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Port of Ardrossan

GBARD🇬🇧United Kingdom

Port Location

About Port of Ardrossan

This pier port is situated on the east shore of the Firth of Clyde in southwestern Scotland. It serves as a key ferry terminal for services to the Isle of Arran and handles general cargo. Tugs are available, and pilotage is compulsory.

Background
Ardrossan is a town on the North Ayrshire coast in southwestern Scotland. The town has a population of 10,670 and forms part of a conurbation with Saltcoats and Stevenston known as the 'Three Towns'. Ardrossan is located on the east shore of the Firth of Clyde, and is the main terminal of Caledonian MacBrayne ferry services operating from mainland Scotland to the Isle of Arran.

Current Conditions

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Vessel Limits

Channel Depth
5ft
Tidal Range
3ft
Elevation
1m

Operations & Services

Port of Entry
Yes
Pilotage Compulsory
Yes
Tug Assistance
Yes
Cranes
Fixed
Drydock
Small
Repair Code
C

References & Identifiers

WPI No.
33530 →
GeoNames ID
11128378 →
Wikidata
Q640073 →
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →

Identification

UN/LOCODE
GBARD
Country
🇬🇧United Kingdom
Time Zone
UTC+0
Feature Type
PIER (Pier)

Classification

Type
Port
Harbor Type
Coastal breakwater
Shelter
Fair

Region

Subdivision
GB-NAY
Area
UK Coast & Atlantic
Sub-area
Irish Sea
Latitude
55.6405°
Longitude
-4.8245°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Ardrossan?+
The approach to Ardrossan is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Ayr North Breakwater Lighthouse at 11.9 NM to the SSE. Other aids include Dumbuck (19.8 NM NNE), Falkirk Lighthouses (44.9 NM ENE), Portpatrick Range Rear (49 NM SSW), Carnlough North Pier (49.2 NM SW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What major shipping routes pass near the Port of Ardrossan?+
The Port of Ardrossan is located within the English Channel / North Sea corridor — one of the world's busiest maritime corridors connecting the Atlantic to Northern European ports. This strategic position influences vessel traffic density, anchorage availability, and port scheduling.
How do I track vessels arriving at or departing from the Port of Ardrossan?+
You can track vessels near Ardrossan (GBARD) in real time using MarineRadar. The platform displays live AIS positions of nearby ships, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page or search for GBARD on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Ardrossan?+
The Port of Ardrossan operates in the UTC+0 time zone. Operating hours, VTS schedules, and pilot availability vary — vessel agents should confirm with the port authority in advance, especially for night arrivals or weekend operations.