PUERTO QUETZAL

• Latitude: 13.9238
• Longitude: -90.7907
• West Coast Central America
• Port in Guatemala

Address: San José Escuintla Guatemala

Puerto Quetzal is the largest and most important Pacific Ocean port in Guatemala. It is located in the Escuintla Department, around 110 kilometers south-west of the capital city, Guatemala City. The port serves as a vital hub for maritime trade, handling both cargo and passenger vessels. Below are some key points regarding the description and specifications of Puerto Quetzal:

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 13°55'N latitude and 90°48'W longitude.
• Address: Puerto Quetzal, Escuintla Department, Guatemala.

Facilities:

• Terminals: The port has multiple terminals for different types of cargo, including:
  • Container Terminal: Equipped with modern facilities for handling containerized goods.
  • Bulk Terminal: Handles commodities like grains, minerals, and fertilizers.
  • General Cargo Terminal: For all kinds of non-containerized goods.
  • Liquid Bulk Terminal: Manages liquid products such as oil and chemicals.
  • Cruise Terminal: Caters to cruise ships and tourism-related vessels.

Specifications:

• Berths: Multiple deep-water berths to accommodate different vessel sizes.
• Draft: Varies by berth, with some areas able to accommodate vessels with drafts of up to 11 meters or more.
• Cargo Handling Equipment: Includes cranes, forklifts, and conveyor belts, among others.
• Storage: Availability of open yard spaces, covered warehouses, and cold storage facilities.

Capabilities:

• Annual Throughput: The port can handle millions of tons of cargo per year, with significant capacities for containerized goods, bulk commodities, and general cargo.
• Logistics Services: Offers a range of logistics and support services, such as stevedoring, warehousing, and customs clearance.
• Connectivity: Well-connected by road and rail to major industrial and commercial centers in Guatemala.

Additional Features:

• Security: Compliant with international security standards, including the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
• Pilotage: Compulsory pilotage service available for incoming and outgoing vessels.
• Tug Services: Tugboats are available to assist in maneuvering larger vessels.

Economic Importance:

Puerto Quetzal plays a critical role in Guatemala's economy, facilitating the export of agricultural products, minerals, and manufactured goods, and the import of machinery, raw materials, and consumer goods. The port's infrastructure and strategic location make it a key maritime gateway for both domestic and international trade.

Environmental and Safety Measures:

• Environmental Management: Implementation of various measures to minimize environmental impact, including waste management systems and pollution control.
• Safety Protocols: Adherence to national and international safety protocols to ensure secure and efficient port operations.

Development and Upgrades:

The port is continually undergoing development and upgrades to enhance its capacity and efficiency. These include modernization of facilities, expansion projects, and the adoption of new technologies to streamline operations and improve service delivery.

By providing robust infrastructure and comprehensive services, Puerto Quetzal stands as a cornerstone of Guatemala's maritime activities, supporting both economic growth and regional development.