The River Ore

Local News:

Recent storms and high tides have drastically altered the shingle banks at the mouth of the River Ore and Alde. Viewed from the shore at low water there is no obvious channel to be seen, a shingle reef having formed which largely dries in an arc about half a mile out to sea across the whole entrance.

It is not advisable to enter the river without recent local knowledge.

General Information:

 

The actual entrance to the River Ore is not very easy to locate.  The best approach is from the Orford Haven buoy which is situated approximately half a mile East of the cottages at Shingle Street.  The buoy is maintained by Trinity House and is spherical with red and white vertical stripes.  The buoy is unlit and hence entrance at night or in poor visibility is not recommended.

 

Entry over the Bar can be undertaken from HW -4hrs up to HW, depending on draught.  HW Orford Bar is 24 minutes before HW Harwich.

 

For up to date information and location of entrance bouys visit eastcoastrivers.com

 

On passing Weir, the approach to be taken up river depends on the state of the shoal bank within the entrance.  The depths in the entrance and the shapes of the shingle islet and drying banks are liable to change, especially after strong winds.

 

Unlike the Deben, there is no pilot available to offer help in entering the river.  As well as the local sketch maps produced by Small Craft Deliveries, the 'Alde & Ore Association' produce a very useful Information Guide that will prove invaluable to the first time visitor.  Copies can be obtained by contacting the 'Alde & Ore Association' on 01728 688404.