VAASA TOWN

• Latitude: 63.0917
• Longitude: 21.6042
• Baltic Sea
• Marina in Finland

Location: Finland

Port of Vaasa (Vaasa Town) - Finland

General Overview

The Port of Vaasa, located in the town of Vaasa on the west coast of Finland, is strategically positioned on the Gulf of Bothnia. It plays a vital role in regional trade and transportation, connecting Finland to Sweden and other parts of Scandinavia. Vaasa Town's port supports various types of maritime activities including commercial shipping, passenger ferries, and a robust service sector.

Location

• Coordinates: Approximately 63° 6' N latitude and 21° 36' E longitude
• Proximity to Major Cities: Approximately 420 kilometers from Helsinki, the capital of Finland.

Facilities and Infrastructure

1. Harbor and Berths:

   • Several quays equipped to handle different types of vessels.
   • Dedicated berths for cargo operations, passenger ferries, and private yachts.
   • Depth: The harbor depth ranges from 7 to 10 meters, accommodating medium-sized vessels.

2. Cargo Handling:

   • Container Handling: Dedicated container handling areas with modern equipment.
   • Bulk Cargo: Facilities to handle dry bulk, including grains, minerals, and other materials.
   • Timber and Paper Products: Special provisions for the storage and shipment of timber and paper, which are significant exports.

3. Passenger Services:

   • Ferry services operating between Vaasa and Umeå in Sweden, enhancing cultural and economic exchange.
   • Modern passenger terminal with amenities including waiting areas, shops, and restaurants.

4. Storage and Warehousing:

   • Substantial warehousing facilities for various goods.
   • Cold storage for perishable items.
   • Open storage areas for bulk commodities and vehicles.

5. Logistics and Support Services:

   • Efficient road and rail connections to the Finnish transport network.
   • Availability of logistic and forwarding services.
   • Custom clearance services on-site.

Port Services

• Pilotage: Mandatory pilotage for vessels entering and exiting the port.
• Tug Services: Availability of tugboats for maneuvering larger vessels.
• Bunkering: Fueling services available for visiting ships.
• Ship Repair and Maintenance: Facilities and workshops for routine maintenance and repairs.
• Waste Management: Waste disposal and recycling services adhering to international environmental standards.

Economic Impact

The Port of Vaasa significantly contributes to the local and regional economy by:

• Supporting import and export businesses.
• Enhancing tourism through passenger ferry operations.
• Providing employment opportunities in operations, logistics, and hospitality.

Environmental Considerations

• Sustainability Initiatives: The port adheres to strict environmental regulations to minimize pollution.
• Green Port Plans: Investments in green energy solutions and sustainable practices to reduce carbon footprint.

Future Developments

• Ongoing projects aimed at expanding and modernizing facilities.
• Infrastructure upgrades to accommodate larger vessels and increase cargo capacity.
• Plans to enhance digital infrastructure for more efficient port operations.

Conclusion

The Port of Vaasa is a critical hub in the maritime network of Finland and the broader Baltic region. With its comprehensive facilities, excellent connectivity, and commitment to sustainable practices, the port continues to facilitate significant economic activities and foster international trade and travel.