ARMADALE

• GBAMD
• Latitude: 57.0652
• Longitude: -5.89417
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: Isle of Skye Highland IV45 8RS UK

Armadale Marine Port - United Kingdom

General Overview:

Armadale is a harbor situated on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, part of the United Kingdom. It is commonly used by passenger ferries and serves as a key gateway for travelers visiting the Isle of Skye, particularly from the mainland port of Mallaig.

Location:

• Geographical Coordinates: Approximately 57.0600° N latitude and 5.9009° W longitude.
• Proximity: Located on the southeastern coast of the Isle of Skye in the Highland region of Scotland.

Accessibility:

• Waterways: Armadale is approached via the Sound of Sleat, a narrow passage that separates the Isle of Skye from the Scottish mainland.
• Road Access: Connected by the A851 road, which links to the Skye Bridge and other key routes on the island.

Port Facilities:

• Berths: The port features a ferry terminal with berthing facilities suitable primarily for passenger and vehicle ferries.
• Depth: The depth at the ferry terminal is adequate for standard ferry operations, although not suitable for large cargo ships.
• Docking: Equipped to handle roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) operations for vehicle and passenger ferries.
• Passenger Amenities: Waiting lounges, restrooms, and a ticket office are available at the terminal.
• Parking: Dedicated spaces for vehicles awaiting ferry embarkation, as well as longer-term parking options for travelers.

Services:

• Ferry Services: Regular ferry services operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) connect Armadale to Mallaig on the mainland. These are scheduled multiple times daily, especially during the peak tourist seasons.
• Cargo Services: Limited to smaller loads typically transported on passenger ferries, as there are no dedicated cargo handling facilities.

Operational Notes:

• Tidal Conditions: Tidal conditions in the area can affect ferry schedules, especially during adverse weather conditions.
• Navigational Aids: Buoys, lights, and other navigational aids are in place to guide vessels through the Sound of Sleat and safely into Armadale.

Contact Information:

• Port Authority: The local port management falls under the jurisdiction of Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) and CalMac for ferry operations.
• Emergency Services: Equipped with basic emergency response facilities, primarily coordinated through local coastguard and emergency services.

Economic Impact:

• Tourism: The port is a significant entry point for tourists visiting the Isle of Skye, contributing to the local economy.
• Local Connectivity: Supports local communities by providing a crucial link between Skye and the mainland, facilitating both personal travel and minor trade.

Summary:

Armadale Marine Port is an essential hub on the Isle of Skye, primarily serving passenger ferries with robust connectivity to the mainland. While limited in cargo handling, it plays a crucial role in local tourism and transport. The port's operation and services are tailored to meet the needs of passengers, providing a gateway to one of Scotland's most scenic islands.