OBERWESEL

  • DEOEE
  • Latitude: 50.1059
  • Longitude: 7.73124
  • Inland, Europe
  • Port in Germany

Location: Oberwesel Germany

Oberwesel is a picturesque town situated on the left bank of the Rhine River in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. Being a part of the scenic Middle Rhine Valley, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Oberwesel offers both historical charm and strategic importance for river transportation.

Marine Port Description:

  1. Location:

    • Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 50.1061° N latitude and 7.7331° E longitude.
    • Proximity: Oberwesel is around 50 kilometers south of the city of Koblenz and roughly 30 kilometers north of Mainz.
  2. Infrastructure:

    • Docks and Berths: The port features a few docks and berths primarily intended for river cruisers and smaller cargo vessels. The facilities are modest, as befits a smaller town with historical significance.
    • Loading/Unloading: Facilities for loading and unloading are available but are on a smaller scale compared to major commercial ports. They are suitable for regional trade, especially for goods like wine, given the proximity to the famous Rhineland vineyards.
    • Passenger Services: The port is popular with river cruise lines, which frequently include Oberwesel as a stop due to its scenic beauty and historical sites such as the Schönburg Castle and the Pfalzgrafenstein Castle.
  3. Navigation:

    • Channel Depth: Varies and may be shallow in certain areas, typically accommodating smaller river vessels. Depth is closely monitored to ensure safe passage.
    • Tidal Influence: The Rhine River in this region is significantly influenced by water levels, which can vary due to rainfall and seasonal changes.
    • Pilotage: Not compulsory for the port, but pilots are often used for navigation through the Middle Rhine due to the narrowness and complexity of parts of the river.
  4. Services:

    • Fueling: Limited fueling service for passenger ships and small cargo ships.
    • Maintenance and Repairs: Basic maintenance and repair services are available. Major repairs would typically require the vessel to proceed to a larger port with adequate facilities.
  5. Security:

    • The port implements standard security measures to ensure the safety of passengers and cargo.
    • Being in a relatively quiet and low-crime region, the security concerns are minimal but compliant with international standards.
  6. Accessibility:

    • Road Access: Good connectivity via local roads linking to major highways ensuring smooth transportation of goods and passengers.
    • Rail Access: Oberwesel is served by the Deutsche Bahn railway network, providing efficient freight and passenger transfer options.

Specifications:

  • Type: River port
  • Operational Status: Active, with a focus on tourism and light cargo
  • Primary Use: River cruises, local trade, and tourism
  • Cargo Handling Capacity: Limited; suitable for smaller shipments and specific regional goods like local wine
  • Annual Traffic: Predominantly river cruise vessels, with a modest number of cargo barges

Points of Interest:

  • Schönburg Castle: Overlooking the town and Rhine River, dating back to the 12th century.
  • Gothic Church of Our Lady: A significant historical and architectural landmark.
  • Pfalzgrafenstein Castle: A river toll castle located on the small Falkenau island in the Rhine.

Oberwesel's port is a vital component of the town's connection to the Rhine River, serving both its local economic activities and the vibrant tourist industry nurtured by this historic and scenic region.

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