AUGUSTA ANCH

• Latitude: 37.1937
• Longitude: 15.2827
• East Mediterranean
• Anchorage in Italy

Location: Augusta Italy

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Augusta Anchorage (AUGUSTA ANCH), Italy

General Information:

• Location: Augusta Anchorage is located on the eastern coast of Sicily, Italy, nestled within the Ionian Sea. It is situated near the town of Augusta, a strategic location due to its proximity to the Strait of Messina.
• Geographical Coordinates: Latitude 37.2167° N, Longitude 15.2167° E.
• Function: The port serves various purposes, including commercial shipping, oil and gas industry support, and military applications. It is one of the key ports in Sicily for the import and export of petroleum products.

Anchorage Details:

• Type: Offshore Anchorage.
• Depth: The anchorage provides deep water suitable for large vessels, with depths generally ranging from 10 to 30 meters.
• Sea Bottom Composition: The seabed is primarily composed of sand, offering good holding ground for anchors.
• Safety and Weather Considerations: The port is generally safe but can be exposed to easterly winds and swells. The anchorage area is monitored for navigational safety, and regular weather updates are provided.

Port Facilities:

• Terminals: Augusta Anchorage is associated with the commercial port of Augusta, which includes several piers and terminals equipped for handling a variety of cargo types.
  • Oil and Gas Terminals: These are specially designed to handle liquid bulk cargo, primarily refined petroleum products, chemicals, and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
  • Breakbulk and General Cargo Facilities: Available for handling conventional cargo, including machinery, construction materials, and other goods.
• Bunkering Services: The port offers bunkering facilities for refueling ships with marine fuels.
• Mooring/Docking: Vessels at anchorage typically utilize on-board anchoring systems. Dedicated berths within the main port of Augusta are available for cargo operations.
• Pilotage and Tugs: Pilotage is generally compulsory, and tug services are available to assist with docking and undocking maneuvers.

Port Services:

• Customs and Immigration: Full customs and immigration services are available to handle international shipping requirements.
• Port Security: The port adheres to the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code standards, ensuring secure operations.
• Emergency Response: There are comprehensive emergency response plans in place, including oil spill response and firefighting capabilities.

Traffic and Trade:

• Main Imports: Crude oil, refined petroleum products, chemicals, machinery.
• Main Exports: Local agricultural products, manufactured goods, and petroleum products.
• Vessel Types: The anchorage and port accommodate a variety of vessel types, including tankers, bulk carriers, container ships, and general cargo vessels.

Navigational Aids:

• Lighthouses/Beacons: The port and anchorage areas are well-marked with navigational aids including lighthouses, buoys, and beacons to assist in safe navigation.
• VTS (Vessel Traffic Service): A VTS system is in place to provide information and assistance to vessels navigating into and out of the port.

Environmental Considerations:

• Marine and Eco Policies: The port adheres to stringent environmental policies to minimize pollution and protect the marine ecosystem.
• Waste Disposal: Adequate facilities are provided for the disposal of ship-generated waste, complying with MARPOL regulations.

Connectivity:

• Road and Rail Access: Augusta is well-connected by road, with highways linking it to other major cities in Sicily. Rail services are also available, providing efficient cargo transfer options.
• Airports: The nearest major international airport is Catania-Fontanarossa Airport, located approximately 45 kilometers from Augusta.

Summary: Augusta Anchorage is a vital maritime hub in Italy, offering strategic advantages due to its deep-water anchorage, comprehensive port facilities, and connectivity. It caters to a diverse range of maritime activities, supporting both commercial and industrial sectors while maintaining high standards of safety, security, and environmental stewardship.