LOOE

• GBLOE
• Latitude: 50.3539
• Longitude: -4.45542
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in UK

Location: UK

Looe is a picturesque port town located on the south coast of Cornwall, England. It is divided into East Looe and West Looe by the River Looe, which flows into the English Channel. Here is a detailed description and specification of Looe as a marine port:

Description:

Looe is primarily a fishing harbor, with a rich history dating back to medieval times. The town is characterized by its narrow streets, traditional granite and slate buildings, and a bustling waterfront that caters to both commercial fishing vessels and leisure boats.

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 50.3526° N latitude, -4.4545° W longitude
• County: Cornwall
• Nearby Major Cities: Plymouth (approx. 20 miles east), Truro (approx. 30 miles west)

Harbor Specifications:

• Type: Tidal Harbor (affected by tidal changes, with significant variations in water level)
• Harbor Functions: Primarily fishing, tourism, and recreational boating
• Depth: Varies due to tidal changes. The harbor dries at low tide, restricting access to deeper draft vessels.
• Berths and Moorings: Limited berthing space, including visitor moorings for yachts and small boats. Local fishing vessels have priority for available berthing.
• Facilities:
  • Quay: The port has a quay where small fishing boats can moor and offload their catches.
  • Slipway: Available for launching and retrieving small boats.
  • Harbor Master Office: Provides information, oversight, and maritime services.
  • Fish Market: Located near the quay, selling fresh local seafood.
  • Boat Repair and Maintenance Services: Limited facilities for minor repairs.
• Pilotage: Not generally required for small recreational vessels, but local knowledge is recommended due to tidal conditions and navigational hazards.
• Fuel and Provisions: Limited fuel facilities; provisions are available in the town's shops and supermarkets.

Access:

• Navigational Approach: Entry to Looe Harbor requires careful navigation, especially during low tide. Mariners need to be cautious of the sandbars and rocks near the entrance.
• Tidal Range: Significant tidal range affects accessibility. Timing entry and exit with the tides is crucial.
• Marine Weather: Subject to typical English Channel weather conditions. Fishermen and mariners should check local weather and sea state forecasts before planning their journey.

Usage:

• Commercial Fishing: A vital aspect of the local economy, with several small fishing vessels operating out of Looe.
• Tourism: A popular destination for tourists due to its scenic beauty, beach access, and marine-related activities such as boat trips and fishing excursions.
• Recreational Boating: Attracts leisure sailors and yachts, especially during the summer months.

Nearby Facilities and Attractions:

• East Looe Beach: A sandy beach popular with visitors.
• Local Restaurants and Pubs: Offering fresh seafood and traditional Cornish cuisine.
• Shops and Souvenirs: Local shops provide shopping opportunities for visitors.
• Visitor Accommodations: Various options including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and holiday cottages.
• Cultural and Historical Sites: Such as the Old Guildhall Museum & Gaol and Looe Island, accessible via boat trips.

Environmental Considerations:

• Protected Areas: The natural environment around Looe is protected, with efforts to conserve marine life and local ecosystems.
• Waste Management: Facilities to manage waste from vessels and prevent pollution.

Overall, Looe is a charming and functional small port that plays a significant role in the local community, balancing commercial fishing, tourism, and recreational boating activities. Due to its tidal nature and limited facilities, it is more suited for smaller vessels and those with a specific interest in fishing and local maritime culture.