OLKHON ISLAND

• Latitude: 53.02202
• Longitude: 106.9285
• Inland, Russia
• Port in Russia

Location: Irkutsk Region Russia

Here's a detailed description and specifications of the Olkhon Island marine port in Russia:

Location:

Olkhon Island is situated in Lake Baikal, which is the world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake. Olkhon Island is the largest island in the lake and is located in the Russian region of Irkutsk Oblast.

Geographic Coordinates:

• Latitude: 53°8'N
• Longitude: 107°20'E

General Description:

Olkhon Island's port facilities primarily serve the local community, tourists, and small-scale cargo transport. The port acts as a crucial access point for travelers visiting this remote and culturally significant island, which is known for its natural beauty, Siberian landscapes, and Buryat shamanistic traditions.

Facilities:

• Passenger Terminal: The port has basic facilities to handle passenger ferries that transport tourists and locals between the island and the mainland.
• Docking Facilities: The docking infrastructure is equipped to accommodate small to medium-sized vessels, including ferries, fishing boats, and private yachts.
• Navigation and Communication: Basic navigational aids and communication facilities are present to assist incoming and outgoing vessels.

Services:

• Ferry Services: Regular ferry services operate between Olkhon Island and the mainland. The primary ferry route connects the village of Sakhyurta (on the mainland) with Khuzhir, the largest settlement on Olkhon Island.
• Cargo Handling: Limited cargo handling facilities are available, primarily catering to the local demands of the island’s residents. This includes the transport of food supplies, construction materials, and other essential goods.
• Tourist Services: Guided tour services, boat excursions, and water sports rentals are available to cater to the needs of tourists visiting the island.

Port Specifications:

• Maximum Vessel Size: Can accommodate small to medium-sized vessels, typically up to 50 meters in length.
• Depth: The port area has varying water depths; generally, it can handle vessels with a draft not exceeding 3 meters.
• Tidal Range: Since Lake Baikal is a freshwater lake, the port does not experience significant tidal variations.
• Berth Length: The main berthing area is limited and can accommodate several small boats simultaneously or a few medium-sized vessels.

Additional Information:

• Climate: Olkhon Island experiences a harsh Siberian climate with long, cold winters and short, moderately warm summers. Navigation is typically affected during the winter months when parts of the lake may freeze.
• Environmental Considerations: Being part of a unique and ecologically significant area, environmental protection measures are crucial. Efforts are made to minimize pollution and preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of Lake Baikal.

Transportation and Accessibility:

• Access to Mainland: The most common route is the ferry service from the mainland village of Sakhyurta.
• Road Connections: On the island, there are basic roads connecting various settlements and tourist attractions.

Olkhon Island’s port serves as a lifeline for the island, ensuring connectivity and the supply of essential goods. It also plays a vital role in the support of the tourism industry, which is a significant part of the island’s economy.