Newtownabbey is located on the northeast coast of Ireland, on the northern shores of Belfast Lough and approximately midway between Carrickfergus and Belfast. This used to be the home of the ‘Newtownabbey Boat Club' and it offers an anchorage adjacent to the club mooring area off the coast.
Newtownabbey is located on the northeast coast of Ireland, on the northern shores of Belfast Lough and approximately midway between Carrickfergus and Belfast. This used to be the home of the ‘Newtownabbey Boat Club' and it offers an anchorage adjacent to the club mooring area off the coast.
Deep within Belfast Lough the anchorage provides good protection from northwest through north to northeast. It is entirely exposed from east through south to southwest. Whilst subject to very little westerly fetch, winds from this direction tend to be accelerated as they funnel down the valley into the lough. Access is straightforward at any stage of the tide but as the anchorage itself is unmarked daylight is preferred.
Newtownabbey is situated within the Port of Belfast where all boat movements are controlled and managed. Visiting vessels must make Belfast Harbour Radio aware of their intentions prior to approach and stay in contact throughout the berthing process. Vessels operating within the Port of Belfast area must do so under power with sails down and taking care not to impede commercial traffic. Regular fast ferries travel in and out of Belfast Lough. If crossing the entrance to Belfast Lough a good watch must be maintained and a vessel should be prepared to be struck unexpectedly by the wash at all times.
Keyfacts for Newtownabbey
Protected sectors
Minimum depth
3 metres (9.84 feet).
