FORT WILLIAM

• GBFWM
• Latitude: 56.8173
• Longitude: -5.11143
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: Fort William Highlands Ph23 UK

Fort William Marine Port: Description and Specifications

Overview: Fort William is a town located on the west coast of Scotland within the Highland Council area. Given its maritime history and strategic location near the Caledonian Canal, Fort William offers facilities that cater to various marine needs, though it is not a major industrial port compared to others in the UK.

Port Characteristics:

1. Location:

   • Coordinates: Approximately 56.8214° N latitude and 5.1048° W longitude.
   • Situated at the southern end of the Great Glen and near the foot of Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK.

2. Access and Navigation:

   • The port is accessible from the sea via Loch Linnhe, a long sea loch on Scotland’s west coast.
   • Navigation may require knowledge of local tides and currents, especially for vessels approaching from the Atlantic.

3. Port Facilities:

   • Docks and Piers: The port features several docks and piers. The primary quay is the West End Pier.
   • Cargo Handling: Facilities are equipped to handle general cargo, with a focus on timber, fish, and other local products.
   • Marina Services: Fort William offers marina services for smaller recreational boats and yachts, making it a popular spot for maritime tourism.
   • Aquaculture Support: Provides services for the local aquaculture industry, including the supply and maintenance of fish farming equipment.

4. Storage and Warehousing:

   • Limited warehousing facilities are available. Additional storage might be arranged through local logistics providers.

5. Transport Connectivity:

   • Road: Connected by major roads including the A82, providing access to Glasgow and Inverness.
   • Rail: Fort William railway station links the town to the Scottish rail network, offering freight and passenger services.
   • Air: The nearest major airport is Inverness Airport, about a 1.5-hour drive away.

6. Port Services:

   • Tug services, pilotage, and bunkering can be arranged, though they may not be as extensive as larger ports.
   • Maintenance and ship repair services are available for local and visiting vessels.
   • Waste reception facilities are provided as per MARPOL regulations.

7. Port Authority:

   • The port is managed by the Highland Council, which oversees facility maintenance, development, and maritime safety in the area.
   • Contact for port administration is available through the Highland Council’s maritime office.

8. Special Considerations:

   • Fort William is a key point for embarking on the Caledonian Canal, linking the east and west coasts of Scotland.
   • The port area supports a range of tourist activities, including cruises, fishing charters, and wildlife excursions.

9. Future Developments:

   • Potential upgrades and expansions are often subject to community consultations and environmental assessments, aiming to balance economic activity with ecological preservation.

Conclusion: While Fort William is not a large commercial port, it plays a crucial role in the local economy by supporting maritime traffic, tourism, and aquaculture. Its strategic location and connectivity make it a vital point for maritime activities in the Highland region.