HARWICH

• GBHRW
• Latitude: 51.9447
• Longitude: 1.27991
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: UK

Harwich International Port Overview

Location: Harwich is a coastal town situated in Essex, on the southeastern coast of England. The port is strategically positioned at the confluence of the Stour and Orwell rivers, offering direct access to the North Sea.

Port Authority: The port is operated by Hutchison Ports (UK), a subsidiary of the Hutchison Whampoa Group.

Port Specifications and Facilities:

1. Berths and Terminals:

   • Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) Facilities: The port has several Ro-Ro berths to accommodate passenger ferries and freight services.
   • Container Terminal: It has facilities for container handling, although it is more renowned for its Ro-Ro services.
   • Cruise Terminal: Harwich International Port serves as a embarkation and disembarkation point for various cruise liners.

2. Depth:

   • The main channel and berths are periodically dredged to maintain adequate depths for handling large vessels. Typical draught accommodation can range up to around 12 meters (39 feet).

3. Cargo Handling:

   • The port handles a variety of cargo including roll-on/roll-off freight, containers, and bulk commodities.
   • Modern loading and unloading equipment are available, including cranes and forklifts.

4. Passenger Services:

   • Harwich International Port operates as a hub for passenger ferries to and from the Netherlands, with regular services to Hook of Holland.

5. Connectivity:

   • Road: The port is well-connected to the UK’s national road network, including the A120 which links to the M11 and A12.
   • Rail: Harwich International Port has its own rail terminal linking directly to the national rail network, facilitating efficient intermodal transport.
   • Air: The nearest major airport is London Stansted, located approximately 50 miles (80 km) from the port.

6. Support and Ancillary Services:

   • Port Services: Towage, pilotage, and mooring services are provided.
   • Bunkering: Facilities and services for fuel are available.
   • Customs: Efficient customs and immigration facilities.

7. Security and Safety:

   • The port complies with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code ensuring stringent safety and security measures.
   • Surveillance and regular security patrols are in place to maintain a secure environment for cargo and passengers.

8. Environmental Compliance:

   • The port adheres to UK and international environmental regulations. Initiatives include waste management protocols and emissions reductions to minimize environmental impact.

9. Future Development:

   • There are ongoing plans for infrastructure improvements and expansion to enhance capacity and efficiency.

Harwich International Port's strategic location, coupled with its comprehensive facilities and services, make it a vital hub for maritime transport, seamlessly connecting the UK with continental Europe and beyond.