Porto Romano (Porto Vecchio) di Ventotene

The Roman Port of Ventotene, also called Porto Vecchio, constitutes an extremely special and unique port of call. It does not in fact jut out into the sea as most ports do, but instead turns out to be almost clinging to the mainland.

This particular conformation is undoubtedly due to its origin. The Roman Port of Ventotene is in fact not a natural basin but rather the result of the artificial excavation of a tuffaceous bank (an element very present on the island) that sloped down into the sea, for a total of 60 000 cubic meters of material removed. The result was precisely the artificial harbor basin, with an average draft of 3 meters and surrounded and protected by rock.

The construction of Porto Romano should be framed in the climate of intensive exploitation of the island during the period of transition between the Republic and the Empire. The work was probably completed as early as the Augustan period, when Ventotene was annexed to other imperial properties.

The entrance to the port faces east, thus facilitating entry even in bad weather or strong Libeccio and Maestrale winds. Quadrant I winds, however, generate strong undertows, while during the winter season grecale winds can make it very difficult to exit the port.

Note the presence of a rocky shoal right at the entrance that can make some access maneuvers difficult.

The port offers 40 berths for boats up to 12 meters in length. Boats longer than 12 meters may enter the ports only in cases of special need and emergency.

Access hours are continuous, but before entering ports it is necessary to contact Diving Ciro Sub by phone to confirm actual mooring availability.

Within the harbor, boaters will be able to make use of outlets that ensure the supply of drinking water and electricity. Among the services provided are fire fighting, weather and pilotage services.

The ports are made safe by the guarding service. Moorings and divers are also available. In the nearby village you will be able to find a large number of bars, restaurants, supermarkets, and stores. Within the ports there is an ice retailer.

Porto Romano is equipped with a slipway and a mobile crane weighing up to 50 tons. Outdoor storage facilities will be available for boaters. Engine repairs, electrical repairs and repairs to wooden or fiberglass hulls are also carried out.

The moorings are managed by several private companies. The main one is Diving Ciro Sub, which is open year-round.