View source for Firth of Clyde

{{Short description|Inlet on the west coast of Scotland}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2022}}

{{Infobox body of water
| name               = Firth of Clyde
| native_name        = 
| native_name_lang   = 
| other_name         = Clyde Waters, Clyde Sea
| image              = Firthofclydemap.png
| alt                = A map showing the west coast of Scotland around the Firth of Clyde
| caption            = Map of the Firth of Clyde.
| pushpin_map        = Scotland Argyll and Bute#Scotland
| pushpin_map_alt    = 
| pushpin_label_position = <!-- left, right, top or bottom -->
| pushpin_map_caption = 
| image_bathymetry   = 
| alt_bathymetry     = 
| caption_bathymetry = 
| location           = [[Scotland]], [[United Kingdom]]
| coordinates        = {{coord|55|40|N|5|00|W|region:GB_type:waterbody_scale:1000000_source:GNS-enwiki|display=title}}{{gbmapping|NS153652}}
| type               = Firth
| etymology          = Scottish
| part_of            = Irish Sea
| inflow             = 
| rivers             = River Clyde
| outflow            = 
| oceans             = 
| catchment          = 
| basin_countries    = [[Scotland]]
| agency             = 
| designation        = 
| date-flooded       = <!-- {{Start date|YYYY|MM|DD}} For man-made and other recent bodies of water -->
| length             = 
| width              = 
| area               = {{cvt|4279|km3}}
| depth              = {{cvt|58|m}}
| max-depth          = {{cvt|198|m}}
| volume             =
| salinity           = 
| shore              = {{cvt|1256|km}}
| elevation          = {{cvt|0|m}}
| temperature_high   = 
| temperature_low    = 
| frozen             = No
| islands_category   = 
| islands            = [[Isle of Arran]], [[Isle of Bute]], [[Great Cumbrae|Isle of Cumbrae]]
| sections           = 
| cities             = 
| trenches           = 
| benches            = 
| website            = 
| reference          = <ref>"multiple"</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://marine.gov.scot/data/facts-and-figures-about-scotlands-sea-area-coastline-length-sea-area-sq-kms|title=Facts and figures about Scotland's sea area (coastline length, sea area in sq kms)|website=marine.gov.scot|access-date=12 June 2024|archive-date=1 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170401071159/http://marine.gov.scot/data/facts-and-figures-about-scotlands-sea-area-coastline-length-sea-area-sq-kms|url-status=live}}</ref>
| embedded           = {{Designation list
| embed = yes
| designation1 = Ramsar
| designation1_date = 5 September 2000
| designation1_number = 1036<ref name="auto2">{{Cite web|url=https://rsis.ramsar.org/ris/1036|title=Inner Clyde Estuary &#124; Ramsar Sites Information Service|website=rsis.ramsar.org}}</ref>
| designation2 = [[No Take Zone]] (NTZ)<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.arrancoast.com/no-take-zone/ | title=No Take Zone | date=22 June 2018 | access-date=13 June 2024 | archive-date=13 June 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240613074822/https://www.arrancoast.com/no-take-zone/ | url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="europarc.org">{{cite web | url=https://www.europarc.org/case-studies/the-establishment-of-the-1st-community-managed-marine-protected-area-in-the-isle-of-arran-scotland/ | title=The establishment of the 1st Community Managed Marine Protected Area in the Isle of Arran, Scotland | access-date=13 June 2024 | archive-date=13 June 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240613074820/https://www.europarc.org/case-studies/the-establishment-of-the-1st-community-managed-marine-protected-area-in-the-isle-of-arran-scotland/ | url-status=live }}</ref>
| designation2_date = 2008
| designation2_number = 
| designation3 = [[Marine Protected Area]] (MPA) (Wikipedia not accepting designation, Wikipedia needs updating) (SEE TALK)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://sitelink.nature.scot/site/10414|title=SiteLink|website=sitelink.nature.scot|access-date=30 August 2019|archive-date=16 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190816095232/https://sitelink.nature.scot/site/10414|url-status=live}}</ref>
| designation3_date = 7 August 2014
| designation3_number = 10414<ref>{{cite web | url=https://sitelink.nature.scot/site/10414 | title=SiteLink | access-date=30 August 2019 | archive-date=16 August 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190816095232/https://sitelink.nature.scot/site/10414 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://webarchive.nrscotland.gov.uk/3000/https://www.gov.scot/Resource/0045/00456826.pdf | title=NRS Web Continuity Service | access-date=13 June 2024 | archive-date=13 June 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240613064128/https://webarchive.nrscotland.gov.uk/3000/https://www.gov.scot/Resource/0045/00456826.pdf | url-status=live }}</ref>
}}
}}

The '''Firth of Clyde''' is the estuary of the [[River Clyde]], on the west coast of Scotland. The [[Firth]] has some of the deepest coastal waters of the [[British Isles]] and is sheltered from the Atlantic Ocean by the [[Kintyre|Kintyre Peninsula]].  The Firth lies between [[West Dunbartonshire]] in the north, [[Argyll and Bute]] in the west, and [[Inverclyde]], [[North Ayrshire]] and [[South Ayrshire]] in the east. [[Kilbrannan Sound]] is a large arm of the Firth, separating the Kintyre Peninsula from the [[Isle of Arran]]. The [[Kyles of Bute]] separates the [[Isle of Bute]] from the [[Cowal|Cowal Peninsula]]. The [[Sound of Bute]] separates the islands of Bute and Arran.

The [[Highland Boundary Fault]] crosses the Firth.  The Firth also played a vital military role during [[World War II]].

The Firth is sometimes called the '''Clyde Waters''' or '''Clyde Sea'''. It is customarily considered to be part of the [[Irish Sea]].<ref name="auto1">{{Cite web|url=http://www.gov.scot/publications/scottish-marine-freshwater-science-volume-3-number-3-clyde-ecosystem/pages/3/|title=3. THE ENVIRONMENT OF THE CLYDE SEA|date=7 May 2021|website=www.gov.scot}}</ref><ref>C.Michael Hogan. 2011. [http://www.eoearth.org/article/Irish_Sea?topic=49523 ''Irish Sea''. eds. P.Saundry & C.Cleveland. Encyclopedia of Earth. National Council for Science and the Environment. Washington DC] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130602131956/http://www.eoearth.org/article/Irish_Sea?topic=49523 |date=2 June 2013 }}</ref>

==Geography==

[[File:Seamill, Firth of Clyde.jpg|thumb|The [[West Kilbride|Seamill]] beach looks south down the outer firth towards southern [[Isle of Arran|Arran]] and [[Ailsa Craig]]]]
[[File:Firth of Clyde View - geograph.org.uk - 5176802.jpg|thumb|Firth of Clyde View]]
[[File:Gourock and the Firth of Clyde - geograph.org.uk - 3095647.jpg|thumb|Gourock and the Firth of Clyde]]

At the north of the Firth, [[Loch Long]] and the [[Gare Loch]] join the Firth; these lochs are separated by the [[Rosneath Peninsula]]. Off [[Greenock]], an anchorage known as the [[Tail of the Bank]] narrows the estuary of the River Clyde to {{convert|2|mi|km|0|spell=on|abbr=off}} wide. (''The "Bank" is a reference to a [[shoal|sandbank and shoal]]'') The River Clyde estuary has an upper [[tidal limit]] located at the tidal weir next to [[Glasgow Green#Tidal Weir|Glasgow Green]].<ref>{{Historic Environment Scotland|cat=PLA|num=103494|desc=Glasgow, Glasgow Green, Tidal Weir}}</ref>

The geographical (and popular) distinction between the Firth and the River Clyde is vague. Some refer to [[Dumbarton]] as being "on the ''Firth of Clyde''"; while at the same time, the residents of [[Port Glasgow]] and [[Greenock]] often refer to the part of the Firth that lies to the north of those areas as "the river".

