ARKLOW

• IEARK
• Latitude: 52.7947
• Longitude: -6.14604
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in Ireland

Location: Ireland

Arklow is a maritime port located in County Wicklow on the east coast of Ireland. It has a rich maritime history and serves as both a commercial and recreational harbor. Here are some key descriptions and specifications for Arklow Port:

General Description:

Location: Situated at the mouth of the Avoca River, Arklow Port is approximately 73 kilometers (45 miles) south of Dublin.

Coordinates: Latitude 52°47'N, Longitude 006°09'W.

Function: Primarily serves as a commercial port for small to medium-sized vessels, with activities including cargo handling (mainly timber, aggregates, and general goods), fishing, and recreational boating.

Port Specifications:

1. Harbor Type: Riverine and coastal combination.

2. Entry Channel:

   • The entrance to the harbor is through the Avoca River.
   • Depth: Typically around 3.5 meters (11.5 feet) at high tide. Note that this can vary and careful navigation is required due to shifting sandbanks.

3. Berth Details:

   • Commercial Quays: Available for cargo handling.
   • Fishing Berths: Allocated mainly for local fishing fleets.
   • Recreational Berths: Dedicated spaces for yachts and pleasure boats.

4. Maximum Vessel Size:

   • Arklow can accommodate vessels up to approximately 85 meters in length and a draft of 3.5 meters, contingent on tidal conditions.
   • Larger vessels may experience limitations due to depth and maneuverability restrictions.

5. Facilities:

   • Cargo Handling: Cranes and other loading/unloading equipment are available.
   • Storage: Limited on-quay and nearby warehousing available.
   • Marine Services: Basic services including pilotage, bunkering, maintenance, and repair facilities are provided.

6. Navigation Aids:

   • Fully functional lighthouse and navigation lights are present to guide vessels safely into the harbor.
   • An established pilotage service is recommended for larger vessels or those unfamiliar with the port.

7. Tide & Weather:

   • Semi-diurnal tidal pattern with a range of about 3 to 4 meters.
   • Mariners must account for local weather conditions, which can include strong easterly winds and occasional fog.

8. Environmental Considerations:

   • Efforts are in place to manage and mitigate environmental impact, with particular attention to the sensitive coastal and riverine ecosystems.
   • Waste reception facilities to handle ship-generated waste are available to prevent pollution.

Connectivity:

Road Access:

• Well-connected to the national road network via the M11 motorway, facilitating efficient transport of goods inland.

Rail Access:

• No direct rail connections to the port. The nearest major rail link is in Wicklow Town, around 20 kilometers (12 miles) north.

Nearby Services:

• Arklow town offers various amenities, including accommodation, dining, and medical services, to support seafarers and port users.

Important Contacts:

• Harbor Master Office: Responsible for day-to-day operations and safety.
• Port Authority: Manages the commercial and logistical aspects of port activities.
• Customs Office: Ensures regulatory compliance for cargoes and vessels.

Arklow Port continues to play a significant role in regional maritime activities, balancing commercial efficiency with environmental care and community interests.