Alotau, Papua New Guinea

Port Overview

Alotau is the capital and main port of Milne Bay Province, located on the southeastern tip of mainland Papua New Guinea, along the northern shore of Milne Bay. It ranks as a prominent regional port and gateway to over 600 islands in the province. Strategically, Alotau serves as the primary entry point for maritime trade, tourism, and inter-island transport, supporting local industries such as copra and fishing. The port’s annual TEU capacity is modest, typically handling under 10,000 TEU, reflecting its role as a regional rather than major international container hub.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Alotau Port features two main berths: an overseas berth (93m) and a coastal berth (56m), plus a barge ramp. Cargo facilities include 2,430 sq.m of covered storage and 7,640 sq.m of open storage. Handling equipment consists of forklifts and semi-trailers for container operations; there are no shore cranes or automated guided vehicles (AGVs). The port does not support bulk, Ro-Ro, tanker, or LNG operations, and tug services must be arranged externally.

Container Terminals

Alotau, Papua New Guinea’s container terminal has two berths: one overseas berth (93 meters) and one coastal berth (56 meters). The port handles limited container traffic with basic cargo handling equipment such as forklifts and semi-trailers, but lacks shore cranes and automation. Storage includes 2,430 m² covered and 7,640 m² open space. Major stevedoring operators are Alotau Stevedoring & Transport Ltd. and Palm Stevedoring & Transport Ltd.

Port Services

• Container handling: Forklifts and semi-trailers available for loading/unloading up to 40-foot containers; no shore cranes.
• Cargo operations: General cargo, containerized cargo, and stevedoring services provided by local operators.
• Ship services: Fresh water supply, fuel bunkering by road tanker, pilotage (non-compulsory), port security, and shipping agents.
• Warehousing: 2,430 sq.m. covered storage and 7,640 sq.m. open storage area.
• Customs: Full customs clearance and inspection as an official port of entry.

Global Connectivity

Alotau, Papua New Guinea, is now directly connected by road to Port Moresby via the Magi Highway, enhancing access to the National Capital District and Central Province. The port serves Milne Bay and its 600 islands, supporting regional trade and tourism. Shipping routes link Alotau to other major PNG ports such as Lae, Madang, Oro Bay, and Vanimo, facilitating connections to international markets in Australia and Asia.

Port Statistics

Alotau, Papua New Guinea

• TEU throughput: Not individually reported; Alotau is a minor port primarily handling cruise and general cargo, with national throughput at 204,518 TEU in 2020.
• World ranking: Not ranked in the World Bank Container Port Performance Index.
• Number of berths: 1
• Port area: Not publicly specified.
• Shipping lines: Mainly serves cruise lines such as P&O Cruises Australia, Princess Cruises, and Silversea Cruises; limited container and general cargo services.