The Firth encompasses many [[Islands of the Clyde|islands]] and peninsulas. Twelve ferry routes connect them to each other and the mainland. The majority of the ferry services are run by [[Caledonian MacBrayne]] and one by [[Western Ferries]], and many of the routes are lifeline services for communities living in remote areas.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.calmac.co.uk/|title=CalMac Home Page|website=CalMac Ferries|access-date=7 June 2024|archive-date=3 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240603204707/https://www.calmac.co.uk/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.western-ferries.co.uk/|title=Western Ferries (Clyde) Ltd|website=Western Ferries|access-date=7 June 2024|archive-date=14 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614221203/https://www.western-ferries.co.uk/|url-status=live}}</ref>  The Firth has no fixed link transport infrastructure connections (bridge or tunnel), linking the shores or islands.  The lowest fixed crossing over the Clyde is the [[Erskine Bridge]], opened on 2 July 1971.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/history/guide-16-incredible-bridges-span-25123578|title=A guide to the 16 incredible bridges that span the Clyde through Glasgow - Glasgow Live|website=www.glasgowlive.co.uk|date=28 September 2022|access-date=21 June 2024|archive-date=21 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621142751/https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/history/guide-16-incredible-bridges-span-25123578|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishroadsarchive.org/erskine-bridge|title=Erskine Bridge &#124; Scottish Roads Archive|website=Scots Roads Archive}}</ref>

The [[Irish Sea]] and the Firth of Clyde's southerly boundary, as defined by the Scottish Government, is between the southern tip of the [[Kintyre|Kintyre Peninsula]] and [[Corsewall Point]] on the [[Rhins of Galloway]].<ref name="auto1"/>

The Firth joins the strait between Scotland and Northern Ireland, called the [[North Channel (Great Britain and Ireland)|North Channel]], at the north of the Irish Sea. The deepest part of the channel is the [[Beaufort's Dyke]], at {{convert|312|m|}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.earth.com/image/the-north-channel-between-ireland-and-scotland/|title=The North Channel between Ireland and Scotland - Earth.com|website=www.earth.com|access-date=18 June 2024|archive-date=18 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240618090158/https://www.earth.com/image/the-north-channel-between-ireland-and-scotland/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |url=https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/15229/ |title=The formation and evolution of an isolated submarine valley in the North Channel, Irish sea: an investigation of Beaufort's Dyke - NERC Open Research Archive |journal=Journal of Quaternary Science |date=2011 |volume=26 |issue=4 |pages=362–373 |doi=10.1002/jqs.1460 |last1=Callaway |first1=Alexander |last2=Quinn |first2=Rory |last3=Brown |first3=Craig J. |last4=Service |first4=Matthew |last5=Long |first5=David |last6=Benetti |first6=Sara |archive-date=18 June 2024 |access-date=18 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240618084656/https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/15229/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Highland Boundary Fault ===
{{See also|Highland Boundary Fault}}

The Highland Boundary Fault enters the Firth off the east coast of [[Kintyre|Kintyre Peninsula]] in the south.  The fault crosses the south eastern tip of the [[Cowal|Cowal Peninsula]] at [[Toward Point Lighthouse|Toward Point]], where it can be seen on the surface by the presence of [[Old Red Sandstone]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Excursion 16 Upper Old Red Sandstone of the Firth of Clyde |url=https://gcrseries.scottishgeologytrust.org/p/gsg/gsg_glasgow_girvan/egs_gla_exc16upperorsclyde |website=gcrseries.scottishgeologytrust.org |access-date=24 August 2024 |archive-date=24 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240824090732/https://gcrseries.scottishgeologytrust.org/p/gsg/gsg_glasgow_girvan/egs_gla_exc16upperorsclyde |url-status=live }}</ref> The fault continues to [[Helensburgh]] in the north, then continues past the east coast of Scotland. The fault can be followed across Scotland for at least {{convert|240|km|mi|sigfig=2|abbr=on}}.  The fault is of great age and its remains are broken by more recent geological movement of the earth's crust.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Sketch-map-of-part-of-the-Firth-of-Clyde-to-show-the-distribution-of-Dalradian-and_fig1_259423189|title=Sketch map of part of the Firth of Clyde to show the distribution of... &#124; Download Scientific Diagram}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|url=https://www.lyellcollection.org/doi/10.1144/0016-76492008-012|title=Tectonic significance of the Highland Boundary Fault, Scotland|first=Geoff|last=Tanner|date=9 September 2008|journal=Journal of the Geological Society|volume=165|issue=5|pages=915–921|via=Semantic Scholar|doi=10.1144/0016-76492008-012|bibcode=2008JGSoc.165..915T |url-access=subscription}}</ref>

===Sea Lochs===

Fourteen [[loch|sea lochs]] join the Firth, the largest being Loch Fyne.

{{columns-list|colwidth=30em|
*[[Campbeltown Loch]]
*[[Loch Fyne]] - [[East Loch Tarbert, Argyll|East Loch Tarbert]]; [[Loch Gilp]]; [[Lochgair|Loch Gair]] and [[River Shira|Loch Shira]]
*[[Gare Loch]]
*[[Holy Loch]]
*[[Loch Long]] - [[Loch Goil]]
*[[Lochranza|Loch Ranza]]
*[[Loch Riddon]] off the [[Kyles of Bute]]
*[[Loch Ryan]]
*[[Loch Striven]]
}}

===Peninsulas===

* [[Cowal|Cowal Peninsula]]

The Cowal Peninsula extends into the Firth of Clyde and forms the main western shoreline of the upper Firth.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://visitcowal.co.uk/ |title=Home |publisher=visitcowal |date=20 June 2014 |access-date=7 February 2017 |archive-date=6 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191106082649/http://visitcowal.co.uk/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The main town on the Cowal Peninsula is [[Dunoon]]. [[Ardlamont Point]] on the [[Ardlamont Peninsula]], which extends off  the Cowal Peninsula, is the southern tip of the Ardlamont and Cowal Peninsulas.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.carryfarm.co.uk/location|title=location|website=Carry Farm}}</ref>

The ferries across the Firth save time compared to traveling "round by road", via [[Loch Eck]] side ([[A815 road]]), the Rest and Be Thankful ([[A83 road]]) and [[Loch Lomond]] side ([[A82 road]]).The service between [[Dunoon]] and [[Gourock]] in [[Inverclyde]] is operated by [[Caledonian MacBrayne]], the [[Public Service]] provider.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.calmac.co.uk/destinations/cowal-dunoon|title=Cowal & Dunoon|website=CalMac Ferries}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/SC001854/persons-with-significant-control|title=CALEDONIAN MARITIME ASSETS LIMITED persons with significant control - Find and update company information - GOV.UK|website=find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk}}</ref> This service carries only foot passengers and connects directly with the [[ScotRail]] service to [[Glasgow]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotrail.co.uk/plan-your-journey/stations-and-facilities/grk|title=Train to and from Gourock|website=www.scotrail.co.uk|access-date=1 April 2018|archive-date=22 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220222194524/https://www.scotrail.co.uk/plan-your-journey/stations-and-facilities/grk|url-status=live}}</ref>[[Western Ferries]] is a [[Private Limited Company]];<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/SC091850|title=WESTERN FERRIES (CLYDE) LIMITED overview - Find and update company information - GOV.UK|website=find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk|access-date=4 February 2024|archive-date=4 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240204195926/https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/SC091850|url-status=live}}</ref> it operates the service between [[Hunters Quay]] and [[McInroy's Point]] near to Gourock.  This service carries all types of vehicular transport, as well as foot passengers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.western-ferries.co.uk/|title=Western Ferries (Clyde) Ltd|website=www.western-ferries.co.uk|access-date=1 April 2018|archive-date=17 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180317194643/http://www.western-ferries.co.uk/|url-status=live}}</ref>

* [[Kintyre Peninsula]]

The Kintyre peninsula forms the main west coastline of the lower Firth.

