GUERNSEY ANCH

• Latitude: 49.4562
• Longitude: -2.49922
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Anchorage in Guernsey

Address: Guernsey Guernsey

Certainly! Guernsey Anchorages (GUERNSEY ANCH) in Guernsey provide a natural and strategically located area in the English Channel, useful for maritime traffic and vessels looking for a safe anchorage while traveling through this busy maritime zone. Here’s a detailed overview of Guernsey Anchorages:

General Description:

Guernsey, one of the Channel Islands, offers several anchorages primarily around its northern and eastern coastlines. These anchorages are in proximity to the main port of St. Peter Port, which is the capital of Guernsey and the primary harbor facility on the island. These anchorage points provide protection and calm waters for vessel operations.

Location:

• Coordinates: Guernsey is situated approximately 49°27′N latitude and 2°32′W longitude.
• Nearby Port: St. Peter Port serves as the closest major harbor facility, offering a range of marine services and connections to anchorages.

Anchoring Points:

• Havelet Bay: South of St. Peter Port, offering protection from northerly winds.
• Belgrave Bay: Offers shelter from westerly to northerly winds.
• Fermain Bay: Provides a protected anchorage under most conditions but is open to easterly winds.

Specifications:

• Depth: Varies by anchoring locations, with general depths ranging from 5 to 20 meters.
• Seabed: Generally consists of sand, gravel, and patches of rock. It’s important for vessels to ensure good holding ground and to be aware of potential rocky areas.
• Tide and Current: Guernsey experiences significant tidal ranges, with up to 10 meters variance between high and low tides. Currents can be strong, particularly in the channels between the islands and along the coastlines.
• Utilities: While the anchorages themselves may not offer extensive facilities, vessels can arrange for services like fuel, water, and provisions through the harbor at St. Peter Port.

Navigation:

• Approaches: Vessels approaching Guernsey should be mindful of prominent landmarks like Castle Cornet near St. Peter Port. The island's nautical charts should be consulted for safe navigation through local waters.
• Piloting: Pilotage is recommended, particularly for larger vessels or those unfamiliar with local conditions. Pilots can be arranged through St. Peter Port.
• Weather: Mariners need to frequently check weather forecasts, as the Channel Islands can experience rapid changes in sea and wind conditions.

Services Available (St. Peter Port):

• Mooring: Various mooring options, including visitor moorings, are available.
• Repairs: Repair facilities and marine services for maintenance and emergencies.
• Customs and Immigration: Services are available for entering and clearing the Channel Islands.
• Provisions and Fuel: Supplies can be arranged through local providers.

Recommendations:

• Observation of Tides: Due to the significant tidal range, careful planning for anchoring and navigation is essential.
• Weather Monitoring: Regular updates on sea and weather conditions will assist in safe anchorage.
• Local Regulations: Ensure compliance with any local maritime rules and regulations, including any anchorage fees and environmental protections.

These anchorages provide crucial respite for vessels navigating the busy waters of the English Channel and serve as a strategic stopover point for maritime traffic. Always consult updated nautical charts and local maritime authorities for the most current information before making anchorage decisions.