WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA

  • GBWNS
  • Latitude: 52.9701
  • Longitude: 0.851612
  • UK Coast & Atlantic
  • Port in UK

Location: Wells-next-the-Sea Norfolk UK

Wells-next-the-Sea is a quaint and picturesque port town located on the North Norfolk coast in the United Kingdom. Below is a detailed description and some key specifications of the Wells-next-the-Sea marine port:

Description:

Wells-next-the-Sea is a small but historically rich maritime town. It has served as a port for several centuries and is known for its scenic harbor, bustling quay, and extensive salt marshes. The town itself is characterized by charming Georgian buildings, narrow lanes, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. The port is primarily used for fishing, leisure boating, and as a gateway for exploring the scenic North Norfolk coastline.

Specifications:

Location:

  • Latitude: 52.953° N
  • Longitude: 0.854° E

Port Facilities:

  • Harbor Type: Tidal harbor with natural and man-made features.
  • Berthing: Limited berthing capacity primarily for small fishing vessels and leisure yachts.
  • Quay: The quay area includes mooring posts and cleats with adjacent slipways for launching smaller boats.

Access:

  • Navigational Aids: The port access is marked with navigational buoys and lights. Depth markers and channel guides are present to assist incoming vessels.
  • Draught Restrictions: The port can accommodate vessels with shallow draughts due to tidal variations. Depths range from being dry at low tide to approximately 2.5 meters at high tide.

Services:

  • Fuel: Fueling facilities for diesel are available, though limited in capacity.
  • Water Supply: Freshwater availability at certain berthing points.
  • Repair: Basic repair services available; more extensive services may need to be accessed at larger nearby ports.
  • Waste Disposal: Waste disposal and recycling facilities are available for transient vessels.

Additional Features:

  • Tides: Wells-next-the-Sea experiences a substantial tidal range. Mariners need to consult tide tables and approach the harbor during high tide for safe entry.
  • Fishing: The port is still actively used by local fishermen, with catches primarily including shellfish like crabs and lobsters.
  • Leisure Activities: Popular for leisure boating, including sailing and kayaking. The port area also offers scenic walking routes along the coastline and through the salt marshes.

Important Contacts:

  • Harbormaster Office: The Harbormaster office provides critical information on docking, tides, and navigation. It's advisable to contact them in advance when planning a visit.
  • Local Support Services: Several businesses offer marine supplies, boat rentals, and other maritime services.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Holkham National Nature Reserve: Located just west of the port, featuring diverse wildlife and expansive sand dunes.
  • Wells Beach: Known for its long stretch of golden sands framed by colorful beach huts.
  • Historic Town: The town itself offers amenities such as local shops, pubs, and restaurants, along with charming scenic walks.

Wells-next-the-Sea exudes a charming coastal allure and provides essential maritime services, making it a pleasant and practical stop for both commercial and leisure maritime activities.

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