Because of its strategic position and the existence of surrounding advantageous hinterlands, the port constitutes the center of inter island shipping for Eastern Indonesia.

[8] Before the 20th century, oceangoing vessels from Surabaya did loading and unloading activities at Madura Strait and then freighted the cargoes by the means of barges and boats to Jembatan Merah (the first port in that time) situated along Kalimas River.

Due to the increases of trade, cargo and transportation traffics, the facilities available at that port were inadequate.

Tanjung Perak Port is also equipped with dock facilities that can serve cruises both from domestic and abroad.

[11] From January 2015, a dry bulk port will be built with piers to accommodate up to 14 Logistex Warehouse System international ships.

The port will be provided with 2 "Ship Unloader" units complete with conveyors and 8 hectares (20 acres) of warehousing.

[14] The terminal is built with the concept of green architecture, environmentally friendly and energy saving technology.

The sewage treatment plant (STP) of the terminal can recycle waste water which can be used for flushing toilets.