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Note: Vessel information is updated daily. All times are local port time.
Port Overview
Blakely Island (USBYW) is a strategically positioned maritime facility located in the Northwestern Pacific (NP) region of the United States. Situated in the San Juan Islands archipelago of Washington State, this port represents a unique maritime infrastructure serving the complex coastal geography of the Pacific Northwest. While primarily serving local maritime needs, Blakely Island offers specialized capabilities for smaller vessels and regional maritime operations within the Salish Sea maritime ecosystem.
Geographic Location & Access
Precisely positioned at 48.5858°N, -122.815°E, Blakely Island port is nestled within the intricate marine landscape of the San Juan Islands. The port benefits from sheltered approaches characteristic of the archipelagic environment, with natural protection from open ocean conditions. Navigation requires careful pilotage due to the complex local geography, including narrow channels and surrounding island formations. The maritime approach involves traversing the Rosario Strait, presenting moderate navigational challenges that demand experienced maritime professionals.
Port Infrastructure & Facilities
Given its island location, Blakely Island’s port infrastructure is specialized and compact. The facility is designed to accommodate smaller to medium-sized vessels with a maximum draft of 50 meters. While not a major commercial shipping hub, the port provides critical maritime services for regional maritime activities, including:
– Limited berthing capabilities for coastal and inter-island vessels
– Basic cargo handling infrastructure
– Support for recreational and small commercial maritime operations
– Emergency maritime support services
– Limited storage and transshipment capabilities
Technical Specifications
Key technical parameters include:
– Maximum Draft: 50 meters
– Channel Depth: Varies, requires precise local navigation
– Tidal Range: Significant, typical of Pacific Northwest coastal environments
– Vessel Size Limitations: Restricted by local geographic constraints
– Navigation Challenges: Requires local pilotage and intimate knowledge of marine approaches
Operational Services
Operational services are tailored to the port’s specialized maritime context:
– Basic stevedoring capabilities
– Limited bunker fuel supply
– Emergency marine support
– Basic provisions and supply services
– Environmental compliance protocols
– Restricted customs and immigration facilities
Commercial & Economic Aspects
Blakely Island’s port serves a niche maritime market, focusing on:
– Inter-island maritime connectivity
– Support for local marine industries
– Recreational and small commercial maritime activities
– Limited logistics and transshipment services
– Specialized marine ecosystem support
Strategic Importance
While not a major international shipping hub, Blakely Island port plays a crucial role in:
– Supporting local maritime ecosystems
– Providing emergency maritime infrastructure
– Maintaining maritime connectivity in the San Juan Islands region
– Supporting environmental monitoring and marine research activities
Competitive Advantages
– Unique geographical positioning
– Sheltered maritime environment
– Specialized local maritime knowledge
– Ecosystem-sensitive operational approach
– Critical regional maritime infrastructure
Conclusion
Blakely Island (USBYW) represents a specialized maritime facility that prioritizes local maritime needs over large-scale commercial shipping. Its strategic location, unique infrastructure, and ecosystem-sensitive approach make it a critical component of the Pacific Northwest’s maritime landscape.
USBYW
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