| Vessel Name ↕️ | IMO | Type ↕️ | DWT ↕️ | ETA ↕️ |
|---|
Note: Vessel information is updated daily. All times are local port time.
Port Overview
Funafuti Port (TVFUN) is a critical maritime infrastructure located in the heart of the Tuvalu archipelago, serving as the primary maritime gateway for this small Pacific island nation. Positioned strategically in the southeastern Pacific region, the port plays a crucial role in supporting the island’s maritime connectivity, international trade, and economic sustainability. Despite its modest size, Funafuti Port represents a vital lifeline for Tuvalu’s maritime operations, facilitating essential cargo movements and serving as a key logistics hub for the region.
Geographic Location & Access
Situated at precise coordinates 8.51575°N, 179.183°E, Funafuti Port is located on Funafuti Atoll, the capital and most populous region of Tuvalu. The port benefits from a strategic position in the central Pacific, offering relatively protected maritime access through the atoll’s natural harbor configuration. The approach channels are characterized by moderate navigational complexity, with typical Pacific maritime conditions including occasional tropical weather patterns and moderate oceanic swells.
Port Infrastructure & Facilities
The port’s infrastructure is designed to accommodate the specific needs of a small island nation’s maritime operations. Key facilities include:
– Primary cargo handling area with limited but functional container storage capabilities
– Single main berth suitable for medium-sized maritime vessels
– Basic container handling equipment
– Open storage areas for general cargo and maritime logistics
– Limited but essential warehousing facilities
– Basic maritime support infrastructure
Technical Specifications
Critical technical parameters include:
– Maximum draft: 50 meters
– Channel depth: Approximately 10-12 meters
– Tidal range: Moderate, typical of Pacific island environments
– Vessel size limitations: Primarily suited for medium-sized cargo vessels and regional maritime traffic
– Navigation aids: Basic maritime navigation systems and local pilotage services
Operational Services
Available port services encompass:
– Basic stevedoring and cargo handling
– Limited bunkering capabilities
– Fresh water supply
– Basic maritime support services
– Customs and immigration processing
– Elementary ship maintenance support
– Fundamental maritime safety infrastructure
Commercial & Economic Aspects
The port’s commercial landscape is characterized by:
– Modest port tariff structures
– Limited but essential international trade connectivity
– Primary focus on essential import/export logistics
– Supporting regional maritime supply chains
– Critical infrastructure for Tuvalu’s economic sustainability
Strategic Importance
Funafuti Port represents more than a mere maritime facility; it is a critical national infrastructure with significant strategic implications:
– Primary maritime gateway for Tuvalu
– Essential lifeline for national import/export activities
– Strategic point of maritime connectivity in the central Pacific
– Supporting regional maritime logistics networks
– Crucial for national economic resilience
Operational Considerations for Maritime Professionals
Maritime operators should note:
– Limited advanced maritime infrastructure
– Potential weather-related operational constraints
– Requirement for precise navigation and local expertise
– Basic but functional maritime support services
– Importance of advanced planning for vessel operations
Conclusion
Funafuti Port, while modest in scale, represents a critical maritime asset for Tuvalu. Its strategic location, fundamental infrastructure,
TVFUN
Stop wasting time — streamline your pre-fixing process and move bulk vessel cargo faster than ever.
