DURNSTEIN

• ATDUE
• Latitude: 48.3941
• Longitude: 15.5187
• Inland, Europe
• Port in Austria

Location: Austria

Dürnstein is a picturesque small town located on the Danube River in the Wachau Valley of Austria. While Dürnstein is not a major commercial marine port, it is an important stop for river cruises and smaller vessels navigating the Danube. Here’s a detailed description and specifications for the location as a docking or stopover point:

Description:

1. Location: Dürnstein is situated in Lower Austria, within the Wachau Valley, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The coordinates are approximately 48.3969° N latitude and 15.5152° E longitude.
2. Significance: Dürnstein is renowned for its charming medieval character, the ruins of the Dürnstein Castle, where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive, and its historic Baroque architecture, particularly the blue tower of the Dürnstein Abbey.
3. Tourism: The town is a popular destination for tourists, especially those taking river cruises that explore the cultural and natural beauty of the Wachau Valley. The area is known for its vineyards and apricot orchards.

Specifications:

1. Type of Port: Riverine, primarily catering to passenger vessels such as river cruise ships rather than commercial cargo or freight operations.
2. Facilities:
   • Docking: There is at least one primary docking area designed to accommodate river cruise ships. The piers are generally designed for smaller vessels rather than large ocean-going ships.
   • Amenities: Basic amenities may be present near the docking area, including small cafes, souvenir shops, and facilities for tourists.
3. Access and Connectivity:
   • Water Depth: The Danube River has varying water levels, but the docking facilities are suitable for the draft of river cruise ships, which is generally around 1.5 to 3 meters.
   • Navigation: The Danube is a well-navigated river with clear markers and routes for safe passage. The current and depth may vary seasonally.
4. Nearby Landmarks:
   • Dürnstein Castle: Historic ruins perched on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the town and river.
   • Dürnstein Abbey: The blue and white Baroque church tower is a local iconic feature.
5. Services:
   • Tour Operators: Several local operators offer guided tours of Dürnstein and surrounding areas.
   • Local Transport: Limited public transport, most explorations are done on foot due to the town's small size.

Practical Information for Mariners:

1. Arrival and Departure: It's customary to check in advance with the local port authority or the managing body for docking space availability, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
2. Weather Considerations: The Wachau Valley enjoys a temperate climate, but seasonal changes can affect water levels on the Danube, which in turn can impact docking conditions.
3. Customs and Regulations: As part of Austria, Dürnstein adheres to the standard European Union maritime regulations. Ensure compliance with local navigation and docking rules.

While Dürnstein may not offer extensive port facilities, its unique historical and cultural significance makes it a must-visit for river cruises traversing the Danube River.