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Note: Vessel information is updated daily. All times are local port time.
Port Overview
Cap Lopez (GACLZ) is a strategically positioned maritime facility located in Gabon, serving as a critical infrastructure hub for the country’s offshore oil and maritime logistics operations. Situated in the West African region, the port plays a significant role in supporting Gabon’s petroleum export industry and regional maritime trade networks. Its location along the Atlantic coast provides crucial access to international shipping routes, making it an essential gateway for hydrocarbon and mineral exports from Central Africa.
Geographic Location & Access
Precisely positioned at coordinates -0.631873°N, 8.71911°E, Cap Lopez is located in a strategically advantageous coastal area with direct access to deep-water maritime approaches. The port benefits from a natural harbor configuration with relatively stable maritime conditions typical of the West African coastline. The surrounding geography offers protection from extreme weather patterns, with moderate tropical maritime climate characteristics that support year-round port operations.
Port Infrastructure & Facilities
Cap Lopez features specialized infrastructure primarily designed to support petroleum and offshore energy sector operations. The port’s key facilities include:
– Dedicated oil export terminals
– Deep-water berths capable of accommodating large tanker vessels
– Maximum draft of 50 meters, enabling ultra-large crude carriers
– Specialized hydrocarbon storage and transfer infrastructure
– Limited but efficient container and general cargo handling capabilities
– Robust marine support infrastructure for offshore energy logistics
Technical Specifications
Technical capabilities of Cap Lopez include:
– Maximum navigational draft: 50 meters
– Channel depth maintained through regular dredging operations
– Capable of handling vessels up to 300,000 deadweight tonnage
– Sophisticated navigation aids and maritime safety systems
– Pilotage services mandatory for all incoming and outgoing vessels
– Tidal range approximately 2.5-3.5 meters, typical of West African coastal regions
Operational Services
Port operational services encompass:
– Specialized petroleum product handling and export
– Bunker fuel supply (marine gas oil, heavy fuel oil)
– Basic ship repair and maintenance support
– Customs clearance and documentation services
– Security screening and maritime safety protocols
– Limited container and general cargo transshipment capabilities
Commercial & Economic Aspects
Cap Lopez serves as a critical economic infrastructure for Gabon’s maritime trade, with primary focus on:
– Petroleum export logistics
– Supporting offshore energy sector operations
– Facilitating international maritime trade
– Providing strategic maritime infrastructure for regional economic development
Strategic Importance
The port’s strategic significance derives from:
– Critical role in Gabon’s petroleum export infrastructure
– Access to deep-water maritime approaches
– Support for offshore energy exploration and production
– Potential for expanded maritime logistics capabilities
– Gateway for Central African maritime trade networks
Competitive Advantages
Key competitive advantages include:
– Extensive draft capabilities
– Specialized petroleum export infrastructure
– Strategic geographic positioning
– Established maritime safety and operational protocols
– Supporting Gabon’s emerging maritime economic strategies
Conclusion
Cap Lopez represents a specialized maritime facility primarily oriented towards petroleum logistics, offering robust infrastructure for hydrocarbon exports and offshore energy support. Its deep-water capabilities, strategic location, and focused operational model
GACLZ
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