LIRQUEN

• CLLQN
• Latitude: -36.7115
• Longitude: -72.9945
• West South America
• Port in Chile

Location: Chile

Lirquén is a well-known port located in the Biobío Region of Chile. It is strategically situated on the eastern shore of the Bay of Concepción, serving as a pivotal point for maritime commerce in the region. Here are some detailed descriptions and specifications of Port Lirquén:

General Information:

• Location: Lirquén Port is located in the town of Penco, approximately 25 kilometers northwest of Concepción, the regional capital of the Biobío Region in central Chile.
• Coordinates: Approximately 36°42' S latitude and 72°58' W longitude.
• Ownership and Management: It is managed by Puerto Lirquén S.A., a private company.

Port Facilities:

• Terminals: Lirquén has multiple terminals equipped to handle various types of cargo including containers, bulk, breakbulk, and general cargo.
• Berths: The port features several berths with different specifications to accommodate various ship sizes.
  • Number of Berths: Typically, there are about 5 to 6 primary berths.
  • Length and Depth:
    • Berths range in length from approximately 150 meters to 250+ meters.
    • Depth alongside varies, generally ranging from 10 to 14 meters, allowing accommodation of large vessels.
  • Capacity: Designed to handle Panamax-class vessels and a variety of smaller ships.

Cargo Handling:

• Types of Cargo: The port handles a wide range of cargo types including:
  • Containers
  • Bulk cargo (e.g., coal, grain, wood chips)
  • Breakbulk (e.g., steel products, machinery)
  • General cargo
• Equipment: Equipped with modern cargo handling equipment such as:
  • Cranes (mobile and fixed)
  • Conveyors
  • Forklifts
  • Reach stackers
  • Specialized equipment for bulk handling.

Storage and Warehousing:

• Warehouse Space: Ample warehouse space for cargo storage, including covered and open areas.
• Open Storage: Large open storage areas for bulk and breakbulk cargo.
• Cold Storage: Facilities to handle temperature-sensitive goods.

Connectivity and Logistics:

• Road Access: Well-connected by road to major highways, providing smooth inland transportation to/from the port.
• Rail Access: Rail services link the port to the national railway network, facilitating the movement of cargo to various regions in Chile.
• Intermodal Capabilities: The port offers robust intermodal capabilities, enhancing the efficiency of cargo transfer between different transport modes.

Services:

• Pilotage: Mandatory pilotage services are available for vessels entering and leaving the port.
• Tug Services: Tug assistance for maneuvering vessels within the port area.
• Bunkering: Fuel supply services for vessels.
• Ship Repair: Basic repair and maintenance services available.
• Security: Adheres to ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code standards ensuring high-security measures.

Environmental Considerations:

• Policies: Implementation of strict environmental policies and practices aimed at minimizing ecological impact.
• Monitoring: Continuous environmental monitoring to ensure compliance with national and international regulations.

Economic Impact:

• Regional Significance: Plays a critical role in the regional economy by providing employment and facilitating international trade.
• Cargo Volume: One of the busiest ports in the Biobío Region, with significant annual cargo throughput.

Expansion and Development:

• Modernization: Ongoing projects aimed at enhancing port infrastructure, increasing capacity, and improving operational efficiency.
• Future Plans: Potential expansions to accommodate larger vessels and increasing cargo volumes, further solidifying its status as a key maritime hub in Chile.

Port Lirquén's strategic location, modern facilities, and comprehensive services make it a vital asset for maritime trade in Chile and the broader South American region.