An historic Scottish harbour at the heart of Greenock is now available for visiting yachts and leisure vessels thanks to a new berthing pontoon.
In its 19th century heyday the East India Harbour was at the heart of a bustling waterfront where goods from across the globe were landed.
It is now hoped the new 80 metre pontoon will attract sailors, yacht crews and cruise ship passengers from around the world to stop off in Inverclyde.
Inverclyde Council’s Regeneration Convener Councillor Michael McCormick said: “The East India Harbour is the gateway to Greenock. As it was for many years when ships used to unload their cargoes along the Clyde I hope we will see many yachts and leisure boats moor at the pontoon and unload their crews and passengers to spend a few hours or days in the town. It is also a great asset for local businesses to offer yet more activities and attractions to tempt the tens of thousands of cruise ship visitors we welcome every year to see a lot more of what Inverclyde has to offer.”
The pontoon – which can accommodate a superyacht of up to 50 metres or 8 smaller sized vessels – is available for use until the end of October.
Mirren Marine Ltd, a local company, is managing the facility on behalf of the Council.
Ronnie Doolan from Mirren Marine confirmed the pontoon has unhampered access with a chart datum of 4 metres. He said: “I think the pontoon is fantastic for Greenock and I am sure when word spreads throughout the sailing community the pontoon will soon become established as an excellent amenity for visiting yachts.
“It is primarily aimed at attracting visiting sailors but we are also looking at operating fishing trips and sight-seeing cruises from the harbour on a trial basis. If they prove popular then hopefully they could become a permanent service for the future.”