Clyde Marina is exceptional in having the provision of a storm gate which is designed to give the maximum protection from wave action and heavy sea states from a westerly quadrant.
The gate is not tidal and so it is not a lock gate, but it closes the basin in storm conditions against heavy seas from the west.
When closed, even in the most extreme conditions the water surface inside the marina basin is virtually flat, so significantly reducing the wear and tear on lines and fenders.
Generally the gate would be closed in gale force winds from the west that are consistently over 35 kts.
If approaching in extreme weather please check with the marina on CH 80 or by phone or contact the Coastguard.
The storm gate for you the boat owner means safer, more protected moorings, steadier pontoons and kinder waters for your boat and equipment.
When closed, we notify the local coastguard and Ardrossan Harbour Control who change the entry lights to 2 Red over 1 Green and we post a “Storm Gate Closed” notice in our office window. We will normally post entries on the Clyde Marina Facebook page to advise if the storm gate is closed.
The Caledonian MacBrayne Arran ferry service shares the harbour and a traffic light system controls movements in the harbour for the short period when the ferry is manoeuvring. Yacht and boat owners are reminded to strictly observe the light sequence and instructions.
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