CARNLOUGH

• GBCAH
• Latitude: 54.9939
• Longitude: -5.98778
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in UK

Location: UK

Carnlough Harbour, UK

Overview

Carnlough Harbour is a quaint and historical maritime port located on the northeast coast of Northern Ireland, within the Antrim County. The harbour plays a modest but culturally rich role in the local community, known for its scenic setting and historical significance. It predominantly serves small fishing boats, leisure craft, and occasional tourist and local transport vessels.

Location

• Coordinates: 54°59′N 5°58′W
• Nearest Town: Carnlough, a small picturesque village situated on the Antrim Coast.

Historical Context

Carnlough Harbour was constructed in the mid-19th century, primarily to support the local limestone industry. The harbour was largely financed by the Londonderry family, who owned the nearby limestone quarries.

Facilities and Features

• Quay Length: Approximately 200 meters in total.
• Depth: Generally accommodates vessels with a draft of up to 2 meters. Depths can fluctuate with tidal conditions.
• Berths: Limited berthing facilities, predominantly for smaller vessels.
• Navigation: Approach channels require careful navigation, particularly during low tides due to possible shallow waters and rocky seabed conditions.
• Breakwaters: Protective breakwaters shield the harbour from the more severe coastal conditions of the North Channel.

Amenities and Services

• Fuel: No fuel facilities for marine vessels.
• Water Supply: Limited potable water supply available for docked vessels.
• Maintenance: No significant maintenance or repair facilities for larger boats. Basic services available for minor repairs, predominantly focusing on local fishing fleet requirements.
• Commercial Activity: Limited, primarily supporting small local businesses related to fishing and tourism.
• Storage: Small areas allocated for gear and equipment storage.

Tourism and Leisure

• Yachting and Sailing: A popular spot for yachting enthusiasts exploring the Antrim Coast and adjacent areas.
• Fishing: Both commercial and recreational fishing activities are prevalent. Local fisheries focus on species like lobsters, crabs, and mackerel.
• Heritage: The harbour area features historical remnants tied to the region’s maritime and industrial past. The adjacent village of Carnlough offers charming streets, historic buildings, and scenic coastal walks.

Accessibility

• Road Access: Easily accessible via the A2 coastal road, linking Carnlough with larger towns such as Larne and Ballycastle.
• Public Transport: Limited bus services connect Carnlough with nearby towns and cities.
• Parking: Available in the vicinity of the harbour for both residents and visitors.

Environmental Considerations

• Tidal Range: Significant, affecting mooring conditions.
• Weather: Subject to typical Northern Ireland coastal weather conditions, including occasional heavy seas and strong winds. Mariners need to be cautious during adverse weather.

Future Developments

While primarily functional for local uses, there have been community talks about enhancing facilities to boost tourism and better accommodate leisure marine traffic. However, no major redevelopment projects have been implemented as of the latest reports.

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This overview provides essential details regarding Carnlough Harbour in the UK, reflecting its role in the local economy, community life, and tourism.