SALDANHA

• Latitude: -33.02
•
• Longitude: 17.979
•
• South Africa
•
• Port in South Africa

Address: Saldanha South Africa

Phone number: +27 22 703 5400

Web-site: https://www.transnetnationalportsauthority.net/OurPorts/Saldanha/Pages/Overview.aspx

Saldanha Bay Port: Overview and Specifications

Location:

• Saldanha Bay is situated on the west coast of South Africa, approximately 105 kilometers northwest of Cape Town. The port is strategically located along major shipping routes.

Historical Background:

• Named after the Portuguese navigator António de Saldanha, the bay has been significant since the colonial era. The development of the port was primarily driven by mineral exports.

Port Infrastructure:

1. Harbor and Basin:

   • Deep-water Port: Saldanha Bay is a natural deep-water harbor, which is one of its main advantages. It can accommodate some of the largest bulk carriers in the world.
   • Quays and Berths: The port has several quays and berths, with the Iron Ore Terminal being the most significant. Other terminals cater to various cargo types, including oil, general cargo, and fishing.

2. Iron Ore Terminal:

   • Capacity: Handling capacity is over 60 million tonnes per annum, one of the largest iron ore export facilities in the Southern Hemisphere.
   • Facilities: Includes a car-dumper, stackers, reclaimers, and a conveyor belt system that transports ore from Sishen in Northern Cape to Saldanha.

3. Multi-Purpose Terminal:

   • Versatility: Handles break-bulk cargo, containers, steel, granite, and other general cargo.
   • Infrastructure: Equipped with warehouses, open storage areas, and specialized gantry cranes.

4. Oil and Gas Facilities:

   • Operations: Includes facilities for oil rig repairs and maintenance. The port is becoming increasingly significant as a service hub for the African oil and gas industry.

Operational Parameters:

1. Draft:

   • Accommodation of Large Vessels: Depth ranges between 23 to 25 meters, accommodating Cape-size vessels and Very Large Ore Carriers (VLOCs).

2. Tide & Weather:

   • Tide: Tidal variations are minimal, supporting easier and more predictable port operations.
   • Weather: Mostly favorable year-round, although occasional strong winds may disrupt operations.

Services:

1. Pilotage:

   • Compulsory: Compulsory for all vessels entering or leaving the port. Highly skilled pilots familiar with local conditions are available.

2. Tug Assistance:

   • Berthing and Mooring: Powerful tugboats provide berthing and unberthing services. Tugs are equipped to handle large vessels.

3. Bunkering and Supplies:

   • Provisions: Bunkering services for fuel and water supplies are available, along with other maritime services like repairs and maintenance.

4. Security:

   • ISPS Compliance: As an ISPS-compliant port, Saldanha Bay adheres to international security standards ensuring the safety of vessels, cargo, and facilities.

Economic Impact:

• Vital conduit for South Africa's mining industry, especially iron ore.
• Supports regional economic activities and provides employment.
• Emerging center for oil and gas industry services in the region.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability:

• Efforts are being made to minimize the environmental impact through careful management of operations and adherence to environmental regulations. Initiatives include pollution control, waste management, and habitat conservation.

Future Developments:

• Expansion plans focus on enhancing capacity and infrastructure to cater to increasing demand.
• Potential developments in renewable energy logistics and further enhancement of oil and gas service facilities.

Summary:

Saldanha Bay Port stands as a critical marine hub on the west coast of South Africa. Its deep-water facilities, significant iron ore export capacity, and expansion into oil and gas services underscore its strategic and economic importance. The port's ongoing development aims to solidify its position as a premier maritime gateway in Southern Africa.