* [[Rosneath Peninsula]]

The Rosneath peninsula is formed by the Gare Loch in the east, and Loch Long in the west; both merge with the upper Firth of Clyde. There is a Caledonian MacBrayne passenger-only service across the Firth to [[Gourock]] from [[Kilcreggan]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.calmac.co.uk/destinations/kilcreggan-rosneath|title=Kilcreggan & Rosneath|website=CalMac Ferries|access-date=23 June 2024|archive-date=5 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240605120524/https://www.calmac.co.uk/destinations/kilcreggan-rosneath|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Firth Islands===

[[File:Arran sunset.jpg|thumb|Arran sunset]]
{{See also|Islands of the Clyde}}

{{incomplete list|date=January 2025}}

There are many islands in the Firth. The largest three all have thriving communities and regular ferry services connecting them to the mainland. They are:

*[[Isle of Arran|Arran]]
*[[Isle of Bute|Bute]]
*[[Great Cumbrae]]

[[Ailsa Craig]] is a small island, formed by the remains of a [[volcanic plug]] in the Firth.  Ailsa Craig Common Green [[Granite]] and Ailsa Craig Blue Hone Granite are quarried there for the production of [[Curling]] Stones, manufactured by [[Kays of Scotland]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Ailsa-Craig-island-Scotland | title=Ailsa Craig &#124; Scotland, Map, & Facts &#124; Britannica | access-date=31 January 2025 | archive-date=26 January 2025 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250126182445/https://www.britannica.com/place/Ailsa-Craig-island-Scotland | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.kaysscotland.com/|title=Kays Scotland &#124; Curling stones hand-crafted to Olympic Standard|website=www.kaysscotland.com|access-date=31 January 2025|archive-date=24 February 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250224074916/https://www.kaysscotland.com/|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Holy Island, Firth of Clyde|Holy Isle]], a small island lying in [[Lamlash|Lamlash Bay]], [[Isle of Arran]].  At the north of the Holy Isle, there is a religious resort.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.holyisle.org/|title=Welcome to Holy Isle &#124; HolyIsle.org|website=www.holyisle.org|access-date=31 January 2025|archive-date=4 February 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250204125946/https://www.holyisle.org/|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Firth Lighthouses===

The [[Northern Lighthouse Board]] is responsible for some of the navigation aids around Scotland's coast.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nlb.org.uk/|title=Northern Lighthouse Board - Home|website=Northern Lighthouse Board}}</ref>  Others are the responsibility of the local [[Competent harbour authority|Competent Harbour Authority]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://marine.gov.scot/information/maritime-transport-ports-and-harbours-statutory-harbour-limits|title=Maritime Transport - Ports and Harbours – Statutory harbour limits &#124; marine.gov.scot|website=marine.gov.scot|access-date=19 June 2024|archive-date=26 May 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240526212626/https://marine.gov.scot/information/maritime-transport-ports-and-harbours-statutory-harbour-limits|url-status=live}}</ref>

{{incomplete list|date=June 2024}}
[[File:The Gantocks - geograph.org.uk - 839222.jpg|thumb|The Gantocks with Cloch Lighthouse behind]]

There are lighthouses at:

{{columns-list|colwidth=30em|
* [[Cloch|Cloch Point]] on the [[Inverclyde]] coast.<ref>{{Historic Environment Scotland|cat=PLA|num=123013|desc=Inverkip, The Cloch Lighthouse|access-date=18 June 2025|fewer-links=yes}}</ref>
* [[Toward Point Lighthouse]] on the [[Cowal]] Peninsula.<ref>{{Historic Environment Scotland|cat=PLA|num=68122|desc=Toward Point, Toward Point Lighthouse|access-date=18 June 2025|fewer-links=yes}}</ref>
* [[Little Cumbrae Lighthouse]]<ref>{{Historic Environment Scotland|cat=PLA|num=40680|desc=Little Cumbrae Island, New Lighthouse|date=23 August 1951|access-date=18 June 2025|fewer-links=yes}}</ref>
* [[Pladda]], South of [[Isle of Arran|Arran]]<ref>{{Historic Environment Scotland|cat=PLA|num=40074|desc=Pladda, Lighthouse|date=12 July 2010|access-date=18 June 2025|fewer-links=yes}}</ref>
* [[Ailsa Craig Lighthouse]], [[Ailsa Craig]]<ref>{{Historic Environment Scotland|cat=PLA|num=157548|desc=Ailsa Craig, Foreland Point, Lighthouse, Keepers' Cottages And Foghorn|fewer-links=yes}}</ref>
* [[Lighthouses on the Isle of Arran|Pillar Rock Point lighthouse]], also known as [[Holy Isle, Firth of Clyde|Holy Isle]] Outer Lighthouse, [[Isle of Arran|Arran]]<ref>{{Historic Environment Scotland|cat=PLA|num=40076|desc=Holy Island, Outer Lighthouse|fewer-links=yes}}</ref>
* [[Lighthouses on the Isle of Arran|Holy Isle, Inner lighthouse]], also known as [[Holy Isle, Firth of Clyde|Holy Isle]], [[Isle of Arran|Arran]]<ref>{{Historic Environment Scotland|cat=PLA|num=40084|desc=Holy Island, Inner Lighthouse|fewer-links=yes}}</ref>
* [[Corsewall Lighthouse]], [[Corsewall Point]], [[Kirkcolm]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/corsewall/|title=Corsewall|website=Northern Lighthouse Board|access-date=18 June 2024|archive-date=24 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240424132751/https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/corsewall/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[Davaar Lighthouse]], [[Davaar Island]], [[Campbeltown Loch]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/davaar/|title=Davaar|website=Northern Lighthouse Board|access-date=19 June 2024|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619193745/https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/davaar/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[Sanda Island|Sanda Lighthouse]], Sanda Island, off the south of [[Kintyre]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/sanda/|title=Sanda|website=Northern Lighthouse Board|access-date=19 June 2024|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619194136/https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/sanda/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[Turnberry Lighthouse]], [[Turnberry, South Ayrshire|Turnberry]], [[South Ayrshire]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/turnberry/|title=Turnberry|website=Northern Lighthouse Board|access-date=19 June 2024|archive-date=28 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210128141713/https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/turnberry/|url-status=live}}</ref>
}}

There are navigation beacons at:

*[[The Gantocks|The Gantocks Rocks and Navigation Beacon]], off the coast at [[Dunoon]], [[Cowal|Cowal Peninsula]].<ref>{{Historic Environment Scotland|cat=PLA|num=287955|desc=The Gantocks, Navigation Beacon|access-date=18 June 2025|fewer-links=yes}}</ref>
*[[Horse Isle|Horse Isle Beacon]], Horse Isle, [[Ardrossan]] Built 1811.<ref>{{Historic Environment Scotland|cat=PLA|num=277905|desc=Firth Of Clyde, Horse Island, 'landmark'|fewer-links=yes}}</ref>

===Firth shoreline settlements===
{{incomplete list|date=June 2024}}

{{columns-list|colwidth=30em|
*[[Ardbeg, Bute|Ardbeg]], [[Ardrossan]], [[Ascog]], [[Ayr]]
*[[Barassie, South Ayrshire|Barassie]], [[Blackwaterfoot]], [[Brodick]]
*[[Campbeltown]], [[Cardross, Argyll and Bute|Cardross]], [[Carradale]], [[Corrie, Arran|Corrie]], [[Catacol]]
*[[Dumbarton]], [[Dunoon]], [[Dunure]]
*[[Fairlie, North Ayrshire|Fairlie]]
*[[Gourock]], [[Greenock]], [[Girvan]], [[Grogport]]
*[[Helensburgh]], [[Hunters Quay]]
*[[Innellan]], [[Inverkip]], [[Irvine, North Ayrshire|Irvine]]
*[[Kilcreggan]], [[Kilchattan Bay]], [[Kildonan, Arran|Kildonan]], [[Kilmory, Arran|Kilmory]], [[Kilmun]], [[Kingarth]], [[Kirn, Argyll|Kirn]]
*[[Lagg, Arran|Lagg]], [[Lamlash]], [[Largs]], [[Lochranza]]
*[[Machrie]], [[Maidens, South Ayrshire|Maidens]], [[Millport, Isle of Cumbrae|Millport]]
*[[Peninver]], [[Pirnmill]], [[Port Bannatyne]], [[Portencross]], [[Port Glasgow]], [[Portkil]], [[Prestwick]]
*[[Rothesay, Argyll and Bute|Rothesay]]
*[[Saddell]], [[Sannox]], [[Saltcoats]], [[Seamill]], [[Skipness]], [[Skelmorlie]], [[Sliddery]], [[Southend, Argyll|Southend]], [[Stevenston]], [[Strone]]
*[[Tarbert, Kintyre|Tarbert]], [[Toward]], [[Troon]], [[Turnberry, South Ayrshire|Turnberry]]
*[[Wemyss Bay]], [[West Kilbride]], [[Whiting Bay]]
}}

