For four weeks, a team of 25 to 30 people worked intensively at the Andalusia Quay to dismantle and remove the two Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes, which operated for 15 years under DP World's management. The operation was coordinated by Wagenborg Towage Iberica SLU.
Each crane, weighing approximately 1,350 tons, began its preparation and structural reinforcement phase on April 28th. The loading onto the Wagenborg Barge 11, measuring 122 meters in length and towed by the vessel VB Brent, took place between May 18th and 20th, once favorable weather conditions were confirmed. The final departure from the Tarragona facilities occurred on Saturday, June 6th.
To ensure safety, the Port of Tarragona implemented total navigation restrictions of six hours for each loading maneuver, accompanied by strict protocols for risk prevention and marine environment protection.
This removal marks the beginning of a new era for the port, with the management of the new multipurpose terminal awarded to a joint-venture between the groups COSCO, one of the world's leading maritime operators, and PTP, with a strong presence in Latin America.
The new facility will occupy a minimum area of 226,109 m², expandable to 452,218 m². It is designed to handle high-value cargo such as containers, vehicles, and special loads, with a minimum target of 125,000 TEU annually from 2031. This project, involving an investment of approximately 117 million euros, aims to attract quality logistics activity, generate skilled jobs, and strengthen the port's role as a competitive and sustainable intermodal logistics hub.
