PIRAEUS ANCH

• Latitude: 37.8996
• Longitude: 23.5284
• East Mediterranean
• Anchorage in Greece

Location: Greece

Marine Port Description and Specification: PIRAEUS ANCH, Greece

General Overview: Piraeus Anchorage is part of Piraeus Port, the primary seaport of Athens, Greece. It is the largest port in Greece and one of the largest in Europe, serving as a critical hub for cargo, passenger, and ferry services in the Mediterranean region.

Geographical Location:

• Latitude: Approximately 37.9401° N
• Longitude: Approximately 23.6467° E
• Region: Located in the Saronic Gulf on the east coast of the Peloponnese peninsula.

Port Specifications:

1. Anchorage Area:

   • The anchorage zone is designated for vessels awaiting entry into the port or for those that do not require immediate docking.
   • The waters here are generally safe and well-sheltered, offering good holding ground with mud and sand seabed composition.

2. Depth:

   • Depths at the anchorage vary but generally range from 15 to 30 meters.
   • Adequate depths to accommodate a wide range of vessel sizes.

3. Navigational Aids:

   • The port is well-marked with buoys, lights, and other navigational aids to assist in safe anchorage and maneuvering.
   • There's an automated vessel traffic management system (VTMS) to monitor and guide vessel movements.

4. Facilities:

   • Terminals: Multiple terminals for handling containers, general cargo, passenger ferries/cruise ships, and Ro-Ro vessels.
   • Bunkering: Available alongside berths and at anchor.
   • Water Supply: Freshwater supplied to vessels via tanker service at anchorage.
   • Waste Disposal: Provisions for the removal of waste and sludge, adhering to MARPOL regulations.

5. Services:

   • Pilotage: Mandatory for vessels over a certain size, with pilots available 24/7.
   • Tug Assistance: Tugs are available for assistance in berthing, unberthing, and anchoring.
   • Repairs: Basic repair services and facilities available; more extensive repair work can be coordinated with local shipyards.

6. Security:

   • The port adheres to ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code requirements ensuring high levels of security.
   • Continuous surveillance and patrols by port authorities and coast guard units.

7. Customs and Immigration:

   • Efficient customs and immigration processes for cargo and passengers.
   • Facilities for inspections and clearance are readily available.

8. Weather and Tides:

   • Generally mild Mediterranean climate with seasonal variations.
   • Tidal range is relatively small but tidal currents can be present and should be considered during anchoring operations.

9. Access and Transportation:

   • Excellent connectivity to the national road network and the railway system, providing seamless inland transportation.
   • Athens International Airport is approximately 50 km away, providing international connectivity.

Strategic Importance: Piraeus is integral to Greece's economy and serves as a significant transshipment hub due to its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It's a vital port of entry for goods intended for the greater Balkan region and beyond.

Additional Notes:

• It's advisable to contact local port authorities or agents for updated information and specific procedural guidelines.
• Mariners should always refer to the latest nautical charts and publications when navigating the area.

Piraeus Anchorage offers robust facilities and services ensuring safe and efficient anchorage for vessels of all types.