{{clear}}

==Nature and conservation==
{{Infobox protected area
| name = Clyde Sill MPA(NC)
| photo = 
| photo_caption = 
| location = Firth of Clyde, Scotland
| nearest_city = 
| map_image = Clyde Sill MPA.png
| map_caption = Location and extent of the Clyde Sill MPA in the Firth of Clyde
| coordinates = 
| area_km2 = 712
| area_ref = <ref name=snh/>
| established = 2014
| visitation_num = 
| visitation_year = 
| designation = [[Scottish Government]]
| operator = [[Marine Scotland]]
}}

The [[FSC Millport|Field Studies Council]] has a marine research station, based in [[Millport, Cumbrae|Millport]], on the island of [[Great Cumbrae]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.field-studies-council.org/locations/millport/|title=Millport|website=Field Studies Council|access-date=7 June 2024|archive-date=7 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240607202802/https://www.field-studies-council.org/locations/millport/|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Common seal]]s and [[grey seal]]s abound in the Firth. [[Harbour porpoise]]s are also common. While [[dolphin]]s are much less common, some were spotted in the upper reaches of the Firth in the summer of 2005.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/16604199.firth-clyde-dolphin-found-communicate-porpoises/|title=Firth of Clyde dolphin found to communicate with porpoises|date=29 August 2018|website=The Herald|access-date=7 June 2024|archive-date=7 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240607201628/https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/16604199.firth-clyde-dolphin-found-communicate-porpoises/|url-status=live}}</ref> Very uncommon are [[humpback whale]]s, as are the [[minke whale]]s.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Moment humpback whale leaps out of water in Clyde leaving onlookers stunned |url=https://www.msn.com/en-gb/travel/other/moment-humpback-whale-leaps-out-of-water-in-clyde-leaving-onlookers-stunned/ar-BB1nKpTX |access-date=2024-09-02 |website=www.msn.com |archive-date=11 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241211064435/https://www.msn.com/en-gb/travel/other/moment-humpback-whale-leaps-out-of-water-in-clyde-leaving-onlookers-stunned/ar-BB1nKpTX |url-status=live }}</ref> Even rarer are [[orca]]s.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-scotland-43850827|title=Orca pod spotted in River Clyde|work=BBC News|archive-date=12 June 2024|access-date=12 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240612172953/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-scotland-43850827|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12275073.surprise-visit-to-clyde/|title=Surprise visit to Clyde|date=11 August 1999|website=The Herald|access-date=12 June 2024|archive-date=12 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240612173521/https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12275073.surprise-visit-to-clyde/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Also, in 2005, the Firth had the second-highest number of [[basking shark]] sightings in Scotland (after [[the Minch]]).  These huge sharks seem to particularly favour the warm, shallow waters surrounding [[Pladda]], south of [[Isle of Arran|Arran]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-41333331|title=Survey to catalogue basking sharks in the Clyde|date=20 September 2017|via=www.bbc.co.uk|archive-date=7 June 2024|access-date=7 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240607201744/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-41333331|url-status=live}}</ref>

However, although commercial fishing was at one time intensive in the Firth's many fishing towns, today the only catches of commercial interest remaining in the Clyde waters are [[prawn]]s, [[Homarus gammarus|lobsters]], [[herring]], mussels, and crayfish.

===Conservation===
[[File:Cetorhinus maximus atlantic.jpg|thumb|[[Basking shark]] (''Cetorhinus maximus'']]

{{See also|Marine Protected Areas in Scotland}}

On 5 September 2000, the [[Inner Clyde Estuary]] received a [[RAMSAR]] designation with ite number 1036; the area covered is {{convert|1825|ha|}}. (Coordinates: 55°56'32"N 04°36'32"W)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Information Sheet on Ramsar Wetlands (RIS) |url=https://jncc.gov.uk/jncc-assets/RIS/UK13024.pdf |website=jncc.gov.uk |access-date=21 June 2024 |archive-date=21 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240421192348/https://jncc.gov.uk/jncc-assets/RIS/UK13024.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="auto2"/><ref>{{Cite web |title=Annotated List of Wetlands of International Importance - United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland |url=https://rsis.ramsar.org/sites/default/files/rsiswp_search/exports/Ramsar-Sites-annotated-summary-United-Kingdom-of-Great-Britain-and-Northern-Ireland.pdf |website=rsis.ramsar.org |access-date=21 June 2024 |archive-date=21 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621204815/https://rsis.ramsar.org/sites/default/files/rsiswp_search/exports/Ramsar-Sites-annotated-summary-United-Kingdom-of-Great-Britain-and-Northern-Ireland.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>

In September 2008, Scotland's first No Take Zone (NTZ) was introduced in [[Lamlash|Lamlash Bay]], on the [[Isle of Arran]]. The result of a community effort, led by the [[Community of Arran Seabed Trust|Community of Arran Seabed Trust (C.O.A.S.T)]].  The NTZ was introduced to protect delicate marine communities, such as [[Maerl]]. Maerl is a slow-growing coral-like calcareous red algae (it grows only 1&nbsp;mm per year) and is an important Scottish species. Maerl beds are locations of high biodiversity and are crucial nursery grounds for both young scallops and young fish. Studies show that both scallop dredging and organic waste from fish farms, significantly impact Maerl. Scallop dredging on a Maerl bed has been found to kill over 70% of the Maerl. Monitoring the dredged bed over the next four years found no discernible recovery, suggesting that Maerl beds would require many years free of disturbance in order to recover.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.arrancoast.com/|title=Home|website=COAST|access-date=7 June 2024|archive-date=4 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240604135412/https://www.arrancoast.com/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="europarc.org"/>

In 2014, {{convert|71200|ha|km2}} at the south of the Firth between [[Kintyre|Kintyre Peninsula]] and the [[Rhins of Galloway]], on the [[North Channel (Great Britain and Ireland)|North Channel]] boundary.  Designated a Marine Protected Area, the '''(Clyde Sill MPA)''', the [[NatureScot]] Site Code is 10414, the [[EU]] Site Code is 555560461.<ref name=snh>{{cite web|url=https://sitelink.nature.scot/site/10414|title=Clyde Sill MPA(NC)|access-date=7 October 2020|publisher=NatureScot|archive-date=16 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190816095232/https://sitelink.nature.scot/site/10414|url-status=live}}</ref> The MPA covers a distinctive sill where fresher water of the Firth mixes with the cooler, more saline water of the North Channel. This is a rich environment for plankton, which provide food for fish, that are in turn eaten by higher marine predators and seabirds.<ref name=leaflet>{{cite web|url=https://www.nature.scot/sites/default/files/2017-11/Marine%20Protected%20Area%20-%20Site%20Summary%20-%20Clyde%20Sea%20Sill.pdf|title=Clyde Sea Sill Marine Protected Area|access-date=7 October 2020|publisher=NatureScot|archive-date=10 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201010050942/https://www.nature.scot/sites/default/files/2017-11/Marine%20Protected%20Area%20-%20Site%20Summary%20-%20Clyde%20Sea%20Sill.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref>

On 16 December 2015, an area to the south of [[Isle of Arran|Arran]] received a Marine Protected Area designation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ssi/2015/437/made|title=The South Arran Marine Conservation Order 2015|website=www.legislation.gov.uk|access-date=21 June 2024|archive-date=21 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621200242/https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ssi/2015/437/made|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Protected Areas in the Clyde Marine Region |url=https://www.clydemarineplan.scot/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Protected-areas-in-the-Clyde-Marine-Region.pdf |website=www.clydemarineplan.scot |access-date=21 June 2024 |archive-date=11 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241211061216/https://www.clydemarineplan.scot/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Protected-areas-in-the-Clyde-Marine-Region.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Water quality===

The water quality of the Firth is monitored by the [[Scottish Environment Protection Agency]] (SEPA).  SEPA have had a monitoring buoy located off the coast of [[Dunoon]] since 2009, with data collected every 15 minutes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sepa.org.uk/environment/environmental-data/monitoring-buoys-network/dunoon/|title=Dunoon &#124; Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA)|website=www.sepa.org.uk|access-date=2 September 2024|archive-date=2 September 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240902081358/https://www.sepa.org.uk/environment/environmental-data/monitoring-buoys-network/dunoon/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Firth of Clyde monitoring buoy, Dunoon |url=https://www.sepa.org.uk/media/162917/dunoon-monitoring-buoy-factsheet.pdf |website=www.sepa.org.uk |access-date=2 September 2024 |archive-date=2 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240902081359/https://www.sepa.org.uk/media/162917/dunoon-monitoring-buoy-factsheet.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Shipping==

The Firth of Clyde has some of the deepest sea channels in Northern Europe. It can accommodate the largest [[Capesize]] vessels afloat today. As a result, the Clyde has one of the UK's leading ports, at [[The Peel Group|Clydeport]], part of The Peel Group.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.peelports.com/port-locations/clydeport|title=Clydeport &#124; 5 Terminals &#124; Advanced Facilities &#124; Peel Ports|website=www.peelports.com|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=8 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240608081906/https://www.peelports.com/port-locations/clydeport|url-status=live}}</ref> The facility handles cargo from container ships at the [[Greenock Ocean Terminal]].

