KRONSHTADT
- Latitude: 59.988 •
- Longitude: 29.7595 •
- Baltic Sea •
- Port in Russia
Address: Russia
Phone number: +7 812 605-00-00
Web-site: http://www.kronshtadtport.ru/
Kronshtadt is a critical maritime port located on Kotlin Island in the Gulf of Finland, part of the Baltic Sea, approximately 30 kilometers west of St. Petersburg, Russia. This port serves as a key naval base and has historical and strategic importance dating back to its founding by Peter the Great in the early 18th century. Below are the detailed descriptions and specifications for the port of Kronshtadt:
Geographic and Administrative Details
- Location: Kotlin Island, Gulf of Finland, Baltic Sea, Russia
- Coordinates: Approximately 59.9952° N latitude and 29.7666° E longitude
- Proximity: About 30 kilometers west of St. Petersburg
- Country: Russia
- Region: Leningrad Oblast
Port Infrastructure
Berths and Docks
- Total Berths: Multiple berths dedicated to naval, commercial, and auxiliary vessels.
- Depth: Varies across different areas, generally accommodating drafts of up to 11 meters for commercial vessels. Specialized naval berths may have different specifications.
- Facilities: Includes dry docks, piers, repair facilities, and loading/unloading terminals tailored for both naval and civilian applications.
Equipment and Services
- Cranes: Variety of cranes for container handling, bulk loads, and cargo transfers.
- Storage: Warehouses and open storage areas for goods and naval supplies.
- Repair Facilities: Dry docks and repair yards capable of servicing large naval and commercial ships.
- Security: High-level security protocols, especially in naval sectors, including restricted zones and surveillance.
Naval Significance
- Naval Base: The port serves as a significant base for the Russian Baltic Fleet, housing numerous warships, submarines, and support vessels.
- Strategic Defense: Equipped with coastal defense systems and supporting infrastructure for naval operations.
Commercial Significance
- Although primarily a naval port, Kronshtadt also accommodates commercial operations:
- Cargo Types: General cargo, bulk commodities, and specialized naval goods.
- Trade Routes: Integration into Baltic Sea trade routes, facilitating transit to and from St. Petersburg and wider international destinations.
Navigational Aids
- Lighthouses and Beacons: Situated on Kotlin Island and surrounding areas to aid in navigation through the Gulf of Finland, especially in adverse weather.
- Pilot Services: Available for guiding vessels through the challenging waters of the Gulf of Finland.
- Icebreaking: Winter operations supported by icebreakers due to the potential for sea ice formation.
Connectivity
- Road Links: Connected to St. Petersburg and mainland Russia by the dam-road across the Gulf of Finland.
- Rail Access: Limited rail connections primarily supporting military logistics.
- Air Access: Closest major airport is Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg (approximately 50 kilometers by road).
Environmental and Regulatory Conditions
- Regulations: Subject to Russian maritime, environmental, and security regulations, especially strict in naval zones.
- Environmental Protection: Measures in place to mitigate pollution and protect the sensitive maritime environment of the Baltic Sea.
Historical and Cultural Significance
- Founding: Established by Peter the Great in 1704 as a key component of Russia’s naval defense.
- Cultural Heritage: Home to significant historical and architectural sites, including the impressive Naval Cathedral of Saint Nicholas.
Kronshtadt’s unique blend of naval and commercial capabilities, combined with its rich historical legacy, make it a vital maritime hub in Russia’s Baltic region.