NORTH RONALDSAY

• GBNRO
• Latitude: 59.3554
• Longitude: -2.44077
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: North Ronaldsay Orkney UK

Web-site: https://www.orkneyharbours.com/harbours/north-ronaldsay

North Ronaldsay is the northernmost island in the Orkney archipelago, located off the north coast of Scotland. It is a relatively remote and small island with limited port facilities, primarily serving the local population and the needs of visitors.

Port Description:

1. Location and Geography:

   • Latitude: Approximately 59.367° N
   • Longitude: Approximately -2.420° W
   • North Ronaldsay is part of the Orkney Islands, which lie off the northeastern coast of Scotland.
   • The island is situated in the North Sea, with harsh weather conditions and challenging navigation due to its exposed position.

2. Infrastructure:

   • The main port facility on North Ronaldsay is a small harbour located in the south of the island, near Linklet Bay.
   • The harbour primarily serves fishing boats, small cargo vessels, and ferries that connect North Ronaldsay with other Orkney Islands and the Scottish mainland.
   • Due to its small size, the harbour has basic amenities and limited cargo handling facilities.

3. Accessibility:

   • The primary access to North Ronaldsay is via ferry, which connects the island to the main Orkney Island of Kirkwall.
   • The ferry service is crucial for transporting goods, supplies, and passengers to and from the island.
   • The island also has a small airstrip for light aircraft, which can provide an alternative means of access, particularly in adverse sea conditions.

4. Navigation:

   • Navigation around North Ronaldsay can be challenging due to strong tidal currents, adverse weather conditions, and rocky outcrops.
   • Mariners must exercise caution and use updated nautical charts when approaching the island.

5. Services and Amenities:

   • The harbour provides basic services such as mooring and limited shelter for vessels.
   • There are no refueling facilities or major repair services available on the island.
   • The island has a general store, accommodations, and a limited number of other amenities to support residents and visitors.

6. Local Economy:

   • The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, fishing, and tourism.
   • North Ronaldsay is renowned for its unique breed of seaweed-eating sheep, which graze on the shore and are a significant part of the island's cultural heritage.

7. Environmental Considerations:

   • The island and its surrounding waters are home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and marine mammals.
   • Careful environmental management is essential to preserve the natural habitat and biodiversity of the region.

In summary, North Ronaldsay's port facilities are modest and primarily support the local community and occasional visitors. The island's remote location and challenging weather conditions make it essential for mariners to be well-prepared when navigating to and from this unique part of the Orkney Islands.