WEXFORD

• IEWEX
• Latitude: 52.342
• Longitude: -6.46382
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in Ireland

Location: Wexford Ireland

Web-site: https://www.wexford.ie/

Wexford is a coastal town located in the southeast of Ireland, serving as an important gateway for maritime activities in the region. Below are a detailed description and specifications of Wexford’s marine port:

Port Description:

Wexford Harbour is the primary maritime facility servicing the town of Wexford. The harbor is situated at the mouth of the River Slaney, providing access to both the Irish Sea and inland waterways. It is known for its picturesque setting and historical significance, contributing to both commercial and leisure maritime traffic.

Specifications:

1. Location:

   • Coordinates: Approx. 52.3361° N latitude, 6.4622° W longitude.
   • Accessibility: Situated about 130 km south of Dublin, accessible by road (via the N11 and N25), and is connected to inland rail services.

2. Harbor Layout:

   • Entrance: The main channel at the mouth of the River Slaney.
   • Tide and Depth: Subject to tidal influences; the port has a tidal range of approximately 2-3 meters. The depth at the entrance channel and anchorage areas varies but generally requires tidal considerations for larger vessels.

3. Facilities:

   • Quays and Jetties: Multiple berths accommodate fishing vessels, smaller cargo ships, and leisure boats.
   • Cargo Handling: Limited facilities primarily geared towards regional trade and fisheries.
   • Mooring: The harbor offers mooring options for visiting yachts and smaller commercial vessels.
   • Support Services: Includes amenities like fresh water, fuel supply, and minor repair services.

4. Navigation Aids:

   • Lighthouses: Positioned to aid navigation into the harbor.
   • Beacons and Buoys: Mark the channel leading to the port and the river.

5. Operational Info:

   • Management: Governed by the Wexford County Council which oversees the operations and maintenance.
   • Customs and security: Basic customs facilities available for leisure and small commercial traffic.
   • Regulations: Subject to Irish port regulations and international maritime standards.

6. Commercial Activities:

   • Fishing: Notable activity given the proximity to rich fishing grounds.
   • Leisure Boating: Popular destination for recreational sailing and water sports.
   • Tourism: Attracts visitors for its waterfront, historical sites, and scenic vistas.

Challenges and Developments:

• Seasonal Variations: Weather conditions in the Irish Sea can impact marine operations, especially during the winter months.
• Dredging Requirements: Periodic dredging to maintain navigable channels is necessary due to siltation in the tidal estuary.
• Expansion and Upgrades: Efforts to upgrade facilities are ongoing, aimed at improving infrastructure to better support both commercial and leisure maritime activities.

In summary, Wexford Harbour serves as a quaint yet functional maritime port, playing a vital role in the local economy through fishing, tourism, and small-scale commercial shipping. It combines historical charm with the practical amenities needed for modern maritime operations.