DOCHGARROCH EAST

• Latitude: 57.4331
• Longitude: -4.30028
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in UK

Location: UK

Dochgarroch East is a notable marine port located in the United Kingdom, specifically within the Scottish Highlands region. The location is part of the Caledonian Canal, which is an essential waterway running from northeast to southwest Scotland, connecting the North Sea with the Atlantic Ocean. Here’s a detailed description and specification of Dochgarroch East:

Location

• Latitude/Longitude: Approximately 57.4411° N, 4.3063° W
• Nearest City: Inverness, about 5 miles to the northeast
• Waterway: Part of the Caledonian Canal, close to Loch Dochfour

General Description

Dochgarroch East is primarily a leisure and small commercial port. It serves as one of the key stopping points along the Caledonian Canal, which is significant for both its historical heritage and its modern usage for recreational boating and small-scale commercial transport. The Caledonian Canal itself features a series of locks, lochs, and basins, contributing to the picturesque and practical significance of the canal.

Facilities

• Berthing: Limited berthing available, predominantly catering to leisure craft and small commercial vessels.
• Lock: Close to one of the canal’s 29 locks which helps in navigating the varying water levels between different sections of the canal.
• Mooring: Available, but space can be limited; suitable for vessels transiting the canal.
• Amenities: Typically includes water, electricity, basic repair services, and waste disposal; facilities are more 'basic' compared to more expansive commercial ports.
• Navigation: Suitable for vessels that do not exceed the lock dimensions of the Caledonian Canal:
  • Maximum length: 45.7 meters
  • Maximum beam (width): 10.7 meters
  • Maximum draft (depth): 4 meters
  • Air draft (height clearance): Limited to about 29 meters at the higher end of the canal bridges

Services

• Repair and Maintenance: Basic repair services are available, though for major repairs, vessels may need to head to larger ports like Inverness.
• Fueling: Limited refueling services, primarily geared towards diesel; it’s advisable to plan fuel stops accordingly.
• Provisions: Basic provisioning possible, but nearby Inverness offers more comprehensive resupply options.
• Tourism and Activities: Popular for tourist activities including boat tours, fishing, and scenic excursions. Being near Loch Ness, it draws significant tourist interest.

Accessibility

• Road Access: Easily reachable via the A82 road from Inverness.
• Public Transport: Limited public transport options directly to Dochgarroch; however, services to nearby locations can be utilized.

Key Considerations

• Navigational Planning: Given the canal setting, careful planning around lock schedules and seasonal operation hours is essential.
• Weather Conditions: Typical Scottish Highlands weather, with potential sudden changes; advice and updates from local marine offices are beneficial.

Port Authority

• The Dochgarroch area, as part of the Caledonian Canal, falls under the jurisdiction of Scottish Canals, which is the governing authority responsible for the maintenance and regulation of canal activities.

Nearby Points of Interest

• Loch Ness: Iconic and world-famous for the Loch Ness monster legend.
• Inverness: Offers expanded amenities, historical sites, and a strategic gateway to the Highlands.

Conclusion

Dochgarroch East is an important local port within the Caledonian Canal system, chiefly used for leisure boating and small-scale commercial activities. It offers fundamental facilities, scenic beauty, and historical significance, making it a notable spot for travelers along the waterway.