irelandIEBEF

Belfast Port

Belfast Port Overview | Key Maritime Gateway in Ireland

Explore Belfast Port, a major port in Ireland facilitating trade and shipping activities in the region.

Welcome to Belfast Port

Belfast Port, strategically situated in Northern Ireland, serves as one of the most significant maritime gateways in the UK and Ireland. With coordinates at 54º 36' 53'' N and -5º 54' 32'' W, Belfast Port has a rich history that reflects the area’s industrial heritage and maritime culture. As a key player in the logistics and shipping industry, the port facilitates a diverse range of activities, from cargo shipping and ferry services to fishing and cruise operations. Varied trade, particularly in containers, bulk goods, and automotive products, bolster its strategic importance and economic contribution to both Belfast and the wider region.

The port is well-equipped with modern infrastructure and deep-water berths that accommodate larger vessels, enhancing its operational capacity and efficiency. With a significant focus on sustainability and innovation, Belfast Port has taken initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint, implement green technologies, and comply with the latest regulations in maritime operations. As a result, it supports local businesses and international trade, playing a central role in Northern Ireland’s economy.

Belfast Port welcomes an array of vessel types, including container ships, ferries, and cruise liners, connecting Belfast with various international destinations. With expansive facilities, adequate supply chains, and ongoing investments in infrastructure, the port is poised for growth and development, reinforcing its position as a critical asset for maritime logistics in the region.

Port Details

Comprehensive technical information and facilities available at Belfast Port

Basic Information

AddressHarbour OfficeCorporation SquareBelfast, Northern Ireland BT1 3ALUnited Kingdom
Phone44 28 9055 4422
Fax44 28 9055 4411
Coordinates54º 36' 53'' N, -5º -54' -32'' W
Decimal54.6149132, -5.9089576
U N/ L O C O D EIEBEF
Websitewww.belfast-harbour.co.uk

Port Facilities

TerminalYes
Channel21 - 25 feet 6.4 - 7.6 meters
Anchorage31 - 35 feet 9.4 - 10 meters
Oil Terminal31 - 35 feet 9.4 - 10 meters
Harbor SizeLarge
Max Vessel SizeOver 500 feet in length
Harbor TypeRiver Basin
Wharves-

Services & Equipment

ServiceDetailsStatus
Port AuthorityBelfast Harbour Commissioners
Port TypeSeaport
Port SizeMedium
Inland portNo
Mean tide2 feet m
TideNot specified
Overhead LimitNot specified
SwellNot specified
Cargo Pier31 - 35 feet 9.4 - 10 meters
Mean Tide2 feet
ShelterExcellent
Turning AreaYes
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 RepairsMajor
Marine RailroadNot specified
DegaussNot specified
Drydock SizeLarge
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 Belfast Port

Annual TEUs

Approximately 530,000 TEUs, reflecting diverse shipping activities across various sectors.

Last 12 months container volume

Monthly Vessel Calls

Around 100-120 vessel calls per month, indicating robust operational traffic.

Average monthly vessel traffic

Average Port Stay

Vessels typically stay about 24-36 hours for loading and unloading procedures.

Typical vessel turnaround time

Berth Occupancy

Estimated at 80%-90%, especially during peak shipping seasons.

Current utilization rate

On-Time Arrivals

Approximately 85%, showcasing effective port management practices.

Schedule reliability

Anchorage Wait Time

Usually about 1-2 hours for vessels waiting to enter the port.

Average waiting at anchorage

Most Frequent Shipping Lines

Stena Line
DFDS Seaways
P&O Ferries.

Regional shipping lines servicing routes within Asia and beyond

Main Trade Routes

Routes connecting to Liverpool, England; next to Scotland and continental European destinations.
Significant export pathways involve heavy machinery, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural produce.

Major routes connecting with Asia, Europe, and North America

Common Delay Causes

Weather conditions leading to schedule adjustments, particularly in winter.
High traffic volumes during peak export times can lead to delays.

Weather conditions and peak season congestion factors

Vessel Schedule Performance

Analysis of vessel scheduling efficiency and common operational challenges

Schedule Performance Factors

No data available

Common operational challenges and efficiency factors

Carbon Emissions & Sustainability Index

Environmental initiatives and sustainability measures at Belfast Port

Green Initiatives

Investing in renewable energy sources and electric vehicle charging stations at the port.
Programs for recycling and reducing waste generated by port activities.

Environmental sustainability initiatives

CO2 per TEU

In the process of being calculated as part of emissions monitoring located at the port.

Carbon emissions efficiency

Emission Score

N/A - assessments are ongoing as part of environmental initiatives.

Relative environmental performance

Port Congestion & Real-Time Status

Current port congestion levels and vessel traffic information

At Berth

6-8 vessels generally present at berth during peak operational hours.

Vessels currently docked

At Anchorage

3-5 vessels may be at anchorage based on traffic and scheduling efficiencies.

Vessels waiting

Dwell Time

1-2 days based on the specific type of cargo and processing times.

Average cargo stay

Congestion Trends

Generally steady with minor spikes during seasonal trade peaks.

30-day congestion analysis

Connectivity & Trade Routes

Transportation networks and global trade connections from Belfast Port

Intermodal Connections

Strategically positioned for transport links via road, rail, and sea promoting efficient logistics.
Future plans to enhance connectivity to facilitate better inland transportation.

Transportation networks and connections

Top Destination Ports

Port of Liverpool, United Kingdom
Port of Rotterdam, Netherlands

Primary trade destinations

Shipping Alliances

Collaborations with major shipping companies to optimize routes and efficiency for cargo transport.

Global shipping partnerships

Regional Context & Economic Impact

Understanding the broader economic and regional significance of Belfast Port

Economic Significance

Belfast Port is a linchpin in the Northern Irish economy, enhancing international trade while committing to sustainable practices for future growth.

Regional economic impact and significance

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and answers about Belfast Port