KYRENIA

• CYKYR
• Latitude: 35.3426
• Longitude: 33.3293
• East Mediterranean
• Port in Cyprus

Location: Kyrenia Cyprus

Kyrenia (Girne), located on the northern coast of Cyprus, is a historically significant port and a popular tourist destination. Below is a detailed description and specifications of the port:

General Description

1. Location:

   • Latitude: 35.3280° N
   • Longitude: 33.3260° E
   • Positioned on the northern coast of the island of Cyprus in the Mediterranean Sea.

2. Function:

   • Originally a small fishing harbor, it has grown to accommodate a mix of tourism, fishing activities, and some commercial operations.
   • The port is primarily used for pleasure craft, fishing boats, and small commercial boats. It is a hub for yachting and maritime tourism.

3. Historic Significance:

   • Kyrenia is renowned for its picturesque harbor, which is dominated by the historic Kyrenia Castle. The castle has a rich history dating back to the Roman period, and it adds a cultural and historical charm to the port area.

Port Specifications

1. Harbor Size:

   • The old harbor is relatively small and primarily designed for smaller vessels. There are ongoing developments and expansions in the area to accommodate more boats and modern facilities.

2. Water Depth:

   • The average depth at the harbor entrance is approximately 3-4 meters.
   • Inside the harbor, the depth varies but is generally shallow, making it suitable for smaller vessels.

3. Mooring and Docking:

   • The harbor offers moorings for yachts and small boats. However, space can be limited, especially during peak tourist seasons.
   • There is a marina (Kyrenia Marina) adjacent to the old town offering better facilities for docking, with improved infrastructure for larger yachts and leisure boats.

4. Facilities:

   • Berths: Limited in the Old Harbor, more extensive in the nearby Kyrenia Marina.
   • Fuel: Limited fuel services in the Old Harbor, more comprehensive services at the marina.
   • Water and Electricity: Available for docked vessels at the marina.
   • Repair and Maintenance Services: Basic services are available locally, with more extensive facilities in nearby larger ports.
   • Customs and Immigration: Basic customs services for small vessels and tourist boats. Full services might require transit to larger ports such as Famagusta or Limassol.

5. Accessibility:

   • The port is easily accessible by road and is a short distance from the town center.
   • Regular public transport and taxis connect the port to other parts of Kyrenia and nearby regions.

6. Nearby Amenities:

   • Shops, restaurants, cafes, and tourist facilities are located in close proximity to the port.
   • The historic town of Kyrenia offers a variety of attractions, including the Kyrenia Castle, museums, and local markets.

Maritime Services

1. Navigation:

   • The harbor entrance can be narrow and requires careful navigation, especially in bad weather. Advisory services are recommended for unfamiliar sailors.

2. Security:

   • Basic port security measures are in place to ensure the safety of visiting vessels and tourists.

3. Communications:

   • VHF channels are used for communication with the harbor master and port authorities. Channel specifics should be confirmed upon approach.

Tourism and Leisure

1. Activities:

   • The port is a vibrant center for maritime tourism, including yachting, fishing trips, and boat tours.
   • The surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities for dining, shopping, and exploring cultural sites.

2. Events:

   • Kyrenia harbor frequently hosts local festivals, cultural events, and marine-related activities enhancing its appeal to tourists and locals alike.

Environmental Considerations

1. Water Quality:

   • Generally good, but visitors are advised to respect local regulations regarding waste disposal to preserve the pristine marine environment.

2. Conservation:

   • Efforts are in place to conserve the historical and natural heritage of the harbor and surrounding areas.

Overall, the port of Kyrenia in Cyprus is a charming, historically rich maritime hub with modern facilities catering mostly to tourism and small commercial operations. Its blend of scenic beauty, historical significance, and modern amenities make it a unique destination along the Mediterranean coast.