SCAPA FLOW

• GBSFW
• Latitude: 58.9084
• Longitude: -3.02399
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: Orkney Islands KW16 UK

Scapa Flow: Overview and Specifications

Location:

• Situated within the Orkney Islands, Scotland, United Kingdom.
• Coordinates: Approximately 58.9° N latitude and 3.1° W longitude.

Significance:

• Scapa Flow is a significant natural harbor with historical importance, especially during both World Wars as a naval base.
• Known for its large, safe anchorage and deep waters, facilitating both military and commercial operations.

Physical Characteristics:

• Area: Approximately 125 square miles (324 square kilometers).
• Depth: Varies from 30 to 50 meters, suitable for large vessels.
• Tidal Range: Average tidal range is around 3 meters, important for docking and anchorage operations.

Access:

• Navigational Approach: Access to Scapa Flow is via various natural channels, with the largest and most frequently used being the Hoxa Sound, Switha Sound, and Hoy Sound.
• Lighthouses and Beacons: Numerous navigational aids assist in safe passage, including the Cantick Head Lighthouse and the Hoy High and Low Lighthouses.

Infrastructure:

• Anchorage: Several designated anchorage areas, offering protection from prevailing winds and currents, suitable for various sizes of ships.
• Mooring: There are mooring buoys and facilities for securing vessels.
• Bunkering: Provision for refueling ships is available, with facilities to accommodate large naval and commercial vessels.
• Repair Services: Limited ship repair and maintenance services are available on nearby islands, particularly in Stromness, Kirkwall, and Lyness.

Services:

• Pilotage: Compulsory pilotage services for certain classes of vessels to ensure safe navigation within the harbor.
• Tug Services: Available for assisting vessels with docking and undocking maneuvers.
• Waste Disposal: Port facilities include waste reception to comply with MARPOL regulations.
• Fresh Water Supply: Available for provisioning vessels.

Historical Wrecks:

• The site includes several scuttled German naval vessels from World War I, making Scapa Flow an area of interest for marine archaeology and diving activities.

Environmental Considerations:

• Marine Life: The waters around Scapa Flow are rich in marine biodiversity, requiring careful management of environmental impacts.
• Protected Areas: Certain parts of Scapa Flow are designated as protected areas to preserve natural habitats and wildlife.

Recent Developments:

• There have been ongoing efforts to enhance port facilities and services, catering to modern maritime needs while maintaining historical and environmental integrity.

Regulations and Security:

• As with all UK ports, Scapa Flow adheres to national and international maritime laws and security protocols, including ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code requirements.

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Whether you're navigating its historic waters or utilizing its strategic facilities, Scapa Flow remains a crucial maritime hub in the UK's northern regions.