Port of Richards Bay

Richards Bay, South Africa

Richards Bay is South Africa's premier bulk port, originally built in 1976 as a coal export facility. It has expanded to handle various bulk and breakbulk cargoes. The Multi-Purpose Terminal includes six berths with a covered storage area of 18,000 m2. The port has an annual throughput capacity of 5.6 million tonnes, making it the largest exporting port in the country. Notable commodities include ferro fines, rock phosphate, and zircon. The Dry Bulk Terminal handles over 13 million tons annually, with strict measures to avoid contamination between different products. The port has 23 berths, with a maximum draught of 19m. Richards Bay serves the coalfields of KwaZulu Natal, Mpumalanga Province, as well as timber and granite exporters. The port is well-connected by rail to key provinces and has extensive road access. Richards Bay's strategic location has made it increasingly popular for international cruise ships due to its proximity to game parks and heritage sites. The port operates a fleet of tugs for vessel assistance and has robust ship chandling and stevedoring services.

Location

City: Richards Bay

Region: KwaZulu-Natal

Country: South Africa

Coordinates: 28.818° S, 32.052° E