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Port of Holyhead

GBHLY🇬🇧United Kingdom

Port Location

About Port of Holyhead

Also known as: Holyhead Ferry Port

This is a major ferry port in Anglesey, United Kingdom, serving as the primary link to Ireland for much of northern Britain. It handles over 2 million passengers annually and is sheltered by the UK's longest breakwater. The port features tug services and a small drydock.

Background
The Port of Holyhead is a commercial and ferry port in Anglesey, United Kingdom, handling more than 2 million passengers each year. It covers an area of 240 hectares, and is operated by Stena Line Ports Ltd. The port is the principal link for crossings from north Wales and central and northern England to Ireland. The port is partly on Holy Island and partly on Salt Island. It is made up of the Inner Harbour, the Outer Harbour and the New Harbour, all sheltered by the Holyhead Breakwater which, at 2.7 kilometres, is the longest in the UK.

Current Conditions

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Vessel Limits

Channel Depth
3ft
Tidal Range
5ft
Elevation
5m

Operations & Services

Port of Entry
Yes
Pilotage Compulsory
Yes
Tug Assistance
Yes
Cranes
Mobile
Drydock
Small
Repair Code
B

References & Identifiers

WPI No.
34770 →
GeoNames ID
9253631 →
Wikidata
Q7231154 →
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →

Identification

UN/LOCODE
GBHLY
Country
🇬🇧United Kingdom
Time Zone
UTC+0
Feature Type
PRT (Port)

Classification

Type
Port
Harbor Type
Coastal breakwater
Shelter
Good

Region

Subdivision
GB-GWN
Area
UK Coast & Atlantic
Sub-area
Irish Sea
Latitude
53.3183°
Longitude
-4.6295°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Holyhead?+
The approach to Holyhead is supported by 1 navigation aid within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Aberystwyth South Breakwater Lighthouse at 31.7 NM to the S. Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What major shipping routes pass near the Port of Holyhead?+
The Port of Holyhead 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 Holyhead?+
You can track vessels near Holyhead (GBHLY) 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 GBHLY on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Holyhead?+
The Port of Holyhead 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.