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Note: Vessel information is updated daily. All times are local port time.
Port Overview
Baltasound, located in the Unst island of the Shetland archipelago, is a strategically positioned maritime facility serving the northernmost reaches of the United Kingdom. Situated in a unique geographic location at 60.7597°N, -0.838423°E, the port plays a critical role in supporting maritime operations in the challenging North Sea environment, particularly for offshore energy and maritime support services.
Geographic Location & Access
Positioned on the northeastern coast of Unst, Baltasound offers a sheltered natural harbor with exceptional strategic advantages. The port’s coordinates provide direct access to critical North Sea shipping routes, with proximity to major offshore energy developments in the Scottish continental shelf. The maritime approach features relatively protected waters, mitigating challenging North Atlantic weather conditions typical of the Shetland Islands.
The local climate is characterized by maritime subarctic conditions, with moderate temperatures influenced by the North Atlantic Current. Frequent wind patterns and potential challenging maritime conditions require specialized navigation and operational expertise.
Port Infrastructure & Facilities
Baltasound’s port infrastructure is primarily designed to support maritime support services, particularly for offshore energy and fishing industries. Key infrastructure features include:
– Multipurpose maritime support berths
– Specialized offshore vessel handling capabilities
– Limited but functional cargo handling equipment
– Basic storage and logistics support facilities
– Marine service infrastructure for smaller vessels
Technical Specifications
Technical capabilities of Baltasound port include:
– Maximum draft: 50 meters
– Channel depth: Approximately 40-45 meters
– Tidal range: 2-3 meters
– Vessel size limitations: Primarily suited for medium-sized support vessels and offshore service craft
– Navigation aids: Standard maritime navigation systems
– Pilotage: Recommended for complex approach conditions
Operational Services
Operational services at Baltasound are tailored to support maritime and offshore industries:
– Basic stevedoring and cargo handling
– Limited bunker fuel supply
– Emergency marine support services
– Basic vessel maintenance capabilities
– Environmental compliance services
– Customs clearance for maritime operations
Commercial & Economic Aspects
The port’s commercial profile is specialized, focusing on:
– Offshore energy support services
– Maritime logistics for remote northern operations
– Fishing industry support
– Limited general cargo capabilities
– Niche maritime service provisions
Strategic Importance
Baltasound’s strategic significance lies in its unique positioning:
– Critical support hub for North Sea offshore energy operations
– Gateway for maritime services in northern Scottish waters
– Specialized maritime support infrastructure
– Proximity to emerging offshore renewable energy developments
Competitive Advantages
Key competitive advantages include:
– Sheltered natural harbor
– Specialized offshore support infrastructure
– Strategic North Sea location
– Adaptable maritime service capabilities
– Environmental compliance standards
Conclusion
Baltasound represents a specialized maritime facility optimized for supporting offshore and maritime operations in challenging northern maritime environments. While limited in general cargo capabilities, the port offers critical support services for specific maritime sectors, particularly offshore energy and maritime logistics.
Recommended for: Offshore energy support vessels, maritime service providers, specialized maritime logistics operations, fishing industry support services.
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