CALDERA

• CRCAL
• Latitude: 9.914
• Longitude: -84.721
• West Coast Central America
• Port in Costa Rica

Location: Costa Rica

Caldera Port, Costa Rica: Description and Specifications

General Overview

Caldera Port, also known as Puerto Caldera, is one of the major seaports in Costa Rica. It is strategically located on the Pacific coast, approximately 17 kilometers (about 10.5 miles) west of the city of Puntarenas. Serving as a crucial gateway for international trade and maritime logistics in the region, Caldera Port handles a significant portion of the country's container, bulk, and breakbulk cargo.

Location

• Coordinates: 09°54′29″N 84°43′53″W
• Country: Costa Rica
• Nearest City: Puntarenas

Port Authority and Management

• Operator: Sociedad Portuaria de Caldera S.A.
• Owner: Government of Costa Rica
• Type: Deep-water commercial port

Infrastructure and Facilities

1. Berths and Docks:

   • The port features several berths with a range of depth to accommodate various types of vessels.
   • The main wharf has multiple berths designed for container ships, bulk carriers, and general cargo vessels.

2. Cargo Handling Capacity:

   • Equipped to handle containerized cargo, bulk cargo (e.g., coal, grain), and general cargo.
   • Facilities for Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessels available.

3. Container Terminal:

   • Modern container handling equipment including cranes, reach stackers, and forklifts.
   • Storage area with high stacking capacity.
   • Well-organized container yard for efficient loading and unloading.

4. Bulk Cargo Facilities:

   • Dedicated infrastructure to manage bulk commodities.
   • Advanced conveyor systems and storage silos for efficient handling and storage.

5. Warehousing and Storage:

   • Covered warehouses and open storage yards to manage various types of goods.
   • Refrigerated storage facilities available for perishable items.

6. Navigational Aids:

   • State-of-the-art navigational aids to guide vessels safely to and from the port.
   • Access channel maintained to ensure safe navigation for larger vessels.

7. Customs and Security:

   • On-site customs services for swift clearance and processing.
   • Comprehensive security measures in place as per international standards (ISPS Code).

8. Support Services:

   • Ship repair and maintenance services.
   • Bunkering (fueling) services.
   • Freshwater supply, waste disposal, and other essential services for visiting vessels.

Connectivity

• Road Network: Well-connected to the Pan-American Highway, facilitating efficient inland transport to major cities and industrial areas.
• Rail Network: Plans for potential revitalization of rail connectivity to further enhance cargo movement.

Advantages

• Strategic Location: Proximity to major shipping routes in the Pacific.
• Operational Efficiency: Modern facilities and equipment ensure efficient cargo handling.
• Economic Impact: Significant contributor to Costa Rica's trade and economic development.

Future Developments

• Ongoing and planned investments aimed at expanding capacity and improving infrastructure.
• Focus on sustainability and reducing environmental impact through green port initiatives.

Conclusion

Caldera Port plays a vital role in Costa Rica's maritime logistics, offering comprehensive services and facilities to handle various types of cargo efficiently. Its strategic location on the Pacific coast, combined with modern infrastructure, makes it an essential hub for international trade in the region.