ILFRACOMBE

• GBILF
• Latitude: 51.21043
• Longitude: -4.112247
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: UK

Overview of Ilfracombe Marine Port, UK

Location: Ilfracombe is a picturesque seaside town located on the North Devon coast of England. The port and harbor are situated within the town and serve as a gateway to the Bristol Channel.

Geographic Coordinates: Latitude: 51.2068° N Longitude: 4.1172° W

Port Specifications

Harbor Type: Ilfracombe's harbor is a tidal port, primarily used for fishing, tourism, and small-scale commercial purposes. The harbor features a mix of leisure moorings, commercial berths, and quayside facilties.

Facilities and Services:

1. Moorings and Berths:

   • Around 100 berths available for resident and visiting boats.
   • Depth: Varies significantly due to tidal range; around 3 meters at high tide and nearly dry at low tide.
   • Facilities for both commercial vessels and leisure craft.

2. Quay:

   • South Quay and Old Quay Head are the main operational quays within the harbor.
   • Equipped to handle small commercial vessels and fishing boats.

3. Maintenance and Repairs:

   • Basic maintenance facilities available, including a small boat yard.
   • Equipment includes small cranes and winches.

4. Fuel and Water:

   • Fuel services available (limited to diesel).
   • Fresh water points accessible.

5. Navigation and Pilotage:

   • Navigational aids include leading lights and buoys.
   • Pilotage is optional and generally not required for smaller vessels, but advisable for unfamiliar operators.

6. Passenger Services:

   • Regular seasonal ferry services to nearby Lundy Island.
   • Excursion boat trips available along the coast and to various points of interest.

Tidal Information:

• The port is tidal with a significant range, which can affect accessibility. The range can be as high as 7 meters during spring tides.
• Harbor dries out at low water, and vessel movement is predominantly managed around the high tide periods.

Security and Customs:

• Standard port security measures in place.
• No direct customs facilities; nearest customs office is located in larger regional ports such as Bristol or Avonmouth.

Additional Facilities:

• Public amenities include a harbor office, restrooms, and showers.
• Proximity to local shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions within Ilfracombe town.

Environmental Regulations:

• As a small port, specific environmental protections are in place to preserve marine life and water quality.
• Waste disposal services available, with environmental regulations to minimize impact on the sensitive coastal environment.

Access:

• By sea: Easily accessible from the Bristol Channel.
• By land: Well-connected by road with regular bus services linking to Barnstaple, the nearest major town with railway connections.

Key Points of Interest

• Lundy Island: A major attraction accessible by ferry.
• Verity Statue: A 66-foot-tall bronze statue by artist Damien Hirst located at the entrance to the harbor.
• Coastal Walks: The South West Coast Path passes through Ilfracombe and offers stunning coastal views.

This port serves as a welcoming haven for both marine leisure enthusiasts and small-scale commercial marine activities, blending functionality with the region's natural beauty and charm.