WEST RIVER HARBOR

• USVGL
• Latitude: 38.8432
• Longitude: -76.5378
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: West River MD US

West River Harbor - United States

Location:
West River Harbor is situated along the West River in the state of Connecticut, on the northern shore of Long Island Sound. It is primarily associated with the town of West Haven and provides access to the greater New Haven area.

Geographic Coordinates:
Approximately Latitude 41.2602 N, Longitude 72.9896 W.

Harbor Type:
Natural with man-made enhancements.

Primary Uses:

• Recreational boating
• Small-scale commercial fishing
• Local maritime events
• Potential for limited commercial shipping operations

Navigational Features:

• Entrance Channel: The entrance to West River Harbor is marked by a channel that is periodically dredged to maintain an adequate depth for vessel navigation.
• Depth: Varies, but the navigational channel generally provides depths that range from 6 to 9 feet (1.8 to 2.7 meters) at mean low water. The harbor should be approached with caution, particularly by larger vessels, due to variable depths.
• Mooring and Docking: The harbor has several mooring fields and docking facilities, with local marinas offering slip rentals, transient docking, and mooring balls.
• Marinas and Services: There are multiple marinas within West River Harbor, providing boat repair, maintenance services, haul-out facilities, fueling stations, and amenities such as restrooms and showers.

Tidal Information:

• Tidal Range: The tidal range in the area averages between 3 to 5 feet (0.9 to 1.5 meters).
• Current: Tidal currents can influence navigation within the harbor, particularly during ebb and flood tides.

Facilities and Amenities:

• Marinas: A number of marinas offer various services, including:
  • West River Marina
  • Pequonnock Yacht Club
  • City Point Yacht Club
• Fueling Stations: Available at select marinas.
• Repair Services: Boat yards and marine mechanics cater to a variety of repair and maintenance needs.
• Provisions: Nearby towns provide access to grocery stores, marine supply shops, restaurants, and other conveniences.
• Parking: Available at marina facilities and public areas.

Environmental Considerations:

• Water Quality: Generally good, with ongoing monitoring to maintain environmental standards.
• Wildlife and Habitat: The harbor supports local marine life and bird species, with conservation efforts in place to protect these habitats.

Safety and Regulations:

• Navigation Rules: Vessels must adhere to standard maritime navigation rules and local regulations, including speed limits and no-wake zones within the harbor.
• Harbor Master: A designated harbor master oversees operations, mooring allocations, and enforcement of local maritime laws.
• Emergency Services: Coast Guard and local marine patrols provide emergency and search and rescue operations.

Points of Interest:

• Historical Sites: The surrounding area has a rich history with several historical landmarks closely tied to maritime heritage.
• Recreational Areas: Beachfront parks, fishing spots, and sailing clubs offer recreational opportunities for visitors and locals alike.

User Considerations:

• Seasonal Variability: The harbor is active year-round, but peak usage typically occurs during the summer months when recreational boating increases.
• Dock Reservations: Recommended, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
• Weather Awareness: Mariners should monitor local weather conditions, as storms and high winds can impact safety and navigation.

Conclusion:

West River Harbor is a well-facilitated maritime port that serves a mixture of recreational and modest commercial purposes. It provides a strategic access point to Long Island Sound and the broader coastal region of Connecticut. Fine-tuning navigational preparedness and adhering to local regulations will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all harbor users.