CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND

• Latitude: 37.9342
• Longitude: -75.378
• US East Coast
• Port in US

Location: Chincoteague Island VA US

Chincoteague Island, located in the state of Virginia, USA, is a picturesque and charming destination known mainly for its natural beauty, wildlife, and historical significance rather than for being a major commercial marine port. Here are some details regarding the maritime and logistical aspects of Chincoteague Island:

Location

• Geographic Position: Chincoteague Island is situated on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, separated from the Atlantic Ocean by Assateague Island.
• Coordinates: Approximately 37.9342° N latitude, 75.3783° W longitude.

Port Description

• Purpose: Chincoteague Island primarily serves as a casual harbor for recreational boating and fishing rather than major commercial shipping. The town is known for its seafood industry, including oyster and clam farming, and it has facilities to support these activities.
• Port Infrastructure: The island has several docks and marinas catering to private boats, charter fishing vessels, and smaller commercial fishing operations.
• Marinas: There are multiple marinas such as Curtis Merritt Harbor of Refuge, which provide docking facilities, moorings, fuel services, and other amenities for boaters.

Navigational Information

• Approach: Mariners approaching Chincoteague use the Chincoteague Inlet, which connects to the Atlantic Ocean and provides access to the island's marinas and docks.
• Channel Depth: The channel depth can vary but typically ranges from 6 to 10 feet in the main navigable areas. It's advisable to consult local navigational charts and notices for the most current information.
• Tides: Tides in the region are semi-diurnal, meaning there are two high and two low tides each day. Tidal ranges can influence navigation, particularly for vessels with deeper drafts.

Facilities & Services

• Mooring and Docking: Available for a range of boat sizes, from small recreational boats to modest-sized commercial vessels.
• Fuel Services: Most marinas offer diesel and gasoline services for marine vessels.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Basic services and repairs are available; however, complex repairs may require assistance from facilities on the mainland.
• Provisions and Supplies: Local stores and shops provide basic provisions, marine supplies, and fishing gear.

Activities and Attractions

• Fishing: Chincoteague Island is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. Charter fishing boats offer excursions for both inshore and offshore fishing.
• Wildlife and Nature: The island is famous for its proximity to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and Assateague Island, home to the famous Chincoteague Ponies.
• Tourism: The island is a popular tourist destination with activities including boating, kayaking, bird watching, and visiting the annual pony swim and auction.

Transportation and Access

• Road Access: Chincoteague Island is connected to the mainland by the Chincoteague Causeway (Route 175), which makes it accessible by car.
• Air Access: The nearest major airports are Norfolk International Airport (ORF) and Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport (SBY), with additional private airstrip facilities nearby.
• Connectivity: Though it doesn’t have major rail or interstate highway connections, the island is well-connected for casual travel and tourism.

Environmental & Regulatory Considerations

• Environmental Protection: The island and its surrounding waters are subject to environmental protections to preserve the habitats of various wildlife species, particularly in the nearby national wildlife refuge.
• Regulations: Local and federal maritime and environmental regulations apply. Boaters and commercial operators must comply with environmental protection guidelines and maritime safety regulations.

Summary

While Chincoteague Island is not a major commercial port, it offers adequate facilities for recreational and small-scale commercial maritime activities. It is best known for its scenic beauty, wildlife, and recreational opportunities rather than its industrial capacity.