PALERMO

• ITPMO
• Latitude: 38.1311
• Longitude: 13.3737
• West Mediterranean
• Port in Italy

Location: Palermo Sicily Italy

Web-site: http://www.portpalermo.it/

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is one of Italy's prominent maritime ports. Here's an extensive overview of its description and specifications:

General Description:

Location:

• Palermo is situated on the northern coast of Sicily, facing the Tyrrhenian Sea. The port coordinates are approximately 38° 07' N latitude and 13° 22' E longitude.

Historical Significance:

• Palermo's port has a rich history stretching back over millennia, serving as a crucial hub for Mediterranean trade and cultural exchange.

Functionality:

• The port of Palermo serves multiple functions, including commercial shipping, passenger transport (ferries and cruise ships), fishing, and recreational boating. It is a key port for both domestic and international routes, especially connections to mainland Italy and other Mediterranean destinations.

Port Facilities:

Berthing:

• Palermo has several quays and piers accommodating different types of vessels, segmented into commercial, passenger, and leisure sections.
• The commercial berths can accommodate large cargo vessels, while the passenger terminals are equipped to handle large ferries and cruise ships.

Drafts:

• The port offers varying depths across different terminals. Maximum draft typically ranges around 11-12 meters, allowing for the accommodation of large vessels.

Cargo Handling:

• The port is equipped to handle diverse types of cargo, including containerized goods, bulk cargo, and general cargo.
• Modern handling equipment such as container cranes, mobile cranes, and gantry cranes are available.

Storage:

• There are extensive warehousing facilities and open storage yards within the port area. These are used for different types of cargo, including refrigerated storage for perishables.

Passenger Services:

• Cruise Terminal:
  • Palermo is a popular stop for Mediterranean cruise itineraries. The cruise terminal is equipped with modern facilities including immigration, customs, and passenger amenities.
• Ferry Services:
  • Regular ferry services connect Palermo with other Italian ports such as Genoa, Naples, and Cagliari, as well as international routes to Tunis.

Connectivity:

• Land Transport:
  • The port is well-connected to the road and rail network, facilitating easy transportation to and from the port. The A19 motorway connects Palermo to other key Sicilian cities and interior regions.
• Airport:
  • Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport is about 35 kilometers from the port, providing national and international flight connections.

Additional Services:

• Shipyard and Repair Facilities:
  • The port has ship repair and maintenance facilities, including dry docks and specialized workshops.
• Bunkering:
  • Fuel bunkering services are available at the port for all types of vessels.
• Security:
  • Palermo port complies with international security standards, including ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code requirements.

Future Developments:

The port authorities continue to invest in infrastructure improvements, including expanding berthing capacities, upgrading cargo handling facilities, and enhancing passenger terminal amenities to accommodate growing traffic and foster economic growth.

Navigational Information:

• Pilotage:
  • Compulsory for certain sized vessels; pilotage services are available 24/7.
• Tugs:
  • Tug services are available to assist in maneuvering larger vessels.
• Weather Restrictions:
  • Generally operational year-round, but certain weather conditions could impose temporary restrictions.

Contacts:

• Port Authority:
  • The Port Authority of Western Sicily (Autorità di Sistema Portuale del Mare di Sicilia Occidentale) manages the Port of Palermo. They oversee administration, development, and operational services.

In summary, the Port of Palermo is a versatile and strategically important maritime hub with robust facilities for cargo handling, passenger services, and ship maintenance, playing a crucial role in the maritime economy of Sicily and the broader Mediterranean region.