OCEAN CITY

• USOEC
• Latitude: 38.3274
• Longitude: -75.1031
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Ocean City, Maryland, is a popular resort town on the East Coast of the United States, known primarily for its tourism rather than its function as a major marine port. Here are some specifications and a description of the maritime facilities in Ocean City:

General Description:

Location:

• Latitude: 38.336° N
• Longitude: 75.084° W
• Ocean City is located along the eastern shore of Maryland, adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its vibrant boardwalk, beaches, and various recreational activities.

Port Specifications:

Type of Port:

• Ocean City serves as a minor commercial port but is more prominent as a recreational and fishing port.

Primary Uses:

• Tourism: The town’s economy heavily relies on the tourism industry, attracting visitors to its beaches, boardwalk, and entertainment activities.
• Commercial Fishing: The port supports a local fishing industry, with various fishing charters departing from Ocean City.
• Recreational Boating: Significant activity in the marina includes private yachts, sailing, and motorboats.

Facilities:

• Marinas: Ocean City has several marinas that provide docking, fueling, and maintenance services. Some prominent marinas include the White Marlin Marina, Harbour Island Marina, and Sunset Marina.
• Piers: There are a few piers that cater to both commercial and recreational fishing. The Ocean City Fishing Pier is a popular destination.
• Boat Ramps: There are multiple public boat ramps available for launch and retrieval of recreational boats.

Navigation:

• Channels: The port area has well-maintained channels, marked and dredged to allow safe passage for fishing boats and recreational vessels.
• Depth: The depth of the navigational channels usually ranges between 10 to 15 feet.
• Breakwaters: There are protective breakwaters to minimize the impact of waves and weather on docked vessels.

Services Available:

• Fueling Stations: Multiple fueling options are available for both gas and diesel.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Several facilities provide boat repairs, maintenance, and storage services.
• Fishing Supplies: Tackle shops and bait shops are abundant, catering to the needs of commercial and recreational fishers.

Access and Logistics:

• Road Access: Ocean City is accessible via major highways such as US Route 50 and US Route 113.
• Air Access: Ocean City Municipal Airport (OXB) serves private aviation needs.
• Rail Access: There is no direct rail link to Ocean City; the nearest major railway services are in nearby towns.

Environmental and Safety Features:

• Tide and Weather Conditions: The area typically has moderate tides and experiences seasonal weather changes, which can affect marine operations.
• Lifeguard Services: Extensive lifeguard services are in place along the beaches to ensure the safety of swimmers and boaters.
• Coast Guard Presence: The United States Coast Guard has a strong presence to enforce maritime safety regulations, conduct search and rescue operations, and ensure navigational aids are operational.

Economic Impact:

While Ocean City's port operations contribute to the local economy, it is primarily through tourism, recreational boating, and fishing rather than significant commercial shipping or freight handling.

Conclusion:

Ocean City's marine port facilities are tailored to support a lively tourism industry and a small commercial fishing sector. While not a major commercial port, its marinas and marine services effectively cater to the needs of recreational boaters and fishing enthusiasts, contributing to the town's vibrant coastal charm.