KLAIPEDA

• LTKLJ
• Latitude: 55.6865
• Longitude: 21.132
• Baltic Sea
• Port in Lithuania

Location: Lithuania

Klaipeda, the only Lithuanian port on the Baltic Sea, is a critical hub for maritime activities in the region. Here's a comprehensive description and specification of the Klaipeda port:

General Overview:

• Location: Situated on the coast of the Baltic Sea at the mouth of the Curonian Lagoon, Klaipeda is geographically positioned at around 55.71° N latitude and 21.12° E longitude.
• Function: Klaipeda serves as Lithuania's principal ice-free port, playing a vital role in the country's economy by handling a variety of cargo types, including liquid, bulk, and containerized goods.

Port Specifications:

1. Port Authority:

   • Operated by the Klaipeda State Seaport Authority (KSSA), which oversees the development, maintenance, and administration of the port facilities.

2. Size and Capacity:

   • Total Port Area: Approximately 415 hectares.
   • Water Depth: Varies by berth but generally ranges from 9.5 meters to 15 meters, allowing it to accommodate vessels with considerable draft.
   • Berths: More than 30 berths with specialized terminals for different types of cargo.
   • Annual Throughput Capacity:
     • Dry Bulk: Approximately 30 million tons.
     • Liquid Bulk: Around 10 million tons.
     • Container Traffic: Roughly 450,000 TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units).

3. Facilities and Infrastructure:

   • Terminals: Multiple specialized terminals including:
     • Container terminals.
     • Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) terminals.
     • Liquid cargo terminals (such as for oil products and chemicals).
     • Dry bulk terminals.
     • General cargo terminals.
   • Cranes and Equipment: Equipped with modern facilities including gantry cranes, mobile harbor cranes, and other handling equipment.
   • Storage: Ample warehousing and open storage areas for a variety of cargo types.
   • Rail and Road Connections: Strongly integrated with national and international transport networks, providing seamless connectivity for inland transportation.

4. Services:

   • Pilotage: Available and mandatory for navigating the port area.
   • Towing: Services offered to assist navigation and berth maneuvers.
   • Bunkering: Offering refueling services for almost all types of vessels.
   • Repair and Maintenance: Facilities for ship repair and dry docking.
   • Customs and Inspection: Efficient customs clearance and inspection facilities to handle cargo swiftly.
   • Logistics Services: Comprehensive logistic support for cargo handling, storage, and distribution.

5. Environmental Initiatives:

   • Klaipeda Port is committed to sustainable practices and the reduction of environmental impact. Initiatives include waste management programs, water quality monitoring, and measures to reduce air pollution.

Economic and Strategic Importance:

• Trade Gateway: Acts as a crucial gateway for international trade, particularly between Eastern Europe and Western markets.
• Economic Hub: Significant contributor to the Lithuanian economy through trade activities, employment, and associated industries.
• Strategic Location: At the crossroads of major European transportation corridors, enhancing its status as a pivotal maritime link.

Recent Developments and Future Plans:

• Continuous modernization and expansion projects aimed at improving capacity and efficiency.
• Focus on integrating digital technologies and smart port solutions to enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness.
• Collaborative initiatives with neighboring ports and regional transport networks to foster economic growth and development.

Klaipeda Port remains an essential asset to Lithuania, facilitating substantial regional maritime trade and offering expansive growth potential for the future.