HOOGE

• DEHGE
• Latitude: 54.5756
• Longitude: 8.54028
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in Germany

Location: Hooge Schleswig-Holstein Germany

Port of Hooge, Germany – Description and Specifications

The Hooge Port is a smaller maritime facility located in the Hallig Hooge, part of Germany's North Frisian Islands in the Wadden Sea. Hallig Hooge is known for its unique geography, characterized by the flat landscape and frequent flooding, which distinguishes it from larger, more industrialized ports.

General Description:

1. Geographical Location:

   • Coordinates: Approximately 54.5667° N latitude and 8.4833° E longitude.
   • Region: North Frisia, in the state of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.
   • Proximity: Situated in the Wadden Sea, Hooge is one of the halligen (small islands) that are not protected by sea dikes.

2. Purpose and Usage:

   • Primary Functions: The port serves primarily for local transportation and access, tourism, and supporting the island’s limited commercial activities.
   • User Base: Local inhabitants, tourists, supply vessels, and emergency services.
   • Tourism Focus: The port is crucial for the island’s tourism sector, providing access for day-trippers and long-term visitors interested in the unique natural environment of the Wadden Sea.

Specifications:

1. Port Type:

   • Category: Tidal Port.
   • Facilities: Basic amenities to accommodate small vessels, ferries, and supply boats.

2. Infrastructure:

   • Berths: Limited number of berths suitable for small vessels and ferries.
   • Depth: Relatively shallow waters, with significant tidal variations affecting access.
   • Docking Facilities: Simple docking facilities due to the small scale and limited infrastructure.
   • Loading/Unloading: Manual or semi-automated processes, suitable for small-scale transportation needs.

3. Connectivity:

   • Access: Primarily accessible via sea routes; seasonal variations and tidal patterns greatly influence accessibility.
   • Transportation Links: Limited road infrastructure within the island; reliance on sea transport for connectivity to the mainland and other islands.

4. Environmental Considerations:

   • Protected Area: As part of the Wadden Sea, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the port operates with strong environmental regulations to preserve the unique ecosystem.
   • Tidal Patterns: The port's operations are heavily influenced by tidal cycles, restricting access during certain times of the day.

5. Operational Considerations:

   • Operating Hours: Dependent on tidal conditions, with defined schedules for ferry operations.
   • Seasonal Variability: Peak activity during the tourist season; reduced operations in the off-peak period.

Additional Information:

1. Governance and Management:

   • Authorities: Managed by local municipal authorities with oversight from regional and national maritime agencies.
   • Regulations: Compliance with German maritime laws and Wadden Sea conservation guidelines.

2. Services:

   • Facilities: Limited but include basic passenger amenities, waiting areas, and minimal commercial offerings like small shops or cafes during peak tourist times.
   • Emergency Services: Provisions for emergency medical and rescue operations due to the remote and often inaccessible nature of the island.

The Port of Hooge is a critical lifeline for the island’s inhabitants and functions as a gateway for visitors seeking to experience the unique environment of the North Frisian Islands and the Wadden Sea. Its operations are tailored to the specific needs and limitations imposed by the island’s geography and environmental regulations.