[[oil tanker|Supertankers]] visit the Firth to deliver crude oil to [[Finnart Oil Terminal]] in [[Loch Long]], which is connected by pipeline to the [[Grangemouth Refinery]] on the [[Firth of Forth]].  Both owned by [[Ineos|Petroineos]], a joint venture between Ineos and [[Petrochina]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.petroineos.com/|title=Petroineos &#124; Integrated Energy Trading and Refining Company|website=Petroineos|access-date=11 June 2024|archive-date=11 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240611092343/https://www.petroineos.com/|url-status=live}}</ref>  A second pipeline brings back refined oil products to the Finart Oil Terminal for export (in smaller oil tankers) mainly to [[Northern Ireland]].<ref name="www.helensburgh-heritage.co.uk">{{cite web | last = Fullarton | first = Donald | title = Americans built oil terminal | url = http://www.helensburgh-heritage.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=874:americans-built-oil-terminal&catid=83:business&Itemid=460 | publisher = Helensburgh Heritage | date = 29 July 2011 | access-date = 23 May 2013 | archive-date = 22 January 2013 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130122065020/http://www.helensburgh-heritage.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=874:americans-built-oil-terminal&catid=83:business&Itemid=460 | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-tayside-central-67497023|title=Grangemouth oil refinery could cease operations by 2025|date=22 November 2023|via=www.bbc.co.uk|archive-date=17 July 2024|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240717143058/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-tayside-central-67497023|url-status=live}}</ref> The Finnart Oil Terminal is due to cease operation by June 2025.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://thelochsidepress.com/2024/09/13/finnart-oil-terminal-closure-announced//|title=Finnart oil terminal closure announced - The Lochside Press|access-date=14 March 2025|archive-date=25 December 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241225002018/https://thelochsidepress.com/2024/09/13/finnart-oil-terminal-closure-announced//|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Shipyards===

{{See also|Upper Clyde Shipbuilders}}
[[File:BAE Govan Shipyard - geograph.org.uk - 2088722.jpg|thumb|BAE Govan Shipyard - geograph.org.uk - 2088722]]

On the upper Clyde, at [[Govan]] and [[Scotstoun]] both in [[Glasgow]], two major shipyards are still in operation. They are owned by [[BAE Systems]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Scotstoun |url=https://www.baesystems.com/en/heritage/scotstoun--clydebank- |access-date=2024-10-28 |website=www.baesystems.com |archive-date=8 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240608084648/https://www.baesystems.com/en/heritage/scotstoun--clydebank- |url-status=live }}</ref> whose major client is the [[Royal Navy]].

[[File:Ferguson Marine shipyard gate - geograph.org.uk - 6368530.jpg|thumb|right|Ferguson Marine shipyard gate - geograph.org.uk - 6368530]]

On the lower Clyde, only one shipyard still operates, [[Ferguson Marine]], which is located next to [[Newark Castle, Port Glasgow]]. The [[Scottish Government]] now own the yard.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fergusonmarine.com/|title=Home|website=Ferguson Marine|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=11 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240611223045/https://www.fergusonmarine.com/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="auto">{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-56943864|title=Ferguson shipyard made £100m loss after being nationalised|date=30 April 2021|via=www.bbc.co.uk|archive-date=8 June 2024|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240608124827/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-56943864|url-status=live}}</ref>

The [[Garvel Dry Dock]] in [[Greenock]] continues in operation for ship repair. The large [[Inchgreen Dry Dock]] in Greenock is in occasional use.

The remains of former sites of shipyards on the Clyde are being redeveloped into areas that contain residential housing, leisure facilities, and commercial buildings.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.clydewaterfront.com/|title=Clyde Waterfront regeneration: River Clyde urban renewal & development|first=Innovation|last=Digital|website=www.clydewaterfront.com|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=2 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202064220/http://www.clydewaterfront.com/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gov.scot/news/revitalising-the-river-clyde/|title=Revitalising the River Clyde|website=www.gov.scot|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=8 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240608124721/https://www.gov.scot/news/revitalising-the-river-clyde/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On the Firth itself, [[Ardmaleish Boatbuilding Co Ltd|Ardmaleish Boatbuilding]] are based at [[Ardmaleish]], near to [[Port Bannatyne]] on the [[Isle of Bute]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ardmaleishboatbuilding.co.uk/|title=Ardmaleish Boatbuilding Co Ltd — Boatbuilding, maintenance and storage on the Isle of Bute|website=www.ardmaleishboatbuilding.co.uk|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=8 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240608170530/https://www.ardmaleishboatbuilding.co.uk/|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Cruise terminal===

The [[Greenock Cruise Terminal]], operated by [[The Peel Group|Clydeport]] part of The Peel Group.  A new twin berth terminal was opened on 25 August 2023.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.peelports.com/news-articles/greenock-ocean-terminal-welcomes-one-of-the-world-s-largest-cruise-liners|title=Greenock Ocean Terminal welcomes one of the world's largest cruise liners|website=www.peelports.com|access-date=7 June 2024|archive-date=7 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240607125322/https://www.peelports.com/news-articles/greenock-ocean-terminal-welcomes-one-of-the-world-s-largest-cruise-liners|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.peelports.com/marine/our-ports/clydeport|title=Marine Information &#124; Clydeport &#124; Peel Ports|website=www.peelports.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/23747853.greenocks-20m-cruise-ship-terminal-officially-opens/|title=Greenock cruise ship terminal launches as officials hail £26m boost|date=25 August 2023|website=Greenock Telegraph|access-date=18 June 2024|archive-date=18 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240618204343/https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/23747853.greenocks-20m-cruise-ship-terminal-officially-opens/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In March 2025 the Greenock Cruise Terminal was leased to [[Global Ports Holding Ltd]] with a fifty year contract.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.inverclydenow.com/greenock-cruise-port-to-be-run-by-worlds-biggest-operator-in-50-year-deal/ | title=GREENOCK Cruise Port to be Run by World's Biggest Operator in 50-Year Deal | date=10 March 2025 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://news.stv.tv/west-central/worlds-largest-cruise-port-operator-signs-half-a-century-deal-at-greenock-ocean-terminal | title=World's largest cruise port operator signs 50-year deal at ocean terminal | date=11 March 2025 | access-date=14 March 2025 | archive-date=11 March 2025 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250311151957/https://news.stv.tv/west-central/worlds-largest-cruise-port-operator-signs-half-a-century-deal-at-greenock-ocean-terminal | url-status=live }}</ref>

