San Vicente, Chile

Port Overview

San Vicente is a key seaport located near Talcahuano, Chile, at approximately 36.73°S, 73.15°W. It ranks among the country’s most important container ports, serving as a strategic gateway for central and southern Chilean exports. The port is globally connected, ranking 319th in port connectivity, and handles a significant share of regional trade. San Vicente’s annual container throughput is around 500,000 TEU, making it a vital hub for both domestic and international shipping operations.

Facilities & Infrastructure

San Vicente, Chile, features key facilities like the San Vicente Maritime Terminal, which handles oil and fuel operations, and the San Vicente Terminal Internacional (SVTI), a multi-purpose terminal with a 1,074-meter berth and seven cranes. SVTI serves industries such as forestry and agriculture, offering connections to rail and highway networks. The port also includes facilities for bulk, containers, and liquid bulk cargo, with compulsory pilotage services available.

Container Terminals

San Vicente, Chile’s container terminal (SVTI) has 5 berths totaling 1,074 meters in length and a depth of 14 meters. Its annual container handling capacity is approximately 750,000 TEU. The terminal features moderate automation, including modern STS gantry cranes, but is not fully automated. Major operators include Hanseatic Global Terminals, which holds a 50% ownership stake. The terminal serves southern Chile’s forestry, fishing, and agricultural industries.

Port Services

Main Services at San Vicente, Chile

• Container Handling: San Vicente is a key Chilean port for container transfer, offering modern facilities for efficient loading and unloading of containers.
• Cargo Operations: The port handles a wide range of cargoes, including bulk, general cargo, liquid bulk (notably oil and gas), and breakbulk, supporting major regional industries.
• Ship Services: Provides pilotage (compulsory), tug assistance, and basic marine services, though some specialized services may be limited.
• Warehousing: Offers storage solutions for various cargo types, supporting logistics for importers and exporters.
• Customs: Full customs facilities are available, facilitating smooth import/export procedures and compliance with international trade regulations.

Global Connectivity

San Vicente, Chile is a key port serving the Biobío region and central-southern Chile, with direct connections to nearby ports such as Talcahuano, Lirquén, Coronel, San Antonio, and Valparaíso. It is integrated into major international shipping routes, enabling regular container services to North America, Europe, and Asia. The port is supported by road and rail links, facilitating efficient cargo movement to regional industrial and agricultural centers and global markets.

Port Statistics

San Vicente, Chile (Port Code: CLSVE) handles approximately 700,000 TEU annually. It ranks around 297th globally in port connectivity. The port has 4 main berths and covers an area of about 40 hectares. Major global shipping lines calling at San Vicente include Hapag-Lloyd, Maersk, ONE, HMM, and MSC. The port primarily serves container, bulk, and general cargo vessels.