Polish energy company ORLEN has begun operations at its newly constructed marine terminal at the Gdańsk refinery, with the facility already handling its first MGO loading and FAME delivery, according to Ship & Bunker.
According to Ship & Bunker, ORLEN reported in a statement on its website that the initial vessels calling at the terminal loaded marine gas oil (MGO) directly from the refinery, while also delivering FAME to support biofuel production. The Marine Transshipment Terminal is designed to enable direct product and feedstock transfers between the refinery and tankers, removing the need for intermediate transport steps.
Terminal Capacity and Infrastructure
Ship & Bunker reports that the terminal has been built to handle more than 1.8 million tonnes of cargo annually, with throughput capacity potentially reaching between 1.8 and 2 million tonnes per year. The facility features a 380-metre quay with two berths, allowing it to service two vessels simultaneously. Each berth can accommodate ships of up to 10,000 DWT, with a transfer capacity of up to 500 cubic metres per hour.
According to Ship & Bunker, ORLEN anticipates that approximately 100 vessels and 500,000 tonnes of products will move through the terminal during its first year of operation.
Strategic Significance for ORLEN
Ireneusz Fąfara, President of the ORLEN Management Board, described the project as strategically important for Poland’s fuel logistics, according to Ship & Bunker. “It shortens the supply chain, increases the operational flexibility of the Gdańsk refinery and strengthens our operational independence,” Fąfara said, as quoted by Ship & Bunker.
Ship & Bunker also noted that it had previously reported in 2024 on ORLEN’s plans to expand its presence in the bunker market through this new terminal, suggesting the facility forms part of a longer-term strategic initiative.
Does this matter to you?
The launch of this terminal may be of interest to those tracking bunker fuel supply infrastructure and availability in the Baltic region. With MGO loading capability now operational and a stated annual throughput target of 500,000 tonnes in its first year, the facility could influence fuel logistics and supply chain flexibility for vessels calling at or near Gdańsk. The terminal’s ability to handle vessels up to 10,000 DWT and process two ships simultaneously may also be relevant to those monitoring port capacity developments in Poland. Beyond these operational details confirmed by ORLEN and reported by Ship & Bunker, the broader market impact remains unclear from the available source material.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
