PORTO PALO

  • ITPPF
  • Latitude: 37.5736
  • Longitude: 12.9079
  • West Mediterranean
  • Marina in Italy

Location: Italy

Porto Palo is a small harbor located in the southern part of Sicily, Italy, near Menfi. It is one of the oldest ports in Sicily, historically significant and known for its scenic beauty and local charm. The port serves primarily as a fishing and leisure harbor, but it also accommodates some commercial activities. Here’s a detailed description and specifications of Porto Palo:

Location

  • Coordinates: Approximately 37.5736° N latitude and 12.9681° E longitude.
  • Region: Sicily, Italy.
  • Nearby Cities: Close to Menfi, and also relatively accessible from Sciacca to the east and Marsala to the west.

Harbor Specifications

  • Type: Natural harbor.
  • Depth: The port’s depth varies, with the entrance channel and berths generally accommodating vessels with a draft up to 3-4 meters. Larger vessels may have limitations depending on tidal conditions.
  • Breakwaters: Presence of protective breakwaters to secure the harbor from strong waves and currents.
  • Mooring: Facilities available for mooring small to medium-sized boats and yachts.
  • Berths: Limited number of berths available, primarily for fishing boats, yachts, and small commercial vessels.

Facilities and Services

  • Marina Facilities: Basic amenities including water and electricity supply for moored vessels.
  • Fuel Dock: Availability of fuel for boats, although facilities might be limited.
  • Repairs and Maintenance: Basic repair services, though more complex repairs may require facilities in larger nearby ports.
  • Waste Disposal: Arrangements for routine waste and bilge water disposal.
  • Security: Surveillance and security measures in place, though typically more relaxed compared to major commercial ports.

Nearby Infrastructure

  • Road Access: Connected to the regional road network, facilitating transport to and from the port.
  • Public Transport: Limited public transportation options, primarily accessible by car.
  • Provisions and Supplies: Local shops and markets available in the nearby town of Menfi for provisioning needs.
  • Accommodation: Availability of hotels, guesthouses, and rental accommodations for visitors in Menfi and surrounding areas.

Activities and Attractions

  • Fishing: Active local fishing community, with opportunities for recreational fishing.
  • Leisure Boating: Popular among tourists for leisure boating and sailing.
  • Beaches: Beautiful nearby beaches with crystal-clear waters, such as Lido Fiori and Porto Palo Beach.
  • Cultural Sites: Close to historical and cultural sites in Menfi and the broader region of Agrigento.
  • Wine Tourism: Menfi and the surrounding area are famous for wine production, offering vineyard tours and wine tasting experiences.

Environmental Considerations

  • Protected Areas: Proximity to protected natural areas and marine reserves. Conservation efforts are in place to preserve local biodiversity and water quality.
  • Eco-Friendly Practices: Increasing focus on implementing eco-friendly practices to minimize the environmental impact of port activities.

Notes

Given it is a smaller port, Porto Palo may not be suitable for large commercial shipping or deep-draft vessels. It is ideal for recreational boating, local fishing, and as a quaint stopover for yachts touring the Mediterranean waters.


It's always advisable to check recent navigational charts, local notices, or contact the port authority for the latest information and to ensure safe and updated port operations before planning a visit.

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