INVERKEITHING

• GBINK
• Latitude: 56.0242
• Longitude: -3.38869
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: UK

Inverkeithing Marine Port Overview

Location:

• Country: United Kingdom
• Region: Scotland
• Coordinates: Approximately 56.033 N latitude, 3.400 W longitude
• Proximity: Near the northern shore of the Firth of Forth, close to Edinburgh

Port Description: Inverkeithing is a relatively small port primarily known for its shipbreaking and recycling activities. It lies within a sheltered area, providing some natural protection from the harsher conditions of the North Sea.

Specifications and Facilities

1. Navigation and Access:

   • Approach: The approach to Inverkeithing is generally straightforward for smaller vessels. Larger ships need to navigate carefully due to the tidal currents and relatively shallow depths.
   • Tides and Currents: The port experiences significant tidal fluctuations, which should be accounted for in operational planning.
   • Pilotage: Pilotage may be required for larger vessels or those unfamiliar with the port's specific navigational demands.

2. Berths and Quays:

   • Berths: A limited number of berths suitable for various commercial and industrial marine vessels, including ships designated for scrapping.
   • Quay Length: Varies, suitable majorly for small to medium-sized vessels.
   • Depth: Generally accommodates vessels with a draft of up to 7–8 meters; deeper drafts may require special arrangements or unloading before docking.

3. Cargo and Services:

   • Focus: Primarily oriented towards shipbreaking and recycling activities.
   • Cargo Handling: Limited cargo handling capabilities; not a major cargo throughput port.
   • Equipment: Basic handling equipment; more sophisticated logistics would need portable or mobile solutions.

4. Facilities and Infrastructure:

   • Shipbreaking Yards: The port features dedicated facilities for the dismantling and recycling of end-of-life ships.
   • Storage Areas: Limited storage spaces mainly used for staging ship parts and recyclable materials.
   • Utilities: Basic port utilities available; extensive services and supplies may require coordination with external providers.

5. Connectivity:

   • Road and Rail Links: Convenient road access to major highways; rail links may not be directly adjacent, necessitating road transport to railheads.
   • Proximity to Airports: Nearest major airport is Edinburgh Airport, approximately 20 km away.

6. Regulations and Compliance:

   • Environmental Standards: Compliance with UK and EU environmental regulations, particularly stringent due to the nature of shipbreaking activities.
   • Security: Compliance with standard port security measures; specific policies may be in place due to the nature of activities undertaken.

Additional Information:

• Operational Hours: Typically 24/7 operations, though specific services and facilities may have restricted hours.
• Economic Impact: While smaller compared to major UK ports, it holds significant local economic value due to specialized shipbreaking services.
• Future Development: Potential for development contingent on demand for shipbreaking services and investment in infrastructure.

Contact and Administrative Details:

• Port Authority: Managed by local council or specific maritime operators involved in the shipbreaking industry.
• Contact Information: Accessible via official port authority or maritime service websites for Inverkeithing.

Inverkeithing is a niche port with a specialized focus, beneficial for industries related to maritime recycling and shipbreaking activities.