HELL'S GATE

• USLUT
• Latitude: 46.3719
• Longitude: -117.051
• US West Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

There appears to be a bit of confusion in your query. "Hell Gate" (often referred to as "Hell's Gate") is not a marine port, but rather a narrow tidal strait in the East River in New York City, United States. Here are the detailed characteristics of Hell Gate:

Hell Gate Overview

• Location: Hell Gate is situated between Queens and Ward’s Island in the borough of Manhattan, New York City.
• Coordinates: Approximately 40.7840° N latitude and 73.9280° W longitude.
• Waterway Connection: The strait connects the upper section of the East River with the Long Island Sound.

Characteristics and Specifications

• Width: Hell Gate is known for its narrow width, which constrains large vessels.
• Depth: Varies significantly. At low tide, some areas can be quite shallow, while other parts are deep enough to accommodate larger vessels.
• Currents: The area is notorious for its powerful and dangerous tidal currents, which can be treacherous for navigation.
• Obstructions: The underwater topography includes rocks and turbulent waters, making it historically hazardous for ships.

Historical Significance

• Bridge: The Hell Gate Bridge, a crucial railroad bridge that spans the strait, was opened in 1917 and remains an architectural and engineering landmark.
• Navigation Hazards: Historically, Hell Gate has seen numerous shipwrecks due to its difficult navigation conditions until improved navigation marks and dredging were conducted.

Navigational Aspects

• Navigation Aids: The area is well-marked with buoys and other aids to navigation due to its challenging passage.
• Restrictions: Larger vessels often need to navigate carefully or avoid the area altogether, depending on conditions and their draft.

Role in Maritime Routes

• Commercial Shipping: Hell Gate plays a critical role in marine traffic between Long Island Sound and the New York Harbor, particularly for smaller vessels.
• Recreational Boating: Despite its challenges, the strait is often used by recreational boaters.

While Hell Gate is not a port, its significance in marine navigation within one of the busiest maritime regions in the world makes it an important geographical and historical feature. If you're looking for information on marine ports, such as docks, facilities, and services, focusing on New York City's general port infrastructure might be more relevant.