SWANAGE

• GBSWE
• Latitude: 50.61122
• Longitude: -1.952247
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: Swanage Dorset BH19 UK

Port Description and Specification: Swanage, UK

Location: Swanage is a coastal town located in the county of Dorset on the south coast of England. It sits at the eastern end of the Isle of Purbeck and is situated on the English Channel. The approximate geographic coordinates are 50.6103° N latitude and 1.9572° W longitude.

Port Characteristics:

1. Type of Port:

   • Swanage operates primarily as a harbor for small vessels, including fishing boats, leisure boats, and local passenger ferries. It is not a commercial shipping port but serves more for recreational and local maritime activity.

2. Facilities:

   • Swanage Pier: The pier is one of the notable features of the harbor, offering berthing facilities for visiting vessels. It is a popular spot for fishing, diving, and sightseeing.
   • Harbor Structures: There are a few slipways and small jetties to support local maritime activities.
   • Maritime Services: Basic maritime services such as mooring, refuelling, waste disposal, and water supply are available.

3. Depth and Tidal Information:

   • The water depths around Swanage Pier vary, generally accommodating small vessels. Depths can change with tidal movements.
   • Tidal Range: The tidal range can range up to about 2-3 meters. Mariners should check local tidal charts for specific tidal conditions.

4. Navigational Aspects:

   • Approach: The approach to Swanage harbor is relatively straightforward but care should be taken to avoid submerged rocks and ensure proper tide conditions.
   • Navigational Aids: There are limited navigational aids. Local knowledge is beneficial for maneuvering within the harbor.
   • Weather Conditions: The area is subject to changing weather conditions, typical of the British Isles, with the possibility of strong winds and heavy seas at times.

5. Usage:

   • Leisure and Tourism: Swanage is a prominent destination for tourists, especially during the summer months. Activities include boating, kayaking, diving (especially around the nearby shipwreck sites), and coastal walks.
   • Fishing: Local fishing vessels operate from Swanage, predominantly engaging in inshore fishing.
   • Cargo and Trades: Minimal commercial cargo operations. Most maritime traffic involves leisure craft and small local boats.

6. Nearby Amenities:

   • The town of Swanage provides a variety of amenities including hotels, restaurants, shops, and other services catering to tourists and local residents.
   • Transport Links: Road connections to nearby towns like Wareham and Poole; regular bus services; and seasonal ferry services.

Environmental Considerations:

• Environmental Protections: The coastal and marine environment around Swanage is subject to various protections due to its natural beauty and ecological importance. Preservation of marine habitats and ensuring sustainable practices is a key aspect of managing the harbor.

Contact Information:

• Harbor Authority: Swanage Pier Trust oversees the operations around Swanage Pier.
• Emergency Contacts: Local coastguard services provide marine safety and emergency response.

Conclusion: Swanage harbor primarily serves as a leisure and local services port with a focus on tourism, recreational boating, and small-scale fishing activities. It is a picturesque and historically rich area that caters well to visitors and maritime enthusiasts.