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Sinnamary Fishing Port
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Port
The fishing port of Sinnamary is a significant centre for the maritime economy on the coast of French Guiana. Located at the mouth of the Sinnamary River, the port provides shelter for a fleet of artisanal fishing boats and smaller trawlers. The primary catches consist of tropical fish species and shrimp, destined for both the local market and export. The port features ice-making and fish-processing facilities that ensure compliance with European hygiene standards. In recent decades, the town of Sinnamary has benefited economically from its proximity to the Petit-Saut dam and the space centre, with the port remaining a steady pillar of the traditional economy. However, coastal erosion and the silting of the river mouth pose ongoing challenges for port operations, requiring regular dredging work to maintain access.
- Location: French Guiana
- Top sights: Carrière de sable · Église Notre-Dame des Douleurs
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 181 | 160 | 149 | 241 | 340 | 253 | 161 | 83 | 40 | 47 | 83 | 185 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Sinnamary fishing port is a regional base for coastal fishermen and plays an important role in local food supply. Here daily fresh catches are landed and distributed to markets in the area.
Visiting
The port area is publicly accessible, but visitors should respect the fishermen's active work area. Early morning you can watch the return of boats and the fish sale directly at the docks.
Where to view it
The best observation point is the pier, from where you can see the entire port, fishing boats, and processing activities. The nearby beach promenade also gives a good view of the harbor basin.
Local products
At the port fresh fish like snapper, mackerel, and sea bream are sold, often smoked or dried. Seasonally shrimp and crab are also available and offered at local markets in Sinnamary.
Active season
The port operates year-round, with peak times early morning between five and eight o'clock. Catch quantities vary seasonally, with the main season for traditional coastal fishing in the calmer months.
Nearby
A visit to the fishing port can be combined with nearby Sinnamary town center and the Saint-Antoine church. The Sinnamary River and surrounding savanna landscapes also invite for excursions.
Geography
Facts
- Sinnamary is historically known for the catch of 'Acoupa' fish.
- The port was modernized to support the local fishing cooperative.
- It is strategically located between Cayenne and Saint-Laurent.
- Tidal currents at the river mouth are often dangerous for small vessels.
- The port contributes to the food security of the coastal region.
- Protected areas for sea turtles are located in the vicinity of the port.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Sinnamary Fishing Port (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Sinnamary port known for?
It is a significant base for coastal fishing.
Can you buy fresh fish there?
Yes, in the morning directly at the quay when the fishermen return.
Are there attractions nearby?
The church of Sinnamary with its frescoes is well worth a visit.
Is the port suitable for yachts?
Only limited; it is primarily designed for workboats.
How do you reach Sinnamary?
Via the RN1 main road between Kourou and Saint-Laurent.
Sinnamary Fishing Port: where is it located?
Sinnamary Fishing Port is located in French Guiana.
Sinnamary Fishing Port: what is there to see?
Highlights include Carrière de sable, Église Notre-Dame des Douleurs.
Sinnamary Fishing Port: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Sinnamary Fishing Port: why is it worth visiting?
The fishing port of Sinnamary is a significant centre for the maritime economy on the coast of French Guiana.
Explore with Plizio
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Nearby cities
Cayenne
In Cayenne, the largest administrative center and capital of the region, known for its vibrant Creole culture and historic colonial archi…
Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
A historic town along the Maroni River, known for its former penal colony and vibrant, multicultural atmosphere.
Awala-Yalimapo
An indigenous coastal community, world-famous as a nesting site for the massive leatherback sea turtles.
History & landmarks
Petit-Saut Dam
A massive hydroelectric dam on the Sinnamary River that supplies a significant portion of electricity for French Guiana.
Saint-Joseph Church of Iracoubo
A colorful and elaborately decorated wooden church in Iracoubo, painted entirely on the inside by a former convict.
🗺️
Guiana Space Centre
The Guiana Space Centre is the main European spaceport located in Kourou, chosen for its proximity to the equator.
Dreyfus Tower
An old signal tower in Kourou, once used to communicate with the nearby Devil's Island during the penal colony era.
Nature
More places
Sinnamary Zebu Farm
An expansive cattle farm in the savannas of Sinnamary specializing in heat-resistant Zebu cattle.
Soyuz Launch Facility (ELS)
A launch pad near Sinnamary built in cooperation with Russia for Soyuz rockets to launch medium payloads.
Ariane 6 Launch Complex (ELA-4)
The most modern launch facility in Kourou, specially designed and built for the new generation of Ariane 6 rockets.
Ariane 5 Launch Pad (ELA-3)
The primary launch pad for the Ariane 5 heavy-lift rocket, a gigantic industrial and technological infrastructure.
Ariane Final Assembly Building
The huge building where European Ariane rockets are finally assembled before being transported to the launch pad.
Solid Propellant Plant (UPG)
The Guiana Propellant Plant mixes and casts the solid fuel for the huge boosters of the Ariane rockets.
Air Liquide Plant Kourou
A specialized Air Liquide industrial facility in the space center producing liquid oxygen and hydrogen for rocket propellant.
Vega Launch Pad (ELV)
The launch complex for European Vega rockets, used for lighter satellites and Earth observation missions.