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Port of Folkestone

GBFOL🇬🇧United Kingdom

Port Location

About Port of Folkestone

Folkestone is a harbor on the English Channel in Kent, United Kingdom. It serves as a ferry port, primarily handling passenger and freight services. The port is equipped for roll-on/roll-off operations.

Background
Folkestone is a coastal town on the English Channel, in Kent, south-east England. The town lies on the southern edge of the North Downs at a valley between two cliffs. It was an important harbour, shipping port, and fashionable coastal resort for most of the 19th and mid-20th centuries.

Current Conditions

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Vessel Limits

Channel Depth
0ft
Tidal Range
6ft
Elevation
3m

Operations & Services

Port of Entry
Yes
Pilotage Compulsory
Yes
Tug Assistance
Unknown
Cranes
Mobile
Drydock
U
Repair Code
C

References & Identifiers

WPI No.
35700 →
GeoNames ID
2649257 →
Wikidata
Q375314 →
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Official Site
www.folkestonetc.kentparishes.gov.uk →

Identification

UN/LOCODE
GBFOL
Country
🇬🇧United Kingdom
Time Zone
UTC+0
Feature Type
HBR (Harbor)

Classification

Type
Port
Harbor Type
Coastal breakwater
Shelter
Good

Region

Subdivision
GB-KEN
Area
UK Coast & Atlantic
Sub-area
English Channel
Latitude
51.0782°
Longitude
1.1901°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Folkestone?+
The approach to Folkestone is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Deal Pier Lighthouse at 8 NM to the ENE. Other aids include Rye East Arm (18.1 NM WSW), Herne Bay (18.4 NM N), St. Mary's of Reculver (20.2 NM NNE), Calais Arrondissement Lighthouses (23.3 NM ESE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What major shipping routes pass near the Port of Folkestone?+
The Port of Folkestone 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 Folkestone?+
You can track vessels near Folkestone (GBFOL) 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 GBFOL on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Folkestone?+
The Port of Folkestone 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.