Porto De Sines, Portugal

Port Overview

Porto de Sines, located on Portugal’s southwest coast about 58 nautical miles south of Lisbon, is the country’s largest and most modern deepwater port. Ranked among the top 15 container ports in the European Union, it serves as a major transatlantic and intercontinental hub, connecting Europe with Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Its strategic importance is heightened by its role as a primary gateway for energy imports, including LNG and crude oil. The port’s annual container capacity exceeds 2 million TEUs, with expansion plans targeting 2.7 million TEUs.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Porto de Sines features several key terminals: a container terminal (Terminal XXI), liquid bulk terminal, multipurpose terminal, and LNG terminal. The port handles containers, crude oil, refined products, LNG, coal, and general cargo. Facilities include deepwater berths, modern ship-to-shore cranes, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and extensive storage areas. Its advanced equipment and deepwater access enable efficient handling of large vessels and diverse cargo types, making it Portugal’s leading port for energy and containerized goods.

Container Terminals

Porto de Sines’ container terminal, Terminal XXI, currently has 4 berths with a quay length of 1,040 meters, soon expanding to 1,950 meters. Its annual capacity is 2.7 million TEU, with expansion underway to reach 4.1 million TEU. The terminal features advanced automation, including super post-panamax cranes, but is not fully automated. Major operator is PSA Sines, handling the world’s largest container vessels.

Port Services

• Container handling: Modern deepwater terminals for efficient loading and unloading of containerized cargo.
• Cargo operations: Facilities for bulk, liquid bulk, LNG, general, and multipurpose cargo, including stevedoring and storage.
• Ship services: Piloting, towing, mooring, bunkering (fuel and utility supply), waste reception, and maritime traffic control.
• Warehousing: On-site storage and logistics zones for various cargo types, supporting industrial and supply chain activities.
• Customs: Full customs clearance and inspection services for import, export, and transshipment operations.

Global Connectivity

The Port of Sines is a strategic maritime gateway on Portugal's southern coast, connecting to over 200 ports across 80 countries. It serves as a key hub for transatlantic trade, linking Europe, Africa, and the Americas. The port's hinterland includes southern and midland Portugal, with excellent rail and road connections to Spain and beyond. Its shipping routes facilitate access to major global markets, enhancing its role in international trade and energy supply.

Port Statistics

Porto de Sines, Portugal – Key Statistics (2024):

• TEU Throughput: 1.9 million TEU
• World/EU Ranking: 14th largest container port in Europe, Top 15 in the EU
• Number of Berths: 9 container berths
• Port Area: 24 hectares (container terminal)
• Shipping Lines: Over 20 regular weekly and bi-weekly services connecting to major international markets