HOEK VAN HOLLAND

• NLHVH
• Latitude: 51.9765
• Longitude: 4.12532
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in Netherlands

Location: Rotterdam Netherlands

Marine Port: Hoek van Holland, Netherlands

Overview: Hoek van Holland, often referred to as “The Hook,” is a significant port located at the mouth of the New Waterway (Nieuwe Waterweg) in the southwestern part of the Netherlands. It is a key component of the Port of Rotterdam, one of the largest and busiest ports in Europe. Hoek van Holland serves as a major gateway for maritime traffic entering and leaving the North Sea.

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 51.977° N latitude and 4.133° E longitude.
• Proximity: It is strategically located near the city of Rotterdam, providing convenient access to the North Sea.

Specifications:

1. Port Facilities:

   • Berths and Terminals: Various berths that can accommodate a range of vessels including container ships, Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessels, and passenger ferries.
   • Cargo Handling: Equipped to handle diverse cargo types such as containers, cars, machinery, and bulk materials.
   • Passenger Services: Facilities for ferry services to the UK (Harwich), offering passenger and freight transport services.
   • Storage: Warehouses and open storage areas are available for different types of cargo.

2. Navigational Information:

   • Depth: Generally deepwater access, with dredging operations ensuring navigable depths for large vessels.
   • Tides/Currents: Tidal port with fluctuations influenced by the North Sea, requiring careful navigation.
   • Pilotage: Pilotage services are mandatory for certain vessel sizes and types. Local pilots assist with safe navigation into and out of the port.

3. Services:

   • Tug Assistance: Available for maneuvering larger vessels in and out of berths.
   • Bunkering: Fuel and lubricant supply services are available.
   • Repairs & Maintenance: Facilities for minor and routine maintenance, with larger repair services available in Rotterdam.
   • Logistics and Transportation: Extensive road and rail connections facilitate inland transportation of goods to and from the port.

4. Security and Safety:

   • Customs: Full customs services for import and export processing.
   • Safety Regulations: Adherence to international maritime safety standards, including ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) code compliance.
   • Emergency Services: On-site emergency response services including fire-fighting and medical assistance.

5. Environmental Measures:

   • Infrastructure supporting environmentally-friendly practices such as waste disposal and recycling.
   • Measures in place to minimize the environmental impact of port operations, including water and air quality monitoring.

Economic Importance: Hoek van Holland plays a significant role in the logistics network of the Netherlands and Europe. It supports international trade, ferry services, and regional industries, contributing significantly to the economy of the region.

Future Developments: Plans may include modernization of facilities, expansion of terminals, and implementation of new technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

Overall, Hoek van Holland remains a vital maritime hub that supports a wide range of maritime activities and serves as a key link in Europe’s extensive network of ports and shipping routes.