To safeguard this important driver of wealth and employment, Harwich Haven Authority was established by an Act of Parliament in 1863. Today, as one of the UK’s largest trust ports and the Statutory Harbour Authority, we’re responsible for preserving and managing 150 square miles of the Haven, including the Estuary and the Rivers Orwell and Stour. With around 40% of the country’s container traffic travelling through the Haven, our role is critical to its ongoing success and development.
We also ensure the safety and efficiency of everyone using the harbour, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our Pilotage, Vessel Traffic Services and supporting marine services, alongside maintaining the approach channel and navigational buoys, work together to keep trade flowing safely through the Haven night and day.
As an independent organisation with no shareholders, we generate income through the services we provide, including vessel tariffs and Pilotage. Our trust port status means we can reinvest surplus profits back into the Haven for the benefit of our stakeholders. This includes The Department for Transport, local authorities, environmental groups, sailors, residents, community groups and our employees.