VTS Tower

The Maritime Traffic Control Centre, VTS – Lisbon, manages navigation within the area of jurisdiction of the Administration of the Port of Lisbon – provides information and advises ships sailing in the Tagus estuary and approaching it – up to a radius of 16.5 nautical miles (approximately 27 km), centered on the VTS – Lisboa and having the Vasco da Gama Bridge as an upstream limit.

Thus, controllers, through surveillance cameras, radars, sensors, among other support equipment, receive data that allows them to monitor and control maritime movement. Additionally, they are also responsible for managing the wharves.

Flanked by the waters of the Tagus Estuary, the Lisbon Port VTS Tower is located in Algés, at the tip of a breakwater in an artificial harbour. It was designed to withstand the extreme conditions of its location, withstanding the impact of tides, strong winds and occasional storms. The structure is supported by 25 piles, each 1 metre in diameter and 20 metres long, sunk 2 metres into the basalt seabed, ensuring stability and robustness.

Designed by architect Gonçalo Byrne, the VTS Tower won the Conde de Oeiras municipal architecture award. According to the jury, “a simple, geometrically clear gesture, with an original and careful treatment and detailing of the façade, which gives it a remarkable uniqueness. Thus, the rigour and quality of the project are still visible in the detailing and finishing options. In addition, the tower is considered one of the architect’s most emblematic constructions, standing out for its harmonious integration with the landscape.

Currently, the VTS Tower also houses the Tagus River Dolphin Observatory, becoming a landmark for environmental education and raising awareness about the preservation of marine biodiversity. From its top, visitors can admire not only the dolphins and seabirds of the estuary, but also a panoramic view of Lisbon and the Atlantic Ocean.