VIEUX CHATELAILLON

• FRHTP
• Latitude: 46.0612
• Longitude: -1.09427
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in France

Location: France

Vieux Chatelaillon Port: Located in the picturesque region of Chatelaillon-Plage in southwestern France, Vieux Chatelaillon Port is a charming and strategic maritime hub. This port serves not only as an access point for commercial activities but also as a vibrant center for recreational sailing and tourist activities in the region. Here is a more detailed description and specification of the port:

General Information:

• Name: Vieux Chatelaillon Port
• Location: Chatelaillon-Plage, Charente-Maritime, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
• Coordinates: Approximately 46.073 N, 1.090 W
• Accessibility: The port is accessible through the main maritime routes traversing the Bay of Biscay and is well-connected by road to the cities of La Rochelle and Rochefort.

Physical Characteristics:

• Port Type: Mixed use (Commercial and Recreational)
• Breakwater: The port is protected by a robust breakwater that shields it from the strong currents and waves typical of the Atlantic coast.
• Tidal Range: The region experiences a substantial tidal range, which affects the depth and access to some parts of the port.

Maritime Facilities:

• Berths: The port comprises several berths suitable for various vessel sizes. These include:
  • Commercial Berths: Primarily used for small to medium-sized commercial vessels. Equipped with essential loading and unloading machinery.
  • Recreational Berths: Provided for yachts and leisure vessels, with amenities such as water, electricity, and fueling stations.
• Mooring: Different types of mooring options are available, including fixed and floating pontoons.

Handling Capacity:

• Cargo: The port has moderate cargo handling facilities, primarily dealing with the import and export of regional goods, including agricultural products and seafood.
• Passenger Handling: There are limited but well-equipped passenger handling facilities designed to cater to smaller passenger vessels and ferries.

Support and Services:

• Marina Services: Full-service marina offering repairs, maintenance, chandlery, and dry storage.
• Fueling Stations: Available for both commercial and recreational vessels.
• Waste Disposal: Proper waste disposal services in compliance with environmental regulations.
• Security: The port is secured with a mix of traditional and modern surveillance systems to ensure the safety of vessels and cargo.

Connectivity:

• Road Access: Well-connected to major road networks offering easy access to nearby urban centers like La Rochelle, which is about 15 kilometers to the north.
• Public Transport: Regular public transport services, including buses and taxis, connect the port with adjacent regions.
• Rail Access: The nearest major railway station is in La Rochelle, offering extensive connectivity to the rest of France.

Environmental Considerations:

• Eco-Friendly Initiatives: The port authority actively engages in various environmental initiatives to protect the maritime and coastal ecosystem.
• Waste Management: Effective waste management protocols are in place, promoting recycling and proper disposal practices.

Tourist Attractions:

• Beach Access: Located close to scenic beaches, attracting numerous tourists during the summer season.
• Local Attractions: The area around the port boasts various attractions, such as historic sites, local markets, restaurants serving regional cuisine, and water sports activities.

Expansion Plans:

There are ongoing discussions and plans for potential expansion and modernization projects to increase the port's capacity and efficiency, aligning with the growing maritime and local tourism demands.

Vieux Chatelaillon Port, with its mix of commercial functionality and recreational allure, plays a vital role in the regional economy and contributes significantly to the charm and appeal of Chatelaillon-Plage as a maritime destination.