CARLINGFORD

• IECAR
• Latitude: 54.0517
• Longitude: -6.19132
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in Ireland

Location: Cooley Peninsula County Louth Ireland

Carlingford is a picturesque coastal town situated in County Louth, on the northeastern shore of Carlingford Lough in Ireland. Here is an overview and some specifications related to Carlingford's marine port:

General Overview:

Carlingford is renowned for its historic charm and scenic beauty. It is a popular destination for tourists, with its medieval buildings, narrow streets, and the well-preserved Carlingford Castle. The town is also a center for various water-based activities and maritime interests due to its location on the lough.

Port Specifications:

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 54.037°N latitude and 6.188°W longitude.
• Water Body: Carlingford Lough, a fjord-like inlet of the Irish Sea.

Port Facilities:

• Harbor type: Natural harbor with some man-made enhancements.
• Berths and Piers: Limited berthing facilities primarily designed for smaller vessels, fishing boats, and recreational yachts.
• Depth: Varies, typical depths range from shallow areas to several meters deep, suitable for small to medium-sized vessels.
• Moorings: Available for private and visiting boats.

Services:

• Navigational Aids: Standard navigational aids are available, including marked channels and buoys.
• Maritime Services: Basic facilities such as fueling, water, and some repair services.
• Marina: Carlingford Marina offers additional amenities, including mooring, electricity, and other services for leisure craft.

Activities:

• Fishing: Primarily small-scale coastal and recreational fishing.
• Recreational Boating: Popular for sailing, yachting, and water sports.
• Tourism: Significant seasonal tourist activity, with boat tours and other maritime excursions available.

Environmental and Navigational Considerations:

• Tidal Influence: Carlingford Lough is subject to tidal variations which mariners must consider when navigating.
• Weather Conditions: The area can experience rough weather conditions typical of the Irish Sea; mariners should check local weather forecasts before setting out.
• Environmental Protections: Given its scenic and ecological importance, any marine activity must comply with environmental regulations aimed at protecting the local habitat.

Accessibility:

• Road Access: Easily accessible by road with connections to Newry in Northern Ireland and Dundalk in the Republic of Ireland.
• Public Transport: Limited; primarily served by local bus routes.
• Proximity to Airports: Closest airports are Dublin Airport and Belfast International Airport, both of which are approximately one to two hours away by car.

Economic and Cultural Significance:

• Economic Role: Largely centered around tourism, recreational boating, and local fishing industries.
• Cultural Heritage: Rich in history with numerous medieval and historical sites, contributing to its status as a heritage town.

Carlingford’s marine port may not be among the largest or most commercially significant ports in Ireland, but it holds a unique charm and utility for smaller maritime activities and tourism.