PORT GAMBLE

• Latitude: 47.8537
•
• Longitude: -122.579
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• US West Coast
•
• Port in US

Address: Port Gamble WA US

Port Gamble, Washington - Overview and Specifications

Location: Port Gamble is situated on the Kitsap Peninsula in the state of Washington, United States. It lies along the western edge of the Puget Sound, specifically on the northeast tip of the peninsula, near the entrance to Hood Canal.

Geographical Coordinates: Latitude: 47.8532° N Longitude: 122.5841° W

Historical Significance: Port Gamble is a historic mill town, founded in 1853. It is a designated National Historic Landmark, renowned for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings and its significance in the timber industry.

Port Specifications:

Type:

• Natural harbor with some development to accommodate marine and industrial activities.

Major Functions:

• Originally developed as a logging port.
• Currently serves recreational, touristic, and limited commercial purposes.
• Nearby Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe also utilizes the waters for various traditional and community activities.

Docks and Berths:

• A few docks primarily used for smaller recreational and touristic vessels.
• Not widely equipped to handle large commercial shipping or deep-draft vessels.

Marina Facilities:

• Limited facilities are available for recreational boating, including kayak and canoe rentals.
• Seasonal moorage is available for visitors. However, the scope is limited when compared to larger commercial marinas in the region.

Navigational Information:

• Depths: Channel depths range in shallow waters suitable for small craft navigation.
• Tidal Influences: As with much of Puget Sound, tidal changes can be significant, requiring careful navigation especially for new visitors.
• Protection: Port Gamble offers natural protection from severe weather conditions due to its geographic positioning and the surrounding landscape.

Cargo and Passenger Services:

• The port does not cater to major cargo shipments.
• Passenger traffic is limited to tourist visits and recreational boaters.

Local Economy:

• Historically driven by timber and logging.
• Currently, tourism is a significant economic driver, with visitors attracted to the historic town, nearby natural areas, and recreational activities.

Additional Facilities and Services:

• No significant ship repair or maintenance facilities.
• Limited fuel and provisioning services for boats.
• Local amenities include restaurants, small stores, and historical tours mostly oriented towards tourists.

Environmental Considerations:

• The port and surrounding areas are subject to environmental regulations to protect the Puget Sound ecosystem.
• Efforts are in place to preserve the natural beauty and historical significance of Port Gamble.

Access and Transportation:

• Closest Major City: Seattle, located approximately 20 miles across Puget Sound.
• Transportation: Access primarily by road via State Route 104. Ferry connections from nearby Kingston to Edmonds offer an additional route across the sound.
• Parking: Limited parking is available for visitors and boaters.

Key Points for Mariners:

• Small Vessel Focus: Primarily accommodates smaller vessels and recreational craft.
• Seasonal Moorage: Availability can vary, and it's advisable to plan in advance during peak tourist seasons.
• Natural Conditions: Mariners should be mindful of tidal changes and shallow waters.

Conclusion:

Port Gamble is a picturesque historical town with a focus on tourism and recreational boating. While not a major commercial port, its charm lies in its rich history, scenic surroundings, and quaint facilities catering to a leisurely exploration of the Puget Sound waterways.