RONDOUT BAY

• USEYV
• Latitude: 41.8978
• Longitude: -74.017
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Rondout Bay

Location:

• Rondout Bay is situated in Kingston, New York, on the western bank of the Hudson River. It is conveniently located approximately 90 miles north of New York City and 60 miles south of Albany.

Port Characteristics:

• Coordinates: Latitude 41.9213° N, Longitude 73.9850° W
• Waters: The bay features a mix of tidal and fresh water, influenced by the Hudson River estuary.
• Climate: The region experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, including cold winters and warm summers.

Navigation:

• Channel Depth: The navigable channels in Rondout Bay vary but typically accommodate vessels with a draft of up to 12 feet.
• Tidal Range: The tidal range in the region can vary but averages around 4 to 5 feet.
• Navigational Aids: The bay and its approaches are well marked with buoys and lights maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard, ensuring safe navigation in and out of the port.

Facilities and Amenities:

• Marinas and Docks: Rondout Bay has several full-service marinas offering docking, fueling, and maintenance services. Some prominent marinas include the Rondout Yacht Basin and the Kingston Marina.
• Ship Repair: Facilities are available for minor and major repairs for recreational and smaller commercial vessels.
• Cargo Handling: While historically more active in commercial shipping, the bay now primarily supports recreational boating. Any cargo operations would likely involve smaller vessels and primarily local distribution.

Access and Transportation:

• Road Access: The bay area is well connected by road, with easy access to U.S. Route 9W and the New York State Thruway (I-87), providing good connectivity to major urban centers.
• Rail Access: There is limited rail access directly at the port, with the nearest major rail services provided by Amtrak through the Rhinecliff-Kingston station, approximately 10 miles away.
• Airports: The nearest major airport is Stewart International Airport, approximately 50 miles south, with broader international connections available through Albany International Airport and New York City’s airports.

Services:

• Customs and Immigration: Given its size and current usage focus, Rondout Bay does not have dedicated customs facilities. Larger customs duties would typically be handled at larger ports such as New York.
• Security: The port and surrounding area are monitored and patrolled by various law enforcement agencies including the Kingston Police Department and the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office. The U.S. Coast Guard also plays a role in maritime security.

Environmental Considerations:

• Conservation Efforts: The Hudson River itself, including the Rondout Bay area, is subject to several environmental and conservation initiatives aimed at protecting its unique ecosystem.
• Pollution Controls: Boaters and businesses operating in Rondout Bay are required to adhere to stringent state and federal regulations regarding pollution control, waste management, and discharge to maintain water quality.

Historical Significance:

• Rondout Bay has a rich maritime history dating back to the 19th century when it was a bustling hub for shipping coal and bluestone, and later for cement and bricks. Many historical sites and museums along the waterfront, such as the Hudson River Maritime Museum, preserve and showcase this heritage.

Recreational Use:

• Recreational Activities: The bay is popular for a range of recreational activities including sailing, kayaking, fishing, and scenic cruises. It also acts as a gateway for exploring the Hudson River and surrounding natural beauty.

Summary:

Rondout Bay is a historically significant port that now primarily serves recreational boating and small-scale commercial activities. Its strategic location along the Hudson River, coupled with comprehensive marina facilities and strong land transport links, makes it a vital part of the local maritime economy and a scenic destination for water-based recreation.