SANTA MARIA LA SCALA

• ITSMJ
• Latitude: 37.6175
• Longitude: 15.1736
• East Mediterranean
• Marina in Italy

Location: Italy

Here's a detailed description and specification of the marine port of Santa Maria La Scala:

Santa Maria La Scala

Location:

Santa Maria La Scala is a charming coastal village located in the province of Catania on the eastern coast of Sicily, Italy. It is situated at the foot of the imposing Mount Etna, providing a picturesque backdrop combined with vibrant maritime activities.

Harbor Characteristics:

• Coordinates: Approximately 37°37'N latitude and 15°10'E longitude.
• Type: Small fishing and recreational harbor.
• Water Depth: The average depth within the port is around 3 to 5 meters.
• Shelter: The port is relatively well-sheltered from prevailing winds due to its natural geographical positioning and breakwater structures.

Facilities and Services:

• Mooring: Limited mooring spots, primarily for local fishing boats and small recreational vessels.
• Quayside Services: Basic facilities including fresh water supply, electricity, and fuel.
• Maintenance: Basic repair services available for small boats.
• Sanitation: Toilet and shower facilities for yachties and fishermen.

Navigation and Approach:

• Approach: Vessels approaching Santa Maria La Scala should take care to navigate around rocky outcrops and shallow areas. Entry into the harbor is straightforward but may require local knowledge, especially for larger vessels.
• Navigational Aids: Limited, mostly local landmarks and lights.
• Surrounding Waters: Due to the dynamic geological landscape caused by Mount Etna, local waters can have hidden underwater features; careful navigation is advised.

Uses and Activities:

• Fishing: Predominant activity with a community of local fishermen.
• Tourism: Increasingly popular spot for tourists seeking a quaint and authentic Sicilian coastal experience.
• Recreational Boating: Growing number of recreational boating, scuba diving, and snorkeling activities.
• Cultural Events: Occasionally hosts community and cultural events, especially during the summer months.

Environmental Considerations:

• Ecology: The harbor and surrounding areas boast diverse marine life and are part of local conservation efforts to protect coastal and marine environments.
• Pollution Control: Measures are in place to manage oil spills and waste disposal to maintain the ecological balance.

Regulations:

• Port Authority: Managed by local maritime authorities ensuring regulatory compliance for safety, environmental protection, and operational procedures.
• Entry Requirements: Standard for Italian ports with customs checks for foreign vessels if necessary.

Summary

Santa Maria La Scala is a charming little harbor that blends functionality with the tranquil beauty of Sicily's coastline. Though limited in size and facilities compared to major ports, it offers essential services for fishing and recreational purposes, making it an ideal spot for maritime activities in a serene setting.