PORTSMOUTH ANCH

• Latitude: 50.76
• Longitude: -1.13494
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Anchorage in UK

Location: UK

Portsmouth Anchorage, UK

Location: Portsmouth is a port city located on the southern coast of England, in the county of Hampshire. Situated strategically on the shores of the Solent, Portsmouth is well-known for its naval heritage and maritime significance. The port lies approximately 70 miles southwest of London.

Coordinates:

• Latitude: 50.8058° N
• Longitude: 1.0997° W

Port Overview: Portsmouth Anchorage primarily serves commercial shipping, naval vessels, ferries, and recreational craft. The proximity to the English Channel and mainland Europe adds to its significance for maritime trade and military operations.

Key Features and Facilities

• Harbor Type: Natural and artificial harbor

• Anchorage Area: Portsmouth Anchorage provides designated anchor points for vessels to safely anchor while waiting for docking instructions or tidal windows to enter the port.

• Water Depth: The anchorage has varying depths, generally ranging from 12 meters to 20 meters, catering to a diverse array of vessel drafts.

• Tidal Range: Portsmouth experiences semi-diurnal tides with a range of approximately 4 meters at springs and 2 meters at neaps.

• Navigation Aids:

  • Lighthouses: Spitbank Fort Lighthouse and Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse for guiding vessels.
  • Buoys: Well-maintained buoyage system to ensure safe navigation through the Solent and into Portsmouth Harbor.
  • Pilots: Compulsory for larger vessels, pilotage services are available to aid in safe passage and berthing.

Services and Operations

• Cargo Handling: The port handles a variety of cargo, including commercial goods, vehicles, and bulk commodities.
• Passenger Services: Portsmouth is a critical hub for ferry operations to the Isle of Wight, France, and Spain.
• Naval Base: Home to Her Majesty's Naval Base (HMNB Portsmouth), one of the oldest dockyards globally and central to the Royal Navy’s operations.
• Shipyards and Drydocks: Several facilities for shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance.
• Bunkering: Availability of fuel bunkering services for refueling maritime vessels.
• Waste Management: Comprehensive waste and water management services for visiting vessels.

Additional Information

• Security: ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code compliant with robust security measures to ensure safety.
• Communication: Maritime communication channels include VHF channels dedicated to port operations and marine safety.
• Environmental Regulations: The port adheres to stringent environmental standards to minimize the ecological impact of maritime activities.

Summary

Portsmouth Anchorage in the UK serves as a vital maritime hub with comprehensive facilities for commercial, naval, and recreational vessels. Its strategic location, depth of water, advanced navigation aids, and extensive services make it a critical point for maritime operations in the region.

Always verify current conditions and local notices to mariners regarding any operational changes or navigational warnings.