COLL

• GBOLL
• Latitude: 56.6156
• Longitude: -6.52081
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: Coll Argyll and Bute UK

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Coll, UK

Port Overview: Coll is a small but picturesque island located in the Inner Hebrides off the west coast of Scotland, UK. The island is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, sandy beaches, and rich wildlife, making it a popular destination for tourists, particularly those looking for a tranquil retreat. The primary port facility on the Isle of Coll is situated in the village of Arinagour, the main settlement on the island.

Port Specifications:

1. Location:

   • Latitude: 56.6333° N
   • Longitude: 6.5333° W

2. Harbour Type:

   • Natural harbour with supplementary man-made structures.

3. Navigation and Access:

   • Approach: Vessels typically approach the port from the southeast. The approach to the harbour is relatively straightforward, but navigators should be cautious of submerged rocks and tidal conditions.
   • Navigational Aids: There are limited navigational aids. Mariners are advised to use nautical charts and instruments when approaching the harbour.

4. Facilities and Services:

   • Berth Info: The port has a single pier that serves as the primary docking facility. The pier can accommodate small to medium-sized vessels, including passenger ferries, fishing boats, and small cargo ships.
   • Depth: The depth at the pier is approximately 3.5 meters at low tide, which may limit access for larger vessels.
   • Mooring: In addition to the pier, there are mooring buoys available for smaller boats and yachts.
   • Fuel and Water: Limited fuel and freshwater supply services are available for visiting vessels.
   • Repairs and Maintenance: Basic repair and maintenance services are available, but for extensive servicing, vessels may need to travel to larger ports on the mainland.

5. Passenger and Cargo Information:

   • Passenger Services: The port is served by a regular ferry service operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac), connecting Coll to other islands in the Inner Hebrides and the mainland, primarily to Oban.
   • Cargo Handling: The port handles a modest volume of cargo, primarily goods and supplies for the island's residents and businesses. Cargo operations are generally conducted manually or with small-scale equipment due to the limited infrastructure.

6. Onshore Facilities:

   • Amenities: The village of Arinagour offers basic amenities, including a handful of shops, a post office, and accommodation options. There is also a community centre and a small clinic.
   • Transport: There are limited transport options within the island, primarily consisting of personal vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrian access. There is no public transportation system.

7. Environmental Considerations:

   • Coll is an area of ecological significance, with abundant wildlife and protected habitats. Sustainable and environmentally responsible practices are encouraged for all maritime activities in the region.

Key Contacts:

• Harbour Master: Primary point of contact for operational details and berthing arrangements.
• CalMac Ferries: For ferry schedules and passenger information.
• Local Council: Argyll and Bute Council for regulatory and administrative matters.

Note: Due to the port's limited size and infrastructure, planning and coordination are essential for visiting vessels, particularly larger ones or those requiring extensive services. Regular updates on weather conditions and tide schedules are recommended for safe navigation and docking.