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Note: Vessel information is updated daily. All times are local port time.
Port Overview
Barrow (USBRW), located in the northernmost point of Alaska, United States, represents a critical maritime infrastructure in the Arctic region. Situated at 71.3022°N, -156.769°E, this remote port serves as a strategic access point for maritime operations in the challenging North Polar (NP) area. Despite its extreme geographical location, Barrow plays a crucial role in supporting Arctic research, indigenous community logistics, and emerging maritime activities in the rapidly changing Arctic environment.
Geographic Location & Access
Positioned on the northern coast of Alaska, Barrow (now officially known as Utqiaġvik) offers a unique maritime gateway to the Arctic Ocean. The port’s coordinates place it at the edge of the North American continent, with direct access to the Chukchi Sea. Characterized by extreme Arctic conditions, the port experiences significant seasonal variations, with ice-covered waters dominating much of the year. Navigation is extremely challenging, with a very limited operational window during summer months when sea ice recedes.
Port Infrastructure & Facilities
The port infrastructure at Barrow is minimalist and specialized for Arctic operations:
– Limited berthing facilities designed for shallow draft vessels
– Specialized small-craft loading areas
– Basic cargo transfer infrastructure
– Minimal container handling capabilities
– Emergency response and research support facilities
– Specialized equipment for cold-weather maritime operations
Technical Specifications
– Maximum Draft: 50 meters (theoretical maximum, practically limited by local conditions)
– Seasonal Navigation: Primarily summer months (July-September)
– Ice Conditions: Extensive ice coverage for most of the year
– Specialized Arctic Navigation Requirements
– Limited modern navigation aids
– Mandatory ice-class vessel recommendations
– Extreme cold-weather operational protocols
Operational Services
Limited but critical services include:
– Basic vessel support for research and indigenous transportation
– Emergency response capabilities
– Fuel supply for specialized Arctic vessels
– Scientific research vessel support
– Minimal customs and immigration facilities
– Specialized cold-weather maritime support services
Commercial & Economic Aspects
The port’s commercial significance is primarily focused on:
– Arctic research logistics
– Indigenous community supply chains
– Potential future Arctic shipping routes
– Scientific expedition support
– Limited commercial maritime activities
– Emerging Arctic resource exploration support
Strategic Importance
Barrow represents a critical strategic location for:
– Climate change research
– Arctic maritime monitoring
– Potential future transpolar shipping routes
– Indigenous community maritime access
– Scientific and environmental research
– Emerging Arctic economic opportunities
Operational Considerations
Maritime professionals should note:
– Extremely limited maritime infrastructure
– Challenging navigation conditions
– Specialized vessel requirements
– Short operational maritime window
– High-cost maritime operations
– Significant environmental constraints
Conclusion
Barrow (USBRW) is not a traditional commercial port but a strategically important Arctic maritime access point. Its significance lies in supporting scientific research, indigenous logistics, and potential future Arctic maritime developments. Vessels planning operations must be prepared for extreme conditions, limited infrastructure, and specialized Arctic maritime protocols.
Recommended for:
– Arctic research vessels
– Scientific expeditions
– Indigenous community
USBRW
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