PIZZO

• ITPIZ
• Latitude: 38.7354
• Longitude: 16.1585
• West Mediterranean
• Marina in Italy

Location: Italy

Pizzo, also known as Pizzo Calabro, is a charming coastal town located in the Calabria region of Southern Italy. It is situated along the Tyrrhenian Sea and is renowned for its historic and natural beauty. Pizzo serves as both a tourist destination and a minor marine port. While it is not a major commercial port, its facilities accommodate local fishing activities, recreational boating, and sometimes smaller commercial vessels.

Port Specifications and Features

1. Location:

   • Coordinates: Approximately 38.7319° N latitude and 16.1667° E longitude.
   • Region: Calabria, Southern Italy.
   • Nearest Major City: Vibo Valentia (about 10 km away).

2. Port Facilities:

   • Harbor Type: Small natural harbor with some artificial enhancements.
   • Berthing: Limited berthing space suitable for small to medium-sized vessels, including fishing boats, pleasure crafts, and yachts.
   • Depth: Generally shallow, accommodating vessels with a limited draft. Depths can vary, and it’s advisable to check local nautical charts.

3. Port Services:

   • Fueling: Fueling facilities are available, typically more suited for smaller vessels.
   • Maintenance: Basic repair and maintenance services, with more extensive ship repair facilities located in nearby larger ports.
   • Water and Electricity: Available for moored vessels.
   • Mooring Assistance: Available, usually provided by the port authority or local maritime service providers.

4. Navigation:

   • Entry: The entrance to the harbor is straightforward but narrow; caution is advised when maneuvering.
   • Breakwaters: There may be some protective breakwaters to shelter the harbor from rough seas.
   • Lights and Beacons: Navigational aids are present, but due diligence is required for safe entry and exit.

5. Customs and Immigration:

   • Border Control: Typically not a primary point of entry for international visitors by sea; nearby major ports handle most international customs and immigration processes.
   • Clearance: Required for vessels arriving from outside the EU, but Pizzo's facilities are not primarily equipped for extensive customs processing.

6. Nearby Amenities:

   • Accommodation: Various hotels, B&Bs, and rental properties in Pizzo town.
   • Dining: Numerous restaurants and cafes, particularly along the waterfront, offering local cuisine.
   • Tourism: Attractions include the historic Pizzo Castle (Castello Murat), the Piedigrotta Church, and beautiful beaches.
   • Transportation: Connections by road to larger cities and ports, with nearby Vibo Marina offering more comprehensive port facilities.

Key Points for Mariners

• Weather: Generally mild Mediterranean climate but advisable to check local weather forecasts, especially for sudden sea conditions.
• Local Regulations: Compliance with local maritime regulations and maritime signaling is essential.
• Seasonal Variations: Higher traffic during the summer months due to increased tourist activity.

Conclusion

Pizzo's marine port is ideal for those looking for a quaint and picturesque destination with sufficient, though limited, port facilities. It represents the charm of smaller Italian coastal towns and provides necessary services for leisure mariners and local fishing operations. For more extensive maritime needs, nearby larger ports such as Vibo Marina may be more appropriate.