SEATON SLUICE

• Latitude: 55.0842
• Longitude: -1.47417
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in UK

Location: Seaton Sluice Northumberland NE26 UK

Seaton Sluice, located in Northumberland, England, is a small coastal village with a historic harbour. Though it is not a major commercial port, it has a unique history and certain specifications that might be of interest.

Historical Overview

Seaton Sluice has a rich maritime heritage dating back to the 17th century. The port was originally developed for the export of locally mined coal and salt. It gained prominence in the early 18th century when Sir Ralph Delaval engineered the construction of the sluice gates, which gave the village its name. These gates allowed the harbour to be cleared of silt by releasing stored water, improving its utility for shipping.

Location

• Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 55.0833° N latitude and 1.5000° W longitude.
• Nearest Major City: Newcastle upon Tyne, about 11 miles to the south.

Harbour Specifications

• Harbour Type: Small tidal harbour.
• Depth: Limited depth; suitable mainly for small fishing vessels and leisure boats.
• Entrance: The harbour entrance can be narrow and challenging to navigate, particularly during low tide.

Facilities

• Moorings: Primarily offers moorings for small private and fishing boats.
• Slips and Ramps: Facilities for launching small craft are available.
• Shelter: Offers limited protection from severe weather conditions due to its small size and open entrance.

Services

• Maintenance: Basic maintenance facilities are available, primarily catering to smaller vessels.
• Fuel and Supplies: Limited availability; visitors often need to rely on nearby towns for comprehensive services.
• Repairs: Minor repair services may be available, but major repairs typically require travel to larger, nearby ports.

Accessibility

• Road Access: Good road connections link Seaton Sluice to Newcastle and other regional hubs.
• Public Transport: Bus services connect Seaton Sluice with surrounding areas.

Activities

• Fishing: Both commercial and recreational fishing are popular activities in the area.
• Tourism: The picturesque location makes it a favored spot for coastal walks, bird-watching, and enjoying the Northumberland coast.
• Heritage: The area has several historical sites and buildings, including parts of the old sluice gates and structures associated with the Delaval family.

Environmental Considerations

• Tides: The area experiences significant tidal ranges, which can influence navigability and mooring.
• Siltation: Historically, siltation has been an issue, although it has been managed to some extent by sluice operations.

Regulations

• As a small harbour, Seaton Sluice falls under local maritime and environmental regulations. Mariners should consult local notices to ensure compliance with relevant rules and safety guidelines.

Conclusion

Seaton Sluice offers a charming and historically rich harbour suitable for small-scale maritime activities. While it lacks the facilities of a larger port, its historical significance and coastal beauty make it a notable location on the Northumberland coast.