WHITSTABLE

• GBWTS
• Latitude: 51.3636
• Longitude: 1.02621
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: Whitstable Kent CT5 1AB UK

Phone number: +44 1227 274086

Web-site: https://www.whitstableharbour.org/

Whitstable Marine Port

General Overview

Whitstable is a small but historically significant port town located on the north coast of Kent, in southeast England. Famous for its oysters, Whitstable has been associated with fishing and maritime activities for centuries. The port itself serves as a hub for both commercial and recreational maritime activities.

Location

• Coordinates: 51.3625° N, 1.0250° E
• Region: South-East England, along the southern shore of the Thames Estuary
• Nearest Major City: Canterbury, approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) south of Whitstable

Port Facilities

1. Harbour Area:

   • The area is relatively small but well-organized.
   • The harbor consists of a mix of quayside berths and moorings suitable for fishing vessels, leisure craft, and small commercial ships.

2. Berthing Specifications:

   • Total Berths: Approximately 150 for leisure boats.
   • Commercial Berths: Limited, mainly catering to local fishing fleets and occasional commercial vessels.
   • Draft: Varies, with deeper areas up to 4 meters (13 feet) at high tide and as low as 0.5 meters (1.6 feet) at low tide.
   • Tidal Range: High tidal range that can affect depth, approximately 4.5 to 5 meters (15 feet).

3. Mooring Facilities:

   • Floating pontoons for smaller vessels.
   • Fixed quayside berths for larger vessels.
   • Pulley moorings and swinging moorings are available for leisure boats.

4. Cranes and Lifting:

   • Facilities for boat lifting and maintenance.
   • Cranes available for lifting smaller vessels out of the water for repair and storage.

5. Storage:

   • On-site storage for boats, both on the hard and in water, is available.
   • Warehousing and storage facilities for goods and catch are limited.

6. Fishing Facilities:

   • Dedicated moorings and quay space for the local fishing fleet.
   • Facilities for the landing and processing of shellfish, including the renowned Whitstable oysters.
   • A fish market operating to support the local fishing industry.

Services and Amenities

• Fuel Bunkering: Available for both diesel and petrol, primarily aimed at smaller vessels and pleasure crafts.
• Repair and Maintenance: Several local boat yards provide repair, maintenance, and winter storage services.
• Waste Disposal: Facilities provided for responsible waste disposal, including recycling and hazardous waste containment.

Navigation and Accessibility

• Approach Channel:
  • The approach to Whitstable Harbour is relatively straightforward but requires caution due to tidal influences and shallows.
  • Buoys and markers indicate navigable channels, assisting vessels approaching the harbor.
• Pilotage: Not mandatory but advisable for larger vessels or those unfamiliar with the local waters.
• Tide and Current: Strong tidal currents can influence harbor navigation, particularly during spring tides. Skippers should calculate entry and exit timings carefully.

Nearby Maritime Infrastructure

• Marinas and Yacht Clubs:
  • Whitstable Yacht Club, which offers various amenities and supports recreational sailing.
• Commercial Ports:
  • Nearby larger ports include Sheerness to the northwest and Dover to the southeast, providing expanded services and capacity for larger commercial vessels.

Economic and Cultural Significance

• Fishing Industry: A vital part of the local economy, with a strong focus on sustainable fisheries and shellfish cultivation.
• Tourism: A popular destination for tourists, drawn by maritime heritage, seafood, and recreational boating.
• Community Events: Frequent maritime and nautical events, including regattas and oyster festivals, enrich the cultural fabric of the town.

Environmental Considerations

• The port is situated within an area of environmental sensitivity, with certain sections designated as marine or coastal conservation zones.
• Focus on sustainable practices and minimizing impact on local marine life, particularly within the oyster beds.

Conclusion

Whitstable Marine Port, while relatively modest in scale, serves as a critical local hub for both commercial and recreational maritime activity. Its historical significance, combined with modern facilities tailored to smaller vessels and the local fishing industry, gives it a unique character distinct from larger industrial ports. With a focus on sustainability and community, Whitstable continues to thrive as a maritime focal point in southeast England.