LE PALAIS

• Latitude: 47.3474
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• Longitude: -3.154
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• UK Coast & Atlantic
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• Port in France

Address: Le Palais Brittany France

Marine Port Description and Specification: Le Palais, France

Location:

• Le Palais is located on Belle Île, the largest of Brittany’s islands, situated off the coast of the Morbihan department in the northwest of France.
• Coordinates: Approximately 47.3487° N latitude and 3.1564° W longitude.

Port Characteristics:

• Type of Port: Le Palais is predominantly a passenger and fishing port, with some facilities for smaller commercial vessels. It serves as a critical gateway for ferry services between Belle Île and the mainland, notably Quiberon.
• Harbor Layout: The port features a natural harbor with protective infrastructure including breakwaters, piers, and jetties to shield vessels from prevailing winds and rough seas.
• Facilities: The port offers a variety of facilities including passenger terminals, berths for fishing vessels, and docking spaces for recreational boats and yachts.
• Depth: The depth at the port can vary, typically between 3 to 6 meters depending on tides, which need to be taken into consideration for navigation and berthing.

Services and Amenities:

• Passenger Services: Regular ferry services operated by companies such as Compagnie Océane, providing essential connectivity for passengers and vehicles between Belle Île and mainland France.
• Fishing Facilities: Dedicated spaces and services for local fishing activities including mooring points, unloading areas, and fish markets.
• Recreational Boating: Amenities for yachts and leisure boats including water, electricity, refueling points, and waste disposal services.
• Port Management: The port is managed by local municipal authorities, ensuring maintenance and regulatory compliance.

Navigational Considerations:

• Tidal Information: Mariners should be aware of significant tidal ranges and currents that may affect harbor entry and exit.
• Navigational Aids: The harbor is equipped with essential navigational aids such as lights, buoys, and beacons to guide vessels safely into port.
• Weather Conditions: Weather in the region can be temperamental, with strong winds and varying sea conditions, requiring caution from mariners.

Economic and Strategic Importance:

• Tourism: Le Palais is a major tourist gateway to Belle Île, drawing visitors to its scenic landscapes, historical sites, and recreational opportunities.
• Fishing Industry: The port supports local fishing communities, contributing significantly to the island’s economy.
• Transport Hub: Key transit point for goods and services between Belle Île and the mainland, crucial for the island’s supply chain.

Environmental Considerations:

• Maintaining the environmental integrity of the harbor area is a priority, given Belle Île's natural beauty and ecological significance. Efforts include pollution control measures and sustainable practices to protect marine life and water quality.

In summary, Le Palais port is an essential infrastructure for Belle Île, supporting both the local community’s economic activities and enhancing its tourism appeal. It features necessary facilities for passenger transport, fishing, and recreational boating, while being mindful of its environmental impact and navigational safety requirements.