Dredging update
In March we wrote explaining the current situation in the Harbour in terms of dredging and marina depths. At the time we explained there are now two projects running concurrently to ensure a long-term plan for the marina and both projects depend upon marine licenses which, can be a lengthy process. We will keep you updated as things progress so here are the key updates since March.
Hydrographic survey
During April/May we completed a full hydrographic survey of the harbour. The most recent survey prior to this had been in October/November, post the spot dredging. The results of this survey showed a varying picture throughout the marina, Plas Heli and the harbour. Whilst some areas are unchanged there are areas which have experienced sedimentation of up to 30cm. This is a higher sedimentation rate to anything we’ve previously experienced and it is unclear why this has happened. We will continue to monitor depths throughout the harbour which might include further hydrographic surveys.
Dredging, pumping out to sea
As part of the marine licence application we have to demonstrate what will happen to the dredged material once it is pumped out to sea. We also have to identify the optimal location and conditions for pumping out to sea. As you can imagine this is quite complex. Since March we’ve written, advertised and awarded a tender for this work. We’re pleased to confirm Intertek will be working with us to complete this modelling. The kick off meeting took place 1st July 2025.
Dredging, reclaiming land
We’ve identified four potential locations within the harbour for land reclamation. The next step in this process is looking in detail at the build-ability at each of these sites to determine their feasibility and our preferred option.
Overall update
As you’re probably aware the marine licence applications will be submitted to Natural Resources Wales (NRW). We are engaging with NRW about the proposed work and have been pleased with their initial responses. Overall, everything is progressing as planned however, it is still likely to be next March/April before the full marine licence applications can be submitted.
Bridge Gate and 'Berth holders ablutions' door
We’d like to thank you for your patience whilst we rectify issues with the bridge gate and the male berth holder ablutions door. Both access points became unreliable and were only working intermittently. After an incident of someone becoming stuck in the male ablutions and a different incident of someone climbing over the bridge gate we took the decision to open the door and gate until the faults had been resolved.
It has taken longer than anticipated to resolve these issues as investigations showed there were more problems than we’d anticipated. There is considerable work required on each of the access points to bring them up to the required standard. Whilst the gate and door have been opened for safety reasons we do understand this hasn’t been a popular decision. Your safety is of the upmost importance to us. You’ll be pleased to learn we do now have a planned way ahead and both access points should be operational again by the 18th July. Although the female berth holders door is operational we will be taking this opportunity to also bring this door up to the required standard. We do appreciate your continued patience whilst this work is ongoing.
As you know we’re out and about around the site every day trying our best to keep everything maintained. In spite of this, from time to time we may well miss things. If you notice something isn’t quite right please do let us know. This is really helpful for us and enables us to respond to any issues as swiftly as possible. 
Jester Baltimore Challenge 2025
Hafan Pwllheli has once again accommodated boats taking part in the Jester Baltimore Challenge which is a challenge to sail single-handed from either Plymouth or Pwllheli to Baltimore, Ireland. Originally the only option was to sail from Plymouth, which for some sailors meant a longer sail to the start line than the challenge itself! On the 15th June, 35 boats set out on the challenge - 25 from Plymouth and 10 from Pwllheli. A lack of winds made this years event particularly difficult with four Pwllheli starters being forced to retire. Huge congratulations to the six from Pwllheli who made it to Baltimore and a massive thank you to Roger Fitzgerald for his determination and enthusiasm, which ensured the Pwllheli start went ahead. We look forward to welcoming the Jester Challengers back in 2027.
National representation on the UK Harbour Master's Council
Earlier this year our very own Harbour Master, Sarah Hattle, was voted onto the UK Harbour Master’s National Council as one of only two representatives for the Wales constituency. Not only is this a great personal achievement for Sarah, it’s also a fantastic opportunity for Pwllheli to have a voice on the UK council. We’d like to congratulate Sarah on her appointment and look forward to hearing her updates from the UK Council meetings.
Tony’s Top Tip
No need for speed!
Recently there have been quite a few incidents of people exceeding our 4 knot speed limit. We have the 4 knot speed limit in place for everyone’s safety. By proceeding at 4 knots you are helping to protect the local environment as excessive wash is reduced which can be dangerous for other marina users. It’s also important to remember the collisions regulations dictate that “Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within the distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.” 
Hafan Pwllheli in bloom
Anyone who has visited the marina recently cannot fail to notice our beautiful planters. We’d like to thank our very own Siobhan Hannah for the vision and creativity behind these displays of colour. A special thanks also needs to go to Derek and Gillian Night Music who came and joined in with planting. It was a great afternoon and what a wonderful community we have here at the Hafan. 