15 Facts About the Strait of Hormuz You Probably Didn’t Know
When looking at a map, the Strait of Hormuz might not seem all that impressive. It’s just a slim waterway squeezed between Iran and Oman. But don’t let the size fool you. This narrow passage is one of the most important shipping routes on the planet. Here are things you need to know about it:
It’s Only 21 Miles Across at Its Skinniest Point
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This strategic stretch is about 21 miles wide at its narrowest. But the actual shipping lanes for tankers are even tighter, which is just two miles wide in each direction. The rest is buffer space to avoid accidents. Despite its size, it handles a jaw-dropping amount of traffic.
One-Fifth of the World’s Oil Goes Through It
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About 20% of the world’s daily petroleum supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which is roughly 20 million barrels of oil a day. It is one of the busiest maritime oil routes on Earth, with countries from Asia, Europe, and beyond relying on it as a crucial energy highway.
It’s Also a Highway for Natural Gas
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Beyond oil, it also handles a hefty portion of the world’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments. In fact, about 83% of LNG flowing through the strait heads to Asian markets like Japan, South Korea, and China. That makes it a double-duty corridor for energy exports heading east.
The Water Is Deep Enough for Megaships
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The Strait of Hormuz is plenty deep, despite being narrow; most parts range between 200 and 300 feet. That’s more than enough for VLCCs (Very Large Crude Carriers), which are among the biggest ships in the world. These floating giants move millions of barrels at a time without scraping the seabed.
It’s More Than Just a Trade Route
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Historically, this region has been a crossroads of civilizations. For centuries, traders passed through the strait connecting the East and West. Spices, silk, and ideas flowed right alongside oil.
Two Countries Share the Coastline
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Iran borders the north side of the Strait of Hormuz, while Oman controls the southern side via its Musandam exclave. This split gives both countries coastal access and influence over maritime activities. Each country also operates ports and naval bases along the route.
Ships Follow a Traffic System on Water
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Here, the ships use a Traffic Separation Scheme, a maritime version of highway lanes, to keep things moving smoothly. Tankers travel in designated lanes separated by a buffer zone, which helps prevent collisions in one of the world’s busiest waterways. Think of it as GPS-guided choreography at sea.
Marine Life Lives Here Too
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More than being a shipping lane, this strait is home to a variety of marine life. Coral reefs, dolphins, and tropical fish thrive in the waters around the strait. But the heavy tanker traffic means that environmental protections are key to keeping this biodiversity intact.
Tankers Pay Extra for Insurance
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Due to its importance and traffic density, insurers charge a premium for ships transiting the area. Higher risk means higher costs, especially for vessels carrying flammable cargo. These expenses are baked into global oil prices.
It Has a Surprisingly Calm Weather Pattern
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While rough seas are common in many global straits, the Strait of Hormuz enjoys relatively stable weather. Winds and waves generally stay mild, which makes it easier for large vessels to pass. Still, visibility and high temperatures can sometimes pose navigation challenges in the region.
Local Pilots Help Ships Navigate Safely
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Despite modern tech, ships often rely on expert human guidance. Trained maritime pilots familiar with local currents and underwater terrain hop aboard vessels to help steer them through the strait. This centuries-old practice adds an extra layer of safety to each transit.
It’s Surrounded by Historical Monuments
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The lands around the strait hold more than ports and pipelines; they’re also dotted with forts, castles, and ancient watchtowers. Oman’s Musandam Peninsula, for example, features historic coastal forts once used to guard shipping routes.
The U.S. Fifth Fleet Operates Nearby
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The United States Navy’s Fifth Fleet is based in Bahrain, just a short sail from the strait. Its presence supports maritime security and safe passage for commercial vessels. Other countries also send naval ships to the region to conduct joint exercises and protect their own shipping interests.
It Has Seen Some Record-Breaking Ship Traffic
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On especially busy days, over 100 ships may pass through the strait. These include oil tankers, container ships, and fishing boats, all operating in close quarters. Managing that kind of volume takes coordination and a lot of maritime know-how to keep traffic flowing.
It’s a Lifeline for Neighboring Economies
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Countries bordering the Persian Gulf rely on the Strait of Hormuz for nearly all their oil and gas exports. Without it, energy exports would be far more expensive and complicated. For many countries, the strait is an economic artery that keeps commerce flowing and industries running.