PORTBOU

• ESPBO
• Latitude: 42.4257
• Longitude: 3.16663
• West Mediterranean
• Port in Spain

Location: Portbou Catalonia Spain

Web-site: https://www.portbou.cat/

Portbou is a small town and municipality in the comarca of Alt Empordà, in the province of Girona, Catalonia, Spain. This coastal town is known primarily for its railway station, which serves as a significant border crossing between Spain and France. Despite its modest size, the port and its related facilities play an important role in local maritime activities.

Port Description:

Portbou's port, though relatively small compared to major commercial ports in Spain, serves local fishing, leisure, and small-scale commercial activities. It is positioned near the French border on the northeastern coast of Catalonia, directly on the Mediterranean Sea. The surrounding region offers picturesque landscapes, making it a quaint and scenic port destination.

Port Specifications:

1. Location:

   • Latitude/Longitude: Approximately 42.4260° N, 3.1600° E
   • Proximity: Close to the French border, near the Pyrenees mountains and Mediterranean coastline.

2. Facilities:

   • Docking: Limited docking facilities primarily catering to small vessels and yachts.
   • Fishing Fleet: Accommodates a modest local fishing fleet, contributing to the area's seafood supply.
   • Leisure Facilities: Offers mooring and facilities for recreational boats and yachts.
   • There might be basic amenities, such as water and electricity hookups, for vessels docked at the port.

3. Accessibility:

   • Road: Accessible via regional roads connecting to major highways like the AP-7 and N-260.
   • Rail: Well-known for its railway station, providing significant connectivity to both Spain and France. There is no direct railway cargo handling in the local port infrastructure.
   • Sea: Primarily used for local and regional maritime traffic; not a major international shipping hub.

4. Services:

   • Basic maintenance and repair services for smaller vessels.
   • Port management often includes local authorities, managing procedures and regulations.

5. Capacity:

   • Limited capacity tailored towards small-to-medium-sized boats.
   • Typically handles less commercial traffic compared to industrial ports but is a relevant point for the local economy.

6. Nearby Amenities:

   • The town of Portbou offers various services, including dining, lodging, and retail.
   • Proximity to natural parks and attractions in the Costa Brava region.

Highlights:

• Historical and Scenic Value: The location is historically significant and offers scenic views of the Mediterranean and surrounding landscapes.
• Limited Commercial Activity: More focused on local and recreational maritime activities than major commercial shipping.
• Rail Integration: Important rail connectivity enhancing cross-border transportation.

Portbou serves as a picturesque and functional maritime hub for its size, providing vital services to local fishermen, recreational boaters, and promoting tourism in the region. Its significance lies not just in its maritime operations but also in its role as a key border town with extensive rail links to France.