MILFORD HAVEN ANCH

• Latitude: 51.7028
• Longitude: -5.12607
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Anchorage in UK

Location: UK

Milford Haven is a major port located in Pembrokeshire, on the southwestern coast of Wales, United Kingdom. It is one of the deepest natural harbors in the world and serves as a critical maritime hub for various industries, including oil and gas, petrochemicals, and general cargo. Below is a detailed description and specification of Milford Haven:

Port Description:

1. Geographical Location: Milford Haven lies along the Milford Haven Waterway, which is a ria, or drowned river valley, that provides a natural, sheltered, deep-water harbor. The port's coordinates are approximately 51.7139° N latitude and 5.0420° W longitude.

2. Accessibility:

   • Approach: The port is accessible through St. George's Channel from the Irish Sea, with easy navigation facilitated by a well-marked channel.
   • Tidal Range: Milford Haven experiences a significant tidal range, meaning tides can fluctuate substantially, which impacts docking and maritime operations.

3. Operational Control: Milford Haven is managed by the Milford Haven Port Authority (MHPA), which oversees all activities within the harbor.

Port Specifications:

1. Berths and Terminals:

   • Oil Terminals: The port hosts several oil terminals, including those owned by major companies such as Valero and Puma Energy. These terminals are equipped to handle large tankers and have facilities for loading and offloading crude oil and refined products.
   • Gas Terminals: Milford Haven is home to liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals, significantly contributing to the UK's energy infrastructure. Key LNG terminals include South Hook LNG and Dragon LNG.
   • General Cargo: The port has dedicated berths for general cargo, including bulk commodities and containerized goods.
   • Ro-Ro Facilities: Facilities for roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) operations accommodate ferries and vehicle transporters.

2. Depth and Draught:

   • Channel Depth: The main channel has a depth of up to 17 meters, accommodating some of the largest deep-draft vessels.
   • Berth Depth: Different berths have varying depths, typically ranging from 10 to 17 meters, depending on the terminal and specific requirements of the vessel types serviced.

3. Anchorage:

   • The anchorage areas in Milford Haven are well-defined and provide safe mooring for vessels waiting to berth. The shelter provided by the natural geography of the waterway ensures minimal movement due to currents and winds, making it a secure location for anchoring.

4. Navigational Aids:

   • The port is equipped with modern navigational aids, including lighthouses, buoys, and electronic traffic management systems, ensuring safe and efficient passage for all vessels entering and leaving the harbor.
   • Pilotage: Compulsory for large vessels, ensuring safe navigation through the waterway, particularly for oil tankers and LNG carriers.

5. Port Services:

   • Bunkering: Fueling services are available for vessels.
   • Ship Repair and Maintenance: Facilities for minor repairs and maintenance are available, including dry docks.
   • Security: The port complies with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, ensuring safety and security for all maritime operations.

Recent Developments:

Milford Haven has seen significant investment in expanding its facilities and upgrading infrastructure to accommodate increasing traffic and larger vessels, particularly in response to the growing importance of LNG imports.

Economic Impact:

Milford Haven plays a crucial role in the regional and national economy, with its operations supporting various sectors, including energy, fishing, tourism, and trade.

Note:

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Milford Haven, it is advisable to refer to official sources such as the Milford Haven Port Authority website or maritime publications that provide real-time data on port conditions and operations.