SEATTLE PORT MADISON

• Latitude: 47.69638
• Longitude: -122.5388
• US West Coast
• Marina in US

Location: Seattle WA US

The Port of Seattle, specifically the Seattle Port Madison, plays a critical role in the U.S. maritime industry, serving as a hub for both cargo and passenger traffic in the Pacific Northwest. Here are some detailed descriptions and specifications for the Port of Seattle:

General Description:

1. Location: The Port of Seattle is centrally located in the Puget Sound region, in the state of Washington. The marine facilities are a part of the larger Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metropolitan area.
2. Economic Importance: It is a major gateway for trade with Asia and Europe, contributing significantly to the regional and national economy.
3. Facilities: The port comprises various terminals dedicated to containerized cargo, bulk commodities, and passenger services, including cruise ships.

Key Features and Specifications:

1. Terminals:

   • Container Terminals: These are equipped with state-of-the-art cranes and infrastructure. Notable terminals include Terminal 18 and Terminal 5.
   • Cruise Terminals: There are two primary cruise terminals - Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal (Pier 66) and Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Pier 91).
   • Bulk and Breakbulk Terminals: Facilities for grain, seafood, and other bulk cargoes.

2. Water Depth:

   • The water depth at the different terminals varies but generally ranges from 30 feet to 50 feet, accommodating deep-draft vessels.
   • The navigational channels and berths are regularly dredged to maintain adequate depth.

3. Berth Length:

   • Berth lengths also vary but are typically between 600 to 2,000 feet, capable of handling large container ships and cruise liners.

4. Cargo Handling:

   • The port has advanced cargo handling equipment, including gantry cranes, forklifts, and conveyor systems.
   • Efficient intermodal connections (truck, rail) ensure rapid movement of goods.

5. Passenger Services:

   • The cruise terminals handle numerous cruise ships, primarily during the May to September season, offering voyages to destinations such as Alaska.
   • Facilities for passengers include parking, luggage handling, and customs services.

6. Logistics and Warehousing:

   • Extensive warehousing capabilities both on-site and nearby.
   • Integrated logistics support, including cold storage for perishable goods.

7. Environmental Initiatives:

   • The Port of Seattle is involved in sustainable practices, including shore power for ships to reduce emissions, habitat restoration projects, and pollution prevention programs.

8. Connectivity:

   • Excellent road, rail, and air connections. The port is closely linked to major highways (Interstate 5 and Interstate 90) and rail yards.
   • Proximity to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac), facilitating combined cargo and passenger movements.

Usage and Operations:

1. Trade Volume: Handles millions of tons of cargo annually, with a significant portion being containerized cargo.
2. Cruise Passengers: Seattle is a leading cruise port, embarking hundreds of thousands of passengers each season.
3. Industrial Activities: Apart from maritime operations, the port area includes industrial and commercial activities, contributing to diverse economic activity.

Services:

1. Marine Services: Pilotage, tug, and barge services are available 24/7.
2. Customs and Security: Equipped with U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities to ensure efficient and secure entry and exit of goods and passengers.
3. Support Facilities: Includes ship repair, maintenance, bunkering, and other maritime support services.

Future Developments:

1. Expansion Plans: Ongoing projects to expand terminal capacities, improve infrastructure, and modernize facilities to handle larger vessels and greater cargo volumes.
2. Technology Integration: Adoption of smart port technologies for better efficiency and tracking.

This comprehensive overview of the Port of Seattle, especially referencing marine-specific aspects, underlines its significant role in maritime trade and passenger transport, both regionally and globally.