BALINTORE

• GBBLI
• Latitude: 57.7547
• Longitude: -3.90889
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in UK

Location: Balintore Scotland UK

Balintore is a small village located on the east coast of the Scottish Highlands, in the county of Highland, United Kingdom. Although it is more known for its picturesque landscape and traditional fishing community rather than being a major marine port, here's a detailed description based on its characteristics and specifications:

General Overview

• Location: Balintore, Highland, Scotland, UK
• Coordinates: Approximately 57.7°N latitude and 3.9°W longitude
• Type: Small fishing village / minor harbor

Harbor Characteristics

• Type of Port: Small harbor primarily designed for local fishing vessels and smaller boats.
• Accessibility: Accessible by local roads, not equipped for large commercial shipping.
• Waters: Located on the Moray Firth, which feeds into the North Sea.
• Tides: Subject to tidal variations typical of coastal Scottish waters.

Facilities and Infrastructure

• Berths: Limited berthing space primarily for local boats.
• Marina: There may be a small area used by yachts and pleasure boats, but facilities are minimal.
• Cargo Handling: Not equipped for large-scale cargo operations. Primarily serves the needs of local fishermen.
• Navigation Aids: Basic navigational aids for small crafts; less sophisticated than major commercial ports.
• Support Services: Limited; focused on supporting local fishing activities. There might be basic maintenance facilities.

Surrounding Area

• Economy: Predominantly fishing, tourism, and local services.
• Tourist Attractions: Features traditional Scottish coastal scenery, historic sites, and is part of the larger Highland tourist route.
• Connectivity: Connected by local roads to nearby towns and villages, no major highways directly serve Balintore.

Environmental Considerations

• Weather: Subject to North Sea weather patterns, which can include strong winds, rain, and cool temperatures.
• Marine Life: Waters are rich in marine life, supporting the local fishing industry.

Usage

• Primary Use: Local fishing operations, small-scale commercial activities, and tourism.
• Commercial Traffic: Negligible compared to larger UK ports; not suitable for large freight or passenger vessels.
• Recreational Use: Occasionally used by leisure boats, particularly during summer months when tourism peaks.

Limitations

• Draft Restrictions: Limited depth means it cannot handle large vessels.
• Infrastructure: Basic infrastructure not suitable for heavy commercial use.
• Access: More difficult to access compared to major commercial ports due to its remote location.

While Balintore does not function as a significant commercial maritime port, it serves an essential role in the local economy and heritage of the Scottish Highlands.