FENIT
- Latitude: 52.2705 •
- Longitude: -9.86185 •
- UK Coast & Atlantic •
- Port in Ireland
Address: Ireland
Fenit is a small but significant marine port located in Fenit, County Kerry, on the southwestern coast of Ireland. Here is a detailed description and specifications of the port:
Port Description:
Location: Fenit Harbour is situated approximately 10 kilometers west of Tralee, the capital town of County Kerry. Its geographical position offers shelter and easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, making it an essential access point for maritime activities in the region.
History: The port has a long history of maritime activity, with developments to improve and expand its facilities over the years. It's notably associated with trade, fishing, and more recently, tourism and recreational boating.
Port Specifications:
Harbour Type: Natural and artificial with breakwaters, offering significant protection from adverse weather conditions.
Coordinates: Latitude 52° 16' N, Longitude 09° 52' W.
Draft:
- Main Channel: The depth of the main approach channel is approximately 7.5 meters, accommodating vessels of moderate draft.
- Berths: Depths alongside the berths range from 4.5 meters to 7.5 meters depending on the specific berth and tide conditions.
Facilities:
- Commercial Quay: The main quay provides space for commercial cargo operations. It is equipped to handle various types of goods with appropriate infrastructure for loading and unloading.
- Fishing Facilities: There are dedicated areas for fishing vessels, including mooring and maintenance support.
- Leisure and Tourism: The port also supports leisure activities with marina facilities and moorings for yachts and recreational vessels.
Navigation Aids:
- Lighthouses: Fenit Harbour is served by a key lighthouse on Little Samphire Island, which is crucial for navigation.
- Buoys and Beacons: The approach to the harbour is well-marked with buoys and beacons to assist in safe navigation.
Services:
- Pilotage: Pilotage services are available and recommended for larger vessels or those unfamiliar with the local waters.
- Tug Services: Tugs can be arranged if needed for larger vessels requiring assistance with docking and undocking maneuvers.
- Fuel and Provisions: Fuel bunkering and provisions are available for vessels, supporting both commercial and recreational needs.
- Repair and Maintenance: Basic repair and maintenance services are available, including facilities for hull cleaning and minor repairs.
Operational Hours: The port operates year-round with typical 24/7 access, accommodating both commercial and leisure traffic.
Accessibility: The port boasts good connectivity to the rest of County Kerry and beyond. A network of roads links it to Tralee and other major towns, facilitating the transport of goods and tourists.
Usage:
Commercial Use: Fenit is used for importing and exporting a variety of goods, particularly catering to the local industries. It's also significant for the fishing industry with a fleet that operates out of the harbour. Leisure Use: In recent years, the development of marina facilities has made Fenit a popular spot for recreational sailing, attracting both local and visiting yachtsmen.
Environmental Considerations:
- Marine Life: The port area is rich in marine biodiversity, and efforts are in place to ensure that port activities do not harm the local ecosystem.
- Sustainability: Initiatives are in place to promote sustainable fishing and minimize the environmental impact of port operations.
Fenit Harbour, with its combination of commercial utility and leisure amenities, stands as a versatile port that plays a crucial role in the maritime infrastructure of County Kerry and Ireland as a whole.