CAEN

• FRCFR
• Latitude: 49.1894
• Longitude: -0.336174
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in France

Location: Caen Normandy 14000 France

Phone number: +33 2 31 25 30 90

Web-site: https://www.caen.port.fr

Caen, located in the Normandy region of France, is primarily served by the Port of Caen, also known as the Port de Caen-Ouistreham. This port is situated on the Orne River and connects to the English Channel. The Port of Caen-Ouistreham is a significant hub for commercial maritime traffic, handling a variety of cargo types, including bulk goods, containers, and ferry services. Here's a detailed description and specification:

General Information:

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 49.1829° N latitude, -0.3696° W longitude.
• Geographic Feature: Situated on the Orne River, near its mouth on the English Channel.
• Nearest Major Cities: Caen, Ouistreham, and less than two hours' drive from Paris.

Port Facilities:

Main Terminals:

1. Commercial Terminal at Blainville-sur-Orne:

   • Handles bulk goods, timber, and other commercial cargo.
   • Equipped with modern loading and unloading machinery.

2. Ferry Terminal at Ouistreham:

   • Hosts passenger and freight ferry services.
   • Regular routes to and from Portsmouth, England.
   • Facilities include customs, border control, and passenger amenities.

Specialized Services:

• Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) services: For vehicles transport.
• Container Services: Equipped to handle containerized cargo.

Storage Facilities:

• Warehousing options available on-site for different types of goods.
• Bulk storage areas for aggregates, coal, cereals, and other commodities.

Technical Specifications:

Draft:

• Accommodation varies, but generally capable of handling vessels with drafts up to 7.5 meters.
• Tidal restrictions may apply for larger vessels.

Berths and Quays:

• Multiple quays designed for different types of cargo and vessel sizes.
• Total quay length is approximately 1,500 meters.

Navigation:

• A well-maintained channel with navigational aids.
• Pilots available for navigating the approach to ensure safety.
• Tidal variations must be considered for mooring and unloading operations.

Logistics and Connectivity:

Road Connectivity:

• Accessible via major highways connecting to Caen and other regional hubs.

Rail Connectivity:

• Rail links connects the port to the national rail network, facilitating efficient cargo movement.

Air Connectivity:

• Near Caen-Carpiquet Airport (approximately 10 km away), which provides regional and some international flights.

Activities:

Cargo Handling:

• Bulk cargoes like coal, sand, and grains.
• Timber and lumber products.
• General cargo and containerized goods.

Passenger Services:

• Significant passenger traffic through ferry services.
• Facilities cater to tourists and cross-Channel commuters.

Fishing and Recreational Activities:

• Local fishing fleets operate from specific areas of the port.
• Yachting and small pleasure craft facilities available, particularly in the Ouistreham area.

Maritime and Safety Services:

Harbormaster Office:

• Manages port operations, logistics, and safety protocols.

Tug Services:

• Available to assist in vessel maneuvers and docking.

Security:

• Compliance with ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code.

Marine Services:

• Including pilotage, towage, bunkering, and waste disposal services.

Future Developments:

The Port of Caen-Ouistreham has plans to modernize its facilities further, enhance environmental sustainability practices, and increase its capacity to handle a growing volume of cargo and passengers.

Conclusion:

The Port of Caen-Ouistreham is a dynamic and versatile port, central to the economic activities of Normandy, providing essential maritime services for both commercial and passenger traffic. Its strategic location, facilities, and connectivity make it a critical hub for trade between France and the UK, as well as other European regions.