Detailed Maritime Information on Saint Kitts and Nevis

Maritime Geography and Port Infrastructure

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a federation composed of two islands located in the Lesser Antilles, in the Caribbean archipelago. Geographically, these islands benefit from a strategic position on the maritime route connecting North America, Central America, and South America. This advantageous position allows them to play an active role in regional maritime trade. The port infrastructures of Saint Kitts and Nevis are mainly concentrated around the ports of Basseterre, the capital of Saint Kitts, and Charlestown, the main town of Nevis. The port of Basseterre is the main entry point for goods and passengers, offering facilities adapted to accommodate cruise ships, freight, and commercial vessels. This port is modernized to support the growth of maritime trade as well as tourism. The smaller port of Charlestown is essential for Nevis's local economy, facilitating fishing, recreational boating, and inter-island exchanges. Both islands also have small marinas and facilities for pleasure boating, which contributes to the development of the tourism and nautical sectors. Maritime surveillance and port management are ensured by competent authorities, guaranteeing the safety of port operations and the protection of facilities against environmental and accidental risks. Moreover, these infrastructures are essential to support local fishing, which remains an important economic activity for the island residents.

Maritime Activities, Regulations, and Environment

The maritime sector of Saint Kitts and Nevis is vital for its economy, notably through fishing, commercial navigation, recreational boating, and nautical tourism. Artisanal fishing is widely practiced, mainly targeting coastal species around coral reefs and marine protected areas. This activity is regulated by strict rules aimed at preserving fishery resources and promoting sustainable fishing. Saint Kitts and Nevis holds an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of several thousand square kilometers, rich in marine biodiversity, including coral ecosystems, seagrass meadows, and various marine species. The management of this economic zone, as well as the fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, are priorities for maritime authorities. Commercial navigation is highly developed thanks to the islands’ location on international shipping routes, facilitating exchanges between the Americas. Nautical tourism is also a growing sector, with ports welcoming yachts, cruises, and various marine sports activities. Port infrastructures and services for pleasure boaters are regularly improved to attract this market. Finally, marine environmental protection is a priority to preserve the natural wealth essential for tourism and fishing. Local and international initiatives encourage the conservation of coral reefs and integrated management of coastal zones. Saint Kitts and Nevis is committed to respecting international maritime conventions, particularly concerning safety, marine pollution, and ecosystem preservation.