PONTA DELGADA

• PTPDL
• Latitude: 37.737
• Longitude: -25.6604
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in Portugal

Location: Ponta Delgada Azores Portugal

Ponta Delgada, located on São Miguel Island in the Azores archipelago, Portugal, is a significant port known for its strategic position in the North Atlantic Ocean. The port serves as a crucial maritime hub for commerce, tourism, and fishing in the region.

Port Description:

1. Geographical Position:

   • Coordinates: Approximately 37°44'N latitude and 25°40'W longitude.
   • Location: On the southern coast of São Miguel Island, which is part of the Azores archipelago, an autonomous region of Portugal.

2. Accessibility:

   • Ponta Delgada Port is well-positioned centrally between Europe and the Americas, making it an ideal stopover for transatlantic voyages.
   • Good navigational conditions generally prevail, though being in the mid-Atlantic, the area can be subject to sudden weather changes.

3. Port Functions:

   • Commercial Activities: Handles general cargo, containerized goods, bulk commodities, and fuel supplies.
   • Fishing Industry: Provides essential services and docking facilities for the local and regional fishing fleets.
   • Passenger Services: Acts as a destination and embarkation point for cruise ships and ferries serving inter-island and international routes.
   • Recreational Boating: Contains a marina that facilitates sailing and yachting activities.

Specifications:

1. Berth Information:

   • Total Quay Length: Approximately 1,450 meters.
   • Draft Depth: Varies between 7 to 11 meters, allowing accommodation of various vessel types including small to medium-sized commercial ships.
   • Number of Berths: Multiple berths for different vessel types – container ships, tankers, general cargo ships, cruise ships, and fishing boats.

2. Facilities:

   • Container Terminal: Equipped with modern handling equipment.
   • Bulk Terminal: Manages the distribution and storage of bulk products.
   • Passenger Terminal: Well-equipped to handle large numbers of passengers from cruise ships and ferries.
   • Storage and Warehousing: Ample space for both open and covered storage.

3. Navigational Aids:

   • Lighthouses: Strategically positioned to aid navigation.
   • Pilot Services: Available 24/7 for assisting vessels entering and leaving the port.

4. Connectivity:

   • Air Transport: Ponta Delgada is adjacent to João Paulo II Airport, offering regular connections to mainland Europe, North America, and other Azorean islands.
   • Road Infrastructure: Well-developed to facilitate the smooth transit of goods and passengers to and from the port.

5. Support Services:

   • Ship Repair and Maintenance: Facilities for routine maintenance and emergency repairs.
   • Bunkering Services: Available for refueling ships.
   • Medical Services: Accessible healthcare facilities for seafarers and passengers.

6. Environmental and Safety Regulations:

   • Pollution Control: Adheres to international maritime environmental standards.
   • Security: Compliant with international port security protocols, including ISPS Code standards.

Highlight:

• Cruise Industry: Ponta Delgada is a popular stop on North Atlantic and European cruise itineraries, attracting numerous visitors who explore the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

This port forms the gateway to the Azores, providing both logistical and commercial advantages due to its geographical position. It plays a vital role in the local economy, supporting various industries and ensuring connectivity with the global maritime network.