STONEHAVEN

• GBSVN
• Latitude: 56.959
• Longitude: -2.2026
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in UK

Location: UK

Port of Stonehaven, UK - Description and Specifications

Location:

• The Port of Stonehaven is situated on the east coast of Scotland, within Aberdeenshire.
• Coordinates: Approximately 56.9639° N latitude and 2.2070° W longitude.
• The port is located approximately 15 miles south of Aberdeen and serves as a local harbor.

Overview:

• Stonehaven is a small coastal town known for its scenic beauty and historical significance.
• The harbor primarily serves local fishing vessels, recreational boaters, and occasional commercial traffic.
• The port is located within the historic heart of Stonehaven and offers a picturesque setting with a scenic breakwater and sheltered marina.

Harbor Facilities:

• The harbor comprises an inner and outer basin, providing shelter and mooring for vessels.
• It includes a breakwater to protect the port from the North Sea’s direct impact.

Specifications:

• Depth:
  • Entrance depth: Approximately 2.5 meters at low tide.
  • Inner harbor: Depth ranges between 1.5 to 2.5 meters.
• Tide:
  • The harbor experiences significant tidal variations, with tidal ranges up to 4 meters.
• Berthing:
  • Offers several berths for small to medium-sized vessels, primarily fishing and recreational boats.
  • Limited facilities for larger vessels or commercial shipping.
• Mooring:
  • Permanent and visitor moorings are available, suitable for yachts and fishing vessels.
  • Pontoons and quayside moorings are provided in the inner and outer harbors.

Services:

• Basic amenities include water supply, electricity, and waste disposal facilities.
• Limited repair and maintenance services are available, focused on smaller vessels.

Navigation:

• Approach:
  • Mariners need to navigate carefully due to rocky outcrops and tidal conditions.
  • Local knowledge is beneficial, and it is advisable to consult charts and tide tables.
• Pilotage:
  • Generally not required for the port, but assistance can be arranged if necessary.
• Lighting and Buoys:
  • Navigational aids, including lights and buoys, mark the entrance and channel.

Commercial Use:

• The harbor sees limited commercial use, with the primary focus on local fishing and leisure activities.
• Occasionally used for small-scale cargo or specialized commercial projects.

Recreational Use:

• Stonehaven Harbor is popular among yachtsmen and recreational boaters.
• Offers access to marine leisure activities such as sailing, kayaking, and scenic tours.
• Supports tourism with its picturesque setting and proximity to attractions such as Dunnottar Castle.

Fishing:

• An essential part of the local economy, with several small fishing vessels operating out of Stonehaven.
• Primarily small-scale fisheries focusing on local catches.

Environmental and Safety Considerations:

• The harbor is within a region known for its natural beauty and ecological sensitivity.
• Efforts are made to maintain environmental standards, including clean waters and sustainable fishing practices.
• Safety measures include regular maintenance of harbor facilities, clear navigational aids, and adherence to maritime safety protocols.

Community and Cultural Significance:

• Stonehaven Harbor is integral to the town's identity and history.
• It hosts community events, festivals, and celebrations, adding to its cultural appeal.

In summary, Stonehaven Harbor is a charming, small-scale port that supports local fishing and recreational boating activities. It offers essential facilities while maintaining a picturesque and historically rich environment. Despite its limited commercial capacity, it serves as a vital community hub and tourist destination.