Bristol’s Floating Harbour is a fascinating body of water, covering an impressive area of 70 acres. It is quite remarkable to imagine just how much water is contained within this space. To give you some perspective, 70 acres is equivalent to approximately 56 football fields!
Now, let’s dive deeper into the depths of the floating harbour. At its deepest point, which is located near Underfall Yard, the water reaches a depth of around 10 meters. This depth provides ample space for larger vessels to navigate through the harbour and ensures that there is enough water to accommodate their draft.
Moving towards Cumberland Basin, the water depth varies slightly. To the sides of the basin, the water measures around 5 meters deep, allowing for smaller boats and leisure crafts to safely maneuver. However, in the middle of the basin, the depth increases to approximately 8 meters. This deeper section of the harbour provides a suitable environment for larger ships and boats to dock and unload their cargo.
The varying depths of the floating harbour are essential for its functionality and serve different purposes. The deeper areas near Underfall Yard can accommodate larger vessels, such as cargo ships and ferries, ensuring that Bristol remains connected to the rest of the world through its maritime trade. On the other hand, the shallower sections around Cumberland Basin cater to recreational activities, such as boating and sailing, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of the harbour.
It’s worth noting that these depths can fluctuate depending on tidal movements and other natural factors. The floating harbour is influenced by the tides of the nearby River Avon, which can cause the water levels to rise and fall throughout the day. Therefore, it is important to consider these natural dynamics when navigating the harbour.
As an individual who has spent time exploring Bristol’s floating harbour, I can personally attest to the awe-inspiring sight of the vast expanse of water and the depth that it holds. Standing at the edge of the harbour and gazing into its depths gives a sense of the power and importance of this body of water to the city of Bristol.
Bristol’s floating harbour is not only expansive in terms of its area but also holds considerable depth. With depths of around 10 meters near Underfall Yard and varying depths of 5 to 8 meters at Cumberland Basin, the harbour can accommodate a range of vessels and activities. Its depths play a crucial role in facilitating trade, recreation, and the overall vibrancy of Bristol’s waterfront.