Heritage - Ports
Sheltered from the prevailing winds, St Peter Port harbour is the best anchorage in the Channel Islands and is the island’s main port. Evidence shows that it has been used since pre Roman times. Although no structures of the ancient port have been found, there is indirect evidence that the east coast port was used as a stop off point for vessels en route from France and Iberia to Britain. Excavations have revealed Roman harbour-side structures, which appear to have been in use throughout the second and third centuries AD.
The harbour is a natural haven in the dangerous waters around the Channel Islands with strong and variable currents, caused by a huge tidal range flowing between the many rocks and islands. Roman wrecks have been found in and around St. Peter Port harbour, evidence of its commercial value, and of being a well established major trade route.
In 1275 Edward I, gave permission for visiting ships to be taxed with the proceeds being used to build a pier, giving protection from southeasterly gales. This Pier was rebuilt following a French invasion in 1295. Many additions have been added over the years with the latest being the Queen Elizabeth II Marina and North Beach.
St Peter Port Harbour has contributed considerably to the economic prosperity of the island over the years.
Castle Cornet and the adjoining lighthouse are landmarks and these days welcome visitors by boat to the beautiful capital, St Peter Port. Work on the original Castle began at the site in the 13th century. The Castle now houses various museums where the history of the Castle can be learnt.
To the north, St Sampson's harbour was originally established in 1806 when a channel (the Braye du Valle) was filled in uniting the two parts of the island. This area then established its self as an anchorage, which grew into the harbour we know today. Locals still call the St Sampson’s harbour area ‘The Bridge’.
The harbour was built between 1866 and 1870 and was a thriving centre of the island's granite export business. Nearby, in 1864, The Golden Spur was built in Ogier's Yard and was the largest ship built in Guernsey at 656 tons. The harbour is referred to in Victor Hugo’s ‘Toilers of the Sea’, which he wrote when exiled on Guernsey.
Alderney boasts an impressive 870 metre-long breakwater that protects the island's commercial quay, ferries and cargo ships, the fishing fleet, and thousands of visiting yachts. Built in 1847, the breakwater was designed by James Walker, an early President of the Institution of Civil Engineers. This impressive feat of engineering has not only stood the test of time and the trials of severe storms, but its construction was the catalyst for much of what the Alderney community is today.
Sark has two main harbours. La Maseline Jetty is the main deep-water harbour and the adjacent Creux Harbour is smaller and sheltered and dries out completely at low water.
SWAN RENDEZVOUS 2010 31 May 2010 - 04 Jun 2010
Contact Martin Ozard +44 (0) 1481 265027 or 710365
Organised by the Guernsey combined yacht Clubs - The Swan Guernsey Rendezvous forms part of a worldwide programme of sail...
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MORLAIX YACHT RACE 13 May 2010 - 15 May 2010
Contact Yvon Quillec on +33 (0) 298883800
Around 130 yachts and 650 yachtsmen set off from this enchanting north Brittany port on the annual Morlaix Yacht Club Telegramme ...
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