ST. GOARSHAUSEN

• DESGO
• Latitude: 50.1533
• Longitude: 7.71752
• Inland, Europe
• Port in Germany

Location: St. Goarshausen Rhineland-Palatinate Germany

Marine Port Description and Specifications: St. Goarshausen, Germany

St. Goarshausen is a scenic town located on the eastern bank of the Rhine River, within the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate. The town's picturesque setting, combined with its historical and cultural significance, makes it a notable destination along the Rhine River. Below is a descriptive overview and the specifications for the port at St. Goarshausen.

General Overview:

• Location: St. Goarshausen is situated on the eastern bank of the Rhine River, opposite the town of St. Goar, and is approximately 30 kilometers south of Koblenz.
• Coordinates: Approximately 50.1550° N latitude and 7.7160° E longitude.
• Accessibility: The town is accessible by road, rail, and river. The B42 road and the Marksburgbahn railway line provide connectivity.

Port Specifications:

1. Type of Port:

   • The port at St. Goarshausen is primarily a river port, catering mainly to passenger vessels including tour boats and cruise ships, as well as some cargo barge traffic.

2. Berthing Facilities:

   • Passenger Berths: The port has dedicated berths for passenger cruise ships and tour boats. These berths are equipped with mooring lines and gangways to facilitate embarkation and disembarkation of passengers.
   • Cargo Berths: There are limited facilities for cargo barge mooring, typically handling bulk cargo like gravel, sand, and other materials transported along the Rhine.

3. Port Infrastructure:

   • Quay Length: The quay side length accommodates multiple small to medium-sized river vessels. The exact length may vary, but is generally conducive to the typical sizes of vessels operating on the Rhine.
   • Draft: The draft at the berths generally supports vessels with a moderate draft, typical of river cruise ships and barges. Specific draft limits are subject to seasonal water level changes in the Rhine River.
   • Facilities: The port area is equipped with basic amenities for passengers including shelters, seating, and information boards. Cargo handling equipment is minimal given the limited cargo operations.

4. Navigation and Access:

   • The Rhine River is well-charted and regularly maintained for safe navigation. St. Goarshausen’s port benefits from the strategic positioning along this major European waterway.
   • Approach Channels: The Rhine River’s naturally deep and navigable waters ensure smooth access for vessels. Specific approach guidelines and speed regulations are in place for safe navigation.

5. Services:

   • Passenger Services: The port offers various passenger services including ticket counters, waiting areas, and local tour information.
   • Transport Links: There are connections to regional transport networks, including the nearby train station which links to major cities such as Frankfurt and Cologne, and bus services for local transportation.
   • Utilities: Basic utilities such as fresh water, electricity, and waste reception facilities are available, primarily for passenger vessels.

6. Port Security:

   • Like many small river ports, St. Goarshausen operates with a focus on passenger safety and environmental protection. Security measures include controlled access points and surveillance.

7. Surrounding Area:

   • The town is renowned for its historical landmarks, including the iconic Lorelei rock and several castles like Katz Castle and Maus Castle, enhancing its appeal to tourists arriving by river cruises.

Summary

The port of St. Goarshausen, though modest in infrastructure, plays a vital role in regional tourism along the Rhine River. Its facilities are tailored mainly to passenger vessels, with occasional cargo operations. The town’s rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty make it a significant stop for river cruises and tourist activities in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley.