PORT ASKAIG

• GBPAK
• Latitude: 55.8481
• Longitude: -6.10492
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: UK

Port Askaig is a small village and port situated on the northeast coast of the island of Islay, which is part of the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, UK. Though it may not be one of the largest or busiest ports in the UK, it holds significant importance for the local community and visitors. Here is a detailed description and specification of Port Askaig:

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 55.8545° N latitude and 6.1074° W longitude.
• Region: Argyll and Bute, Scotland.
• Island: Islay, Inner Hebrides.

Port Infrastructure:

• Harbor Type: Natural harbor with some man-made enhancements to facilitate ferry services.
• Berthing Facilities: Includes a ferry terminal and facilities for berthing small to medium-sized vessels.
• Depth: The water depth at the quay is typically adequate for the ferries operating to and from the harbor, though specific depth measurements can vary.

Services:

• Ferry Services: Port Askaig functions as one of the key ferry terminals on Islay. It is served by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) ferries, offering essential links to the Scottish mainland and connecting Islay to the nearby island of Jura.
  • Routes: Regular ferry services connect Port Askaig to the ports of Kennacraig on the mainland and Feolin on Jura.
• Passenger Amenities: The port area includes waiting areas, ticketing services, and basic amenities for passengers.

Accessibility:

• Road Access: The port is accessible by road from various parts of Islay, with adequate signage and infrastructure to support vehicular traffic.
• Parking: There are parking facilities available for passengers using the ferry services.

Economic and Community Significance:

• Economic Role: Port Askaig serves a crucial role in the local economy, supporting the transportation of goods, services, and visitors between Islay, Jura, and the mainland.
• Tourism: It is an important gateway for tourists visiting the island, known for its distilleries, wildlife, and scenic beauty.

Nearby Facilities:

• Accommodation: There are several accommodation options in Port Askaig and the surrounding area to cater to tourists and visitors.
• Shops and Services: Basic shopping and dining services are available to cater to the needs of both locals and visitors.

Environmental Considerations:

• Conservation: Given its location in a natural and scenic area, there are environmental measures in place to protect the local marine and coastal ecosystems.
• Sustainable Practices: Efforts are made to ensure that port activities are conducted sustainably, minimizing their impact on the environment.

Key Points of Interest:

• Islay’s Distilleries: Known for its numerous whisky distilleries, including Caol Ila Distillery, which is located near Port Askaig.
• Natural Landscapes: The area around Port Askaig offers stunning landscapes, including views of the Sound of Islay and the Paps of Jura.

Port Askaig is thus a vital maritime hub for the Isle of Islay, providing essential connectivity and services to support both the local population and the island’s vibrant tourism industry.