====Visiting liners====

{{incomplete list|date=June 2024}}

{{columns-list|colwidth=30em|
* [[MS Queen Anne|''Queen Anne'']]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.inverclydenow.com/majestic-new-cunard-ship-on-her-way-to-greenock/|title=MAJESTIC New Cunard Ship On Her Way To Greenock|first=Jeremy|last=Admin|date=31 May 2024|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=8 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240608195710/https://www.inverclydenow.com/majestic-new-cunard-ship-on-her-way-to-greenock/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[Regal Princess (2013)|''Regal Princess'']]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/24337271.cruise-ship-regal-princess-makes-latest-visit-greenock/|title=Frequent Inverclyde visitor glides into Greenock Ocean Terminal|date=22 May 2024|website=Greenock Telegraph|access-date=7 June 2024|archive-date=7 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240607134341/https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/24337271.cruise-ship-regal-princess-makes-latest-visit-greenock/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Queen Mary 2]]''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.inverclydenow.com/greenock-to-welcome-massive-cunard-vessel-queen-mary-2/|title=GREENOCK To Welcome Massive Cunard Vessel Queen Mary 2|first=Jeremy|last=Admin|date=16 March 2024|access-date=7 June 2024|archive-date=7 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240607135053/https://www.inverclydenow.com/greenock-to-welcome-massive-cunard-vessel-queen-mary-2/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Mein Schiff 3]]''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/24300914.mein-schiff-3-berths-greenock-first-time-2024/|title=Giant cruise ship Mein Schiff 3 berths at Greenock for the first time this season|date=6 May 2024|website=Greenock Telegraph|access-date=7 June 2024|archive-date=7 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240607135449/https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/24300914.mein-schiff-3-berths-greenock-first-time-2024/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Celebrity Silhouette]]''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.inverclydenow.com/large-cruise-ship-heading-for-greenock/|title=LARGE Cruise Ship Heading For Greenock|first=Jeremy|last=Admin|date=15 May 2024|access-date=7 June 2024|archive-date=7 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240607192033/https://www.inverclydenow.com/large-cruise-ship-heading-for-greenock/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[MS Sirena|''Sirena'']]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/24285019.greenock-welcomes-luxurious-oceania-sirena-cruise-ship/|title=Greenock welcomes another luxurious cruise ship as season picks up pace|date=29 April 2024|website=Greenock Telegraph|access-date=7 June 2024|archive-date=7 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240607193118/https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/24285019.greenock-welcomes-luxurious-oceania-sirena-cruise-ship/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Jewel of the Seas]]''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/24391444.enormous-cruise-ship-makes-first-greenock-visit-2024-sailing-season/|title=Enormous cruise ship makes first Greenock visit of 2024 sailing season|date=17 June 2024|website=Greenock Telegraph|access-date=17 June 2024|archive-date=17 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240617145053/https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/24391444.enormous-cruise-ship-makes-first-greenock-visit-2024-sailing-season/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Carnival Legend]]''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.inverclydenow.com/greenock-2024-cruise-ship-list/|title=GREENOCK 2024 Cruise Ship List|first=Jeremy|last=Admin|date=27 May 2024|access-date=21 June 2024|archive-date=21 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621123946/https://www.inverclydenow.com/greenock-2024-cruise-ship-list/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Caribbean Princess]]''<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/24559332.caribbean-princess-arrives-greenock-ocean-terminal/|title=Luxurious cruise ship Caribbean Princess arrives at Greenock Ocean Terminal|newspaper=Greenock Telegraph |date=3 September 2024|via=www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk}}</ref>
* ''[[Celebrity Apex]]''<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/24571537.celebrity-apex-visits-greenock-ocean-terminal-uk-cruise/|title=Greenock gets 'celebrity' visitor as huge cruise ship arrives at Ocean Terminal|newspaper=Greenock Telegraph|date=9 September 2024|via=www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk|archive-date=9 September 2024|access-date=9 September 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240909131129/https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/24571537.celebrity-apex-visits-greenock-ocean-terminal-uk-cruise/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Disney Dream]]''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.inverclydenow.com/huge-disney-cruise-ship-coming-to-the-clyde/|title=HUGE Disney Cruise Ship Visiting The Clyde|first=Jeremy|last=Admin|date=9 September 2024|access-date=10 September 2024|archive-date=10 September 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240910084551/https://www.inverclydenow.com/huge-disney-cruise-ship-coming-to-the-clyde/|url-status=live}}</ref>
}}

====Historic liner visits====

* ''[[Queen Elizabeth 2]]''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/24001544.history-look-back-qe2s-river-clyde-return-visits/|title=Inverclyde history: Return of QE2 to River Clyde was always a special occasion|date=21 December 2023|website=Greenock Telegraph}}</ref>

{{clear}}

===Shipwrecks===

[[File:MV Captayannis-May2023-Hassan Ghani.jpg|thumb|MV ''Captayannis'']]

[[Wreck diving|Shipwreck diving]] is a popular activity on the Firth, with many wreck sites to explore.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wreckspeditions.com/scuba-diving|title=Scuba Diving &#124; Wreckspeditions &#124; Clyde &#124; Scotland|website=Wreckspeditions|access-date=21 June 2024|archive-date=21 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621103527/https://www.wreckspeditions.com/scuba-diving|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.freedom-diving.co.uk/firth-of-clyde|title=Dive Sites|website=Freedom Diving|access-date=21 June 2024|archive-date=21 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621103759/https://www.freedom-diving.co.uk/firth-of-clyde|url-status=live}}</ref>  Military wrecks have protection under the [[Protection of Military Remains Act 1986]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://marine.gov.scot/information/protected-places-and-controlled-sites-war-graves-designated-under-protection-military|title=Protected places and Controlled sites ("war graves") designated under The Protection of Military Remains Act 1986 &#124; marine.gov.scot|website=marine.gov.scot|access-date=21 June 2024|archive-date=21 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621104617/https://marine.gov.scot/information/protected-places-and-controlled-sites-war-graves-designated-under-protection-military|url-status=live}}</ref>

{{incomplete list|date=June 2024}}

{{columns-list|colwidth=30em|
* ''[[Enterprise, Steamlighter 1865|Enterprise]]'', 19 November 1882, collision then sank.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/enterprise/|title=Enterprise|date=10 January 2023|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=11 June 2024|archive-date=11 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240611184809/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/enterprise/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Mary Anning, 1880|Mary Anning]]'', 23 January 1885, cargo steamship, collision and sank [[Tail of the Bank]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/mary-anning/|title=Mary Anning|date=14 August 2022|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=21 June 2024|archive-date=21 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621092516/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/mary-anning/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Louise, 1870|Louise]]'', 3 February 1893, steam lighter, sank due to heavy seas [[Rothesay|Rothesay Bay]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/louise/|title=Louise|date=10 December 2019|website=Scottish Shipwrecks}}</ref>
* ''[[Valkyrie II]]'', collision and sank, 5 July 1895. 1893 competed in the eighth [[America's Cup]] (lost).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://classicsailboats.org/g-l-watson-valkyrie-ii/|title=G.L. Watson VALKYRIE II|date=23 April 2023|access-date=20 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620091303/https://classicsailboats.org/g-l-watson-valkyrie-ii/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Wallachia Shipwreck|Wallachia]]'', 29 September 1895, sank after grounding in fog.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/wallachia/|title=Wallachia|date=17 February 2017|website=Scottish Shipwrecks}}</ref><ref>{{Historic Environment Scotland|cat=PLA|num=102476|desc=Wallachia: Skelmorlie Bank, Upper Firth Of Clyde|fewer-links=yes}}</ref>
* ''[[Champion, Wreck 1896|Champion]]'', steam paddle tug, 12 December 1896, collision then sank.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/champion/|title=Champion|date=11 August 2022|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=18 June 2024|archive-date=18 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240618183624/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/champion/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Greenock, 1876|Greenock]]'', steam dredger, launched 4 November 1876, sank after collision 18 November 1902.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/greenock/|title=Greenock|date=17 February 2017|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=19 June 2024|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619114855/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/greenock/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[HMS Seagull (1889)|HMS ''Seagull'']], sank after collision 30 September 1918.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-seagull/|title=HMS Seagull|date=8 August 2022|website=Scottish Shipwrecks}}</ref>
* ''[[German submarine U-33 (1936)|U-33]]'', German submarine, attacked and sunk, south of Pladda, Arran, 12 February 1940.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/u-33/|title=U-33|date=8 December 2018|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=11 June 2024|archive-date=11 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240611182932/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/u-33/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ''[[Penola (yacht)|Penola]]'', collision and broke up 9 November 1940.  Off [[Toward]] point.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/penola/|title=Penola|date=15 January 2023|website=Scottish Shipwrecks}}</ref>
* [[HMS Adept, tug, 1941|HMS ''Adept'']], tug, 17 March 1942, grounded and sank, [[Sanda Island]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/adept/|title=HMS Adept|date=27 January 2024|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=21 June 2024|archive-date=21 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621085150/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/adept/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[HMS Vandal|HMS ''Vandal'']], 24 February 1943, sunk in an accident.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-vandal/|title=HMS Vandal|date=15 August 2022|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=8 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240608183744/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-vandal/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[HMS Dasher (D37)|HMS ''Dasher'']], 27 March 1943, blew up and sank.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?389|title=HMS Dasher (D37) [+1943]|website=www.wrecksite.eu|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=14 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120614032515/http://www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?389|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[HMS Breda, 1912|HMS ''Breda'']], steam yacht, 18 February 1944, collision, then sank in [[Campbeltown Loch]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-breda/|title=HMS Breda|date=21 March 2017|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=21 June 2024|archive-date=21 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621090440/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-breda/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[HMS Sealion (72S)|HMS ''Sealion'']], 13 March 1946, used for target practice.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-sealion/|title=HMS Sealion|date=18 December 2019|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=8 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240608182543/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-sealion/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[MV Akka|MV ''Akka'']], 4 April 1956, sank after grounding on [[the Gantocks]] rocks.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?514|title=MV Akka [+1956]|website=www.wrecksite.eu|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=11 December 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241211104702/https://www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?514|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[MV Captayannis|MV ''Captayannis'']], 27 January 1974, [[Tail of the Bank]].  Known locally as the '''Sugar Boat'''.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-45641159|title=Fifty years on, the story of the Sugar Boat shipwreck on the Clyde|date=14 October 2018|via=www.bbc.co.uk}}</ref>
}}

