FIRTH OF FORTH ANCH

• Latitude: 56.0895
• Longitude: -3.076
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Anchorage in UK

Address: UK

The Firth of Forth is a significant estuary and waterway in Scotland, playing a crucial role in marine transport and logistics. Though it itself is not a single marine port, it encompasses several important ports like Leith, Grangemouth, and Rosyth that collectively serve various industrial, commercial, and passenger needs. Here's a description and some specifications related to anchorage (ANCH) in the Firth of Forth:

General Description:

• Location: The Firth of Forth is located on the eastern coast of Scotland, flowing into the North Sea. It is approximately 31 miles (50 km) long and varies in width from 2 miles (3.2 km) to 10 miles (16 km).
• Geographical Importance: It serves as a key logistical base for cargo ships, oil and gas tankers, as well as cruise liners. The waterway is flanked by major cities including Edinburgh and several industrial towns.
• Economic Importance: The Firth of Forth hosts the UK’s largest container port (Grangemouth) and supports significant economic activities such as oil refining and distribution, shipbuilding, and tourism.

Anchorage Details:

• Anchorage Areas: Several designated anchorage areas exist within the Firth of Forth, suitable for different vessel types and sizes. These anchorages provide safe holding grounds while vessels wait to enter port facilities or during adverse weather conditions.
• Depths: The depth of the anchorage areas varies significantly, with some areas providing deep water anchorage suitable for large vessels like oil tankers and bulk carriers.
• Holding Ground: Generally, the holding ground is good, consisting primarily of sandy or muddy seabed, but always subject to specific local assessments.
• Conditions: The Firth of Forth can experience strong tidal currents, fog, and variable weather conditions, which vessels need to consider when anchoring.
• Traffic Control: Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) are in operation to manage the safe and efficient movement of vessels within the estuary, ensuring navigational safety and environmental protection.

Port Facilities within Firth of Forth Region:

1. Leith Port:

   • Type: Multi-purpose
   • Facilities: Cruise terminal, cargo handling (including containers, bulk cargo), oil and gas support.
   • Depth: Approximately 10-12 meters.

2. Grangemouth Port:

   • Type: The largest container port in Scotland.
   • Facilities: Extensive container terminals, liquid bulk facilities, general cargo.
   • Depth: Up to 9 meters.

3. Rosyth Port:

   • Type: Ferry, Naval base, commercial dock.
   • Facilities: Ferry services, naval facilities, ship repair, and maintenance.
   • Depth: Up to 10 meters.

Navigation:

• Charts and Pilots: Detailed nautical charts are available, and pilotage is recommended, often compulsory for certain vessel sizes.
• Tidal Information: High tidal range necessitates careful planning for safe navigation into the ports.
• Environmental Considerations: Strict regulations to protect the marine environment, including wildlife habitats and coastal ecosystems, are in force.

Communication:

• VHF channels: Established for communication with the Firth of Forth Harbour Authority, pilot services, and port control.

Services Available:

• Bunkering: Fuel supply services available at various points.
• Repairs: Dry dock and repair facilities are present.
• Waste Management: Comprehensive waste disposal and management services.
• Supplies: General and specialist marine supplies can be sourced.

This combination of anchorage and port facilities makes the Firth of Forth a versatile and strategically important maritime region in the UK. Safety regulations and environmental protections ensure it remains a sustainable and efficient hub for maritime activities.