BACKALAND (EDAY)

• GBBKC
• Latitude: 59.1558
• Longitude: -2.7494
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: Eday Orkney Islands UK

Web-site: http://example.com/port-backaland

Backaland, located on the island of Eday in the Orkney Islands, Scotland, UK, is a small marine port primarily functioning as a ferry terminal. Given its scale and geographic location, Backaland serves crucial roles in local transport, commerce, and connectivity within the Orkney archipelago. Here’s a detailed description and relevant specifications for the port at Backaland, Eday.

General Description

• Location: Backaland is situated on the western coast of Eday, one of the northern isles of the Orkney Islands. Eday itself is a rural island known for its natural beauty, rich archaeological sites, and marine biodiversity.
• Coordinates: Approx. 59.2072° N latitude, -2.7674° W longitude.

Port Facilities and Infrastructure

• Primary Use: Primarily serves as a ferry terminal offering passenger and limited cargo services.
• Operators: Operated chiefly by Orkney Ferries, which provides essential transportation links between Eday and other islands in Orkney, as well as mainland Scotland.
• Berths: The port features a small number of berths adequate for accommodating ferries and small vessels.
  • Typical berth lengths may range from 30 to 50 meters, suitable for the island ferries.
• Depth: The depth at the berths generally ranges between 2.5 to 4 meters, suitable for the draft of vessels frequenting the port.

Port Services

• Ferry Services: Regular services by Orkney Ferries connect Eday to other islands such as Westray, Sanday, and the Orkney Mainland, specifically the town of Kirkwall.
• Cargo Handling: Capable of handling limited cargo, mostly essential supplies, and resources for the island’s residents.
• Passenger Facilities: Basic amenities for passengers including waiting areas and restrooms.
• Navigation Aids: Equipped with standard navigation aids and lighting to facilitate safe docking and undocking operations.

Connectivity

• By Sea: Integral part of the regional network of ferry routes within Orkney, providing vital links between the islands.
• By Land: Eday’s road infrastructure connects the Backaland ferry terminal with other parts of the island. Local transport options are available for transferring passengers and goods around the island.
• By Air: The nearby airfield may support small aircraft operations, adding an additional connectivity option for residents and visitors.

Operational Considerations

• Tidal Range: Tidal variations need to be considered, although they are not typically extreme.
• Weather Conditions: As with all Orkney ports, operations can be affected by adverse weather, especially high winds and rough seas common in the North Atlantic.
• Emergency Services: Provisions for emergency and safety services are in place, including lifeboats and coordination with Orkney’s maritime safety authorities.

Summary

Backaland Port on Eday, although small, plays an essential role in ensuring the connectivity and sustenance of island life by enabling the movement of people, goods, and services. It boasts basic but critical infrastructure supporting regional ferry operations, helping to maintain the economic and social fabric of the Orkney Islands.

For the most current and detailed information, direct contact with Orkney Ferries or local port authorities would be advisable, as facilities and services can undergo updates or changes.