Basseterre, Saint Kitts located?
The Port of Basseterre, Saint Kitts is located in Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint George Basseterre Parish. Its coordinates are 17.3026°N, -62.7177°E.
What time zone is Port of Basseterre, Saint Kitts in?
Port of Basseterre, Saint Kitts operates in the America/St_Kitts time zone.
🌊 Live Marine Conditions
Wave Height0.9 m
Wave Direction93°
Swell Height0.68 m
Data provided by Open-Meteo Marine API
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About the World Port Index
This data is sourced programmatically. The UN/LOCODE is the official geographic coding scheme used by the United Nations for trade and transport locations.
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