CATANIA

• ITCTA
• Latitude: 37.4922
• Longitude: 15.0931
• East Mediterranean
• Port in Italy

Location: Italy

Catania, located on the eastern coast of the island of Sicily, Italy, serves as a significant maritime port in the Mediterranean region. The Port of Catania is strategically positioned at the base of Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, and plays a crucial role in both commercial and passenger maritime activities.

Description

Location

• Latitude: 37.5027° N
• Longitude: 15.0860° E
• Country: Italy
• Region: Sicily

History

Catania has a rich maritime history, leveraging its advantageous coastal position to become a hub for trade and commerce throughout the centuries. The port has evolved with time to cater to modern shipping demands, supporting various maritime sectors.

Specifications

Facilities

1. Commercial Docks:

   • Total Berths: Approximately 12 berths, including dedicated spaces for cargo and container vessels.
   • Cargo Handling: Equipped with cranes and other heavy machinery for loading and unloading containers, general cargo, bulk materials, and refrigerated goods.
   • Storage: Warehouses and open storage areas are available for different types of cargo, including refrigerated storage for perishable items.

2. Passenger Terminals:

   • Cruise Services: The port caters to several cruise lines, providing modern passenger terminals with amenities for tourists.
   • Ferry Services: Regular ferry connections to various destinations, including mainland Italy and other islands in the Mediterranean.

3. Fishing and Recreational Areas:

   • Specialized docks and facilities for local fishing boats and recreational vessels.

Connectivity

• Road Access: Well-connected to the major road networks, facilitating easy transportation of goods to and from the hinterland.
• Rail Access: Rail services link the port with national and regional railway networks, enhancing cargo distribution.
• Air Access: Nearby Catania-Fontanarossa Airport provides additional connectivity for passenger and cargo transfers.

Depth and Draft

• Water Depth: Varies across different berths, generally accommodating vessels with drafts up to 12-13 meters.
• Tide: The port experiences minimal tidal variations, simplifying docking and undocking procedures.

Services

• Pilotage: Mandatory for all vessels, with pilotage services available 24/7.
• Tug Services: Tugboats are available for assisting with vessel maneuvering.
• Bunkering: Fuel supply services for vessels are available at the port.
• Ship Repair: Facilities for ship maintenance and repair, including dry docking facilities.
• Customs and Security: Efficient customs procedures and ISPS-compliant security systems to ensure safe and secure operations.

Economic Impact

The Port of Catania is pivotal to the regional economy, serving as an important gateway for imports and exports. Main commodities handled include agricultural products, machinery, and manufactured goods. The port also significantly contributes to the local tourism industry through its cruise ship operations.

Development and Expansion

There have been ongoing efforts to modernize and expand the port's infrastructure to accommodate increasing maritime traffic and larger vessels. Investments in technology and infrastructure aim to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

Contact Information

• Port Authority: Autorità di Sistema Portuale del Mare di Sicilia Orientale
• Address: Via Cardinale Dusmet, 2, 95131 Catania CT, Italy
• Phone: +39 095 747 7311
• Website: Port of Catania (for detailed and updated information)

In summary, the Port of Catania is a versatile and modern maritime hub, well-equipped to handle diverse maritime operations ranging from cargo handling to passenger services. Its strategic location and comprehensive facilities make it a crucial port in the Mediterranean maritime network.