R.Guadiana

[25931]

Today's Correio da Manha reports that the dredging has started ( at last) and will give a minimum depth of 3,5m for 1,250m with a width of 60m. It goes on to say that the locals have been waiting for 30 years. The mayor of Vila Real said that this would increase the potential of the marina but I don't see how unless they also dredge it.

 

[charles_reed]

Today's Correio da Manha reports that the dredging has started ( at last) and will give a minimum depth of 3,5m for 1,250m with a width of 60m. It goes on to say that the locals have been waiting for 30 years. The mayor of Vila Real said that this would increase the potential of the marina but I don't see how unless they also dredge it.

When I first went up the Guadiana in 2001, there was 3.0m over the bar @ HW. As a result of the Portuguese dams, high above Mertola this had dropped to 2.1m @ HW 3 years later. I expect that Ayamonte will be even more enthusiastic about the prospect as it has always struck me as being far more economically alive.

 

[Mistroma]

When I first went up the Guadiana in 2001, there was 3.0m over the bar @ HW. As a result of the Portuguese dams, high above Mertola this had dropped to 2.1m @ HW 3 years later. I expect that Ayamonte will be even more enthusiastic about the prospect as it has always struck me as being far more economically alive.

I don't remember any particular depth problems this year on Portuguese side. However, Ayamonte was useless and we couldn't find a spot with sufficient depth for our 2.2m draft. I'd much prefer to stay in Ayamonte but it's ruled out until they dredge. Pity, as it is a nice spot and they don't charge an extra day if you leave after 12:00, so better than the Portuguese side.

 

[macd]

I don't remember any particular depth problems this year on Portuguese side...

My impression from the first post was that the dredging would be in the approach, south of the breakwater, and therefore irrelevant to Ayamonte marina. Perhaps the OP could clarify one way or the other?

 

[Mistroma]

My impression from the first post was that the dredging would be in the approach, south of the breakwater, and therefore irrelevant to Ayamonte marina. Perhaps the OP could clarify one way or the other?

I commented on the Villa Real marina because OP said " increase the potential of the marina but I don't see how unless they also dredge it." and I didn't think there was a problem in the marina. Then I mentioned Ayamonte as it does have a problem.

I wasn't really talking about the location of the planned dredging, just the comment that Villa Real also needed dredging. I had the same thought about dredging location being outside the breakwater. However, I agree that it is worth OP clarifying the location of planned dredging.

 

[Heckler]

Today's Correio da Manha reports that the dredging has started ( at last) and will give a minimum depth of 3,5m for 1,250m with a width of 60m. It goes on to say that the locals have been waiting for 30 years. The mayor of Vila Real said that this would increase the potential of the marina but I don't see how unless they also dredge it.

J
good to meet you the other month. Thanks for the update. Was at Bruces week before last. Cold and bluddy wet!
S

 

[25931]

I commented on the Villa Real marina because OP said " increase the potential of the marina but I don't see how unless they also dredge it." and I didn't think there was a problem in the marina. Then I mentioned Ayamonte as it does have a problem.

I wasn't really talking about the location of the planned dredging, just the comment that Villa Real also needed dredging. I had the same thought about dredging location being outside the breakwater. However, I agree that it is worth OP clarifying the location of planned dredging.

Sorry for the delay - for my sins I´ve just spent a week in England.
I quoted a newspaper article which didn't give any more detail than the length and width.

 

[syfuga]

a minimum depth of 3,5m for 1,250m with a width of 60m..

This must surely refer to the bar: it doesn't make sense in any other context. 1250 metres presumably. Certainly the bar is shallow, and can give you a fright if you get your timing wrong. Once inside, depth is not an issue.

I am not sure that I agree with Charle's contention that Ayamonte is 'economically active'. They prefer to sip coffee than to fill in paperwork, so are inclined to refuse a berth if you call ahead.

 

[25931]

This must surely refer to the bar: it doesn't make sense in any other context. 1250 metres presumably. Certainly the bar is shallow, and can give you a fright if you get your timing wrong. Once inside, depth is not an issue.

I am not sure that I agree with Charle's contention that Ayamonte is 'economically active'. They prefer to sip coffee than to fill in paperwork, so are inclined to refuse a berth if you call ahead.

Don't call - just turn up. I've never known it to be full . I usually arrive after hours and the night duty chap is always very helpful.

 

[greeny]

Over the last 10 yrs we have always called up first and have never been turned away. I was questioned once about my draft, quite rightly as I was entering at low water, but once I explained we had a lift keel they welcomed us in. We've only ever had good service and welcome from the marina staff.

 

[GrahamM376]

Over the last 10 yrs we have always called up first and have never been turned away. I was questioned once about my draft, quite rightly as I was entering at low water, but once I explained we had a lift keel they welcomed us in. We've only ever had good service and welcome from the marina staff.

Had a look at Ayamonte today and counted only 29 sail boats, the place is 50% or more empty.

If anyone is looking for Ayamar chandlers, they're now by the roundabout at the inland end of the marina. The Chinese restaurant has closed down.