====Salvaged wrecks====

[[File:HMSM Vitality FL22809.jpg|thumb|HMSM ''Vitality'', re ''Untamed'' FL22809]]

* ''[[PS Comet II|Comet II]]'', launched in 1821, collision and sank 21 October 1825, [[Marine salvage|salvaged]] 21 July 1826.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/comet-ii/|title=Comet II|date=9 January 2023|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=11 June 2024|archive-date=25 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240625022200/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/comet-ii/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[HMS K13|HMS ''K13'']], submarine, sank 29 January 1917, salvaged 15 March 1917.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news/2022/january/31/20220131-k13-crew-are-remembered-at-hm-naval-base-clyde|title=K13 crew are remembered at HM Naval Base Clyde|website=www.royalnavy.mod.uk|access-date=27 May 2025|archive-date=21 June 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250621052519/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news/2022/january/31/20220131-k13-crew-are-remembered-at-hm-naval-base-clyde|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[Russian cruiser Varyag (1899)|''Varyag'']], grounded and sank 5 February 1920, salvaged (scrapped where beached 1924 - 1926).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/varyag/|title=Varyag|date=13 April 2024|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=20 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620084325/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/varyag/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[French destroyer Maillé Brézé (1931)|''Maillé Brézé'']], 30 April 1931, Lost by accidental explosion.  Salvaged summer of 1954.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/maille-breze/|title=Maille Breze|date=3 October 2021|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=8 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240608181226/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/maille-breze/|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[HMS Untamed|HMS ''Untamed'']], submarine, sank 30 May 1943, salvaged 5 July 1943.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-untamed/|title=HMS Untamed|date=12 April 2024|website=Scottish Shipwrecks|access-date=11 June 2024|archive-date=11 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240611163759/https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-untamed/|url-status=live}}</ref>

{{clear}}

==Armed Forces==

{{See also|HMNB Clyde|Royal Navy}}
[[File:HMS Vigilant alongside Faslane Naval Base. MOD 45147682.jpg|thumb|[[HMS Vigilant (S30)|HMS ''Vigilant'']] alongside Faslane Naval Base. MOD 45147682]]

The Royal Navy has a significant presence on the Firth of Clyde. HMNB Clyde is known as [[Faslane]] within the navy and is located on [[Loch Long]]. HMNB Clyde's role is with the servicing and maintenance of the UK submarine defence fleet.  The base has other locations around the Firth.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/locations-and-operations/bases-and-stations/hmnb-clyde|title=HMNB Clyde &#124; Royal Navy|website=www.royalnavy.mod.uk|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=13 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240613122651/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/locations-and-operations/bases-and-stations/hmnb-clyde|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Babcock International]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.babcockinternational.com/insights/delivering-the-submarine-enterprise-together/|title=Delivering the Submarine Enterprise together|website=Babcock International |date=31 May 2024 }}</ref> are involved in the engineering and operations at the base.

On [[Loch Long]], at Glen Mallan, the Northern Ammunition Jetty was refurbished, to accommodate the navy’s new aircraft carriers, [[HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08)|HMS ''Queen Elizabeth'']] and [[HMS Prince of Wales (R09)|HMS ''Prince of Wales'']], with work completed in January 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news/2022/january/12/20220112-glen-mallan-jetty|title=Ammunition loading jetty for Royal Navy's surface fleet completed|website=www.royalnavy.mod.uk|access-date=27 May 2025|archive-date=13 May 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250513135908/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news/2022/january/12/20220112-glen-mallan-jetty|url-status=live}}</ref>  The jetty is part of the [[DM Glen Douglas]] military munitions depot.  Plans have been announced in February 2024 to demolish an undisclosed part of the site.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crg450yrg88o|title=Plans to demolish 1960s MoD's Glen Douglas weapons store|date=8 February 2024|website=BBC News|access-date=8 June 2024|archive-date=8 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240608160532/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crg450yrg88o|url-status=live}}</ref>

{{clear}}

==History==

The Firth of Clyde has always been an important sea route from the earliest times. For example, the [[Battle of Largs]], which was fought on the Firth, in 1263, was a geopolitical turning point: it marked the end of [[Norsemen|Norse]] ambitions in Britain.<ref>{{cite web  |url= https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-16050269  |title= How Scandinavian is Scotland?  |publisher= BBC News Magazine  |author= Jon Kelly  |date= 8 December 2011  |access-date= 1 March 2019  |archive-date= 9 June 2022  |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220609192810/https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-16050269  |url-status= live  }}</ref> Beginning in the 16th century, the Firth increasingly became a conduit for commercial and industrial products, including: herring; timber; wine; sugar; tobacco; textiles; iron and steel; coal; oil; industrial chemicals; distillation and brewing; ships, locomotives, and other vehicles; and other manufactured products.

In the middle of the 19th century, the sport of yachting became popular on the Firth.  The area became famous worldwide for its significant contribution to yachting and yachtbuilding with notable designers including: [[William Fife]] III; [[Alfred Mylne]]; G L Watson; David Boyd. It was also the location of many famous yacht yards. Clyde-built wooden yachts are still known for quality and style today.

The "lower Clyde" shipyards of [[Greenock]] and [[Port Glasgow]], most notably [[Scott Lithgow]], played an important historical role in shipbuilding. The {{ship|PS|Comet}} was the first successful [[steamboat]] in [[Europe]]. Well into the 20th century, a large proportion of the world's ship construction took place around the upper Firth and [[River Clyde]].

===Tourism===

With the advent of [[tourism]] in [[Victorian era|Victorian]] times, the Firth became popular with Glaswegians and residents of neighbouring towns and counties who travelled "doon the watter" (the Firth) on [[Clyde steamer]]s to holiday in the picturesque seaside towns and villages that line the Firth, with the more wealthy building substantial holiday homes along its coasts. Many towns, such as [[Gourock]], [[Largs]], [[Ayr]], [[Dunoon]], [[Rothesay, Argyll and Bute|Rothesay]], flourished during this period and became fully fledged resorts with well-appointed hotels and attractions. Golf courses, including major championship courses, proliferated.

Today, tourism, sport and recreation, and heritage history continue to attract visitors from across the world. The steam-powered {{ship|PS|Waverley}}—in addition to its regular service—still makes cruising trips to the coastal towns that have been popular tourist destinations since the 19th century. The Firth is ringed by many castles and buildings of historical importance that are open to the public, including [[Inveraray Castle]], [[Brodick Castle]], the opulent [[Mount Stuart House]] on the Isle of Bute, and [[Culzean Castle]], which is the most visited attraction owned by the [[National Trust for Scotland]]. Ocean liners frequently call at Greenock, and [[Glasgow International Airport]] and [[Glasgow Prestwick Airport]] are nearby. There is frequent rail service to and from the Clyde coast, including links to [[Oban]] and [[Fort William, Scotland|Fort William]], with city terminals in Glasgow and Edinburgh. There is also daily ferry service between the area and Belfast.

