Caleta Patillos, Chile

Port Overview

Caleta Patillos is a small port located on the southern coast of Chile in the Tarapacá region, positioned at latitude -20.733333 and longitude -70.200000. With only one terminal and two berths, it ranks as a minor facility in Chile’s port system. Despite its size, Caleta Patillos holds strategic importance as a sheltered coastal harbor supporting regional bulk cargo operations. Its annual TEU capacity is limited, typically handling less than 50,000 TEU, making it suitable for niche maritime traffic rather than large-scale container throughput.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Caleta Patillos, Chile features a small coastal port with basic cargo facilities, including wharves for loading and unloading bulk materials. The port primarily handles bulk cargo and supports local fishing activities. Equipment includes mobile cranes for cargo operations, but there are no automated guided vehicles (AGVs) or advanced container terminals. The port offers essential services such as ship chandler and provisions, but lacks specialized terminals for dangerous or liquid cargo.

Container Terminals

Caleta Patillos, Chile, has one terminal with 2 berths, primarily handling dry bulk rather than containers. The port does not operate as a container terminal and has no significant container handling capacity or automation. Operations are conventional and mainly serve the mining sector. Major operators are private mining companies, not international container terminal operators.

Port Services

Main services at Caleta Patillos, Chile:

• Cargo operations: Primarily bulk cargo, especially salt exports.
• Ship services: Longshoremen, pilotage, tug assistance, provisions, water, fuel, electrical repair, and navigation equipment support.
• Warehousing: Limited; mainly open storage for bulk cargo.
• Customs: Clearance procedures available for vessel entry and cargo export.
• Container handling: Not a primary service; the port is not equipped for regular container operations.

Global Connectivity

Caleta Patillos, located in northern Chile, primarily serves the Tarapacá region and is connected to other Chilean ports such as Iquique and Puerto San Antonio, as well as Matarani in Peru. The port mainly handles bulk cargo and general cargo, supporting regional mining and industrial exports. Shipping routes from Caleta Patillos link to major Pacific markets, including Asia and North America, via feeder and bulk shipping services. Connectivity relies heavily on road transport for hinterland access.

Port Statistics

Caleta Patillos, Chile – Key Port Statistics

• TEU Throughput: Approximately 1,200 TEUs annually, mainly seafood cargo.
• World Ranking: Not ranked among major global container ports.
• Number of Berths: 2.
• Port Area: Specific land area not published; small-scale, single terminal.
• Shipping Lines: Limited service; primarily regional and specialized operators.