FOYNES
- Latitude: 52.6138 •
- Longitude: -9.10609 •
- UK Coast & Atlantic •
- Port in Ireland
Address: Foynes V94 Ireland
Phone number: +353-69-73103
Web-site: http://www.sfpc.ie/
Foynes Port is one of Ireland's principal deep-water ports, strategically located on the Shannon Estuary in County Limerick. It is a vital hub for international trade, particularly for bulk commodities, and plays a significant role in Ireland's maritime infrastructure. Here's a detailed description and specification of Foynes Port:
Location and Access
- Geographical Coordinates: 52°36.2′ N, 009°06.5′ W
- Accessibility: The port is accessible via the Shannon Estuary, which is a natural deep-water channel.
- Proximity to Major Cities: It is approximately 40 kilometers west of Limerick City.
Port Specifications
- Type: Deep-water port, capable of accommodating large ocean-going vessels.
- Draft: The port has a significant draft capacity with water depths able to accommodate vessels with drafts of up to 10.5 meters at high tide.
- Berths: Various berths are available, with lengths ranging from 180 to 400 meters, designed to handle different types of cargo.
- Quay Length: A total quay length of over 1 kilometer.
Infrastructure and Facilities
- Cargo Handling: The port is well-equipped to handle a wide range of bulk and general cargo, including:
- Dry bulk (like agricultural products, coal, and ores)
- Liquid bulk (such as chemicals and petroleum products)
- Breakbulk cargo
- Project cargo and machinery
- Storage Facilities: Extensive open and covered storage areas, including warehouses and silos.
- Cranes and Handling Equipment: Modern cranes, forklifts, and conveyor systems facilitate efficient loading and unloading operations.
- Road and Rail Links: Direct road connections to major national routes (N69 and M7), and a rail link connecting the port to national rail networks, enhancing inland transport options.
Services and Operations
- Port Services: Pilotage, towage, and mooring services available to assist vessels.
- Customs and Immigration: On-site customs, immigration, and inspection services to streamline import and export procedures.
- Safety and Environmental Measures: Comprehensive safety protocols and environmental management systems are in place to ensure compliance with national and international regulations.
Economic Role
Foynes Port is a critical asset, contributing significantly to the regional and national economy by facilitating the import and export of essential commodities. It supports various industrial activities, including manufacturing, agriculture, and energy sectors.
Future Developments
The port continues to undergo development and expansion projects aimed at increasing capacity and enhancing operational efficiency. Planned enhancements include deepening of berths, expanding storage facilities, and improving transport links to sustain growing trade volumes.
Contact Information
For any specific inquiries or operational details, contacting the Shannon Foynes Port Company, which manages the port, is recommended.
In summary, Foynes Port is a key maritime gateway for Ireland, adept at handling a diverse range of cargo types and providing essential connectivity for international trade. Its strategic location and robust infrastructure make it an indispensable component of Ireland's port system.