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Port of DRACHTEN

NLDRA🇳🇱Netherlands

Port Location

About Port of DRACHTEN

Drachten is a canal port located in the northern Netherlands. It serves as a waterway connection for local traffic and recreational vessels.

Background
Drachten is a town in the northern Netherlands. It is located in the municipality of Smallingerland, Friesland. It had a population of around 56,098 in 2023 and is the second largest town in the province of Friesland.

Current Conditions

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Vessel Limits

Elevation
-1m

Operations & Services

References & Identifiers

GeoNames ID
2752655 →
Wikidata
Q60444 →
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →

Identification

UN/LOCODE
NLDRA
Country
🇳🇱Netherlands
Time Zone
UTC+1
Feature Type
CNL (Canal)

Classification

Type
Port

Region

Area
UK Coast & Atlantic
Sub-area
North Sea
Latitude
53.1090°
Longitude
6.0540°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I navigate the approach to the Port of DRACHTEN?+
The approach to DRACHTEN is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Harlingen Range Rear Lighthouse at 23.5 NM to the W. Other aids include Blokzijl (24.6 NM S), Schokland Noordpunt (29 NM SSW), Eemshaven Range Rear (34.8 NM NE), Zeughoek (39.6 NM WSW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What major shipping routes pass near the Port of DRACHTEN?+
The Port of DRACHTEN 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 DRACHTEN?+
You can track vessels near DRACHTEN (NLDRA) 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 NLDRA on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of DRACHTEN?+
The Port of DRACHTEN operates in the UTC+1 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.