The ports of Malamocco

The port of Malamocco is nothing more than the central access to the Venice Lagoon. The most functional in the Marghera direction, it lies south of the port of Lido San Nicolò and north of the port structure of Chioggia.

Its connection with Porto Marghera is through the Petroli Canal, in a geographical setting that sees it situated between the islands of Lido and Pellestrina. It takes its name from the nearby town of Malamocco and sees a particular geographical conformation of its surface.

It is practically protected by two long breakwaters that make it definitely fascinating to see, also thanks to the presence of the Rocchetta lighthouse located at the Spignon Tower. As of today, however, there are plans to renovate the area. In fact, as part of the project called MOSE, a set of works are planned that will massively change its appearance. Land reclamation, rearrangement of the seabed and the construction of a third dam placed offshore with a side basin dedicated to access, with the presence of barrage against high waters.

These numerous works are necessary, precisely in pursuit of the increasing number of dangers highlighted in the area. First of all, the shallow waters located on the sides of the navigable channels that have been the protagonists of many accidents. Of equal importance, also the absence of light signals in the access lagoon channels, which obviously make maneuvering difficult at night or in low seasonal visibility.

The entire dock, including the area of Lido and Chioggia, securing up to 290 berths for even very large boats, thanks to its depths of up to 15 meters. The facility is also available to sailboats from 7 to 16 meters.

For those who use this access, it is important to be clear about a set of prohibitions that the latest port authorities have notified, especially in view of the major works underway. Especially on the two sides of the north and south breakwater, it is not possible to proceed in navigation, anchoring, fishing or any other maritime activity. Obviously, in the vicinity of these areas, it is necessary to observe a very cautious transit with minimum speed in order to avoid wave motion.

The port of Malamocco is thus a port access that represents an important point in the dock connection of the Venice Lagoon. Clearly, many of its functionalities are still compromised by the multiple works that characterize it and that will still feature it in the coming years.