OCRACOKE

• Latitude: 35.1158
• Longitude: -75.9849
• US East Coast
• Port in US

Location: US

Ocracoke Marine Port Description and Specification

General Overview

Ocracoke Marine Port is situated in Ocracoke, North Carolina, USA. It is located on Ocracoke Island, which is part of the Outer Banks. Known for its picturesque landscapes and historic significance, the port primarily serves as a hub for both commercial and recreational maritime activities. The port is accessible from the Atlantic Ocean and primarily caters to ferries, fishing vessels, and recreational boats.

Geographic and Navigational Information

• Location: Ocracoke Island, Hyde County, North Carolina, USA
• Coordinates: Approximately 35° 6' N latitude and 75° 59' W longitude
• Waterway: Connected via the Intracoastal Waterway, providing access to both the Atlantic Ocean and inland waterways of the United States.
• Harbor Type: Natural harbor with channel modifications for navigation.

Facilities and Services

• Docking: Available docks for small to medium-sized vessels, including slips and bulkheads.
• Mooring: Multiple mooring options available for transient and long-term dockage.
• Boat Ramps: Public boat ramps for launching and retrieving vessels.
• Marina: Equipped with basic amenities such as water and electrical hookups. Some offer fuel services.
• Shelter: Limited but effective shelter from prevailing winds; however, subject to conditions of hurricanes and Nor’easters.

Equipment and Machinery

• Navigational Aids: Buoys, markers, and lights managed by the U.S. Coast Guard.
• Cranes and Lifts: Some marinas may offer lifts for vessel maintenance and storage.
• Repair Services: Basic marine repair services available; major repairs may need to be conducted at larger ports or specialized facilities.

Environmental Considerations

• Wildlife: Located in an area rich in marine and bird life; care must be taken to minimize disruption.
• Tides and Currents: Tidal conditions can vary; critical for navigational planning.
• Weather: Weather can be variable with the potential for severe storms, particularly during hurricane season.

Port Capacity

• Commercial Traffic: Limited commercial traffic, predominantly servicing local fishing and small-scale commercial activities.
• Recreational Traffic: High recreational use, especially during peak tourist seasons from late spring to early fall.

Regulatory Authorities

• Coast Guard: The port operations fall under the regulations maintained by the United States Coast Guard.
• Local Authorities: Managed by regional port authorities and local governing bodies.

Accessibility

• Public Access: Publicly accessible areas for recreational use.
• Parking and Transport: Limited parking facilities; transportation options include local taxis, bicycles, and pedestrian walkways.

Economic and Cultural Significance

• Economic Activities: Primarily driven by tourism, recreational boating, and local fisheries.
• Cultural Importance: The port and island hold historical significance, with Ocracoke being one of the historic sites related to pirate Blackbeard.

Communication

• Radio: Standard VHF marine radio communication channels available.
• Internet and Phone: Limited but periodic coverage depending on facilities.

Emergency Services

• Search and Rescue: Services coordinated by the U.S. Coast Guard.
• Medical Facilities: Basic medical services available on the island; major medical emergencies may require transport to the mainland.

This specification aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Ocracoke Marine Port and should serve as a useful guide for mariners, tourists, and stakeholders involved in maritime activities.