FISHGUARD

• GBFIS
• Latitude: 52.0054
• Longitude: -4.98097
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: UK

Marine Port Description and Specification: Fishguard, UK

Overview

Fishguard is a port located on the west coast of Wales, UK. It is strategically positioned on the Irish Sea and facilitates maritime connections primarily between Wales and Ireland. The port's location in Pembrokeshire makes it an important hub for both passenger ferries and freight services.

Key Features

1. Location and Coordinates

   • Latitude: 52.011 (52° 0' 39.6" N)
   • Longitude: -4.979 (4° 58' 44.4" W)
   • Fishguard is situated in Fishguard Bay, providing natural protection from severe weather conditions.

2. Port Authority

   • The port is operated by Stena Line Ports Ltd, a branch of the Stena Line Group, which is one of the world’s largest ferry operators.

3. Ferries and Services

   • Fishguard is primarily known for its ferry services.
   • Stena Line offers regular ferry routes to Rosslare in the Republic of Ireland.
   • The ferry service handles both passenger and freight traffic.

4. Port Facilities

   • Passenger Terminal: The terminal is equipped with modern amenities including waiting areas, shops, and restaurants for travelers.
   • Freight Handling: Facilities include roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) ramps to accommodate vehicular freight, as well as storage areas for cargo.
   • Navigation and Safety: The port is well-equipped with navigational aids, including lighthouse systems and pilot services for safe entry and departure.

5. Infrastructure

   • Berths: The port has multiple berths designed to accommodate various sizes of vessels. This includes dedicated berths for passenger ferries and additional space for cargo vessels.
   • Draught: The port can accommodate vessels with draughts up to approximately 5.0 meters, depending on tidal conditions.
   • Storage: There are provisions for both open and covered storage of goods, along with warehousing options.

6. Connectivity

   • Road: Fishguard is accessible via the A40 road, connecting it to the rest of Wales and the UK road network.
   • Rail: There is a railway station close to the port, Fishguard Harbour, providing direct train services to various destinations, including London Paddington.
   • Public Transport: Local bus services connect the port to surrounding areas, facilitating easy access for passengers.

7. Economic Importance

   • The port plays a crucial role in the regional economy by facilitating trade and tourism.
   • It supports local employment both directly within the port and indirectly in related service sectors.

8. Security and Customs

   • Security measures at Fishguard comply with international maritime safety regulations.
   • Customs and immigration services are available to handle the processing of passengers and goods.

Recent Developments

• There have been ongoing investments to modernize the port's infrastructure and improve service efficiency and safety.
• Sustainable practices are being integrated, such as initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of port operations.

Future Prospects

• Potential expansion plans may include enhanced freight facilities and increased ferry service frequencies, responding to growing demand.

Conclusion

Fishguard is a vital maritime gateway between Wales and Ireland, offering extensive ferry services and robust infrastructure to support both passenger and freight traffic. Maintaining its strategic significance, the port continues to adapt through modernization efforts to meet future maritime and economic challenges.