SCITUATE

• Latitude: 42.2027
•
• Longitude: -70.7232
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• US East Coast
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• Marina in US

Address: Scituate MA 02066 US

Scituate is a coastal town located in Plymouth County, Massachusetts. It is situated about halfway between Boston and Plymouth along the South Shore. Here’s a detailed description and specifications for the marine port of Scituate:

Location

• Latitude: 42.1954° N
• Longitude: 70.7256° W
• Region: New England, United States
• Nearest Major City: Boston, MA (approximately 20 miles north)

General Description

• Type of Port: Primarily a fishing harbor with facilities for recreational boating.
• Surrounding Area: Scituate Harbor is a quintessential New England coastal town, known for its picturesque views, maritime heritage, and historic lighthouses. The town’s economy is supported by fishing, marine-related activities, and tourism.

Harbor and Navigation

• Entrance Channel: The harbor entrance is marked by the Scituate Light, and there is a breakwater protecting the harbor.
  • Depth: The entrance channel and inner harbor typically have depth ranges of 6-15 feet, but specific conditions should be verified with the latest nautical charts.
  • Tides: The area experiences semi-diurnal tides with a mean range of approximately 9-10 feet.
  • Navigational Aids: The harbor is well-marked with buoys and lights to facilitate safe navigation.

Facilities and Services

• Docks and Piers: The harbor has several public and private docks. Facilities for both commercial and recreational vessels are available.
• Mooring and Anchorage: There are designated mooring fields and anchorage areas. Moorings are managed by the town and local marinas.
  • Mooring Depths: Typically 6-15 feet.
• Fuel and Supplies: Fuel docks are available. Provisions and supplies can be obtained at local marine businesses and general stores.
• Boat Repair and Maintenance: Several boatyards and marinas in the harbor provide comprehensive repair and maintenance services.
• Harbormaster: The Scituate Harbormaster oversees the harbor’s operations, including moorings, anchorage, and safety regulations.
  • Contact Information: Available through the Town of Scituate’s official website or local directories.

Commercial Fishing

• Fleet: The harbor supports a modest-sized commercial fishing fleet, including lobster boats, gillnetters, and scallopers.
• Fish Pier: Facilities for offloading and selling fresh catch, often located at the main fish pier in the harbor.

Recreational Boating

• Marinas: Several marinas cater to recreational boaters, offering transient slips, seasonal docking, and other amenities.
• Boat Launches: There are public boat launch ramps for smaller vessels.
• Yacht Clubs: Local yacht clubs provide additional facilities and organize events.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

• Weather: Mariners should be mindful of New England weather patterns, particularly during the hurricane season and winter months when nor'easters can affect the region.
• Environmental Protections: Efforts are in place to protect the harbor's natural ecosystem, including limits on pollution and active measures to manage marine life and habitat.

Tourism

• Historic Sites: Notable for Scituate Lighthouse, built in the early 1800s and accessible to the public.
• Recreational Activities: Fishing charters, sailing, and coastal excursions are popular activities for visitors.

Key Considerations

• Seasonal Variations: Harbor activity can be highly seasonal, with peak usage in the summer months.
• Permits and Regulations: Visitors and users should comply with local maritime regulations and obtain necessary permits for mooring, docking, and fishing activities.

For up-to-date information on navigational aids, depths, and harbor services, consulting local maritime authorities and updated nautical charts is advisable.