AUSSENELBE ANCH

• Latitude: 54.0436
• Longitude: 8.16902
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Anchorage in Germany

Location: Germany

Aussenelbe Anchorage (AUSSENELBE ANCH) is a designated anchorage area situated in Germany, primarily serving as an outer anchorage for the Port of Hamburg, one of Europe's busiest and most significant ports. Here is a detailed description and some specifications:

Location:

• Geographical Position: Aussenelbe Anchorage is located in the North Sea, outside the mouth of the River Elbe. It lies roughly between latitude 53° 53' N and longitude 7° 30' E.
• Proximity: It is situated at a considerable distance from the main port facilities of Hamburg, providing a preliminary holding area for vessels waiting to enter the Port of Hamburg.

Purpose:

• Transiting and Waiting Area: This anchorage is primarily used for vessels awaiting clearance to proceed upriver to the Port of Hamburg or for adjusting schedules, routine inspections, and coordinating further navigation plans.
• Quarantine and Inspections: It can also serve for quarantine purposes and other inspections before vessels are allowed to proceed towards Hamburg.

Specifications:

• Anchorage Depth: The anchorage area typically features depths ranging from about 10 to 30 meters, suitable for accommodating various types of vessels, including large ocean-going ships.
• Holding Ground: The seabed in this area is generally comprised of good holding ground materials, such as sand and mud, providing safe anchorage for vessels.

Navigation and Safety:

• Vessel Traffic Service (VTS): A comprehensive VTS operates in the Elbe estuary and approaches, providing navigation assistance, traffic monitoring, and safety information to ships arriving at or departing from the anchorage.
• Navigational Aids: Numerous buoys, beacons, and other navigational aids are strategically placed to guide vessels safely to the anchorage, reflecting the significance of this maritime area.
• Pilotage: Pilotage services may be available or required in specific circumstances to assist with the safe navigation of vessels, particularly larger ones or those not familiar with the region.

Services and Facilities:

• Support Services: Although it's primarily an anchorage area with limited facilities, support services like supply boats, bunkering, and emergency assistance can be coordinated from nearby ports.
• Communication: Standard marine communication channels are used for coordination with Vessel Traffic Services and port authorities.

Weather and Sea Conditions:

• Typical Weather: The weather conditions can be variable, with the North Sea known for its sometimes challenging weather, including fog, high winds, and rough seas, particularly in the winter months.
• Sea Conditions: Tidal currents, wave heights, and overall sea state need to be taken into consideration by ships using the anchorage.

Regulations:

• Anchorage Regulations: Ships are required to adhere to specific anchorage regulations set forth by German maritime authorities, including adherence to designated areas, reporting requirements, and compliance with environmental protection standards.

Environmental Considerations:

• Environmental Protections: Maritime activities in the Aussenelbe Anchorage area must consider environmental protections to safeguard the marine ecosystem, particularly given the area's proximity to sensitive habitats and shipping routes.

Summary:

Aussenelbe Anchorage serves as a critical holding and coordinating point for vessels heading toward Hamburg, ensuring that traffic is orderly and that ships can be safely brought into port. Its strategic importance, coupled with robust navigational and safety services, makes it an integral part of maritime operations in the region.