THE NARROWS

• Latitude: 38.9687
• Longitude: -76.2456
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

"The Narrows" refers to a maritime channel in New York Harbor that separates Staten Island from Brooklyn in New York City. It's a critical maritime passage connecting the Upper New York Bay with the Lower New York Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Below is a descriptive summary of The Narrows' port and its specifications:

Description:

The Narrows is a navigable strait known for its strategic importance in maritime navigation. It serves as the principal entry point for ships traveling to and from New York Harbor, one of the busiest ports in the world. The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges globally, spans the strait, providing a vital transportation link.

Specifications:

1. Geographical Location:

   • Coordinates: Approximately 40.6083° N latitude, 74.0594° W longitude.
   • Waterway: Connects the Upper New York Harbor/Lower Bay.
   • Nearby Landmarks: Staten Island to the west, Brooklyn to the east.

2. Channel Dimensions:

   • Width: Around 3,500 feet at its narrowest point.
   • Depth: The channel is maintained to accommodate deep-draft vessels, with depths ranging from 40 to 75 feet (12 to 23 meters).

3. Navigation:

   • Traffic: High volume of commercial shipping, including container ships, oil tankers, and bulk carriers.
   • Pilotage: Mandatory for all vessels over a certain size; piloted by New York Harbour Pilots.
   • Aids to Navigation: Buoys, markers, and regular dredging operations are maintained to ensure safe passage.

4. Tidal Information:

   • Current: Strong tidal currents due to the bottleneck effect.
   • Tide Times: Subject to significant tidal variation; precise navigation timing is crucial for large vessels.

5. Infrastructure and Facilities:

   • Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge: Clearance of approximately 228 feet (69.5 meters) above the mean high water line, allowing the passage of most large vessels.
   • Port Facilities: The surrounding area forms part of the Port of New York and New Jersey, featuring several major container and cargo terminals including Newark, Elizabeth, and Howland Hook Marine Terminals.
   • Support Services: Tug services, bunkering, ship repair facilities, and waste disposal services are readily available.

6. Environmental Considerations:

   • Regulations: Subject to environmental regulations to protect the harbor's ecosystem, managed by agencies such as the U.S. Coast Guard and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
   • Conservation Efforts: Initiatives to maintain water quality and marine habitats, with careful monitoring of ship emissions and pollutants.

7. Security:

   • Measures: Enhanced security protocols, including vessel traffic services (VTS) and maritime security zones, especially since the events of September 11, 2001.
   • Agencies Involved: U.S. Coast Guard, Port Authority, and other federal and state law enforcement agencies.

Importance:

The Narrows is not only a critical commercial maritime route but also a landmark of historical and cultural significance. It plays a key role in the economy of the New York metropolitan area and is integral to the overall functioning of one of the world's largest and busiest ports.

By navigational management and infrastructural support, The Narrows ensures the efficient and safe movement of maritime traffic to and from the heart of New York City.