LOPEZ ISLAND

  • Latitude: 48.5569
  • Longitude: -122.872
  • West Coast Canada
  • Marina in US

Location: Lopez Island WA 98261 US

Phone number: +1-360-468-4011

Web-site: https://www.portoflopez.com/

Marine Port: Lopez Island, United States

General Overview: Lopez Island is located in the San Juan Islands in Washington State, USA. It is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as boating, kayaking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The marine port on Lopez Island is primarily used for passenger ferry services, recreational boating, and small commercial activities, rather than large-scale industrial shipping.

Specifications:

Ferry Terminal:

  • Location: The primary ferry terminal is located at the northern end of Lopez Island, providing critical connectivity to the mainland and neighboring islands.
  • Main Operator: Washington State Ferries (WSF).
  • Routes: Regular ferry services to Anacortes on the mainland, as well as inter-island routes to Orcas Island, Shaw Island, and San Juan Island (Friday Harbor).
  • Facilities:
    • Passenger waiting areas
    • Vehicle loading and unloading ramps
    • Bicycle and pedestrian access
    • Restrooms
    • Parking areas for vehicles waiting to board the ferry

Marinas and Docks:

  • Marina: Fisherman Bay, located on the western side of Lopez Island, serves as the main hub for recreational boating.
    • Facilities:
      • Boat slips and moorings
      • Fuel dock
      • Electric and water hookups
      • Restrooms and showers
      • Laundromat
      • Boat rental and charter services
      • Marine supply stores
      • Dining facilities
  • Other Docks: Several smaller private and community docks are scattered around the island, providing additional mooring options and access points for smaller vessels.

Navigation and Access:

  • Water Depth: Variable, but generally adequate for ferries and recreational boats. Mariners should consult local nautical charts for specific depth information.
  • Tides: The San Juan Islands experience significant tidal fluctuations, which may affect docking and navigation.
  • Navigation Aids: Buoys, markers, and lights are maintained to assist with safe navigation in and around the island waters.

Commercial Services:

  • Cargo and Freight: Limited mainly to goods necessary for local consumption and small-scale commercial enterprises. Larger freight typically arrives via ferries.
  • Fishing Industry: Some local commercial and recreational fishing, with facilities available for offloading and processing.

Environmental Considerations:

  • Protected Waters: The waters around Lopez Island are known for their rich marine life and are part of several conservation efforts to protect local ecosystems.
  • Wildlife: Frequent sightings of orcas, seals, seabirds, and other marine life.

Emergency and Safety Services:

  • The port area is equipped with safety and emergency response services, including the local Coast Guard, fire department, and medical facilities on the island.

Associated Infrastructure:

  • Transportation: Road access to and from the ferry terminal and marinas is maintained, with paved routes connecting major parts of the island.
  • Accommodations: Nearby lodging options include hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds.
  • Utilities: Power, water, and communication services are available in the port and marina areas.

Conclusion:

The marine port on Lopez Island serves as a critical node for transportation and recreational activities in the San Juan Islands. While it is not an industrial port, its facilities are well-suited to support local residents, visitors, and small-scale commercial activities. The scenic attractiveness and vibrant marine life around Lopez Island add to its charm as a boating and recreational destination.

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