Albania is located along the Ionian and Adriatic Seas provides some amazing ports that are vital for tourism, investment, and trade.
In this article, we will explore the main ports in Albania. We will cover all information about the port location, cargo handling capacity, port code management and other vital information for your shipping.
4 Main Commercial Ports in Albania
1. Port of Durrës
- Albania Port Location: Central Albania, on the Adriatic Sea
- Albania Port Code: ALDRZ
- Albania Port Capacity Handling: Handles over 4 million tons of cargo yearly as well as 75% of maritime trade.
- Port Management: Managed by the Durrës Port Authority (AutoritetiPortualDurrës)
Port of Durrës is the major gateway to the Balkans. With its excellent road and rail connections, handling liquid petroleum, bulk cargo (grain, coal, and cement), passengers, containers, and general goods is easy.
Additionally, where Albanian sea ports with dedicated facilities for ferries and passenger ships are concerned, it stands out. As it is the most important Albanian port, it has major goods coming in and out yearly. Finally, it is the perfect point for international cruise tourism in the country.
2. Port of Vlorë
- Albania Port Location: Southern Albania, on the Adriatic Sea
- Albania Port Code: ALVLO
- Albania Port Capacity Handling: Handles up to 1.5 million tons of cargo yearly.
- Port Management: Managed by the Port Authority of Vlorë
The proximity of the Port of Vlorë to Italy makes it a pivotal center for Albanian and Southern Europe maritime trade. When South Albania ports are listed, Vlore is first on the list. This is mostly in the area of petroleum and oil products.
Also, the port has major oil terminal facilities and can handle major amounts of chemicals and petroleum, particularly for the Albanian and regional sectors. In the area of containerized cargo, Port Vlorë has facilities to have them handled. Finally, in the area of tourism, the port supports greatly with ferries that link Albania to major destinations in Italy.
3. Port of Shëngjin
- Albania Port Location: Northern Albania, on the Adriatic Sea
- Albania Port Code: ALSHN
- Albania Port Capacity Handling: Capable of handling approximately 1.2 million tons annually.
- Port Management: Managed by the Shengjin Port Authority
Representing the main port in Northern Albania, this port is vital in aiding trade between Western Balkans and Albania. This is mainly for exporting agriculture and importing regional bulk. Also, the port is located strategically which makes its ferry connections to Italy perfect.
Thus, making it the ideal hub for tourism and cross-border transportation in the future. Importantly, the port handles bulk goods like grain, coal, construction materials, etc. Again, in seafood exports to Italy, it is very active. There are ongoing developments in the port to increase its capacity to handle more industrial cargo and ferry traffic which means more Albania port jobs available from time to time.
4. Port of Sarandë
- Albania Port Location: Southern Albania, on the Ionian Sea
- Albania Port Code: ALSAR
- Albania Port Capacity Handling: Capable of handling about 0.5 million tons of cargo yearly.
- Port Management: Managed by the Port Authority of Sarandë
When the ports of South Albania are listed, the Port of Sarandë can never be left out. The port plays a major role in different industries of the country. Albania tourism industry is much alive because of this port.
The port links Albana to Greece as well as the wider Mediterranean. It is mainly vital for ferry traffic between the country and the Ionian Islands. Again, the port has major facilities for cruise ships, because it is a major stop for Mediterranean cruises. It handles some cargo linked to tourism such as local market food and retail goods.
5. Valona Port
- Albania Port Location: Southern Albania, on the Adriatic Sea
- Albania Port Code: ALVLO
- Albania Port Capacity Handling: Handles about 1.5 million tons annually
- Port Management: Managed by the Port Authority of Vlorë
When listing the South Albania seaports, Valona Port stands as one of the best. Due to the strategic location of the port, it is a major gateway for both international and domestic shipping.
Again, it is a major link for goods that enter and leave the country. Thus, supporting Southern Albanian industries and trades in other parts of the country. Albania maritime transport industry benefits greatly from this port. There are ongoing plans to expand the port to ensure its capabilities and capacity is expanded.
Other Minor Ports in Albania
· Port of Himarë
Although a small port, it is used mainly for tourism and local fishing. Also, it is capable of handling small cargo volumes like regional products and goods.
· Port of Orikum
The port of Orikum focuses on tourism, fishing, and light cargo handling which is mostly linked to the agriculture and local industries of the region. Furthermore, aids naval and military activities.
· Port of Pogradec
Situated on Lake Ohrid, this small port serves the lake transport and local tourism of the region. Mostly, limited commercial cargo transportation on the lake services is provided too.
· Port of Porto Romano
Being a minor port, the Port of Porto Romano is the hub for industrial bulk cargo, mainly cement and chemicals. Again, it is used by the local industries for small-scale operations.
· Port of Patos-Marinza
The port of Patos-Marinza is a minor port that focuses on the movement of petroleum products from the oil fields closer to the region. Also, it aids the local energy industry greatly.
Conclusion
As an investor, importer or exporter, or even a shipping business, knowing the different ports in Albania will help you make better shipping decisions. Not all ports can handle all kinds of cargo. So, your knowledge of these details helps you know how to manage your shipments.
For all your shipping and logistics from Albania, contact us now.
More resources:
Albania Freight Forwarders – Source: BANSAR
Calculate Sea Freight Rates with FCL and LCL – Source: BANSAR
