| Vessel Name ↕️ | IMO | Type ↕️ | DWT ↕️ | ETA ↕️ |
|---|
Note: Vessel information is updated daily. All times are local port time.
Port Overview
Assateague Channel is a strategically positioned maritime gateway located on the eastern seaboard of the United States, situated along the coastal region of Virginia and Maryland. Positioned within the unique ecological landscape of the Assateague Island National Seashore, this port represents a specialized maritime access point with significant environmental and navigational considerations. While not a major commercial shipping hub, the channel serves critical maritime functions for local marine operations, scientific research, and coastal management.
Geographic Location & Access
Precisely located at coordinates 37.9168°N, -75.3794°E, Assateague Channel offers a distinctive maritime approach characterized by its barrier island environment. The channel is situated within a dynamic coastal ecosystem, presenting unique navigational challenges and opportunities. Access is primarily influenced by the region’s complex coastal geography, with narrow approach channels and variable bathymetric conditions typical of barrier island environments.
Key geographic characteristics include:
– Coastal barrier island positioning
– Complex tidal influences
– Shallow to moderate water depths
– Seasonal navigation considerations
– Proximity to Atlantic Ocean maritime routes
Port Infrastructure & Facilities
Infrastructure at Assateague Channel is specialized and limited, primarily supporting:
– Research vessel moorings
– Small craft and scientific research operations
– Environmental monitoring facilities
– Limited cargo handling capabilities
– Marine research support infrastructure
The port’s facilities are predominantly oriented towards ecological research, coastal management, and specialized marine operations rather than traditional commercial shipping activities.
Technical Specifications
Technical parameters of Assateague Channel include:
– Maximum draft: 50 meters
– Channel depth: Varies seasonally (typically 3-10 meters)
– Tidal range: Approximately 1.5-2.0 meters
– Navigation challenges: Shifting sand bars, seasonal depth variations
– Pilotage: Recommended for complex navigation conditions
– Vessel size limitations: Primarily suitable for small to medium research vessels
Operational Services
Limited operational services are available, focused on:
– Basic marine research support
– Environmental monitoring assistance
– Coastal management infrastructure
– Emergency marine response capabilities
– Limited bunkering for research vessels
– Basic marine safety and navigation support
Commercial & Economic Aspects
The channel’s economic significance is primarily environmental and research-oriented, rather than traditional commercial maritime trade. Key aspects include:
– Support for marine scientific research
– Coastal ecosystem management
– Environmental monitoring programs
– Limited tourism and recreational marine activities
– Scientific expedition support
Strategic Importance
Assateague Channel’s strategic value lies in its:
– Unique ecological research environment
– Critical coastal ecosystem monitoring capabilities
– Scientific marine research infrastructure
– Environmental preservation and study opportunities
– Specialized maritime access for research vessels
Conclusion
Assateague Channel represents a specialized maritime access point distinguished by its ecological significance and research-oriented infrastructure. While not a traditional commercial shipping port, it provides critical support for marine scientific research, coastal management, and environmental monitoring programs.
Recommended for:
– Marine research vessels
– Scientific expeditions
– Ecological monitoring operations
– Coastal management programs
– Specialized marine research activities
MarineTraffic ID: 21072 provides additional tracking an
ASSATEAGUECHANNEL
Stop wasting time — streamline your pre-fixing process and move bulk vessel cargo faster than ever.
