Povoa de Varzim - Docking

Approach

When entering, the northern breakwater should be given a wide berth as there is often breaking water at its extremity. In addition, there is an isolated rock close to the inside of the northern breakwater. After entering between the two breakwaters, turn to starboard passing around a row of unlit green buoys which mark shallow water near the breakwater.

Also, be aware that the entrance can be rough when there is a heavy swell running and on occasions, the harbour may be closed.

Moorings

The fishing boats use the northern part of the harbour and the marina lies in the southern section.

The marina here (photo courtesy of Kieran Higgs) provides an economical longer-term berth for cruising yachts. As with the majority of ports on this coast, however, care should be taken in deciding to winter your boat here in the water, due to the surge that develops during southerly winter storms. Improvements to the breakwater have helped dampen the swell somewhat. However, care should be taken with tying up your boat correctly to allow for surge, in particular in the winter and if leaving your boat for any length of time.

The new security gates installed at Povoa Marina do also operate with traditional magnetic cards, which are available for those visitors who would rather not register biometric data (fingerprinting) with the marina.

The marina has hard standing for approx. 100 yachts, ideal for winter storage although not as a place for winter repairs as electricity usage is limited. Hardstanding should be booked in advance (see boatyards for further details).

Local contractors can be sourced via the marina, however, there is very little available in the town in the way of boat parts.

Anchoring

Anchoring is not permitted in the bay.

Last updated:  September 2018