Imagine the sun-drenched shores of southern Portugal, where cargo ships glide into port, unloading goods from around the world. This is Portimão—a vibrant port city that serves as both a tourist hotspot and a crucial maritime hub. Let’s explore the intricacies of this captivating harbor.
Portimão Port at a Glance
- Location: Faro District, along the southwestern coast of Portugal.
- Port Code: PTPRM
- Port Type: Urban port, also functioning as a barge port.
- Primary Shipping Routes: European feeder ports.
Shipping Details
Though modest in size, Portimão Port is well-equipped for its role. Key operational details include:
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) in winter, Central European Summer Time (CEST) in summer.
- Maximum Draft: 7.92 meters (vessels exceeding this may be restricted).
- Water Density: 1026.
- Tidal Range: Up to 3.81 meters.
- Prevailing Winds: Southwest or southeast, influencing navigation.
- Pilotage: Mandatory for safe entry and departure.
- Radio Channels: 2182 kHz, 2866 kHz, 2615 kHz.
- Operating Hours: 08:00–12:00 and 13:00–17:00.
- Vessel Limits: Maximum length of 493 meters; maximum draft of 7.01 meters. Ships can typically enter at low tide and anchor within the 365.76-meter-diameter breakwater.
Port Services
Portimão offers essential services to support maritime operations:
- Ship Repair: Maintenance and repair facilities.
- Launch Service: Small boat assistance for intra-port transit.
- Medical Assistance: On-site healthcare for crew members.
- Tugboats: Docking and undocking support.
- Freshwater Supply: Potable water for vessels.
- Repatriation: Coordination for crew members requiring return travel.
Note: The port does not provide fuel bunkering, dry dock facilities, or waste disposal services. Provisions are limited.
Berthing Facilities
Portimão’s berths cater to diverse maritime needs:
- Portimão Berth: 79.25 meters long; 4.41 meters deep.
- Passenger/Cargo Terminal: 300.2 meters long; 10.06 meters deep.
- Fishing Wharf: 400 meters long; 4.41 meters deep.
With its golden beaches and strategic maritime role, Portimão embodies the perfect blend of leisure and logistics. This guide illuminates the port’s operational framework, underscoring its significance in regional trade and tourism.