Full Description & Details
Hondarribia - Refugio is a fishing and refuge harbour on the left bank of the Txingudi Bay, at the mouth of the Bidasoa River, in the Basque Country of Spain. It sits next to the larger Puerto Deportivo de Hondarribia and the Darsena de Veteranos, all within the same sheltered bay.
The refuge is formed by two basins defended by breakwaters, with a harbour entrance oriented to the ESE and a width of 55 metres. The entrance channel is marked by lateral buoys and beacons, including a green starboard-hand beacon at the north breakwater end (light: GpD(2) 7s, green).
How to get there
Approach from the Rada de Higuer, which opens to the north between Punta Ste. Anne (France) and Cabo Higuer (Spain), separated by about 1.72 nautical miles. The bar of the Bidasoa is formed by two parallel breakwaters, marked at their ends, between the beaches of Hendaye (east) and Hondarribia (west).
The bar remains accessible except during storms; dredging maintains an average depth of 3 to 6 metres at low water, with deeper water and smaller waves on the Spanish side. Enter the channel and, about 400 metres from the bar, head east (Er) between the red and green lights to reach the Puerto Deportivo de Hondarribia, which offers good shelter in any weather. The refuge harbour is adjacent, with its own entrance marked by lateral beacons; the north breakwater end carries a green starboard-hand beacon (D-1454.5) at 43 23.132N, 001 47.353W.
The harbour office is at Ramon Iribarren, s/n (Puerto de refugio), 20280 Hondarribia; contact by phone at +34 688 671 007. The town of Hondarribia is within walking distance, and the nearest airport is San Sebastian (EAS), about 20 km away. No formalities are mentioned in the sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the depth and draft limit at Hondarribia - Refugio?
The depth inside the refuge basins ranges from 2 to 4 metres. The entrance channel has a depth of 5 metres at low water (B.M.V.E).
Can I stay overnight at Hondarribia - Refugio?
Yes, overnight stays are allowed at Hondarribia - Refugio.
What facilities are available at Hondarribia - Refugio?
The harbour provides a 5-tonne crane, water points, fuel points, and electricity connections. It also has a fishing port and repair areas.
How do I contact the harbour office at Hondarribia - Refugio?
The harbour office can be reached by phone at +34 688 671 007. The address is Ramon Iribarren, s/n (Puerto de refugio), 20280 Hondarribia.
Is there an alternative anchorage near Hondarribia - Refugio?
Yes, you can anchor in the bay off Hondarribia beach, sheltered by Jaizkibel mountain.
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