HORSESHOE BAY

• Latitude: -27.5019
• Longitude: 153.363
• East Australia
• Shelter in Australia

Location: Australia

Horseshoe Bay, Australia - Marine Port Description and Specification

Horseshoe Bay is a picturesque marine port located on the northeastern coast of Magnetic Island in Queensland, Australia. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, Horseshoe Bay offers a blend of recreational and commercial facilities, making it a sought-after destination for both tourists and mariners. Below is a detailed description and specification of the port:

Geographic Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 19.1315° S latitude and 146.8681° E longitude
• Region: Magnetic Island, situated within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park

Harbor Characteristics:

• Type: Natural Bay
• Water Depth:
  • At Berth: Ranges from 2 to 4 meters, varying with tidal conditions
  • In Channel: Between 4 to 10 meters, ensuring safe navigation for small to medium-sized vessels
• Tides: Semidiurnal tides with a typical range of about 2.5 meters

Facilities and Infrastructure:

• Marinas and Moorings:

  • A well-maintained marina equipped with berthing facilities accommodating yachts, pleasure boats, and smaller commercial vessels.
  • Mooring buoys available for anchorage within the bay.

• Boat Ramps and Launch Areas:

  • Multiple boat ramps provide easy access for launching and retrieving small to medium-sized boats.

• Onshore Amenities:

  • Fueling stations
  • Freshwater and electricity supply points
  • Maintenance and repair services
  • Waste disposal and environmental management services

• Commercial Services:

  • Limited commercial shipping services due to the port's primary focus on tourism and recreational activities.
  • Fishing vessels frequent the bay, leveraging the rich marine biodiversity.

Recreational and Tourism Facilities:

• Beaches:

  • Horseshoe Bay features a long, sandy beach ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

• Water Sports:

  • Popular activities include snorkeling, diving, jet skiing, and kayaking.
  • Equipment rentals and instruction services available for tourists.

• Accommodations and Dining:

  • Numerous hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals are situated near the bay.
  • Variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars offering local and international cuisine with scenic waterfront views.

Environmental Considerations:

• Protected Area: The bay lies within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, emphasizing the need for conservation and sustainable use of marine resources.
• Marine Life: The region supports a diverse ecosystem with coral reefs, tropical fish, and occasionally sightings of dolphins and sea turtles.
• Environmental Regulations: Strict regulations in place to protect the habitat, including limitations on waste discharge, speed restrictions to prevent erosion and disturbance to marine life, and designated fishing areas.

Safety and Navigation:

• Navigational Aids:

  • Lighted buoys and markers indicating safe passage and mooring spots.
  • Local maritime authority offers navigation charts and tidal information.

• Safety Services:

  • Lifeguard patrols on the main beach area.
  • Coast Guard and emergency response services available.

Accessibility:

• Land Access:

  • Easily reachable via road from the town of Nelly Bay, which connects to the ferry terminal providing access to Townsville on the mainland.

• Ferry Services:

  • Regular ferries operate between Magnetic Island and Townsville, facilitating transportation for both locals and visitors.

Conclusion:

Horseshoe Bay is not only visually striking but also well-equipped to cater to a multitude of marine and tourist activities. Its combination of natural beauty, modern facilities, and commitment to environmental protection makes it an exemplary port in Australia. Whether visiting for leisure or utilizing the marina services, Horseshoe Bay offers an enriching experience for all.