sierra leoneSLFNA

Freetown Port

Freetown Port - A Strategic Maritime Hub in Sierra Leone

Explore Freetown Port, the largest and most important port in Sierra Leone, enhancing trade, logistics, and maritime activities in West Africa.

Overview of Freetown Port

Freetown Port, located in the capital city of Sierra Leone, serves as the largest and most vital port in the country, playing a crucial role in the nation's maritime trade and logistics. It has a rich history, having been established in the late 18th century, and has since evolved into a central hub for the import and export of goods in West Africa. The port's strategic location on the Atlantic coast allows it to facilitate international shipping routes, connecting Sierra Leone to global markets and enhancing trade opportunities.

The port is equipped with various facilities, including multiple berths and a range of cargo handling equipment, capable of accommodating various vessel types, including bulk carriers, container ships, and general cargo vessels. This flexibility enables Freetown Port to handle diverse cargo goods, from agricultural products to industrial materials, supporting both local and foreign economies. Furthermore, its proximity to the capital provides efficient logistics for transportation and distribution to inland markets, enhancing economic viability for businesses and consumers alike.

Ongoing modernization efforts aim to improve the efficiency and capacity of Freetown Port. These initiatives include expanding docking facilities and upgrading cargo handling equipment, which are essential to meet the increasing demand for maritime services. Additionally, sustainability initiatives are being explored to minimize the port's environmental impact, promoting green logistics and efficient operational practices. As Freetown Port continues to develop, it remains a pivotal player in Sierra Leone's maritime industry, fostering economic growth and enhancing regional connectivity.

Port Details

Comprehensive technical information and facilities available at Freetown Port

Basic Information

AddressQueen Elizabeth II QuayPMB 386 Cline TownFreetownSierra Leone
Phone232 22 229308
Fax232 22 226443
Email-
Coordinates8º 29' 20'' N, -13º -12' -17'' W
Decimal8.4891345, -13.2048372
U N/ L O C O D ESLFNA
Website-
RegionWest Africa

Port Facilities

TerminalYes
Channel36 - 40 feet 11 - 12.2 meters
Anchorage51 - 55 feet 15.5 - 16 meters
Oil Terminal31 - 35 feet 9.4 - 10 meters
Harbor SizeSmall
Max Vessel SizeOver 500 feet in length
Harbor TypeCoastal Natural
Wharves-

Services & Equipment

ServiceDetailsStatus
Port AuthoritySierra Leone Ports Authority
Port TypePier, Jetty or Wharf
Port SizeSmall
Inland portNo
Mean tide3 feet m
TideNot specified
Overhead LimitNot specified
SwellNot specified
Cargo Pier26 - 30 feet 7.1 - 9.1 meters
Mean Tide3 feet
ShelterFair
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 RepairsModerate
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 Freetown Port

Annual TEUs

Approximately 200,000 TEUs, reflecting substantial cargo activity.

Last 12 months container volume

Monthly Vessel Calls

Ranges from 85-120 vessel calls monthly, indicating a vibrant operational environment.

Average monthly vessel traffic

Average Port Stay

Typically 24-36 hours, depending on the type and volume of cargo being handled.

Typical vessel turnaround time

Berth Occupancy

Estimated at 70-80% during peak periods, highlighting the port's importance.

Current utilization rate

On-Time Arrivals

No data

Schedule reliability

Anchorage Wait Time

No data

Average waiting at anchorage

Most Frequent Shipping Lines

International shipping lines and local operators facilitating trade routes.

Regional shipping lines servicing routes within Asia and beyond

Main Trade Routes

No data available

Major routes connecting with Asia, Europe, and North America

Common Delay Causes

No data available

Weather conditions and peak season congestion factors

Vessel Schedule Performance

Analysis of vessel scheduling efficiency and common operational challenges

Schedule Performance Factors

Weather conditions affecting vessel operations, particularly during the rainy season.
Logistical challenges in customs clearance processes and local infrastructure.

Common operational challenges and efficiency factors

Carbon Emissions & Sustainability Index

Environmental initiatives and sustainability measures at Freetown Port

Green Initiatives

Plans for infrastructural upgrades aimed at minimizing emissions from cargo handling equipment.
Exploration of waste management practices to enhance sustainability in port operations.

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

No data available

Vessels currently docked

At Anchorage

No data available

Vessels waiting

Dwell Time

No data available

Average cargo stay

Congestion Trends

No data available

30-day congestion analysis

Regional Context & Economic Impact

Understanding the broader economic and regional significance of Freetown Port

Economic Significance

Freetown Port is an essential feature of Sierra Leone's economic landscape, providing crucial support for both domestic and international trade. It enhances connectivity with regional markets and offers vital services that contribute to the overall development of the country. The port's strategic importance is underscored by ongoing efforts to modernize and improve its infrastructure, aiming to foster economic growth and ensure a sustainable future for maritime operations in Sierra Leone.

Regional economic impact and significance

Shipping Lines Serving Port

Shipping companies operating at Freetown Port

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and answers about Freetown Port