BAHIA DE FORNELLS

• Latitude: 40.0545
• Longitude: 4.13077
• West Mediterranean
• Marina in Spain

Location: Spain

Bahía de Fornells is a picturesque bay located on the northern coast of Menorca, one of Spain's Balearic Islands. Fornells itself is a quaint fishing village that has evolved into a sought-after tourist destination while retaining much of its traditional charm. Here's a detailed description and specification of the marine port in Bahía de Fornells:

Geographical and Environmental Context:

• Location: Northern coast of Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain.
• Coordinates: Approximately 40.0572° N latitude, 4.1336° E longitude.
• Climate: Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Port Specifications:

• Type: Natural bay with a sheltered harbor.
• Navigation: Entry to the bay is via a well-marked channel. Mariners must take care to navigate between the headlands and the reefs on either side of the entrance.
• Berths: The port offers various mooring options, including:
  • Floating pontoons: For leisure boats and small yachts.
  • Quayside berths: Available for larger vessels and commercial boats.
  • Anchoring: Available in designated areas within the bay.

Facilities and Amenities:

• Marina Services:

  • Mooring assistance: Available for docking and undocking.
  • Fuel dock: Provides both diesel and gasoline.
  • Water and electricity: Connections available on the pontoons.
  • Waste disposal: Including oil and battery disposal services.

• Maintenance and Repairs:

  • Boat repairs and maintenance: Basic mechanical services, hull cleaning, and minor repairs.
  • Slipway and crane: Facilities for hauling and launching boats.

• Safety and Security:

  • 24/7 surveillance: CCTV and staff patrols.
  • Emergency services: Medical and maritime emergency response teams readily accessible.

Visitor and Tourist Amenities:

• Restaurants and cafes: Abundant dining options within the village, known especially for seafood.
• Accommodation: Range from luxury hotels to quaint guesthouses close to the waterfront.
• Shopping: Local shops offer marine supplies, groceries, and souvenirs.

Activities and Attractions:

• Water sports: Sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and snorkeling are popular activities.
• Fishing: Fornells is renowned for its seafood, particularly its lobster.
• Cultural: Fornells boasts historical sites like the 17th-century Torre de Fornells, as well as traditional festivals.
• Natural beauty: The bay is surrounded by scenic landscapes, ideal for hiking and bird watching. The nearby S'Albufera des Grau Natural Park is a notable attraction.

Accessibility:

• Nearby Airports: Menorca Airport (MAH), approximately 30 km away.
• Public Transport: Regular bus services connect Fornells with other parts of Menorca.
• Road Access: Well-maintained roads lead to the village, making it accessible by car.

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations:

• Protected Area Status: Parts of the bay fall within environmental protection zones, which regulate activities to preserve marine biodiversity.
• Waste Management: Strict protocols for waste disposal to minimize environmental impact.

Additional Notes:

• Seasonality: The port is busiest during the summer months (June to September) when tourism peaks.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions.

Bahía de Fornells is a blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and modern-day amenities, making it an ideal destination for mariners, tourists, and nature enthusiasts alike.