General San Martin, Peru
General San Martin, Peru is renowned as the landing site where José de San Martín began the campaign that led to Peru’s independence.
Port Overview
General San Martin Port is located on the western shore of Paracas Bay, about 6 nautical miles southwest of Pisco, Peru. It is one of the country’s key multipurpose ports, ranking among the most important on Peru’s southern coast. The port is strategically significant for exporting fishmeal, minerals, and agricultural products, and for supporting regional economic development. With recent modernization, it can accommodate vessels up to 285 meters and a maximum draft of 10 meters. Its annual container throughput capacity is approximately 200,000 TEU.
Facilities & Infrastructure
General San Martin Port in Peru features a main multipurpose terminal handling bulk, general, and containerized cargo. Key facilities include a deep-water quay, storage yards, and warehouses. The port is equipped with mobile harbor cranes and forklifts for cargo handling. There are no automated guided vehicles (AGVs) in operation. The port primarily serves commercial shipping and does not have dedicated cruise or passenger terminals.
Container Terminals
General San Martin Port in Peru has one wharf with four berths, handling both container and bulk cargo. The terminal’s annual capacity is modest, serving mainly regional trade. Automation is limited, with ongoing investments focused on equipment upgrades rather than full automation. The main operator is Terminal Portuario Paracas, which manages the port’s multipurpose facilities and oversees recent modernization efforts.
Port Services
- Container handling: Facilities for loading and unloading containers for import and export.
- Cargo operations: Bulk, general, and breakbulk cargo handling, including fishing, agricultural, metallurgical, and mining products.
- Ship services: Berthing, pilotage, towage, and vessel support.
- Warehousing: Storage areas for various cargo types, including covered and open warehouses.
- Customs: On-site customs clearance and inspection for international shipments.
Global Connectivity
General San Martin port in Peru serves the Ica region, including Pisco and Paracas, and is a key gateway for agricultural and fishery exports. It connects with major Peruvian ports such as Callao and Matarani, and supports shipping routes to Pacific markets in North America, Asia, and other South American countries. The port’s strategic location facilitates access to regional industries and international trade corridors, enhancing connectivity to global markets.
Port Statistics
General San Martin Port, Peru – Key Statistics
- TEU Throughput: Estimated below 100,000 TEU annually; primarily handles bulk and general cargo, not a major container port.
- World Ranking: Not ranked among the top global container ports.
- Number of Berths: 4 berths on a single wharf.
- Area: Port area is compact, focused on multipurpose operations; exact size not publicly specified.
- Shipping Lines: Serviced by regional and international lines, mainly for bulk, breakbulk, and cruise vessels.
