MARSEILLE ANCH

• Latitude: 43.3169
• Longitude: 5.30288
• West Mediterranean
• Anchorage in France

Location: Marseille Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur France

Marseille Anchorage (MARSEILLE ANCH) - France

General Overview:

Marseille Anchorage, often referred to as MARSEILLE ANCH, is an outer anchorage area serving the Port of Marseille, France. The Port of Marseille, locally known as the Grand Port Maritime de Marseille (GPMM), is one of the largest and busiest ports in France and the Mediterranean. It serves as a significant center for shipping, trade, and maritime activities.

Geographical Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 43.2783° N latitude and 5.3557° E longitude.
• Area: Located off the coast of Marseille in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region.

Specifications:

1. Anchor Depth:

   • The anchorage depth varies depending on the specific area but generally ranges from about 20 meters to 25 meters (65 to 82 feet), accommodating a wide variety of vessels.

2. Approach:

   • Vessels approaching the Marseille Anchorage need to follow the designated shipping lanes as per the port authority's guidelines to avoid shallow waters and other navigational hazards.
   • Pilots are generally recommended for unfamiliar ships to navigate through the busy traffic and complex waterways.

3. Holding Ground:

   • The seabed primarily consists of mud and sand, providing fairly good holding ground for anchors.

4. Weather and Tides:

   • Tides: The tidal range in Marseille is relatively small, with a spring tidal range of about 0.6 meters (2 feet).
   • Weather: Marseille has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Winds, particularly the Mistral (a strong northwesterly wind), can significantly affect anchorage conditions.

5. Capacity:

   • The anchorage can accommodate various types of vessels, from small fishing boats to large commercial ships, including tankers and container ships.

6. Facilities:

   • Bunkering: Fueling services are available for ships.
   • Water Supply: Freshwater supply can be arranged.
   • Waste Disposal: Efficient waste disposal services for both solid and liquid waste.
   • Repairs & Maintenance: Basic repair facilities and maintenance services are available in the port area.
   • Provisions: Arrangement of supplies, provisions, and spares can be made.

7. Regulations:

   • Vessels must comply with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the local Port Authority regulations.
   • Ships must maintain proper communication with the port authorities and ensure they have the necessary clearance before anchoring.

8. Port Services:

   • The Port of Marseille offers a wide range of services including cargo handling, storage, customs clearance, and more. The anchorage serves as a waiting point or preparatory area for vessels intending to dock.

9. Safety and Security:

   • Marseille Anchorage is monitored and controlled by the port’s Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) to ensure safe and efficient movement.
   • Security measures are in place to comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) code.

Nearby Facilities:

• The Port of Marseille provides extensive facilities including container terminals, dry docks, liquid bulk terminals, and more, making it a multi-functional maritime hub.

Conclusion:

Marseille Anchorage plays a crucial role in the overall operations of the Port of Marseille, facilitating the temporary holding of vessels and supporting the many maritime activities in one of the most important ports of the Mediterranean. Ensuring compliance with the local regulations and adhering to the navigational guidelines are essential for safe and efficient anchorage.