MOTALA

• SEMOT
• Latitude: 58.5331
• Longitude: 15.0399
• Baltic Sea
• Marina in Sweden

Location: Sweden

Motala is a town located in Östergötland County, Sweden, situated by Lake Vättern. While it is not traditionally known as a major marine port, Motala is historically significant due to its connection with the Göta Canal, a crucial inland waterway extending from the east to the west coast of Sweden.

Port Features and Specifications

1. Location:

   • Latitude: Approximately 58.5378° N
   • Longitude: Approximately 15.0381° E

2. Waterways:

   • Göta Canal: Known as "Sweden's Blue Ribbon," it is one of the most significant canals in the country, connecting the Baltic Sea with the North Sea through a series of lakes and canals.
   • Lake Vättern: One of the largest lakes in Sweden which provides a natural waterway for boating and maritime activities.

3. Harbor Facilities:

   • Marina and Small Craft Harbors: Motala has facilities for recreational boating, including marinas that provide mooring, refueling, and maintenance services tailored for smaller vessels.
   • Industrial Areas: While not a major commercial port, there may be limited facilities for industrial and commercial activities, particularly related to local manufacturing and transport.

4. Lock Systems:

   • The locks at Motala, part of the Göta Canal, are vital for raising and lowering boats between different water levels, facilitating smooth transit across Sweden's inland waterways.

5. Cargo and Passenger Services:

   • Mainly oriented towards leisure and tourism rather than heavy commercial shipping. However, some minor cargo handling related to local businesses might exist.

6. Navigation and Access:

   • Controlled by the Swedish Maritime Administration, with navigation aids and guidelines to support safe passage through the canal and Lake Vättern.

7. Special Features:

   • Motala Motor Museum: Located in the harbor area, attracting tourists and enthusiasts.
   • Historical Significance: The port and canals have historical value, being closely tied to the industrial revolution in Sweden.

Additional Information

• Seasonal Operation: The Göta Canal is typically operational from May to September, in line with Sweden's navigable season for inland waterways.
• Environmental Regulations: Governed by strict Swedish and EU environmental laws to protect the water quality of Lake Vättern.
• Tourism: An important aspect of Motala's maritime activities, attracting visitors with interests in cruising, fishing, and exploring the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Connectivity

• Road Network: Well-connected by road, with major highways leading to larger cities like Linköping and Norrköping.
• Railway: Motala has a railway station providing connectivity to other parts of Sweden.
• Nearby Ports: Larger commercial ports include the Port of Gothenburg and the Port of Stockholm for significant maritime trade activities.

While Motala may not be a hub of commercial maritime shipping, it remains an important waypoint for recreational boating and regional economic activities connected to its historical and cultural significance.