Port profile
Buka Port — Papua New Guinea Maritime Hub
Buka is a maritime port located in Papua New Guinea (Solomon Islands). View port details, infrastructure & shipping data.
About
Buka Port, located on Bougainville Island in Papua New Guinea, serves as a pivotal maritime hub that connects the local community to regional and international markets. With its strategic position, Buka Port plays a crucial role in supporting local economies through trade in various sectors, including agriculture, fishing, and tourism. The port enables the efficient transfer of goods and services, making it an essential gateway for both imports and exports in the region.
The port’s facilities are equipped to handle a variety of vessels, ranging from cargo ships to fishing boats, thereby highlighting its versatility in serving different maritime needs. Over the years, Buka Port has evolved, adapting to the growing demands of shipping and trade while maintaining its crucial role in the socio-economic development of Bougainville. With its commitment to sustainability and local engagement, Buka Port aims to improve its services continuously, making it a vital asset for the people of Bougainville and surrounding areas. The natural beauty of the region also offers a unique opportunity for tourism, with Buka Port serving as a starting point for exploring Bougainville's rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.
Essential performance indicators and operational statistics for Buka Port
Approximately 15,000 TEUs, reflecting vibrant trade activity
Container volume · last 12 months
Ranging from 25-35 vessel calls each month, primarily for trade and fishing
Average monthly vessel traffic
12-15 hours, depending on the nature of cargo operations
Typical turnaround time
Estimated around 70% during peak operational periods
Current utilization rate
Estimated at 80%, indicating reliable scheduling adherence
Schedule reliability
2 hours on average during busy days
Average anchorage wait
Regional & international routes
Asia · Europe · North America
Weather & peak-season congestion
Maritrace aggregates AIS positions from over 1M vessels: port calls, anchorage waits, predictive ETAs and history — by port and by vessel.
Current congestion levels and vessel traffic information for Buka
2-4 vessels typically docked during operational hours
Vessels currently at berth
1-3 vessels usually at anchor while awaiting docking
Vessels waiting
Approximately 14 hours for typical cargo processing
Average cargo stay
Generally stable with manageable levels of congestion
Congestion analysis · 30 days
Technical information and facilities available at Buka Port
Detailed harbor characteristics: depths, pilotage, cargo handling capabilities, repair facilities and communications. Data sourced from the World Port Index.
Environmental initiatives and sustainability measures at Buka Port
Environmental sustainability initiatives
Targeting reductions as part of future sustainability plans
Carbon emissions efficiency
Currently assessing emissions for compliance with international standards
Relative environmental performance
Minute-by-minute AIS positions, predictive ETAs, congestion scoring and movement alerts. No per-carrier subscription.
Understanding the economic and regional significance of Buka Port
Buka Port is integral to the economic framework of Bougainville Island, providing essential connectivity for trade and tourism within Papua New Guinea. The port’s ongoing development reflects the commitment to improving local livelihoods, enhancing trade opportunities, and fostering eco-friendly practices that respect the natural environment. As Bougainville continues to grow, Buka Port is set to play a pivotal role in enabling access to both local resources and international markets, cementing its status as a key maritime gateway in the region.
FAQ
Track every vessel at Buka Port in real time.
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