Ykspihlaja, Finland
Ykspihlaja is a major deepwater seaport in Kokkola, Finland, serving as a key hub for international cargo and industry.
Port Overview
Ykspihlaja, also known as the Port of Kokkola, is located on Finland’s west coast in the city of Kokkola, along the Gulf of Bothnia. It is the third-largest general cargo port in Finland and features one of the country’s deepest harbors, accommodating vessels over 100,000 DWT. Strategically important for bulk, chemical, and transit cargo—especially for the extractive and chemical industries—it handles around 7 million tonnes of cargo annually. The port’s annual container (TEU) capacity is moderate compared to Finland’s largest ports.
Facilities & Infrastructure
Ykspihlaja, part of the Port of Kokkola, features a deepwater harbor with 26 berths and a 13-meter fairway, accommodating large bulk carriers. Key terminals include the deep harbor for bulk cargo, the AWT terminal for indoor loading/unloading, and specialized oil and LPG facilities. The port is equipped with high-capacity cranes (up to 300 tonnes), mobile and shore cranes, forklifts, loaders, and Finland’s only rail wagon tippler terminal. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are not specifically mentioned.
Container Terminals
Ykspihlaja, part of the Port of Kokkola, features container terminals with several berths, including deepwater facilities capable of handling large vessels. The port has 26 berths in total, with modern equipment and partial automation supporting efficient cargo operations. Annual container capacity is significant, contributing to the port’s 7–8 million tonnes total cargo throughput. Major operators include Port of Kokkola Ltd., serving industrial and transit traffic, especially for the chemical and mining sectors.
Port Services
Main services at Ykspihlaja, Finland:
- Container handling: Facilities for loading and unloading containers.
- Cargo operations: Handling of bulk, dry, liquid, and general cargo, including chemicals, minerals, and timber.
- Ship services: Mooring, unmooring, towage, ice-breaking, bunkering, water supply, and waste management.
- Warehousing: Extensive storage facilities for various cargo types.
- Customs: On-site customs clearance and documentation services for international shipments.
Global Connectivity
Ykspihlaja, part of the Port of Kokkola, is a major Finnish cargo hub on the Gulf of Bothnia, serving the Ostrobothnia region and central Finland’s industrial sector. It connects to ports across the Baltic Sea, Europe, and Asia via deepwater shipping routes accommodating Panamax and Capesize vessels. Key exports include bulk, chemicals, and minerals, with efficient rail links supporting transit cargo to Russia and other European markets.
Port Statistics
Ykspihlaja, Finland – Key Port Statistics (2025):
- TEU throughput: Approximately 100,000 TEU annually.
- World ranking: Not ranked among the world’s top container ports; regional significance within Finland.
- Number of berths: 7 berths.
- Port area: About 120 hectares.
- Shipping lines: Served by major Baltic and European short-sea carriers, including Finnlines and CMA CGM.
Ykspihlaja is part of the Port of Kokkola, specializing in bulk and container traffic for regional industry.
