KENMARE

• IEKEN
• Latitude: 51.8718
• Longitude: -9.58565
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in Ireland

Location: Ireland

Kenmare is a picturesque town located in County Kerry, Ireland, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. However, as of now, Kenmare doesn't have a major commercial marine port. It primarily serves as a tourist destination due to its charming waterfront, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Here is an overview of what is available:

Kenmare Waterfront and Marina

• Location: Kenmare, County Kerry, Ireland
• Coordinates: Approximately 51.8794° N, 9.5832° W

Description

Kenmare's waterfront is situated at the head of Kenmare Bay (or Kenmare River), which is a large inlet or estuary within the south-west’s rugged coastline. The area is popular for sailing, fishing, and other water-related activities. While it is not equipped to handle large commercial shipping operations, it does have facilities for smaller private and recreational vessels.

Main Features

1. Marina Facilities:
   • Available for private yachts and smaller vessels.
   • Provision of basic amenities such as water and electric hook-ups.
   • Limited docking spaces; advanced booking is recommended especially during peak tourist seasons.
2. Navigation:
   • The approach to Kenmare Bay is well-charted but can be narrow and requires careful navigation, making it suitable primarily for experienced sailors.
   • Tides and currents need to be taken into consideration.
3. Services:
   • Shore-side services include local shops, restaurants, and pubs that provide a quintessential Irish coastal town experience.
   • Bait and fishing gear are available for recreational anglers.
4. Tourism and Activities:
   • The area is known for its scenic cruising routes, offering breathtaking views of the Irish maritime landscape.
   • Popular activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, and eco-tours.

Specifications

• Depth: Varies; shallow in parts with deeper anchorage points further out in the bay.
• Tide Type: Mixed semi-diurnal, meaning two high tides and two low tides of different heights occurring per day.
• Docking Space: Limited, best suited for smaller crafts and yachts.
• Mooring: Floating buoys and mooring points available.
• Shelter: Generally offers good protection from prevailing winds due to the natural geography of Kenmare Bay.
• Pilotage: Not typically available; local knowledge is advantageous for safe navigation.

Connectivity

• Road Access: Well-connected by scenic roads, though routes can be narrow and winding typical of rural Ireland.
• Nearest Airports: Kerry Airport (approximately 50 km away) offers regional flights.

Points of Interest

• Kenmare Stone Circle: A significant historical site.
• Ring of Kerry: A famous tourist trail with stunning coastal views.
• Killarney National Park: Nearby and renowned for its natural beauty.

In summary, Kenmare's waterfront primarily caters to private, recreational maritime activities rather than commercial port operations. Its beautiful setting makes it an attractive destination for tourists and sailing enthusiasts.