netherlands antillesANWIL

Willemstad Port

Willemstad Port - The Gateway to Curacao

Explore Willemstad Port, a vital maritime hub in the Netherlands Antilles, facilitating trade and tourism across the Caribbean.

Overview of Willemstad Port

Willemstad Port is the primary seaport of Curacao, located in the capital city of Willemstad in the Netherlands Antilles. This port serves as a key maritime gateway, facilitating imports and exports to and from the island, while also being a popular stop for cruise ships. With its strategic location in the southern Caribbean, Willemstad Port plays a vital role in the regional logistics and trade network. The port is equipped to handle various types of cargo, including petroleum products, containers, bulk goods, and general cargo, making it one of the most important logistical hubs in the Caribbean region.

The port features modern infrastructure, including several deep-water berths capable of accommodating large vessels, container terminals, and efficient cargo handling facilities. One of the standout features of Willemstad Port is its historical significance and beautiful harbor view, often attracting tourists and serving as a scenic backdrop for the city. The port is not only a fundamental part of the island’s economy but also showcases the rich cultural history of Curacao through its surroundings, which are marked by colorful colonial architecture and vibrant local life.

Sustainability and environmental awareness are crucial elements of operations at Willemstad Port. The port authority is committed to minimizing its environmental impact while facilitating increased trade and tourism. Ongoing initiatives include adopting cleaner technologies, improving logistics efficiencies, and supporting community engagement toward environmental conservation.

Port Details

Comprehensive technical information and facilities available at Willemstad Port

Basic Information

Address-
Phone-
Fax-
Email-
Coordinates12º 6' 11'' N, -68º -55' -41'' W
Decimal12.1031444, -68.9282227
U N/ L O C O D EANWIL
Website-
RegionCaribbean Sea

Port Facilities

TerminalYes
Channel-
Anchorage-
Oil Terminal-
Harbor Size-
Max Vessel Size-
Harbor Type-
Wharves-

Services & Equipment

ServiceDetailsStatus
Inland portNo
TideNot specified
Overhead LimitNot specified
SwellNot specified
Cargo PierNot specified
Mean TideNot specified
ShelterNot specified
Turning AreaNot specified
CompulsoryNot specified
AvailableNot specified
AdvisableNot specified
Local AssistNot specified
ProvisionsNot specified
Fuel OilNot specified
DeckNot specified
WaterNot specified
Diesel OilNot specified
EngineNot specified
0-24 Ton LiftsNot specified
25-49 Ton LiftsNot specified
50-100 Ton LiftsNot specified
100+ Ton LiftsNot specified
Fixed CranesNot specified
Mobile CranesNot specified
Floating CranesNot specified
Med MoorNot specified
IceNot specified
AnchorNot specified
BeachNot specified
AssistNot specified
SalvageNot specified
PratiqueNot specified
Deratt CertNot specified
LongshoreNot specified
Electrical RepairNot specified
SteamNot specified
ElectricalNot specified
Navigation EqNot specified
Ship RepairsNot specified
Marine RailroadNot specified
DegaussNot specified
Drydock SizeNot specified
Garbage DisposalNot specified
Dirty BallastNot specified
TelephoneNot specified
RadioNot specified
AirNot specified
TelegraphNot specified
Radio TelNot specified
RailNot specified

Key Port Metrics

Essential performance indicators and operational statistics for Willemstad Port

Annual TEUs

Approximately 100,000 TEUs processed

Last 12 months container volume

Monthly Vessel Calls

About 200 vessel calls monthly, varying seasonally

Average monthly vessel traffic

Average Port Stay

4-6 hours for cargo vessels; shorter for cruise ships

Typical vessel turnaround time

Berth Occupancy

85% during peak cruise seasons

Current utilization rate

On-Time Arrivals

High, averaging around 93%

Schedule reliability

Anchorage Wait Time

1-2 hours for most vessels

Average waiting at anchorage

Most Frequent Shipping Lines

Global shipping lines for containers
Local shipping services for bulk cargo

Regional shipping lines servicing routes within Asia and beyond

Main Trade Routes

Trade with South America
Connections to North America and Europe

Major routes connecting with Asia, Europe, and North America

Common Delay Causes

Weather disruptions
Increased cruise traffic

Weather conditions and peak season congestion factors

Vessel Schedule Performance

Analysis of vessel scheduling efficiency and common operational challenges

Schedule Performance Factors

Weather conditions
Congestion during peak tourist times

Common operational challenges and efficiency factors

Carbon Emissions & Sustainability Index

Environmental initiatives and sustainability measures at Willemstad Port

Green Initiatives

Renewable energy integration
Focus on waste reduction practices

Environmental sustainability initiatives

CO2 per TEU

No data available

Carbon emissions efficiency

Emission Score

No data available

Relative environmental performance

Port Congestion & Real-Time Status

Current port congestion levels and vessel traffic information

At Berth

4-6, depending on operational demand

Vessels currently docked

At Anchorage

3-5 vessels typically waiting

Vessels waiting

Dwell Time

24-36 hours for cargo operations

Average cargo stay

Congestion Trends

Stable operations with manageable congestion

30-day congestion analysis

Regional Context & Economic Impact

Understanding the broader economic and regional significance of Willemstad Port

Economic Significance

Willemstad Port serves as a vital economic engine for Curacao, providing essential connectivity for trade and tourism in the Caribbean. Its historical significance and modern infrastructure make it an essential link in the regional maritime supply chain, while its commitment to sustainability positions it for future growth. As a prime entry point to the island, the port continues to enhance Curacao's reputation as a key player in Caribbean logistics and a beautiful destination for visitors.

Regional economic impact and significance

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and answers about Willemstad Port