Container Terminal of the Port of Cartagena
The Container Terminal of the Port of Cartagena (Spanish: Terminal de Contenedores del Puerto de Cartagena) serves as the primary hub for container management in Cartagena, Spain. Strategically positioned at the Santa Lucía Dock, this facility plays a critical role in the maritime logistics of the Mediterranean coast.
Located within the Region of Murcia, the terminal is designed to support a regional economy that is predominantly focused on exporting goods. Because of this economic structure, there has been a sustained and strong commitment to enhancing both container and general cargo traffic to ensure efficient global connectivity.

Growth and Capacity
The Port of Cartagena has maintained a dedicated focus on expanding its container traffic capabilities. This strategic prioritization has led to consistent growth over several years. A notable milestone in this trajectory occurred in 2011, when the terminal handled 72,000 twenty foot equivalent units (TEUs)—a standard industry measure used to quantify the capacity of container ships and terminals based on a 20-foot long container.
Key Facts
- Location: Santa Lucía Dock, Cartagena, Spain.
- Regional Context: Situated in the Region of Murcia, a major exporting area.
- Primary Function: Principal container management port for the city of Cartagena.
- Performance Metric: Reached 72,000 TEUs in 2011.
- Governance: Managed under the Cartagena Port Authority and Ports of the State.
Terminal Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Terminal de Contenedores del Puerto de Cartagena |
| Specific Location | Santa Lucía Dock |
| Administrative Region | Region of Murcia, Spain |
| 2011 Traffic Volume | 72,000 TEUs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Container Terminal of the Port of Cartagena located?
The terminal is located at the Santa Lucía Dock within the Port of Cartagena in the Region of Murcia, Spain.
What is the primary purpose of this terminal?
It serves as the principal facility for managing container traffic, supporting the export-heavy economy of the Region of Murcia.
What does TEU mean in the context of the port's growth?
TEU stands for twenty foot equivalent unit, which is the standard unit of measurement used to describe the capacity of container ships and the volume of cargo handled by terminals.
How much container traffic did the port handle in 2011?
In 2011, the terminal reached a volume of 72,000 twenty foot equivalent units (TEUs).
Who manages the terminal?
The terminal operates under the jurisdiction of the Cartagena Port Authority and the Spanish government's Ports of the State.