Gijon, Spain

Port Overview

Gijón is a major port city on Spain’s northern coast, located in Asturias along the Bay of Biscay. As the largest city in Asturias, it ranks among Spain’s top 15 cities by population. The Port of Gijón (El Musel) is strategically important for bulk cargo, especially coal and iron, serving as a key gateway for northern Spain’s industry and trade. Its annual container throughput is modest compared to Spain’s largest ports, handling approximately 100,000 TEU per year.

Facilities & Infrastructure

The Port of Gijón is Spain's leading dry bulk port, specializing in coal and iron ore handling with an annual capacity exceeding 25 million tons. The main El Musel terminal features modern quays with depths of 23-27 meters, accommodating bulk carriers up to 230,000 DWT. The port includes a 60-hectare storage area capable of holding 2 million tons of bulk commodities. Container operations handle approximately 200,000 TEUs annually. The facility also encompasses a marina, fishing operations, and shipbuilding yards, supported by comprehensive road and rail connections.

Container Terminals

Gijón's container terminal is operated by APM Terminals, offering a floor area of 40,000 m². The terminal has recently enhanced its capabilities with a Post-Panamax crane, allowing it to handle larger vessels efficiently. While specific berth numbers are not detailed, the terminal is equipped with modern infrastructure and rail connections, supporting its role in northern Spain's import and export activities. Major operators include APM Terminals.

Port Services

• Container handling: Specialized container terminals with modern equipment for efficient loading and unloading.
• Cargo operations: Facilities for solid bulk, liquid bulk, general cargo, and multipurpose handling, including coal, iron ore, and other commodities.
• Ship services: Berthing for large vessels, bunkering, water supply, waste collection, and technical support.
• Warehousing: Extensive storage areas and warehouses for various cargo types, including open and covered storage.
• Customs: Full customs clearance and inspection services for import and export cargo.

Global Connectivity

Gijón, Spain’s Port of El Musel is a major Atlantic gateway serving northern Spain and the Asturias region. It offers direct maritime connections to ports in France, the UK (notably Poole), the Canary Islands, and the Atlantic European coast. The port is well integrated with inland road and rail networks, supporting efficient cargo flows to the northwest Iberian Peninsula and broader European markets. Regular container and bulk shipping routes link Gijón to key international trade lanes.

Port Statistics

Port of Gijón, Spain – Key Statistics (2025):

• TEU throughput: Approximately 60,000–70,000 TEU annually (estimated; Gijón is a minor container port)
• World ranking: 353rd in global port connectivity
• Number of berths: 1 main berth
• Port area: Approximately 150 hectares (land and water combined)
• Shipping lines: Served by MSC and X-Press Feeders with 1–2 weekly departures

Gijón primarily handles bulk and general cargo, with limited but regular container services.