ONEKAMA

• USONK
• Latitude: 44.3635
• Longitude: -86.2267
• Great Lakes
• Marina in US

Location: US

Onekama is a small but notable village in Manistee County, Michigan, United States. It is primarily known for its natural harbor and connection to Portage Lake and Lake Michigan. Here's a general description and specification of the Onekama marine port:

Geographic Location:

• Latitude: Approximately 44.3633° N
• Longitude: Approximately 86.2192° W
• Proximity: Situated on the northeast shore of Portage Lake, which is connected to Lake Michigan by a channel.

Harbor Specifications:

• Type: Natural Harbor
• Access: Via Portage Lake to Lake Michigan
• Channel Depth: The channel connecting Portage Lake to Lake Michigan has been historically maintained to accommodate various sizes of vessels but check for recent dredging reports for current depth specifications.
• Navigation: The harbor and channels are navigable for small to medium-sized recreational and fishing vessels.

Facilities and Services:

• Marinas: Includes facilities for docking, refueling, and maintenances such as Onekama Marine Inc., Portage Point Inn Marina, and more.
• Boat Launches: Available public boat launches into Portage Lake.
• Slips: Multiple docking slips are available for transient and seasonal boaters.
• Fueling Stations: Services primarily for gasoline and diesel.
• Repairs and Maintenance: Basic boat repair and maintenance services are available in the local marinas.
• Fishing: Popular destination for both sportfishing and recreational fishing, especially given its access to the rich waters of Lake Michigan.

Port Activity:

• Recreational Boating: High activity during the summer months with a significant number of motorboats, sailboats, and personal watercraft.
• Fishing: Known for excellent fishing opportunities, including salmon, trout, and various other species.
• Commercial: Limited commercial maritime activity, primarily focused on recreation and tourism.

Environmental and Navigational Notes:

• Weather: Subject to the variable weather conditions of the Great Lakes region, including sudden changes in wind and weather.
• Water Levels: Water levels can fluctuate significantly seasonally and yearly, influenced by precipitation and upstream hydrological factors.

Nearby Amenities:

• Lodging: Hotels, inns, and bed & breakfasts available nearby.
• Restaurants: Variety of dining options close to the harbor, mainly seasonal.
• Shops and Supplies: Availability of marine supplies, groceries, and other essentials in the village.

Contact Information:

While specific contact details for the port authority may not always be centralised due to the small size of the village, local marinas and the Village of Onekama office can provide pertinent information for mariners and visitors.

Notable Points:

• Tourism: Onekama is often referred to as the "Two Lake Town" because of its access to both Portage Lake and Lake Michigan.
• Historical Significance: The channel between Portage Lake and Lake Michigan is man-made, originally created in the late 19th century to aid in lumber transport.

For the latest and most specific information, mariners should contact local sources or check online nautical charts and resources provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).