NEWBURYPORT

• Latitude: 42.8126
•
• Longitude: -70.8701
•
• US East Coast
•
• Port in US

Address: Newburyport MA 01950 US

Phone number: (978) 465-4413

Web-site: http://www.cityofnewburyport.com

Newburyport is a small, picturesque city located in Essex County, Massachusetts, USA. It is situated at the mouth of the Merrimack River, where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean. While Newburyport is not a major deepwater commercial port, it serves predominantly as a harbor for recreational, fishing, and small commercial vessels.

Key Features and Specifications:

Location:

• Latitude: 42.8126° N
• Longitude: 70.8773° W

Facilities & Infrastructure:

1. Moorings and Docks:

   • Newburyport Harbor features several marinas, yacht clubs, and public docks.
   • The Newburyport Harbor Commission manages moorings and ensures orderly anchorage.

2. Harbor Size and Depth:

   • The harbor is relatively shallow, with depths that are suitable for small to medium-sized boats.
   • Mean low water depths range from around 3 to 10 feet (approximately 0.9 to 3 meters), limiting the harbor to smaller draft vessels.

3. Navigation Channels:

   • Dredged channels are available but require frequent maintenance due to silting.
   • A navigation channel runs through the Merrimack River leading to the Atlantic Ocean.

4. Public and Private Marinas:

   • Newburyport has several marinas, including Newburyport Harbor Marina and Windward Yacht Yard.
   • These marinas provide various services such as berthing, fueling, and repair.

5. Fishing Industry:

   • The harbor supports a small but active local fishing industry.
   • Fishing vessels are primarily involved in lobster trapping and other forms of local fishing.

6. Tidal Information:

   • Tides in Newburyport are semi-diurnal with two high and two low tides each day.
   • Extreme tides can affect the depth and accessibility of the harbor.

7. Environmental Considerations:

   • The harbor area is subject to environmental regulations to protect the river and coastal ecosystems.
   • Ongoing efforts focus on water quality and mitigating pollution.

Access:

• Roads:

  • The city is accessible by Interstate 95 and Route 1.
  • Downtown Newburyport is approximately 35 miles north of Boston.

• Sea:

  • The Merrimack River provides navigable access to the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Considerable care is required for navigation due to sandbars and shallow areas at the river mouth.

• Air:

  • Closest major airport is Logan International Airport in Boston.

Services:

• Harbormaster:

  • The Newburyport Harbormaster oversees harbor activities, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.

• Repair and Maintenance:

  • Ship and boat repair services are available at local yards and marinas.

• Fueling:

  • Fuel docks are available at various marinas.

Recreational and Tourism Aspects:

In addition to its functional role, Newburyport Harbor is a popular destination for tourists. Attractions include:

• Historic Downtown:
  • Newburyport has a charming historic downtown area with shops, restaurants, and galleries.
• Water Activities:
  • Boating, fishing charters, and whale-watching excursions are popular.
• Parks:
  • Waterfront Park and Cashman Park provide scenic views and recreational opportunities.

Summary:

Newburyport Harbor is a vibrant community harbor with a rich historical background. While it is not a major commercial port, it plays a significant role in recreational maritime activities and supports a small commercial fishing fleet. The harbor's infrastructure accommodates mostly smaller vessels, with a focus on leisure boating, tourism, and local maritime industries.