ERISKAY

• Latitude: 57.0708
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• Longitude: -7.30863
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• UK Coast & Atlantic
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• Port in UK

Address: Eriskay Scotland UK

Eriskay is a small island situated in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, part of the United Kingdom. While it is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique culture, it does not have a large commercial marine port. Instead, it has smaller facilities that accommodate local fishing operations, leisure vessels, and ferries that connect the island to the mainland and neighboring islands.

Port Facilities and Specifications

1. Ferry Terminal:

   • Location: Village of Haun
   • Services: The primary facility on Eriskay includes a ferry terminal that connects the island to South Uist and the mainland.
   • Operator: Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)
   • Vessels: Primarily accommodates small to medium-sized ferries, no large commercial ships.

2. Fishing Facilities:

   • Usage: Utilized by local fishermen for small-scale commercial and personal fishing vessels.
   • Infrastructure: Simple docking and mooring facilities, no large warehouses or industrial equipment.

3. Leisure Craft:

   • Usage: Popular with yachts and other small leisure crafts.
   • Amenities: Basic amenities such as mooring points, fresh water, and power hookups might be available but are limited.

Key Features

• Navigation: The waters around Eriskay can be challenging due to the presence of numerous small islands, rocks, and variable weather conditions. Mariners must navigate carefully.

• Depth: The port facilities are shallow, designed to accommodate small vessels; larger ships would be unable to dock.

• Accessibility: The ferry service provides relatively consistent access to the island, but it can be disrupted by bad weather, especially in winter. There are no airstrips on Eriskay, so the ferry is the primary means of transport.

Economic Significance

• Local Economy: The port facilities contribute mainly to the local economy, supporting tourism, small-scale fishing, and inter-island transport.
• Tourism: The ferry connection improves access for tourists, which is vital for the island's economy.

Attractions and Historical Context

• Scenic Beauty: Eriskay is celebrated for its unspoiled landscapes, including white sand beaches and dramatic coastlines.
• Wildlife: Rich in marine life and bird species, making it a draw for naturalists and photographers.
• Historical Sites: The island features several historical sites, including locations associated with the famous 1941 SS Politician shipwreck, which inspired the book and movie "Whisky Galore!".

Environmental Considerations

• Sustainability: The port facilities are modest, limiting environmental impact. Future developments are likely to consider maintaining the island’s natural beauty.
• Wildlife Protection: The surrounding waters and landscapes are home to diverse species, necessitating careful management of marine activities.

In summary, the marine facilities on Eriskay are small-scale and geared towards supporting the local community and tourism rather than large-scale commercial shipping. The island's unique charm and natural beauty make its small port facilities ideally suited to the needs of the residents and visitors.