CROMARTY ANCH

• Latitude: 57.65
• Longitude: -3.89431
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Anchorage in UK

Location: UK

Cromarty Anchorages, located in the Cromarty Firth on the northeastern coast of Scotland, offer naturally sheltered anchorage areas for vessels. The Cromarty Firth is known for its deep waters and proximity to key North Sea oil and gas fields, making it a strategic location for maritime and industrial activities. Below are the key descriptions and specifications of the Cromarty Anchorages:

General Description:

• Location: Northeastern coast of Scotland, within the Cromarty Firth.
• Coordinates: Approximately 57.68° N latitude and 4.06° W longitude.
• Primary Use: Serves as a hub for the oil and gas industry, particularly for the offshore energy sector. Additionally, it supports marine transport and logistics.
• Environment: The firth provides excellent natural shelter from the North Sea, making it a suitable location for anchorage.

Port Specifications:

• Depth: The Cromarty Firth offers significant water depths, varying from around 10 meters to over 30 meters in certain areas, allowing it to accommodate a wide range of vessel sizes, including large oil tankers and drilling rigs.
• Anchorage Areas: There are designated anchorage zones within the firth that take advantage of deep and protected waters.
• Mooring Facilities: The area offers limited mooring buoys; some vessels may anchor using their own ground tackle.
• Navigational Aids: The Cromarty Firth is well-equipped with navigational aids, including buoys, lights, and radar transponders, which ensure safe navigation for incoming and outgoing vessels.

Infrastructure and Services:

• Port Facilities: Includes quays capable of berthing large vessels, onshore support services, ship repair facilities, and bunkering services.
• Support Services: Offers a range of logistical and technical support services, such as pilotage, towage, and crew transfer services.
• Security: Complies with international port security standards, including the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

Key Points of Interest:

• Invergordon: One of the key towns along the firth, providing additional port facilities, including dry docks and other marine services.
• Nigg Energy Park: Located on the southern shore of the firth, supports the oil and gas industry with fabrication yards and heavy lifting equipment.
• Environmental Considerations: The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins and seals, so vessel operations are carried out with adherence to environmental protection guidelines.

Communication and Contact:

• Primary Port Authority: Cromarty Firth Port Authority.
• VHF Channels: Vessels typically use designated VHF channels for communication while approaching and within the firth.

Additional Notes:

• Weather Conditions: The firth offers natural protection from the harsh weather conditions often experienced in the North Sea, but mariners should always check current weather forecasts and tidal conditions.
• Access and Restrictions: While the area is accessible to a wide range of vessels, specific maritime regulations and anchorage restrictions may apply, particularly concerning environmental protection and navigational safety.

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This overview provides a summary of the Cromarty Anchorages in Scotland, covering essential aspects pertinent to its maritime operations. For more detailed and updated information, consulting official maritime publications or contacting the Cromarty Firth Port Authority is recommended.