DUNKIRK

• FRIRK
• Latitude: 51.0233
• Longitude: 2.17238
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in France

Location: Dunkerque 59140 France

Phone number: +33 3 28 28 78 78

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

Dunkirk, known as Dunkerque in French, is a significant maritime port located in the northern part of France, along the North Sea coast. It holds substantial strategic and economic importance due to its position as one of the major ports in the region. Below is a detailed description and specifications of the Dunkirk port:

Location:

• Geographical Coordinates: Approximately 51.03° N latitude and 2.37° E longitude
• Proximity: Close to the Belgian border, around 75 kilometers from Calais and 300 kilometers from Paris.

Key Features:

1. Port Layout:

   • East Port: Primarily used for handling bulk cargoes such as coal, iron ore, grains, and other raw materials.
   • West Port (Port Ouest): Equipped to handle containers, LNG, roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) cargo, and various other commodities.
   • Central Port: Mainly devoted to shipbuilding and repair services, along with some cargo activities.

2. Terminals and Facilities:

   • Container Terminals: Modern facilities capable of handling significant volumes of containerized cargo.
   • Bulk Terminals: Specialized terminals for handling dry bulk (such as coal, minerals) and liquid bulk (including oil, chemicals).
   • RoRo Facilities: Infrastructure to support the loading and unloading of vehicles, trucks, and trailers.
   • LNG Terminal: Dunkirk has a major liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal with storage and regasification capabilities.
   • Grain Silos and Warehousing: Extensive storage solutions for agricultural products and other commodities.

3. Connectivity:

   • Rail Links: Comprehensive rail network connected to the major French and European rail systems, facilitating smooth inland distribution.
   • Road Networks: Excellent road connectivity, including major highways leading to Paris and other significant European destinations.
   • Inland Waterways: Access to the extensive network of canals and rivers, enabling efficient barge transport to and from the port.

Operational Specifications:

• Water Depth: Channels and docks are dredged to accommodate large vessels, with depths typically ranging from 14 to 19 meters depending on the terminal.
• Berthing Facilities: Multiple berths with sufficient quay length and depth for handling various types of ships, including Panamax and Capesize vessels.
• Cranes and Handling Equipment: State-of-the-art gantry cranes, mobile cranes, and other specialized handling equipment support efficient cargo operations.
• Storage Capacity: Significant storage capacity, including indoor warehouses, silos, and open storage areas.
• Annual Throughput: The port handles tens of millions of tonnes of cargo each year, making it one of the key logistics hubs in Europe.

Services:

• Pilotage and Towing: Comprehensive pilotage and tug services for safe navigation and maneuvering of vessels.
• Bunkering and Provisions: Availability of fuel, provisions, and other supplies for ships docked at the port.
• Customs and Inspection: Efficient customs and inspection services to expedite the clearance process for goods.

Economic Impact:

• Employment: The port is a major employer in the region, providing jobs in port operations, logistics, and associated industries.
• Trade Hub: Key hub for France’s international trade, playing a crucial role in imports and exports, especially in the industrial and energy sectors.

Environmental and Safety Measures:

• Sustainability Initiatives: Efforts to minimize environmental impact, including waste management, emissions reduction, and the use of renewable energy sources.
• Safety Protocols: Rigorous safety standards and protocols to ensure the wellbeing of workers and safe handling of hazardous materials.

Recent Developments:

• Expansion Projects: Ongoing and planned infrastructure projects aimed at expanding capacity, improving efficiency, and incorporating advanced technologies.
• Digitalization: Initiatives to enhance digital connectivity, including port community systems and real-time tracking solutions.

In Summary: Dunkirk port is a dynamic and versatile maritime hub capable of handling a diverse range of cargoes with modern infrastructure and robust connectivity, serving as a critical gateway for international trade in northern France.