HATTERAS
- Latitude: 35.2081 •
- Longitude: -75.7032 •
- US East Coast •
- Port in US
Address: Hatteras NC 27943 US
Certainly! Hatteras, located on the Outer Banks in North Carolina, United States, is best known for its proximity to the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and its role as a gateway to the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound. Given its coastal location, it primarily supports commercial fishing, recreational boating, and ferry services rather than large-scale industrial shipping. Here’s a more detailed description and specifications of the marine port facilities in Hatteras:
Overview:
- Location: Hatteras, Dare County, North Carolina, USA.
- Coordinates: Approx. 35.2183° N, 75.6903° W.
- Type: Coastal community port with focus on commercial fishing, recreational boating, and ferry operations.
Hatteras Harbor Marina:
Hatteras Harbor Marina is a key facility within the village offering services to both recreational and commercial vessels.
Features:
- Marina Capacity: Can accommodate vessels up to 100 feet in length.
- Docking Facilities: Multiple floating docks with access to electricity and water.
- Boat Ramp: Available for trailer-launched boats.
- Fuel Dock: Provides both gasoline and diesel for vessels.
- Maintenance Services: On-site shipyard facilities with repair services.
- Fish Cleaning Station: Equipped for commercial and recreational fishermen.
Services:
- Fishing Charters: Numerous charter operations for deep-sea and inshore fishing.
- Boat Rentals and Tours: Available for leisure and exploration of nearby waters.
- Supplies and Provisions: Marina store supplying marine equipment, bait, tackle, and provisions.
- Lodging: Accommodations such as motels and rental cottages nearby for transient boaters.
Hatteras-Ocracoke Ferry Terminal:
Another essential facility is the ferry terminal, operated by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), providing essential connectivity between Hatteras and Ocracoke Island.
Features:
- Ferry Type: Primarily roll-on/roll-off ferries for vehicles and passengers.
- Route: Hatteras-Ocracoke (approx. 60 minutes crossing).
- Frequency: Multiple departures daily year-round, subject to weather conditions.
Maritime Conditions and Navigational Information:
Navigational Channels:
- Depth: Typically ranges between 10 to 12 feet in the maintained channels. Variable due to shoaling; periodic dredging maintains depth.
- Aids to Navigation: Buoys and markers maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Marine Weather:
- Typical Conditions: Influenced by Atlantic Ocean and local weather systems; susceptible to hurricanes and nor'easters.
- Services: NOAA provides regular weather updates, tide information, and navigational warnings for mariners.
Restrictions and Safety:
- Speed Limits: Enforced within harbor and channel areas to ensure safety.
- Environmental Protection: Strict regulations to protect the surrounding Cape Hatteras National Seashore and local ecosystems.
- Emergency Services: U.S. Coast Guard Station Hatteras Inlet provides search and rescue, emergency response, and law enforcement on the water.
Accessibility and Transportation:
- Road Access: Via North Carolina Highway 12, connecting to mainland North Carolina.
- Air Access: Closest major airport is Norfolk International Airport (ORF) in Virginia, approximately 150 miles to the north, with local airstrips available for smaller aircraft.
Hatteras serves as a crucial hub for local maritime activities, balancing between commercial fishing, recreational boating, and essential ferry services. While it does not support heavy industrial shipping, it remains vital for the local economy and tourism industry by leveraging its rich maritime culture and strategic coastal location.