HARBOR SPRINGS
- Latitude: 45.422 •
- Longitude: -84.9835 •
- Great Lakes •
- Port in US
Address: Harbor Springs MI US
Harbor Springs is a picturesque, small-sized harbor located in the northwestern part of Michigan on the shores of Little Traverse Bay in Lake Michigan. It's known for its natural beauty, charming downtown, and is a popular destination for boating and yachting enthusiasts. Below, find a detailed description and specifications for the Harbor Springs marine port:
General Description
- Location: Northwestern part of Michigan, on Little Traverse Bay.
- Coordinates: Approximately 45.43°N latitude and 84.99°W longitude.
- Proximity: Situated in Emmet County, near Petoskey.
Harbor and Facilities
- Type: Natural harbor.
- Access: Navigable via Little Traverse Bay.
- Primary Use: Recreational boating, yachting, leisure activities.
- Navigation: Marked by buoys and navigational aids for safe entry and exit of vessels.
Infrastructure
- Docks & Slips: Multiple docking options available for various sizes of vessels, including transient slips for visiting boats.
- Marinas:
- Harbor Springs Municipal Marina: Offers dockage, electric hookup, water, fueling stations, and pump-out services.
- Walstrom Marine: Full-service marina featuring yacht sales, service, and storage options.
- Boat Ramps: Public boat launching facilities available.
Services and Amenities
- Fuel: Diesel and gasoline available.
- Maintenance: Boat repair and maintenance services accessible within the harbor.
- Utilities: Electrical, water, Wi-Fi, and waste disposal services.
- Restrooms/Showers: Available at marina facilities for boaters.
- Dining and Provisions: Numerous restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores within walking distance.
- Shopping: Quaint shops and boutiques in the downtown area.
Depth and Tidal Information
- Depth: Varies; typically ranges from 10 to 18 feet deep. Always verify with current charts.
- Tidal Range: Minimal, given its location in a freshwater lake.
Safety and Communication
- Coast Guard: The local U.S. Coast Guard station provides marine safety and patrols the area.
- Emergency Services: Emergency services are available through local authorities.
- VHF Channels: Monitored for communication with incoming and outgoing vessels.
Environmental and Navigational Concerns
- Weather Conditions: Subject to Lake Michigan’s weather patterns; summer months are generally calm and suitable for boating.
- Hazards: Be vigilant of weather changes, submerged rocks, and shallow areas marked on nautical charts.
- Environmental Protection: Efforts are made to maintain water quality and natural habitat; boaters are expected to follow environmentally friendly practices.
Attractions and Activities
- Water Activities: Boating, kayaking, swimming, and fishing.
- Cultural Events: Frequent waterfront festivals, concerts, and community events.
- Historical Sites: Home to historical buildings and points of interest within the town.
- Other Recreational Opportunities: Golf courses, hiking trails, and biking paths in the vicinity.
Harbor Springs is celebrated for its serene ambiance, friendly community, and excellent facilities, making it a sought-after destination for marine activities and tourism. Whether you are stopping by on a sailing trip across the Great Lakes or planning a longer stay to explore northern Michigan, Harbor Springs provides a delightful and accommodating harbor experience.