GUJAN

• Latitude: 44.6418
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• Longitude: -1.07662
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• UK Coast & Atlantic
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• Marina in France

Address: Gujan-Mestras France

Marine Port Description and Specification: Gujan-Mestras, France

Location:
Gujan-Mestras is a commune in the Gironde department in southwestern France. It is part of the Arcachon Bay area, a popular region known for its oyster farming.

General Information

• Coordinates: Approximately 44.63° N latitude and -1.07° W longitude.
• Region: Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
• Accessibility: Primarily serves local, regional, and occasionally international traffic, predominantly for commercial, recreational, and fishing activities.

Port Infrastructure

• Harbors: The area includes several small harbors and marinas catering to different types of vessels. Significant harbors include:
  • Port de Larros: The primary area for oyster farming and related activities.
  • Port de Meyran: Another smaller harbor mainly used by local fishermen and recreational boaters.
  • Port de Gujan: An additional harbor mainly for personal and small commercial boats.

Facilities

• Mooring Facilities: Available for different sizes of vessels, mostly accommodating small to medium-sized boats.
• Fishing Facilities: Equipped to support the significant local fishing industry (primarily oyster farming).
• Recreational Facilities: Includes marina services for yachts and pleasure boats.
• Slipways and Dry Docks: Available for maintenance and repair of vessels.

Services

• Fueling Stations: Provided in the main harbors, usually catering to smaller boats.
• Water and Electric Supply: Available at mooring points for vessels.
• Chandleries: Stores supplying nautical equipment and supplies are accessible in the area.
• Shipyards: Local shipyards mostly dealing with the construction and repair of small to medium-sized vessels, especially those used in the oyster farming industry.

Commercial Activities

• Oyster Farming: A significant economic activity in Gujan-Mestras, with various facilities related to the harvesting, processing, and distribution of oysters.
• Fishing: Apart from oysters, the port supports other types of fishing in the Arcachon Bay area.
• Tourism: The area attracts tourists for its natural beauty, boating, and seafood cuisine, boosting the local economy.

Environmental Considerations

• Protected Areas: Part of the Arcachon Bay is protected due to its ecological significance. Activities within the port and surrounding waters are regulated to minimize environmental impact.
• Waste Management: Facilities for waste disposal and recycling are provided to minimize pollution.

Accessibility

• Road Access: Well-connected by national and regional roads. The nearest major city is Bordeaux, approximately 60 km away.
• Rail: The nearest railway station is in Gujan-Mestras, connecting to the wider French railway network.
• Air: The closest major airport is Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport.

Stakeholders

• Local Government: Oversees the regulation and development of port facilities.
• Businesses: Primarily those involved in oyster farming, fishing, tourism, and marine services.
• Recreational Boaters: A significant user group, particularly in the summer months.

Future Developments

• Infrastructure improvements and expansions are often discussed to support growing commercial and recreational activities.
• Environmental sustainability initiatives are continually implemented to protect Arcachon Bay.

Summary

Gujan-Mestras port serves as a critical hub for oyster farming, fishing, and recreational boating in the Arcachon Bay area. While it is not a large commercial port, its facilities are well-suited to support local economic activities and tourism. The port’s environmental regulations and close proximity to larger transportation networks make it a vital part of the local maritime infrastructure.