54o08'S
36o
41'W
Chart
3589,
Approaches to Leith, Stromness and Husvik Harbours
This
was another whaling station, but it was more famous in recent years
as the site of the start of the Falklands Conflict. In 1982, an
Argentine commercial salvage operation was used to disguise the
arrival of military personnel, who eventually invaded the island.
 |
A view of Leith Harbour from Grass Island |
As a consequence of the salvage work (which was never completed) there is a huge pile of rusting machinery and parts by the main dock. Much more is scattered about making this station probably the worst eyesore on the island, which is saying a lot.
While many of the buildings are still standing, time and vandalism have taken their usual toll.
If you intend to stay for several days, it is possible to moor in a small basin a short distance NW of the main dock. This offers good protection from the sea from all quarters. The NW corner of the basin is shoal with the remains of a small wooden boat showing at low water. The depth at the SE end is not known, but is believed to be sufficient for most yachts. NW winds can blow here with extreme violence. Some swell may be experienced in the basin.
LEITH HARBOUR, SMALL BOAT BASIN - LOOKING E
The main dock is still in reasonable condition, with heavy fendering on the SE side which has a depth of 6.5m alongside. A dense patch of kelp exists between the shore and the SE side of the jetty, which makes it advisable to approach from the NE.
A yellow mooring buoy is laid and maintained by the Admiralty, in Leith Harbour, for the use of ships.
LEITH HARBOUR, THE MAIN JETTY – LOOKING NE
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