OCHAKOV AVANT-PORT

• Latitude: 46.6096
• Longitude: 31.5332
• Black Sea
• Port in Ukraine

Location: Ukraine

Ochakov Avant-Port is a marine port facility located in the town of Ochakiv, Ukraine. This port is situated on the northern coast of the Black Sea, where the Dnieper-Bug estuary opens into the sea. It serves as a strategically important point for maritime activities, offering access to both river and sea routes.

General Description:

• Location: Ochakiv, Mykolaiv Oblast, Ukraine
• Coordinates: Approximately 46.6225° N latitude, 31.5544° E longitude
• Accessibility: The port is accessible by sea via the Black Sea, and it serves as an entry and exit point for vessels navigating the Dnieper and Southern Bug Rivers.

Port Specifications:

Infrastructure:

• Berths and Quays:

  • The port features a number of berths that accommodate different types of vessels, including cargo ships, tankers, and smaller riverine vessels.
  • The quay configurations are designed to handle various cargo types such as bulk, general cargo, and possibly containerized freight.

• Depth:

  • The draft at the berths typically ranges from 7 to 12 meters. This depth accommodates medium-sized vessels but might have limitations for larger ocean-going ships.

• Cargo Handling Equipment:

  • The port is equipped with cranes, forklifts, and other cargo handling equipment necessary for loading and unloading various goods.
  • There are facilities for dry and liquid cargo handling.

• Storage Facilities:

  • Warehousing options include outdoor storage yards and covered warehousing for cargo requiring protection from the elements.

Connectivity:

• Road Access:

  • The port is connected by road to major highways that link it with internal regions of Ukraine, facilitating the transport of goods to and from the hinterland.

• Rail Connectivity:

  • There is limited or no direct rail connectivity. However, nearby major cities and port facilities (like Mykolaiv) could potentially complement this by providing rail services.

Services:

• Pilotage:

  • Pilotage services are provided for vessels navigating into the port, ensuring safe passage through the estuarine and coastal waters.

• Tug Assistance:

  • Tugboats are available to assist with berthing and unberthing operations, especially necessary due to tidal movements and currents.

• Bunker and Repair Services:

  • Bunkering services for fuel and possibly minor repair services are available for vessels calling at the port.

• Customs and Immigration:

  • Customs and immigration services are present to handle the clearance of international cargo and crew members as required by Ukrainian law and international regulations.

Operational Considerations:

• Weather Conditions:

  • The port's location in the Black Sea region means it can be affected by seasonal weather changes, including potential winter ice formation and summer storms.

• Safety and Security:

  • Adherence to international safety standards is essential, including compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code to ensure the protection of vessels, cargo, and personnel.

Strategic Importance:

• Economic Role:

  • The port plays a vital role in the regional economy by facilitating trade and transport of goods. It also supports local industries and has the potential for further development to increase its capacity.

• Military and Geopolitical Significance:

  • Given its geographic location, the port holds strategic military significance, especially in the context of the regional security environment in the Black Sea.

In summary, Ochakov Avant-Port is a multifaceted port facility that acts as an important node in the Ukrainian and regional maritime network, facilitating both commercial and potentially strategic operations. Further modernization and investment could enhance its capabilities, making it a more significant player in regional maritime logistics and trade.