CASTLETOWN

• GBCSW
• Latitude: 54.0728
• Longitude: -4.65222
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in UK

Location: UK

Castletown Harbour, Isle of Man, UK

Description:

Castletown Harbour is a picturesque and historically rich port located on the southern coast of the Isle of Man in the UK. The harbour is situated in the town of Castletown, one of the island's historic capitals, known for its medieval architecture and maritime heritage. The Isle of Man is located in the Irish Sea, between Great Britain and Ireland.

The harbour's setting is charming, with a mix of traditional stone buildings and modern amenities. It serves both recreational and limited commercial activities, including fishing, small cargo shipments, and tourism-related services.

Specifications:

1. Geographical Coordinates:

   • Latitude: 54.0739° N
   • Longitude: 4.6531° W

2. Harbour Type:

   • Natural Harbour enhanced with man-made structures.

3. Tidal Range:

   • Tides in Castletown Harbour are semi-diurnal, typically with a tidal range between 1.5 meters to 3.5 meters (5 to 11.5 feet), although this can vary based on meteorological conditions.

4. Facilities:

   • Berths and Moorings: The harbour has several berths and moorings available for small to medium-sized vessels, including leisure boats and fishing vessels.
   • Slipways: There are slipways available for the ease of launching and retrieving boats.
   • Harbour Office: Provides essential services and information for mariners.
   • Restrooms and Showers: Present within the vicinity for convenience.
   • Fuel and Water Supplies: Available but limited; skippers should confirm availability prior to arrival.

5. Depth:

   • The approach channel and harbour basin generally support a depth of around 2 to 3 meters (6.5 to 10 feet) at low tide, deeper at high tide. Regular dredging may occur to maintain navigability.

6. Navigation and Access:

   • Entrance to the harbour is through a narrow channel, which may require careful navigation, particularly during low tide. Local charts and advice from the harbour office are recommended.
   • Navigation lights and beacons mark the harbour entrance.

7. Weather and Sea Conditions:

   • The harbour is relatively sheltered, but exposed to Northerly winds and swells. Conditions can be changeable; mariners should monitor local forecasts.

8. Port of Entry:

   • Castletown Harbour is not typically a major port of entry for customs purposes but offers customs facilities for smaller vessels if required, especially concerning the Isle of Man’s status outside the UK customs area.

9. Nearby Services:

   • Castletown offers various amenities within walking distance, including restaurants, shops, and accommodation options. Historical attractions like Castle Rushen and the Nautical Museum are also nearby.

10. Regulations and Restrictions:

    • Vessels are expected to comply with local harbour regulations and Isle of Man maritime laws. Speed limits and waste disposal regulations are enforced to maintain safety and the environmental quality of the harbour.

11. Contact Information:

    • Contact details for the harbour office should be checked for the most current communication channels. Typically, VHF radio communication is used for marine coordination.

Castletown Harbour is a scenic and functional port that caters to the needs of recreational sailors, fishermen, and small-scale commercial operations, reflecting its charming historic character while providing essential maritime services. Mariners visiting the harbour are encouraged to plan ahead due to the limited berths and resources.