SWINOMISH

• Latitude: 48.3953
• Longitude: -122.496
• US West Coast
• Marina in US

Location: La Conner WA 98257 US

Swinomish Channel, often referred to as Swinomish, is a navigable waterway that serves as an important marine port in the U.S. state of Washington. It is located in northern Puget Sound, on the eastern side of Whidbey Island, and plays a crucial role in regional maritime activities. Here is a detailed description and specification for the Swinomish marine port:

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 48.3900° N latitude and 122.4960° W longitude.
• Region: The Swinomish Channel is situated near La Conner, Washington, and serves as a connection between Skagit Bay and Padilla Bay.

Physical Characteristics:

• Length: The Channel itself is approximately 11 miles long.
• Width: The channel width varies, but it is generally between 100-200 feet wide.
• Depth: The average maintained depth is around 12 feet, suitable for small to medium-sized vessels.
• Tide Influence: The area experiences tidal variations, which can affect the depth and navigation conditions.

Facilities and Amenities:

• Marinas: Several marinas in La Conner provide docking facilities, fuel, water, and other essential services to boaters and marine traffic.
• Moorings: Available for both transient and permanent berths.
• Shipyards and Repair Facilities: Available for vessel maintenance and repairs.
• Navigational Aids: Buoys, markers, and lights are strategically placed to aid in safe navigation through the channel.

Commerce and Industry:

• Commercial Services: Primarily caters to recreational boating, fishing, and small commercial vessels.
• Cargo: Not typically a major cargo handling port. The focus is more on local and regional maritime activities.

Environmental and Regulatory:

• Management: The waterway is maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ensuring that the channel remains navigable.
• Environmental Considerations: The area is sensitive to ecological impacts, and various conservation efforts are in place to protect the surrounding marine life and habitats.
• Traffic Regulations: Vessels must adhere to speed limits and other rules designed to ensure safe passage and minimize environmental impact.

Access and Connectivity:

• Road Access: La Conner can be accessed via several major roads, making it easy to reach the marinas and services.
• Nearby Airports: The nearest major airports include Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (approximately 75 miles south) and Bellingham International Airport (approximately 40 miles north).

Nearby Points of Interest:

• La Conner Town: A quaint town known for its historic charm, art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
• Swinomish Indian Tribal Community: The Channel is named after the Swinomish people, and their reservation is located nearby.

Overall, Swinomish Channel serves as a key local maritime hub catering mainly to recreational boating and small commercial activities, offering various marina services and maintaining an environmentally conscious approach to its operations.