GALWAY

• Latitude: 53.2698
•
• Longitude: -9.04894
•
• UK Coast & Atlantic
•
• Port in Ireland

Address: Galway Connacht H91 E0W2 Ireland

Phone number: +353 91 561874

Web-site: http://www.galwayharbour.com

Galway Port, Ireland: Description and Specifications

Location: Galway Port is strategically positioned on the west coast of Ireland, situated in Galway Bay. It serves as a vital maritime gateway, providing key connections for commercial, recreational, and fishing activities.

Coordinates: Approximately 53.2707° N latitude and 9.0568° W longitude.

Port Authority: Galway Harbour Company is the primary authority responsible for the operations, development, and maintenance of the port.

Features and Specifications

1. Harbour Layout:

   • Docks and Berths: The port's inner docks can accommodate vessels up to 10,000 tonnes deadweight (DWT), while the outer docks are suitable for even larger vessels. There are several dedicated berths for different types of cargo and vessels.
   • Depth: The approach channel and docks have varying depths, with the inner dock area dredged to approximately 4.5 meters, accommodating most commercial vessels.
   • Quay Length: The total length of the quays at Galway Port is over 1,000 meters, allowing multiple ships to dock simultaneously.

2. Cargo Handling:

   • Types of Cargo: Galway Port handles a diverse range of cargo, including bulk goods, general cargo, and project cargo. Typical cargoes include timber, steel, building materials, and chemicals.
   • Facilities: The port is equipped with modern cargo handling facilities, including mobile cranes, forklifts, and warehousing options for temporary storage.

3. Passenger Services:

   • Ferries and Cruises: The port is also a departure and arrival point for ferry services and small cruise liners, offering transport to nearby islands and tourist destinations.

4. Fishing and Recreational Facilities:

   • Fishing Fleet: Galway has a well-established fishing industry, with dedicated quays for fishing vessels.
   • Marina: The port includes a marina that offers berths and amenities for recreational boaters, supporting tourism and local recreational activities.

5. Support Services:

   • Pilotage: Compulsory pilotage services are available for ships entering and leaving the port to ensure safe navigation.
   • Towage: Tug services can be arranged to assist with docking and undocking.
   • Bunkering and Supplies: The port provides essential supplies, including fuel, water, and provisions for ships.

6. Infrastructure and Connectivity:

   • Road Links: Galway Port is well-connected by road, with easy access to the national motorway network, facilitating efficient inland transportation of goods.
   • Rail Links: The port is also accessible via rail, providing a cost-effective option for freight transport.
   • Air Connections: The nearest major airport is Shannon Airport, located approximately 90 km away, offering international connectivity.

7. Development Plans:

   • Expansion: There are ongoing and planned expansion projects aimed at enhancing the port's capacity and capabilities to handle larger vessels, increase cargo throughput, and provide improved facilities for passengers.

8. Environmental Initiatives:

   • Sustainability: Galway Port is committed to environmental sustainability, implementing measures to minimize its ecological footprint, such as waste management practices, pollution control, and initiatives to protect the local marine environment.

Summary

Galway Port is a multifunctional maritime facility integral to Ireland's western seaboard. It plays a crucial role in commercial shipping, fishing, and tourism, backed by comprehensive services and infrastructure. With ongoing expansions and a focus on sustainability, Galway Port is well-positioned for future growth and enhanced capacity.