NELLY BAY

• Latitude: -19.16
• Longitude: 146.853
• East Australia
• Port in Australia

Location: Nelly Bay QLD 4819 Australia

Nelly Bay is a picturesque locality situated on Magnetic Island, which lies just offshore from the city of Townsville in Queensland, Australia. The Nelly Bay Harbour at Magnetic Island serves as a critical point of entry and departure for both residents and tourists visiting the island. Here are the description and specifications of Nelly Bay Harbour:

Geographic Location

• Coordinates: Approximately 19.1558° S latitude and 146.8497° E longitude.
• Proximity: Located 8 kilometers northeast of Townsville, accessible by a 20-minute ferry ride.

Port Facilities

1. Ferry Terminal:

   • Operators: The terminal is serviced by multiple ferry companies, including Sunferries and Sealink Queensland.
   • Destinations: Primarily connects with Townsville.

2. Marina:

   • Berths: The marina consists of numerous berths catering to recreational boats and yachts.
   • Services: Offers essential services such as fueling, water supply, and waste disposal.

3. Pier/Wharf:

   • Accommodates small to medium-sized vessels.
   • Facilities for boarding and disembarking passengers, as well as cargo handling for local supplies.

4. Fishing Facilities:

   • Designated areas for recreational fishing.
   • Charter fishing services available.

Depth and Navigation

• Channel Depth: The channel leading to Nelly Bay Harbour is maintained to accommodate ferries and recreational boats, typically around 3 to 5 meters.
• Harbour Depth: Inner areas of the harbour generally provide depths suitable for vessels up to approximately 12 meters in length.

Services and Amenities

• Customs and Quarantine: Not a port of entry for international vessels; serves domestic operations within Australia.
• Passenger Amenities: Includes waiting areas, restrooms, food and beverage outlets, and retail shops.
• Parking: Available for both short-term and long-term use.
• Public Transport Access: Shuttle services and public buses connect the harbour to various parts of Magnetic Island.

Environmental Considerations

• Climate: Tropical climate with a wet season (November to April) and dry season (May to October).
• Conservation: The harbour and surrounding areas are managed with an emphasis on preserving the natural environment, as Magnetic Island is known for its rich biodiversity.

Economic and Social Role

• Tourism Hub: Acts as the primary entry point for tourists visiting Magnetic Island’s resorts, beaches, and national parks.
• Residential Access: Provides essential connectivity for the island’s residents to the mainland for supplies, medical services, and work.
• Commercial Fishing: Limited but present, supporting local seafood industries.

Safety and Regulations

• Port Authority: Managed by the Nelly Bay Harbour Master, who oversees the safe and efficient operation of the port.
• Navigation Aids: Equipped with buoys, markers, and lights to assist navigation at all times.
• Emergency Services: Equipped to handle maritime emergencies with coordination between local law enforcement and maritime safety authorities.

In conclusion, Nelly Bay Harbour is a vital maritime facility for Magnetic Island, combining tourism, residential services, and recreational boating in a tropical and ecologically sensitive setting. Its facilities cater to a range of needs while maintaining a balance with environmental preservation.