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Port of Detroit

USDET🇺🇸USA

Located on the Detroit River, this inland port is Michigan's largest. It handles general, liquid, and bulk cargo, with steel being a key commodity. The port features multiple marine terminals and is equipped with pilotage and tug services.

Background
The Port of Detroit is located along the west side of the Detroit River, and is the largest inland port in the state of Michigan. The port is overseen by the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority, a five-member board of directors appointed by the State of Michigan, Wayne County and the City of Detroit. The authority coordinates river commerce on the waters and shoreline of Wayne County. The port consists of multiple marine terminals handling general, liquid, and bulk cargo as well as passengers. The Port of Detroit's single most valuable commodity is steel, and the largest commodity handled by tonnage is ore. Other important commodities handled at the port include stone, coal and cement.
Loading current conditions…
Channel Depth
6ft
Elevation
394m
Port of Entry
Yes
Pilotage Compulsory
Yes
Tug Assistance
Yes
Cranes
Fixed, Mobile
Drydock
L
Repair Code
A
UN/LOCODE
USDET
Country
🇺🇸USA
Time Zone
UTC-6
Feature Type
CNL (Canal)
Type
Port
Harbor Type
River natural
Shelter
Excellent
Subdivision
US-MI
Area
Great Lakes
Sub-area
Lake Erie
Body of Water
Detroit River
Latitude
42.2580°
Longitude
-83.1225°
Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Detroit?+
The approach to Detroit is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is River Rouge Mariners Memorial Lighthouse at 0.9 NM to the NE. Other aids include Grosse Ile North Channel Range Front (5.4 NM S), William G. Milliken State Park & Harbor (6.2 NM NE), Ballard Reef (7 NM S), Livingstone Channel Upper Entrance (7.4 NM S). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What sea or ocean is the Port of Detroit on?+
The Port of Detroit is situated on the North Pacific Ocean in US. The area falls within the temperate maritime climate zone, which can influence port operations and seasonal shipping patterns.
How do I track vessels arriving at or departing from the Port of Detroit?+
You can track vessels near Detroit (USDET) in real time using MarineRadar. The platform displays live AIS positions of nearby ships, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page or search for USDET on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Detroit?+
The Port of Detroit operates in the UTC-6 time zone. Operating hours, VTS schedules, and pilot availability vary — vessel agents should confirm with the port authority in advance, especially for night arrivals or weekend operations.