LA PALLICE

• Latitude: 46.154
•
• Longitude: -1.21969
•
• UK Coast & Atlantic
•
• Port in France

Address: La Rochelle Nouvelle-Aquitaine 17000 France

Web-site: http://www.larochelle.port.fr/

La Pallice (Port of La Rochelle)

Location: La Pallice is the commercial deep-water port of La Rochelle, located on the southwestern coast of France, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. It lies on the Bay of Biscay, providing direct access to the Atlantic Ocean.

Port Description:

History and Background:

• La Pallice was inaugurated in 1890, primarily to handle large ocean-going vessels that couldn't navigate La Rochelle’s shallower waters.
• During World War II, it was used by the Germans as a U-Boat base, and remnants of that period, such as submarine pens, can still be seen.
• The port has evolved into a key commercial hub, supporting various types of cargo and maritime activities.

Port Facilities and Infrastructure:

1. Terminal Specifications:

   • Commercial Terminals:

     • Accommodates container, bulk, general cargo, and Ro-Ro vessels.
     • Modern warehouses and storage facilities for different types of cargo, including refrigerated storage.

   • Container Terminal:

     • Equipped with large gantry cranes and advanced container handling equipment.
     • Provides intermodal connections with rail and road transport.

   • Bulk Cargo Handling:

     • Facilities for handling liquid bulk (e.g., petroleum products) and dry bulk (e.g., grain, cement).
     • Specialized storage tanks and silos.

   • Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) Terminals:

     • Accommodates car carriers and other wheeled cargo.
     • State-of-the-art ramps and docking facilities.

2. Navigation and Access:

   • Deep-Water Access:

     • The port can accommodate large vessels, including Panamax and post-Panamax ships.
     • Entrance channel is dredged regularly to maintain appropriate depths.

   • Pilotage and Tug Services:

     • Comprehensive pilotage services to assist in berthing and unberthing operations.
     • Tugboats available to support vessel maneuvers and enhance safety.

3. Logistics and Connectivity:

   • Multimodal Transport:

     • Extensive rail network connections to major French and European cities.
     • Well-developed road infrastructure linking the port to motorways.

   • Proximity to La Rochelle Airport:

     • Facilitates air freight services and supports business travel.

4. Security and Safety:

   • Port Security:

     • Adheres to the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
     • Regular security patrols and surveillance systems in place.

   • Environmental Protection:

     • Implementing green initiatives and maintaining compliance with environmental regulations.
     • Facilities for waste disposal and spill response.

5. Support Services:

   • Ship Repair and Maintenance:

     • Shipyards and dry docks available for vessel repairs and maintenance.

   • Crew Services:

     • Amenities for crew members, including rest areas, medical services, and access to local facilities.

Statistical Data:

1. Annual Throughput:

   • Handles millions of tonnes of cargo annually, with significant volumes of containers, bulk goods, and vehicles.

2. Employment:

   • The port is a major employment hub, providing jobs to thousands in the region directly and indirectly through associated logistics and services.

Key Features:

• Strategic Location: Provides a crucial gateway for maritime trade between France and international markets, especially for routes crossing the Atlantic.
• Advanced Infrastructure: Modern facilities, technologies, and equipment cater to a wide range of maritime and logistical needs.
• Ecological Initiatives: Commitment to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of port operations.

Conclusion:

La Pallice is a vital component of France’s maritime infrastructure, offering extensive facilities and services that support its role as a premier deep-water commercial port. Its strategic location, coupled with advanced port infrastructure, makes it an important hub for international shipping and trade.