PRASA

• Latitude: 36.8177
• Longitude: 24.5952
• East Mediterranean
• Port in Greece

Location: Greece East Macedonia and Thrace 67100 Greece

Phone number: +30 2551 0 0000

Web-site: http://www.prasa.gr

The Port of Piraeus, often referred to as PRASA (Piraeus Port Authority S.A.), is the largest and most significant port in Greece. It is situated in Piraeus, which is part of the urban area of Athens. Here’s a detailed description and specifications of the Port of Piraeus:

Location:

• Geographical Coordinates: Latitude 37.9411° N, Longitude 23.6446° E.
• Proximity: Approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) southwest of Athens city center.

General Overview:

• Significance: The Port of Piraeus serves as a major gateway for sea travel in the Mediterranean and is a crucial hub for trade between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
• Ownership and Management: Operated by the Piraeus Port Authority S.A. with considerable investment from COSCO (China Ocean Shipping Company) which has a majority stake.

Facilities:

1. Container Terminals:

   • Pier I: Managed by the Piraeus Port Authority.
   • Pier II and III: Operated by Piraeus Container Terminal (PCT), a subsidiary of COSCO.
   • Capacity: Together, these terminals handle over 5 million TEU (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units) annually.

2. Passenger Terminals:

   • Cruise Terminals: Several terminals catering to large cruise ships with modern amenities.
   • Ferry Terminals: Extensive facilities for inter-island and international ferry services.

3. Car Terminals:

   • Dedicated spaces for ro-ro (roll-on/roll-off) vessels and car distribution services.

4. Logistics Centers:

   • Multiple logistics and warehousing facilities essential for the storage, distribution, and transshipment of goods.

5. Naval Repair Zone:

   • Comprehensive ship repair and maintenance services, including dry docks and floating docks.

Infrastructure:

• Berths: Over 100 berths of varying lengths and depths, accommodating vessels of various sizes, from small ferries to large cargo ships and cruise liners.
• Draught: Maximum permissible draught varies but can accommodate deep-draft vessels.
• Cranes: A multitude of post-Panamax and Panamax cranes for efficient container loading and unloading.
• Warehousing: Significant indoor and outdoor storage capabilities for various types of cargo.

Connectivity:

• Road Links: Excellent connections to Greece's road network, facilitating the efficient movement of goods to and from the port.
• Rail Links: Rail services connect the port to the national rail network, enhancing intermodal transport capabilities.
• Airport Proximity: About 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Athens International Airport, providing essential support for expedited freight and passenger movements.

Services and Operations:

• Port Services: Pilotage, towage, mooring, and bunkering services available.
• Terminals Handling: High efficiency in container handling, bulk cargo, and specialized cargo operations.
• Customs and Security: Advanced customs facilities and stringent security measures ensure smooth and secure handling of goods.

Environmental and Sustainability Efforts:

• Eco-friendly Measures: Implementing green practices, reducing emissions, and enhancing energy efficiency.
• Investment in Technology: Adopting cutting-edge technologies for better port management and operational efficiency.

Strategic Importance:

• Economic Impact: A key driver of the Greek economy, significantly contributing to trade volumes and employment.
• Maritime Hub: Central role in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) due to strategic location and extensive maritime traffic.
• Tourism: Major entry point for tourists arriving via cruise ships and ferries, boosting the local and national tourism sector.

The Port of Piraeus, with its extensive facilities, strategic location, and robust infrastructure, stands as a pivotal maritime hub in Europe, offering comprehensive services and playing a critical role in global trade and tourism.