CRAIGHOUSE

• GBCGJ
• Latitude: 55.8348
• Longitude: -5.94662
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: Craighouse Argyll and Bute UK

Craighouse Marine Port - United Kingdom

Overview:

Craighouse is a small but significant harbor located on the Isle of Jura in Scotland. Known for its scenic beauty and maritime accessibility, Craighouse serves both local communities and visitors drawn to the natural splendors of the Hebrides.

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 55.8316° N latitude and 5.9506° W longitude
• Region: Inner Hebrides, Western Scotland
• Proximity: Located to the east of Jura, showing its face towards the Isle of Islay.

Harbor Specifications:

• Type of Harbor: Natural harbor with man-made enhancements
• Water Depth:
  • Varies with tidal conditions. General anchorage areas range from 2.5m at low tide to around 5m at high tide.
  • Dredging operations rarely occur due to natural depths supporting most vessels visiting.
• Tidal Range: Influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, experiencing moderate tidal ranges typical of the Scottish west coast.

Facilities:

• Moorings and Anchoring:
  • Equipped with secure moorings suitable for small to medium-sized vessels.
  • Visitors often anchor offshore or use mooring buoys.
• Berths and Piers:
  • Small pier available for landing, primarily for passenger drop-off and collection of supplies.
  • Limited berthing space which primarily serves local and visiting leisure crafts.
• Utilities:
  • Basic utilities are available including freshwater supply and waste disposal.
  • No heavy refueling stations; minimal refueling options available for smaller crafts.
• Navigation Aids:
  • Basic navigational aids including buoys and lighthouse guidance for safe approach.

Usage:

• Commercial Activities: Limited commercial marine activities due to its size. Predominantly focused on:
  • Aquaculture
  • Fishing (local small-scale operations)
  • Supply transport via small cargo vessels.
• Tourism and Recreation:
  • Major hub for recreational boating, including sailing and yachting.
  • Gateway for visitors exploring the Isle of Jura, noted for its whisky distilleries, wildlife, and hiking opportunities.
• Local Transport:
  • Essential for local transportation, connecting the Isle of Jura to neighboring islands and the mainland.

Environmental Notes:

• Weather Conditions:
  • Subject to typical West Coast of Scotland weather—cool temperatures, frequent rain, and variable wind conditions.
  • Close monitoring of marine weather forecasts recommended for visitors.
• Conservation:
  • Nearby natural habitats and marine life are protected under regional conservation guidelines.
  • Emphasis on maintaining ecological balance while permitting sustainable tourism and fishing activities.

Accessibility:

• Road Access: Limited road network on the Isle of Jura, with the main road (A846) passing through Craighouse.
• Public Transport:
  • Ferries connect to the Isle of Islay, from where additional ferry services and flights operate to the mainland.
  • Transfers between Jura and Islay are frequent but subject to weather conditions.

Given its scenic charm and vital role for local inhabitants, Craighouse Harbor remains a pivotal point for transportation, tourism, and local economy on the Isle of Jura.