KITTERY

• USKXK
• Latitude: 43.0839
• Longitude: -70.7386
• US East Coast
• Port in US

Location: Kittery ME 03904 US

Kittery is a town in York County, Maine, United States. It is well-known for its historic sites, picturesque views, and proximity to the maritime region of the New England coast. It lies near the mouth of the Piscataqua River and is often associated with its neighbor, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, due to the short distance separating them and the shared maritime activities.

Port Description and Specification: Kittery

1. Location:

   • Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 43.0875° N latitude and 70.7360° W longitude.
   • Waterway Access: Situated near the mouth of the Piscataqua River, offering access to the Atlantic Ocean.

2. Facilities and Infrastructure:

   • Wharfs and Docks: The port area generally consists of several small wharfs and private as well as public docks. The primary wharfs are well-suited for small commercial, recreational, and fishing vessels.
   • Marinas: There are several marinas in and around Kittery, which provide docking facilities, refueling services, and maintenance options for a variety of boats and yachts.
   • Dry Dock and Maintenance: Nearby Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a significant maintenance facility, providing dry dock services and repair works, especially for naval and large commercial vessels.
   • Navigation Aids: Markers, buoys, and lighthouses guide maritime traffic, ensuring safe navigation within and around the Kittery region.

3. Types of Vessels:

   • Fishing Vessels: The port services a number of local fishing boats, given the town's strong maritime and fishing tradition.
   • Recreational Boating: Popular for recreational boaters, sailboats, and yachts, taking advantage of the scenic New England coast.
   • Small Commercial Vessels: Local commerce utilizing smaller cargo vessels for regional trade.
   • Naval Vessels: Proximity to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard brings occasional Navy traffic, although more restricted and specialized.

4. Commercial Activities:

   • Fishing Industry: The local economy benefits from a robust fishing industry, including lobster and other seafood catches.
   • Tourism: Marine-based tourism, such as chartered boat tours and recreational fishing, is a significant part of the local economy.
   • Retail and Trade: Local businesses and shops cater to both maritime activities and visitors, boosting the town’s economy.

5. Security and Regulations:

   • Customs and Immigration: Facilities are available for customs clearance and immigration processing for international vessels.
   • Harbor Regulations: Governed by federal and state maritime laws, as well as local regulations designed to ensure safety and environmental protection.
   • Coast Guard Presence: Regular patrols by the U.S. Coast Guard help ensure maritime security and safety.

6. Environmental Considerations:

   • Conservation Efforts: Ongoing efforts to maintain the ecological health of maritime and coastal areas, including water quality monitoring and habitat protection.
   • Sustainability Practices: Encouragement of sustainable fishing practices and waste management to preserve the local maritime environment.

7. Connectivity:

   • Road Access: Easily accessible via interstate highways and local roads, connecting to larger cities like Portsmouth, NH, and the broader New England region.
   • Airports: Closest major airports include Portsmouth International Airport at Pease, and further out, Portland International Jetport.

Summary

The port area in Kittery, Maine, primarily supports small commercial, recreational, and fishing vessels. It benefits from proximity to significant maritime facilities such as Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. With its vibrant fishing industry, scenic maritime tourism, and well-maintained marine infrastructure, Kittery is a key component of the local and regional maritime economy.