HARLESIEL

• DEHSX
• Latitude: 53.7081
• Longitude: 7.81018
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in Germany

Location: Wittmund Lower Saxony 26409 Germany

Harlesiel is a small coastal town located in Germany, known for its marina and ferry services. It serves as a gateway to the East Frisian Islands in the North Sea, specifically to the island of Wangerooge. Below is a detailed description and specification of the Harlesiel port:

Port Description:

• Location: Harlesiel is situated in the state of Lower Saxony, near the estuary of the river Harle.
• Coordinates: Approximately 53.7068° N latitude and 7.8055° E longitude.
• Function: Primarily a marina and ferry terminal, offering passages to the neighboring islands. The port also serves fishing boats and leisure vessels.

Port Infrastructure:

• Docking Facilities:

  • Marina: Capable of accommodating a variety of small to medium-sized vessels, including yachts and pleasure boats.
  • Ferry Terminal: Designed to handle ferries that provide regular services to and from Wangerooge.

• Navigation:

  • Channel: The approach to Harlesiel is navigable but may require careful maneuvering due to tidal changes and shallow waters. Buoyage and navigation aids are in place.
  • Depth: Varies with tidal conditions but generally suitable for vessels with a shallow draft.

• Services:

  • Fuel: Available for yachts and smaller vessels.
  • Water and Electricity: Provisioned for boats docked in the marina.
  • Maintenance and Repairs: Basic facilities are available for minor repairs. More extensive services might need to be sought in larger nearby ports.

Port Operations:

• Hours of Operation: Generally open year-round, but operational schedules for ferry services vary seasonally.
• Ferry Services: Frequent ferry connections to Wangerooge island; schedules depend on tide times and weather conditions.
• Customs and Security: As a smaller port, Harlesiel may have minimal customs facilities. Security is proportional to the size and activity level of the port, focusing on safety and order.

Surrounding Area:

• Tourism: Harlesiel is a popular spot for tourists, offering sandy beaches, walking trails, and scenic views of the North Sea. The town has various accommodations and eateries catering to visitors.
• Transportation: Besides ferries, the town can be accessed by road, with parking facilities available for those boarding ferries or using the marina.
• Nearby Attractions: Coastal attractions, historical sites, and natural parks in the East Frisian region add to the appeal of Harlesiel.

Environmental and Regulatory Aspects:

• Environmental Considerations: The port operates under guidelines designed to protect the delicate coastal and marine ecosystems of the North Sea.
• Regulations: Governed by German maritime and environmental laws, ensuring safe and eco-friendly port operations.

Key Points:

• Small-scale port catering mainly to local and tourist traffic.
• Close connectivity to Wangerooge island via regular ferry services.
• Basic but sufficient marina facilities for leisure and fishing vessels.
• Situated in a scenic area with strong tourism appeal.

This port plays a vital role in local tourism and provides essential connectivity to the mainland and surrounding islands. As a picturesque and functional marina, Harlesiel serves both as a practical maritime hub and a charming destination for visitors.