FALMOUTH ANCH

• Latitude: 50.1193
• Longitude: -5.04384
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Anchorage in UK

Location: Falmouth Cornwall UK

Falmouth, located in Cornwall, UK, is known for its significant maritime history and its well-protected deep-water harbor. Falmouth is one of the largest natural harbors in the world and plays a vital role in the marine, shipping, and leisure industries.

Falmouth Anchorage (FALMOUTH ANCH) - Key Specifications and Description:

Location:

• Coordinates: Approx. 50°09'N, 05°03'W
• Geo-Position: Situated along the south coast of Cornwall, UK. It opens into the English Channel.

Harbor Characteristics:

• Type: Natural deep-water harbor, providing excellent protection from prevailing winds.
• Water Depth: Depths can reach up to 25 meters at the anchorage points, allowing it to accommodate large vessels.
• Tide and Current: The port does experience tidal movements with a range varying between 0.3 meters to 5 meters, depending on the spring or neap tide conditions. Currents are generally manageable but require attention.

Anchorage:

• Area: Outside the main harbor, Falmouth offers a designated anchorage area (FALMOUTH ANCH), suitable for vessels awaiting berths, undergoing repairs, or simply seeking refuge.
• Holding Ground: Predominantly mud and sand, providing good anchorage holding.
• Capacity: Able to accommodate a wide variety of vessel sizes due to its depth and expanse.

Facilities and Services:

• Berths: Several deep-water berths along with quays and jetties for cargo and passenger vessels.
• Bunkering: Available for different grades of marine fuel and lubricants.
• Waste Reception: Facilities for receiving ship-generated waste and bilge waters.
• Repairs and Maintenance: Marine repair services, including dry docks and floating repairs, are available. Facilities such as A&P Falmouth offer extensive ship repair and maintenance services.
• Supplies: Fresh water, provisions, and ship chandlery services are available.

Communication and Contacts:

• VHF Channels: Typically channels 12 and 16 for port operations and vessel traffic services.
• Port Authority: Harbour Master and Port Operations can coordinate anchorage placement and berthing.

Security:

• ISPS Compliance: The port meets the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code requirements, ensuring safety and security for vessels and crews.

Customs and Immigration:

• Procedures: Standard UK border controls apply, with the availability of customs and immigration authorities.

Navigation:

• Pilots: Compulsory for larger vessels but highly recommended for others due to the complicated navigation environment.
• Navigation Aids: Well-marked by buoys, lights, and other navigational aids. Charts and pilot books provide comprehensive guidance.

Environmental Considerations:

• Regulations: Must follow all local and international maritime environmental laws, particularly regarding emissions, ballast water, and waste discharge.
• Clean Ocean Initiatives: Active involvement in marine conservation and anti-pollution measures.

Access and Transport Links:

• Road and Rail: Good connectivity to the rest of Cornwall and beyond via the A39 road and mainline train services.
• Air Links: Closest airport is Cornwall Airport Newquay, approximately 50 kilometers away.

In summary, Falmouth and its anchorage offer a strategic maritime hub for a wide range of shipping activities, thanks to its natural deep-water harbor, excellent nautical services, and comprehensive facilities.