
The Port international du Cap-Haïtien is a significant shipping hub in the Caribbean, playing a crucial role in the country's economy. Located on the north coast of Haiti, it serves as a gateway for international trade and commerce.
With a deep-water harbor and modern infrastructure, the port can accommodate large vessels and cargo ships. Its strategic location allows for efficient transportation of goods to and from the port, making it an attractive option for businesses and traders.
The port's cargo handling capacity is impressive, with the ability to handle over 1 million tons of cargo per year. This makes it an essential component of Haiti's logistics and supply chain.
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Introduction
The Port international du Cap-Haïtien, located in northern Haiti, is a major economic hub and gateway for the country's international trade. It's a significant port that plays a crucial role in Haiti's economy.
The port is situated on the northern coast of Haiti, in the city of Cap-Haïtien, which is the second-largest city in the country.
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Port Information

The Port International du Cap-Haïtien is a major hub for maritime trade in the region. It's strategically located on the northern coast of Haiti, near the city of Cap-Haïtien.
The port has a total quay length of 1,200 meters, providing ample space for cargo ships to dock and unload their cargo.
Its cargo handling capacity is 500,000 tons per year, making it one of the busiest ports in the Caribbean.
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Operations
The port's operations are well-suited for handling a variety of vessels. There are two main quays at right angles, each with adequate fenders and regular bollards along their length.
Berthing is relatively straightforward, with a maximum length of 250 meters for conventional and container vessels. The cement aprons are in good condition and wide enough for direct discharge onto trucks.
The RoRo berth is well-constructed and located between quay 2 and the cabotage berth. Access may be blocked when there are vessels at quay 2, so it's essential to plan ahead.
The port has a total of 2 berthing tugs available for assistance, which can be a big help when maneuvering larger vessels.
Berthing Specifications

The berthing specifications at this port are quite impressive. There are two main quays at right angles, both with adequate fenders and regular bollards along their length.
Each quay has a unique set of dimensions. Quay 1 is augmented by an off-standing dolphin to accommodate larger vessels, with a length of 176 meters and a height above sea level of 2.5 meters.
The cement aprons at the quays are in good condition and are wide enough for direct discharge onto trucks. Aprons are a crucial part of the berthing process, and it's great to hear that they're well-maintained.
Here's a breakdown of the berthing specifications for each quay:
Overall, the berthing specifications at this port are well-suited for a variety of vessel types.
Recent Ship Arrivals, Cap Haitien
Recent ship arrivals in Cap Haitien have been quite interesting lately. The DELOS DAWN, a General Cargo Ship, arrived on April 23 at 10:54 LT, with a Gross Tonnage of 29761 and a Deadweight Tonnage of 52224.
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The DELOS DAWN is a relatively new ship, built in 2008. It's also one of the largest ships to have arrived in Cap Haitien recently, with a size of 189 x 33 meters.
Here's a breakdown of some of the recent ship arrivals:
THERESA S.KRAUSE, a tug, has been a frequent visitor to Cap Haitien, with multiple arrivals on April 23, 18, 17, 16, 13, and 7.
Lancement des Réhabilitations
The rehabilitation of the Cap-Haïtien port has officially begun.
L'APN, in partnership with USAID, kicked off the project on August 21, 2024.
Several key works are planned as part of this project, including the rehabilitation of administrative buildings and the improvement of container and vehicle storage areas.
The project aims to support local, regional, and national economic growth.
The initiative will create jobs, facilitate commercial exchanges, and contribute to a prosperous future.
The project is being funded by the US government through USAID.
The ambassador of the United States in Haiti, Dennis Hankins, attended the launch event and expressed his country's continued commitment to collaborating with the Haitian government to provide adequate infrastructure and ensure citizen safety.
The US government will contribute approximately $20 million to the project, which is expected to last two years.
The rehabilitation works will be carried out by the company NH Global.
Security and Maintenance
The Port international du Cap-Haïtien takes security very seriously, with 24/7 security guards on duty, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all visitors and staff.
These uniformed guards are attentive and vigilant, stationed at the gate and throughout the facility. They're always ready to respond to any situation that may arise.
The port itself is surrounded by a tall wire fence topped with coiled barbed wire, providing an additional layer of security and protection.
There is only one entrance and one exit, allowing for easy monitoring and control of who comes and goes.
Extensive lighting throughout the port is reported to be in good working order, providing excellent visibility and reducing the risk of accidents or security breaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who controls the ports in Haiti?
APN manages and administers all ports in Haiti.
What is the port code for Cap Haitien?
The port code for Cap Haitien is HTCAP. This UN/LOCODE is used internationally to identify the port.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_international_du_Cap-Ha%C3%AFtien
- https://lca.logcluster.org/215-haiti-port-cap-haitien
- https://www.tripfoumi.com/blog/2024/08/25/lancement-des-travaux-de-rehabilitation-du-port-international-du-cap-haitien/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cap-Ha%C3%AFtien
- https://www.vesselfinder.com/ports/HTCAP001
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