FOCA

• TRFOC
• Latitude: 38.6705
• Longitude: 26.7455
• East Mediterranean
• Port in Turkey

Location: Turkey

Foça (often spelled Foca) is a coastal town and district in İzmir Province in Turkey, located on the Aegean coast. Although Foça is more commonly known as a charming tourist destination rich in history and natural beauty, it also accommodates a small but functional marine port. Here is a detailed description and specifications of the marine port in Foça, Turkey:

General Overview:

• Location: Foça is situated in the northwestern part of İzmir Province, about 70 km from the city of İzmir.
• Coordinates: Approximately 38.6706° N latitude and 26.7558° E longitude.
• Climate: Mediterranean, with hot and dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Port Description:

• Function: Mainly serves local fishing boats, small yachts, and tourist vessels.
• Accessibility: Accessible through well-maintained roads and is relatively close to İzmir, which is a major urban center.
• Nearby Facilities: The town offers amenities such as restaurants, shops, and historical sites, adding to its value as a tourist destination.

Specifications:

• Harbor Type: Natural harbor complemented with man-made structures to enhance docking capabilities.
• Berthing Capacity: Includes a small number of berths suitable for fishing boats, yachts, and tourist boats. Limited capacity means it is not suited for large commercial vessels.
• Docking Facilities:
  • Depth: Generally, shallow waters around 3 to 5 meters, limiting the size of vessels that can be accommodated.
  • Mooring: Facilities for mooring, including buoys and anchorage points.
  • Protective Structures: Breakwaters and jetties help in protecting the harbor from rough seas.

Services:

• Fueling: Limited fueling services available for small vessels.
• Maintenance: Basic repair and maintenance services suitable for yachts and fishing boats.
• Waste Disposal: Facilities for waste disposal, although somewhat limited.
• Security: Basic security features, with local coast guard patrols.

Navigation:

• Navigational Aids: Lighthouses and buoys aid in safe navigation into and out of the harbor.
• Tidal Information: Tides in the Aegean Sea are relatively low, but local knowledge of water currents and seasonal winds, such as the Meltemi, is essential for safe navigation.

Environmental Considerations:

• Marine Life: The area around Foça is known for its marine biodiversity, which necessitates environmentally conscious operations.
• Regulations: Local regulations ensure that marine activities do not disrupt the natural habitat and adhere to environmental standards.

Economic Impact:

• Local Economy: The port supports the local economy primarily through tourism and fishing.
• Tourism: A significant part of Foça’s appeal lies in its scenic beauty, historical significance, and marine activities, making the port a critical asset for the town's tourism industry.

Cultural and Historical Context:

• Historical Sites: Foça is rich in archaeological sites, ancient ruins, and historic architecture, enhancing its attractiveness to visitors.
• Cultural Significance: The town and its waters are part of many local legends and hold cultural importance to the area.

Conclusion:

While Foça's marine port is relatively small and primarily serves local and tourist-oriented maritime activities, it is a vital part of the town’s infrastructure and local economy. Its picturesque setting, along with the availability of essential port services, makes it an attractive location for tourists and small-scale maritime operations alike.