CLIFDEN QUAY

• IECLI
• Latitude: 53.4854
• Longitude: -10.0297
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in Ireland

Location: Ireland

Clifden Quay is a small marine port located in Clifden, a town in County Galway on the west coast of Ireland. The quay serves as a local harbor catering primarily to fishing vessels, pleasure boats, and occasional small to medium-sized commercial vessels. It's situated in a picturesque area known for its scenic beauty and rugged coastline.

Description

1. Location:

   • Coordinates: Approximately 53.488°N, 10.021°W.
   • Access: The quay is accessed via local roads leading from Clifden town. The approach by sea is generally straightforward but does require navigation knowledge due to potential rocky outcrops and tidal considerations.

2. Facilities:

   • Berths: Limited number of berthing spaces. Mostly accommodates smaller vessels due to depth and space constraints.
   • Depth: Varies with tides but generally supports vessels with a shallow draft. Typically around 3-5 meters at high tide.
   • Mooring: Basic mooring facilities include pontoons and mooring buoys.
   • Quay Facilities: Minimalistic, including essential services like water and electricity hookups.

3. Services:

   • Fuel: Limited availability; mostly diesel. Fueling facilities may need to be arranged in advance.
   • Maintenance and Repairs: Basic services available, with more extensive repairs and maintenance requiring travel to larger ports.
   • Waste Disposal: Basic waste disposal services available; adherence to environmental regulations is expected.

4. Navigation:

   • Tidal Information: Important for planning entry and exit due to significant tidal ranges.
   • Weather Considerations: West coast of Ireland can be subject to Atlantic weather patterns, including strong winds and swell.
   • Lighting and Markings: Limited; local knowledge and updated navigational charts recommended.

Specifications

1. Harbor Type: Small local quay/harbor.
2. Max Vessel Size: Typically accommodates vessels up to around 15-20 meters in length, draft-dependent.
3. Purpose: Primarily fishing, leisure, and small commercial operations.
4. Operational Period: Year-round, but busier in the summer months due to increased leisure activity.
5. Ownership/Management: Likely managed by local authorities or a harbor committee.
6. Security: Basic, suitable for the size and type of operations. Usually low-risk but adherence to safety protocols is expected.
7. Surrounding Area: Clifden town offers basic amenities, dining options, and accommodation. Tourist attractions include coastal walks, Connemara National Park, and cultural sites.

Important Considerations

• Planning: Prior consultation with local harbor authorities is recommended for up-to-date information on berth availability and conditions.
• Environmental Regulations: Compliance with local and national maritime environmental regulations is essential.
• Cultural and Historical Aspects: The town of Clifden and its surroundings are rich in history and culture, adding value to visits.

In summary, Clifden Quay is a small but functional port that serves the needs of local and visiting vessels in a region renowned for its natural beauty and maritime heritage. Suitable for smaller vessels, it offers basic facilities and requires careful planning due to tidal and weather conditions.