Helmsdale Harbour ... anyone know it well?

[Albert Ross]

Planning to stop over in Helmsdale Harbour late July or early August.
How much room is there? Space, depth, shelter, etc. any comments or advice, please?
We are 11 metres and draw 2.0.
Thanks.

 

[Herald]

Hi

With your draft you will need to go in around HW or one hour either side. Berth on pontoons, usually space available at seaward end. Prepare to take the bottom, particularly if in on springs, bottom is sand and with a fin keel you will just settle in. Channel in is narrow, bottom is rock, but stick to the leading marks and you are fine. There is a bar to get over on the approach, but shallowest part is at entrance. River silts up with the flow down from the hills. Stick close to the outer breakwater when turning into the harbour as that is the deepest water and area which they dredge.

It is a nice stopping point. Three pubs, village store and a good chip shop. If your constrained with tides, Lybster is another option which is easier in terms of entry.

Cheers

Tom

 

[Albert Ross]

Thank you. That's really helpful.
I'd heard that the pontoons get completely filled with fishing boats. Not something you've seen?

 

[Herald]

Thank you. That's really helpful.
I'd heard that the pontoons get completely filled with fishing boats. Not something you've seen?

Not been up there yet this year, but there has always been space on the pontoons when I've visited. Fishing boats usually go against the wall. The HM used to be a very helpful chap called Alex Jappy, but have got a feeling he may have moved on. Number is in the almanac.