BOSTON HARBOR

• Latitude: 47.142
• Longitude: -122.9037
• US West Coast
• Marina in US

Location: Boston MA US

Phone number: +1-617-635-4000

Web-site: https://www.boston.gov/departments/ports

Boston Harbor – Marine Port Description and Specifications

Overview:

Boston Harbor is one of the most significant and oldest seaports in the United States, with a rich history dating back to the early 17th century. Situated in the Atlantic Ocean on the northeastern coast of Massachusetts, it serves as a critical hub for maritime trade and transportation in New England.

Geographical Location:

• Latitude: 42.3601° N
• Longitude: 71.0589° W

Key Features:

1. Deep-Water Port: The harbor can accommodate deep-draft vessels, making it suitable for large cargo and container ships.
2. Inner and Outer Harbor: Boston Harbor comprises an outer harbor (open ocean) and an inner harbor (sheltered by a series of islands).
3. Navigation Channels: Regularly dredged to maintain depth, main channels reach up to 40 feet in depth.

Port Infrastructure:

1. Terminals:

   • Conley Terminal: Handles the majority of the containerized cargo.
   • Black Falcon Cruise Terminal: Primarily for passenger cruise lines.
   • North Jetty: Used for bulk and break-bulk cargoes.

2. Facilities:

   • Berths: Multiple berths for different types of cargo including containers, bulk cargo, and passengers.
   • Cargo Handling Equipment: Equipped with modern cranes, forklifts, and other machinery for efficient loading and unloading.

3. Storage and Warehousing:

   • Extensive warehousing facilities.
   • Cold storage options for perishable goods.

4. Logistics and Connectivity:

   • Well-connected via road and rail networks.
   • Proximity to Logan International Airport for air freight options.

Services:

1. Pilotage and Towage: Compulsory pilotage for navigating vessels, tugboat services for docking and undocking.
2. Bunkering and Refueling: Available for vessels in the harbor.
3. Ship Repairs and Maintenance: Facilities for emergency repairs and routine maintenance.
4. Security: Compliance with ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code ensuring safety and regulation enforcement.

Economic Significance:

• Handles over a million metric tons of cargo each year.
• Major import items include petroleum products, automobiles, and consumer goods.
• Major export items include heavy machinery, seafood, and agricultural products.

Environmental Considerations:

1. Pollution Control: Strict adherence to federal and state regulations aimed at reducing pollution.
2. Dredging Projects: Regular dredging to maintain navigable waterways while minimizing ecological impact.
3. Conservation Efforts: Ongoing projects to protect local marine wildlife and ecosystems.

Recent Developments:

• Expansion and modernization projects to increase cargo handling capacity.
• Upgrades to terminal facilities to accommodate larger, newer generation container ships.
• Implementation of advanced IT systems for port operations to enhance efficiency and transparency.

Contact Information:

• Port Authority: Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport)
• Port Office Address: 1 Harborside Drive, Suite 200S, East Boston, MA 02128
• Phone: +1 (617) 568-5000
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Massport

Boston Harbor continues to play a vital role in the maritime industry, contributing significantly to the local and regional economy while striving to maintain high standards of safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship.