Freeport, Grand Bahama I, Bahamas
Freeport, Grand Bahama is a major Caribbean port city known for its vibrant trade, pristine beaches, and unique blend of nature and culture.
Port Overview
Freeport, located on Grand Bahama Island just 68 miles off the US coast, is the Bahamas’ second largest city and a major maritime hub. The Freeport Container Port is the Caribbean’s deepest and largest container port, serving as a key transshipment center for the region. Strategically positioned near major North American shipping lanes, it offers world-class logistics and free trade incentives. The port has an annual container handling capacity of approximately 1.5 million TEUs, with expansion plans to increase this to 3.5 million TEUs.
Facilities & Infrastructure
Freeport, Grand Bahama features several key facilities: the Freeport Container Port, a major transshipment hub with deepwater berths and advanced container handling equipment; the Buckeye Bahamas Hub, one of the world’s largest oil and petroleum terminals with 80 storage tanks and multiple berths for large tankers; and the Grand Bahama Shipyard, offering three floating drydocks and multiple cranes for ship repair. The port also includes cruise terminals and Ro-Ro cargo facilities. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) are not currently listed among its equipment.
Container Terminals
Freeport Container Terminal, Grand Bahama, features 3 container berths with a quay depth of 15–16 meters and a total berth length of 1,036 meters. Its annual container handling capacity is approximately 1.5 million TEUs, with expansion plans targeting 3.5 million TEUs and up to 9 berths. The terminal uses advanced management systems and GPS tracking but is not fully automated. Major operators include Hutchison Ports and Mediterranean Shipping Company.
Port Services
- Container handling: Facilities for loading, unloading, and storage of shipping containers.
- Cargo operations: Full range of cargo handling, including breakbulk, bulk, and general cargo services.
- Ship services: Bunkering, ship repair, pilotage, towage, and vessel provisioning.
- Warehousing: On-site storage, bonded warehouses, and distribution facilities for various cargo types.
- Customs: Efficient customs clearance and inspection services for imports and exports.
Global Connectivity
Freeport, Grand Bahama is a major transshipment hub with direct connections to ports across North America, the Caribbean, and Europe. It serves key regions including the US East Coast, Latin America, and transatlantic routes. Regular container, Ro-Ro, and cruise services link Freeport to major markets such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and global shipping lines like MSC, Maersk, and Tropical. Its deepwater facilities support large vessels and efficient access to international shipping lanes.
Port Statistics
Port: Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas
- TEU throughput: Approximately 1.1 million TEU annually
- World ranking: Typically ranks within the top 100 container ports globally
- Number of berths: 23
- Port area: About 230 hectares
- Shipping lines: Major lines include Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, Seaboard Marine, Holland Maas, and Libra Shipping
The port serves as a key transshipment hub with regular connections to North America, Europe, and Asia.
