ARDAL ANCH

• Latitude: 59.138
• Longitude: 6.11235
• Norwegian Coast
• Anchorage in Norway

Location: Årdal Vestland Norway

Ardal Anchorages (Årdal Anch)

General Information

Årdal is a municipality in Vestland county, Norway, located in the traditional district of Sogn. While smaller and less prominent compared to major international ports, Årdal is well-situated for marine activities due to its proximity to the Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. Årdal has facilities primarily supporting local industries, such as aluminum production and hydroelectric power plants.

Location

• Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 61°20′N 07°39′E.
• Region: Vestland county, Norway.

Anchorage Specifications

• Type of Anchorage: Fjord anchorage near the town.
• Depth Range: Varies significantly due to the fjord's geography; depths can range from 20 meters to over 200 meters in deeper sections.
• Anchorage Area Characteristics: Good holding ground with a combination of mud and sand. The fjord's natural shelter provides excellent protection from harsh weather conditions.

Navigational Information

• Approach: Entering the fjord requires navigating through the Sognefjord and then steering towards the smaller side fjords leading to Årdal. Mariners must be aware of local navigational hazards, such as submerged rocks and strong tidal currents.
• Tidal Range: Moderate, with a typical range of 1 to 2 meters.
• Weather Conditions: Weather can vary dramatically; strong northerly winds can cause choppy waters, although the fjord generally offers good shelter.

Facilities

• Mooring Facilities: Limited berth space; best suited for smaller vessels or those associated with local industries.
• Cargo Handling: Facilities primarily geared towards bulk cargo such as raw materials for aluminum production.
• Support Services: Basic services available (fuel, water, minor repairs). More extensive services might require traveling to larger ports in the region like Bergen.
• Waste Disposal: Compliance with Norwegian regulations for handling ship-generated waste is mandatory.

Nearby Infrastructure

• Industrial Facilities: The Årdal aluminum plant (part of Norsk Hydro) and hydroelectric power stations are prominent industrial landmarks.
• Road Connectivity: Good road networks connect Årdal to other parts of Sogn and Fjordane, including tunnels through mountainous terrain.

Environmental Considerations

• Sensitive Marine Environment: The fjord hosts a diverse ecosystem; local regulations enforce strict environmental protection measures.
• Pollution Control: Mandatory compliance with MARPOL regulations concerning discharge and emissions; local monitoring is strict.

Points of Contact

• Local Port Authority: Coordination with the Årdal port authority (often part of municipal administration) is essential for scheduling anchorage and accessing services.
• Emergency Services: Available through local channels and coordinated with Norwegian coastal authorities.

Additional Notes

• Navigation Charts: Updated nautical charts are essential, given the fjord’s complexity.
• Custom and Immigration: Vessels from outside the Schengen Area must comply with Norwegian customs and immigration legislation.
• Local Amenities: Limited; nearest larger urban center with extensive amenities is Sogndal.

Årdal’s port facilities, while limited and industry-focused, offer a unique and sheltered anchorage point within one of Norway's most picturesque natural settings. Mariners must prepare adequately for the specific navigational challenges and regulatory environment.