Have you heard of Port Nolloth in South Africa? This unremarkable-looking small port serves as a crucial support point for the offshore diamond mining industry. Located on the west coast, just 43 nautical miles from the Orange River mouth, it provides unparalleled resources for adventurers pursuing diamond dreams.
With the port code ZANOL, Port Nolloth is designed for light-draft fishing vessels and yachts. While there's no commercial cargo traffic here, the frequent docking of tugboats and diving vessels (each accounting for 40% of traffic) demonstrates its importance in specialized operations. The port's maximum draft of 2.6 meters, load capacity of 90 tons, and ability to accommodate vessels up to 36 meters in length make it particularly valuable for offshore diamond mining activities.
However, it's important to note that siltation issues prevent most coastal merchant vessels from using the port, and there are currently no plans for dredging operations. This makes Port Nolloth less than ideal for commercial operations prioritizing efficient port access. Yet for specialized diamond mining teams, it remains an ideal operational base. We look forward to seeing future developments that may further enhance this unique maritime facility!
