VIRTSU

• Latitude: 58.5744
•
• Longitude: 23.5098
•
• Baltic Sea
•
• Port in Estonia

Address: Virtsu 90101 Estonia

Phone number: +372 473 7611

Web-site: http://www.portofvirtsu.ee/

Virtsu Port, Estonia

General Overview

Location: Virtsu Port is situated in western Estonia, on the northern shore of the Väinameri Sea. It's a crucial point for ferry transportation between the mainland and the islands, particularly to the island of Saaremaa via the Kuivastu port.

Coordinates:

• Latitude: 58.5719° N
• Longitude: 23.5208° E

Function: The port primarily serves as a ferry terminal, but also handles smaller cargo ships, leisure craft, and fishing vessels.

Port Specifications

1. Water Depth:

   • Approach Channel Depth: Approx. 7.5 meters
   • Berth Depth: Varies between 5 to 6.5 meters, depending on the specific berth.

2. Berths:

   • The port consists of around 3 to 4 main berths used primarily for ferry services.
   • Additional berths are allocated for fishing vessels and the capacity for small cargo handling.

3. Facilities:

   • Ferry Terminal: Equipped with passenger waiting areas, ticket offices, and basic amenities.
   • Cargo Handling Facilities: Limited but adequate for small-scale cargo operations.
   • Fishing Facilities: Dedicated areas for local fishing vessels and facilities for handling and storing catch.
   • Marina: Available for smaller leisure boats and yachts, with mooring facilities and basic services like water and electricity supply.

4. Services:

   • Pilotage: Optional, generally not required for regular ferry services but available if needed.
   • Towing: Available via arrangement.
   • Repairs: Basic repair services available, major repairs need to be handled at larger ports.
   • Bunkering: Limited fuel supply facilities available.
   • Waste Management: Facilities for handling general waste and bilge water, though specialized waste handling may need to be arranged separately.

5. Navigation Aids:

   • Equipped with standard navigational aids like buoys and lights.
   • Regular updates and maintenance are carried out to ensure safety.

6. Connectivity:

   • Well-connected by road to major Estonian cities.
   • Regular ferry connections to Kuivastu on the island of Saaremaa.

Importance

Virtsu Port serves as a vital gateway for both local residents and tourists traveling to and from Estonia's islands. While its primary function is as a ferry terminal, the port's capabilities for handling small cargo, fishing, and leisure vessels add to its versatility. It forms an essential part of the regional transport infrastructure and supports local economies on both sides of the ferry routes.

Economic and Social Impact

• Local Economy: Supports the transport of goods and people, boosting local economies, particularly in the tourism and fishing sectors.
• Environmental Considerations: Adherence to environmental standards, with initiatives to minimize pollution and manage waste effectively.

Future Developments

There are plans to further develop the infrastructure to make the port more efficient and capable of handling increased traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons. These may include the modernization of facilities, improvements in navigational aids, and potentially expanding the port's cargo handling capabilities.

Virtsu Port continues to play a critical role in maintaining connectivity and supporting economic activities in the region, enhancing the quality of life for both residents and visitors.