When discussing key logistics hubs along the Baltic coast, Ventspils Port inevitably commands attention. As one of Latvia's most important ports, its strategic geographical location and modern facilities have established it as a crucial petroleum supply point for the Baltic Sea region.
Located on the eastern Baltic coast at the mouth of the Venta River, Ventspils Port lies just 22 nautical miles from Helsinki. The port enjoys proximity to Stockholm to the northwest, while Klaipėda to the south and Copenhagen to the southwest remain within reasonable sailing distance. Operating year-round with unrestricted water depth regardless of season, the port ensures efficient cargo transportation throughout the year.
The port features a distinctive design with separate inner and outer harbor areas. The outer harbor is protected by north and south breakwaters, with three east-west parallel oil piers constructed on the northern bank outside the river mouth. This innovative structure can simultaneously accommodate up to six oil tankers, enabling rapid petroleum loading, unloading, and distribution. Beyond traditional oil operations, the port has recently added two new berths specifically designed for liquefied natural gas and chemical products, with maximum drafts reaching 12.45 meters, significantly expanding service diversity.
Along the Venta River shoreline, over 20 quay berths with maintained depths between 7.6 and 9.6 meters handle various cargo types including general goods, bulk commodities, and metals. A dedicated passenger terminal further enhances the port's multifunctional capabilities, establishing Ventspils as a vital platform for diversified trade operations.
With exceptional cargo handling capacity that ranked second among all Soviet-era ports, Ventspils maintains particular dominance in petroleum and other liquid cargo processing. The port annually manages 2.5 million tons of bulk cargo, 1.4 million tons of general goods, and 500,000 tons of grain, demonstrating substantial economic influence and logistical prowess.
Moving forward, Ventspils Port is poised to leverage its unique strategic position to strengthen connections with European and international markets, ready to embrace both emerging opportunities and challenges in global maritime trade.
