PORT CRIMEA

• Latitude: 45.3647
• Longitude: 36.6273
• Black Sea
• Port in Ukraine

Location: Crimea Ukraine

Port Crimea, also known as Kerch Port, is located in the city of Kerch on the eastern part of the Crimean Peninsula, currently under contested status between Ukraine and Russia. This port holds strategic significance due to its position near the Kerch Strait, which connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.

General Overview

• Location: Kerch, Crimea
• Coordinates: Approximately 45.3540° N, 36.4670° E
• Region: Eastern part of the Crimean Peninsula

Specifications

1. Harbor Type:

   • Natural and artificial
   • Deep-water seaport
   • Operates year-round

2. Navigation Channel:

   • Width: Around 80-100 meters
   • Depth: Generally around 9-10 meters (can vary slightly depending on dredging activities)
   • Tidal range: Minimal due to its location in the Black Sea

3. Terminal Facilities:

   • Multiple berths suitable for cargo handling
   • Specialized terminals for bulk cargo, containers, general cargo, and oil products
   • Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) facilities for vehicular cargo
   • Ferry services to Russian ports across the Kerch Strait

4. Support Infrastructure:

   • Warehousing for various types of cargo
   • Logistics centers
   • Container yards
   • Cold storage facilities (for refrigerated cargo)

5. Cargo Handling Equipment:

   • Gantry cranes
   • Mobile cranes
   • Forklifts
   • Conveyor belts for bulk cargo

6. Storage Facilities:

   • Open storage areas
   • Covered warehouses
   • Tank farms for liquid cargo

7. Transportation Links:

   • Rail connections to Ukrainian and Russian rail networks
   • Road access for trucking services
   • Proximity to major highways for easy terrestrial logistics

8. Services:

   • Piloting and tug assistance for vessels
   • Bunkering (fuel supply) services
   • Fresh water supply
   • Waste disposal facilities
   • Ship repair and maintenance services

9. Security & Safety:

   • Compliance with international port security regulations (ISPS Code)
   • Customs and immigration services onsite
   • Surveillance systems and patrol services

Additional Features

• Ferry Terminal: The port has ferry terminals that accommodate both passenger and cargo ferries. These services are a crucial link between Crimea and mainland Russia, particularly since the annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014.

• Strategic Importance: The port is part of the Kerch Strait crossing, which includes the Crimean Bridge, enhancing connectivity between Crimea and southern Russia.

Economic Role

Port Crimea plays a vital role in the regional economy, facilitating the import and export of goods such as grain, minerals, metals, construction materials, and petroleum products. It serves as an essential trade link between the Black Sea and other regions.

Contested Status

Due to the ongoing political tensions resulting from Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, the port's administration and operations are subject to international scrutiny and political complexities. Ukraine and many international entities consider Crimea, and thus the port, as part of Ukraine, while Russia administers it as part of its territory.

Conclusion

Port Crimea is a significant maritime hub in the Black Sea region with comprehensive facilities and strategic importance. Its contested status introduces unique operational and geopolitical dynamics, impacting its administration and international relations.