LOWER VANCOUVER ANCH

• Latitude: 45.6732
• Longitude: -122.765
• US West Coast
• Anchorage in US

Location: Vancouver WA US

The Lower Vancouver Anchor, often referred to in publications related to marine navigation and port specifications, is a designated anchorage area in the Columbia River near Vancouver, Washington, in the United States. Below is a description and some key specifications relevant to this anchorage:

Location:

• Geographical Coordinates: Approximately located near 45.6°N latitude and 122.6°W longitude.
• Proximity: It is situated near Vancouver, Washington, and just north of Portland, Oregon, providing strategic access to both cities via the Columbia River.

Description:

• Type: It is an anchorage area, meaning it is designated for vessels to anchor while they await further instructions, await docking space, or undergo port operations such as inspections and customs clearance.
• Environment: The anchorage is typically influenced by the tidal currents of the Columbia River. It is advised to consult local tidal charts and forecasts for optimal anchorage planning.

Specifications:

• Draft: Vessels anchoring in this area should verify the maximum permissible draft, which typically depends on the river depth at any given time. Generally, a draft allowance of up to around 40 feet may be expected, but this can vary with river conditions and port regulations.
• Anchorage Depth: The seabed is characterized by sufficient depth to safely anchor mid-sized commercial vessels, with depths generally ranging from 40 to 55 feet.
• Holding Ground: The seabed composition generally provides good holding ground consisting of mixed sediment, which is suitable for anchoring.

Navigation and Services:

• Navigation Aids: The area is marked by navigational aids as part of the comprehensive system along the Columbia River. Mariners should use up-to-date charts and electronic navigation systems to identify the exact anchorage boundaries.
• Vessel Traffic Management: The area is managed by local port authorities and the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow. Vessels are typically required to communicate with the Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) for anchoring instructions.
• Support Services: Nearby port facilities in Vancouver, WA, and Portland, OR, offer various services such as fuel bunkering, provisioning, waste disposal, and maintenance support.

Regulatory Considerations:

• Regulations: Vessels must comply with U.S. Coast Guard regulations and any specific local port authority requirements. This may include mandatory reporting, environmental compliance, and adherence to anchorage time limits.
• Security: The area is subject to maritime security regulations, and vessels may be subject to inspections by U.S. Customs and Border Protection or other relevant agencies.

Weather Considerations:

• Climate: The region experiences a temperate maritime climate with variable conditions. Mariners should be aware of seasonal weather patterns, including the prevalence of fog, rain, and occasional strong winds.

Conclusion:

Lower Vancouver Anchor serves as a strategically located anchorage for vessels navigating the Columbia River, with adequate depth and holding conditions for a variety of commercial ships. Mariners should ensure compliance with all navigational and regulatory requirements while making use of the anchorage.