PORTAVOGIE

• Latitude: 54.4579
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• Longitude: -5.43725
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• UK Coast & Atlantic
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• Port in UK

Address: Portavogie County Down UK

Portavogie is a small but significant fishing village and harbor located on the eastern coast of Northern Ireland, within County Down. As a marine port, it's primarily recognized for its fishing activities rather than large-scale commercial shipping. Here’s an overview of its description and specifications:

Port Description

• Location: Eastern coast of Northern Ireland, around 12 miles south of Bangor and close to the entrance of Strangford Lough.
• Coordinates: Approximately 54.4620° N latitude and 5.4539° W longitude.
• Primary Use: Fishing harbor, particularly known for its prawn boats and fleets involved in the Irish Sea fishing industry.
• Community: Portavogie village serves as a hub for the local fishing community and their families, boasting a close-knit and industrious population.

Harbor and Facilities

• Harbor Layout: Portavogie has a small but well-defined harbor. It consists of:
  • Inner Harbor: Provides sheltered mooring for local fishing vessels.
  • Outer Harbor: Accommodates larger boats and acts as a landing area for catches.
• Mooring and Berthing: Designed primarily for fishing vessels and smaller boats, with limited facilities for larger commercial ships.
• Quays and Piers: Equipped with basic quays and piers suitable for fishing boats to dock and unload their catch.
• Landing Facilities: Efficient landing facilities to handle and process the daily fish catch, including prawns, crabs, and other seafood.

Support Infrastructure

• Fish Processing: On-site facilities for immediate processing of seafood, including cleaning and refrigeration units to maintain freshness.
• Market: Local fish markets and auctions are held to distribute the fresh catch to buyers, restaurants, and distributors.
• Supplies and Maintenance: Basic amenities are available for fueling, repairs, and maintenance of fishing vessels.
• Storage: Cold storage facilities are available to store and preserve seafood before it is distributed further.

Navigation and Accessibility

• Entry: The port is accessible with relatively straightforward navigation. Tidal conditions and weather should be considered for safe entry and docking.
• Depth: Suitable for shallow-to-moderate draft vessels, typical of fishing boats and small cargo ships.
• Channels and Lights: Marked channels and navigational lights ensure safe passage in and out of the harbor, particularly for the local fishing fleet.

Community and Economic Role

• Local Economy: The port plays a crucial role in supporting the local economy through its fishing industry. The livelihood of many residents is directly linked to maritime activities.
• Cultural Significance: Fishing traditions run deep in Portavogie, and the port is a central element of the community's cultural heritage.

Environmental Considerations

• Sustainability: Efforts are often made to promote sustainable fishing practices to ensure long-term viability of marine resources.
• Regulations: Adherence to local and national fishing regulations helps protect marine life and maintain ecological balance.

Nearby Services and Amenities

• Residences: Proximity to Portavogie village ensures that essential services like shops, schools, and healthcare are within reach.
• Transport Links: Road connections to major towns like Bangor and Newtownards. Public transport services link the village to other parts of County Down and beyond.

Overall, Portavogie is a vital fishing port with a rich maritime heritage, serving as a lifeline for the local community and contributing significantly to the region's seafood industry.