PORT GUIDE · FOR OFFICERS, MASTERS AND SHORE TEAMS
Faslane
Pilot
- Gareloch boarding — military vessels bound for Faslane Pilot boards55°58.3′N 004°50.0′W
Key data
updated Mar 2025Size limits
Max LOA 220m, beam 32.2m, draught 8.1m and 40,558DWT.
Load line zone
North Atlantic Winter Seasonal Zone II, Winter Nov 1 to Mar 31, Summer Apr 1 to Oct 31.
Max draft per terminal
| Terminal | Max draught | Max LOA | Berths |
|---|---|---|---|
| HM Naval Base Clyde | 8.10 m | 220 m | 25 |
Deepest first. The draught is the largest any of the terminal's berths states; a dash means the source gives none.
Inspections
Port State Control here: Paris MOU.
Running now: the Paris and Tokyo MOU concentrated inspection campaign on cargo securing, 1 September to 30 November 2026. Its questions are published: the questionnaire.
ISPS
ISPS Designated Authority: Transport and Security Directorate (TRANSEC) of the Department for Transport.
Position: Head of Maritime Security Operations.
Address: TRANSEC Department for Transport, 5th Floor, Southside, 105 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6DT, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 207 944 2844 (24 hrs)
Fax: +44 207 944 2175
Email: [email protected]
Recognised Security Organisations:
RSO - ISSC Issue: Transec for passenger vessels. MCA for other vessels
RSO - Security Consultant Services: Transec for passenger vessels. MCA for other vessels.
The UK Department for Transport (DfT) is proposing, in line with EU regulations associated with the ISPS Code, to extend maritime security requirements to ships operating in domestic service and to port facilities serving them. The requirements would be based on those applicable to sea going vessels and generally would apply to domestic ships operating in 'sea areas', and which carry over 12 passengers or are over 500GT. Sea going ships which are certified to carry more than 250 passengers and tankers, especially those carrying oil and gas products, are considered as having the potential to be a target for attack.
For further ISPS information see IMO website http://www.imo.org.
About Faslane
updated Mar 2025Where it is
Faslane Base, situated on the E side of the Gareloch, 1nm from its head, is a naval base in Scotland located within a protected area.
The port
Faslane, located on the west coast of Scotland, serves as a pivotal maritime hub, housing HM Naval Base Clyde, the Royal Navy's principal establishment in Scotland. This strategically significant port is not only a vital component of the UK's naval infrastructure but also a cornerstone of national defence.
At the heart of Faslane lies the core of the Submarine Service, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the United Kingdom's nuclear deterrent capabilities. The base is home to a fleet of advanced submarines, including the latest generation of hunter-killer submarines, designed to operate in diverse maritime environments and ensure the security of the nation’s interests.
Faslane's facilities are equipped to support a wide range of naval operations, from routine maintenance and training exercises to the deployment of submarines on critical missions. The port's deep-water capabilities allow for the safe docking and servicing of submarines, while its strategic location provides easy access to the North Atlantic and beyond. Berths at the N end are protected by a floating barrier which encloses the NE corner of Faslane Bay.
An overhead power cable is suspended between dolphins, close W of Carnban Pt (56°04.2'N., 004°49.1'W). Passage between the dolphins is prohibited.
Questions about Faslane
Where does the pilot board at Faslane?
The pilot boards at Gareloch boarding — military vessels bound for Faslane, 55°58.3′N 004°50.0′W.
What time zone is Faslane in?
Local time at Faslane is UTC+0. Clocks go to UTC+1 on 28 Mar 2027. Back to UTC+0 on 31 Oct 2027.
What is the maximum draft at Faslane?
The deepest berth listed is at HM Naval Base Clyde: 8.10 m maximum draught. The "Max draft per terminal" table gives each terminal's figure.
Which load line zone is Faslane in?
North Atlantic Winter Seasonal Zone II, Winter Nov 1 to Mar 31, Summer Apr 1 to Oct 31.
Who carries out Port State Control at Faslane?
Port State Control at Faslane: Paris MOU.
What is the UN/LOCODE of Faslane?
The UN/LOCODE of Faslane is GBFAS.
Tips from seafarers
What crews who called at Faslane say: pilot boarding, the agent's papers, inspections, shore leave. Each tip is shown with the writer's rank and ship type, and an AI summary sits on top once there are three or more.
A planning aid, not for navigation. These facts come from public sources and each section shows how old it is. Check with the port, your agent, your ENCs and official publications. Spotted something wrong? Tell us on the feedback board.