PONCE

• Latitude: 17.9728
•
• Longitude: -66.6208
•
• Caribbean Sea
•
• Port in Puerto Rico

Address: Puerto Rico

Port of Ponce, Puerto Rico: Description and Specifications

General Information:

• Location: Ponce, on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, is strategically situated to serve as a key maritime gateway in the Caribbean.
• Coordinates: Approximately 17.9707° N latitude and 66.6263° W longitude.
• Official Name: Rafael Cordero Santiago Port of the Americas.

Port Facilities:

• Type: Deep-water port.
• Ownership/Management: Government of Puerto Rico, managed under the Puerto Rico Ports Authority (PRPA) and in partnership with Ponce Municipal Government.
• Marine Terminals: The port includes various terminals catering to different types of cargo and vessel services such as containerized cargo, bulk cargo, and liquid bulk.

Specifications:

• Depth: The port can accommodate large vessels with a draft depth of up to 50 feet (15.24 meters).
• Berths: Multiple berths are available, with facilities to handle:
  • Container ships
  • Bulk carriers
  • General cargo vessels
  • Tankers for liquid bulk cargo
• Storage: Ample warehousing space and open storage; container yards equipped with necessary handling equipment, including gantry cranes.

Services:

• Cargo Handling: Modern equipment for efficient loading and unloading includes gantry and mobile cranes.
• Customs: On-site customs services for expedited processing and clearance.
• Logistics and Transportation: Access to major roadways for efficient inland distribution, as well as railway links.

Special Features:

• Location Advantage: Proximity to major shipping lanes in the Caribbean and central location relative to other Puerto Rican cities.
• Free Trade Zone (FTZ): The port is part of FTZ 7, providing logistical and financial incentives such as duty deferrals and streamlined customs procedures for businesses looking to import, manufacture, and export goods.
• Expansion Potential: There are plans and capacity for further development to increase handling capabilities and accommodate future growth in cargo traffic.

Safety and Environmental Measures:

• Security: Compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
• Environmental: Adherence to environmental regulations, including measures to control pollution and safeguard marine ecosystems.

Connectivity:

• Road: Convenient access to PR-52 (a major highway) facilitating efficient cargo movement to and from the port.
• Rail: Connections available for specific cargo types requiring rail transport.

The Port of Ponce serves a vital role in Puerto Rico's economy, supporting international trade and providing essential services to local industries. The combination of strategic location, modern facilities, and comprehensive services ensures that the port can effectively handle a diverse range of maritime activities and cargo types.