Portland Port
History of Portland Port
The construction of the first breakwater was completed in 1872. The remaining were built over the next 30 years. This breakwater system created an excellent port of refuge from westerly storms. The resulting enclosed harbour was also strategically well located for protection of home fleets against Russian and French naval attack. In peacetime the harbour’s principle use was for torpedo development and Royal Navy sea training.After the Iron Curtain ‘came down’, Britain’s sea defences were reviewed in the light of the perceived reduced threat. Portland as a Naval Base was deemed surplus to requirements and was closed. In 1996 the shore estate of the Base was sold and the Royal Navy finally moved out on 31st December 1997. The responsibility for the operation of the port was passed to Portland Port Limited on 1st January 1998. From then the new commercial port has grown successfully and has attracted new businesses and employment to the area.
This part of the Dorset Coast is world renown for its clarity and purity of sea water, which provides excellent fishing and ideal conditions for sport diving, sailing and other water sports.
The commercial activities are principally to the south side of the harbour in deep water.
Portland Port Limited is a newest port authority in the United Kingdom. We aim to provide a friendly, personal and efficient service to all ships, giving every assistance we can.
The port operates 24 hours a day and is capable of providing any service for vessels or cargoes as and when required.
The Port staff are all highly trained and experienced in every aspect of port operations thus providing a safe and efficient port for you to enjoy.
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Portland Port Limited
Castletown, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1PP, England
Tel: +44 (0) 1305 824044 Fax: +44 (0) 1305 824055
e mail: info@portland-port.co.uk© 1998 Portland Port Limited
Portland Port Web Site Constructed & Maintained by Resort Marketing Ltd
This page last updated 22 December 2000