===Sport and recreation===

====1908 Summer Olympic Games====

{{See also|Sailing at the 1908 Summer Olympics}}

The Firth hosted the 1908 summer olympics, with the {{convert|12|m|ft|adj=on}} sailing yacht races.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.olympedia.org/results/9230|title=Olympedia – 12 metres, Open|website=www.olympedia.org|access-date=17 June 2024|archive-date=2 May 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240502100449/http://www.olympedia.org/results/9230|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Shipyards===
<!-- This section is linked from [[Glasgow]] -->

The Firth of Clyde, like the [[River Clyde]], has historically been an important centre of [[shipbuilding]] and shipping. Upriver, there have been shipbuilding and engineering centres at [[Glasgow]], [[Govan]], [[Clydebank]], [[Dumbarton]], and [[Renfrew]]. Downriver, there have been major yards at [[Greenock]] and [[Port Glasgow]]; smaller yards at [[Irvine, North Ayrshire|Irvine]], Ardrossan, [[Troon]], and [[Campbeltown]]; and various other boatyards, including those at [[Hunters Quay]], [[Port Bannatyne]], and [[Fairlie, North Ayrshire|Fairlie]]. Today, the [[Ferguson Marine]] shipbuilding yard, adjacent to [[Newark Castle, Port Glasgow]], is the last [[merchant ship]]builder on the Clyde, and it is owned by the Scottish Government.<ref name="auto"/> In Greenock, the large [[dry dock]] and ship-repair facilities at Inchgreen opened in 1964, and were subsequently taken over by [[Scott Lithgow]]. The dry dock there is {{convert|305|m|}} long and {{convert|44|m|}} wide. With the demise of [[Scott Lithgow]] and [[Cammell Laird]], their facilities came under the management of [[The Peel Group|Clydeport]].

===Ports===

The [[Hunterston Ore Terminal]] was constructed to facilitate the transport of bulk ore, but later mainly dealt with coal imports, and closed in 2016.<ref name="masterplan">{{cite web | title=Hunterston port 'masterplan' revealed promising £140m boost | website=BBC News | date=16 May 2019 | url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-48282056 | access-date=16 August 2021 | archive-date=16 August 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210816110716/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-48282056 | url-status=live }}</ref>

The [[ExxonMobil]] (ESSO) Fuel Oil Terminal site at [[Bowling, West Dunbartonshire|Bowling]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dumbartonreporter.co.uk/news/18782553.former-exxon-bowling-oil-terminal-transferred-west-dunbartonshire-council/|title=Slick deal: Former Exxon Bowling site transferred to council for new road and shops|date=9 October 2020|website=Dumbarton and Vale of Leven Reporter}}</ref>

There was a jetty built as part of [[Inverkip Power Station]], for oil deliveries by [[oil tanker]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.inverclydenow.com/work-on-new-inverkip-power-station-village-expected-to-take-15-years/|title=WORK On New Inverkip Power Station Village Expected To Take 15 Years|date=2 April 2019|access-date=17 June 2024|archive-date=17 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240617170554/https://www.inverclydenow.com/work-on-new-inverkip-power-station-village-expected-to-take-15-years/|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Armed Forces===

[[HMS Gannet (stone frigate)|HMS ''Gannet'']], the Fleet Air Arm Search and Rescue site at [[Prestwick Airport]].  The [[helicopter]]s ([[Sikorsky SH-3 Sea King|Sea King]]) that were based here were used in the rescue and [[airlift]] operations across the United Kingdom.  The base was closed on 1 January 2016, with [[Maritime and Coastguard Agency]] taking over the role.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news/2016/january/06/160106-gannet-sar-finishes-operations|title=HMS Gannet Search and Rescue unit finishes operations &#124; Royal Navy|website=www.royalnavy.mod.uk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-35303937|title=Sea King flight bids Scotland farewell|work=BBC News|date=14 January 2016|archive-date=9 June 2024|access-date=9 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240609143706/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-35303937|url-status=live}}</ref>

====Submarine Squadron 14====

{{See also|Submarine Squadron 14}}

[[Cold War]]; The [[United States of America]] maintained a [[US Navy]] base during the Cold War, in the [[Holy Loch]], off the Firth. Submarine Squadron 14 or SUBRON14, also known as ''Site one, Holy Loch'' was in operation between 1 July 1958, up until the end of the Cold War.  The last deployed Submarine Tender departed the Holy Loch and Firth on 3 March 1992.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archive.navalsubleague.org/1992/history-of-submarine-squadron-fourteen|title=HISTORY OF SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOURTEEN|first=vidushi|last=tech|date=1 January 1992}}</ref>

[[World War II]]; During World War II, [[Glasgow]] and the Firth of Clyde became the main entry point into Britain for the Allied forces with the formation of The Clyde Emergency Port, officially opened on 12 September 1940. With merchant shipping, military personnel, and equipment moving through the port.  The Firth was used as the assembly and despatch point for Atlantic convoys. The Firth hosted the United Kingdom's largest naval base for the duration of the war.  In 1942, an underwater oil pipeline was laid across the Firth, [[Operation Pluto]], the world's first deep-water test of this technology.  This was only one of many innovations designed to support air, maritime, and territorial combat during World War II.<ref>https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/vital-wartime-role-of-forgotten-port-on-clyde-revealed-in-new-exhibition/ar-AA1NkzZE</ref>

{{see also|List of squadrons and flotillas of the Royal Navy}}

The [[Holy Loch]] was used as a base for [[Royal Navy]] [[Submarines]], during World War II. Namely the [[3rd Submarine Flotilla (United Kingdom)]]. [[HMS Forth (A187)|HMS ''Forth'']] was for a time based in the loch as the submarine depot ship.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://holyloch.co.uk/page1mam.html|title=Holy Loch - Maritime & Admiralty matters|website=holyloch.co.uk}}</ref>

During both [[World wars]], the [[Cloch Point To Dunoon Anti-submarine Boom]] was in place to protect the upper Firth.<ref>{{Historic Environment Scotland|cat=PLA|num=239524|desc=Clyde Defences, Cloch Point To Dunoon Anti-submarine Boom|fewer-links=yes}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://secretscotland.org.uk/index.php/Secrets/ClochBoom|title=Secret Scotland - Cloch Boom|website=secretscotland.org.uk|access-date=10 June 2024|archive-date=3 November 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241103143033/http://www.secretscotland.org.uk/index.php/Secrets/ClochBoom|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Environment===

Since the [[Industrial Revolution]], the natural environment of the Firth has been compromised. Many locations have been affected by a succession of industrial and military developments along the shoreline. Including the former sites of [[Upper Clyde Shipbuilders|shipyards]]; [[Hunterston B nuclear power station]]; [[Inverkip power station]]; [[ExxonMobil]] fuel oil terminal site at [[Bowling, West Dunbartonshire|Bowling]]; [[Nobel Enterprises|Nobel]] explosives plant at [[Ardeer, North Ayrshire|Ardeer]] and the [[Hunterston Ore Terminal]]. Many of these locations are now dormant or being redeveloped.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.clydewaterfront.com/projects|title=River Clyde developments: Housing, commercial, retail & leisure projects|first=Innovation|last=Digital|website=www.clydewaterfront.com|access-date=10 June 2024|archive-date=13 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240613000342/http://www.clydewaterfront.com/projects/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-66470934|title=City Deal approval for £44m project at former Clyde oil terminal|date=11 August 2023|via=www.bbc.co.uk|archive-date=17 June 2024|access-date=17 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240617154705/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-66470934|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scottishhistory.org/blog/the-ardeer-company-and-the-defence-of-nobels-explosive-factory/|title=The Ardeer Company and the defence of Nobel's Explosive Factory|date=10 April 2024|website=ScottishHistory.org|access-date=17 June 2024|archive-date=17 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240617100843/https://www.scottishhistory.org/blog/the-ardeer-company-and-the-defence-of-nobels-explosive-factory/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-23479026|title=Inverkip Power Station chimney demolished|work=BBC News|date=28 July 2013|archive-date=17 June 2024|access-date=17 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240617154703/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-23479026|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-59894688|title=Hunterston B nuclear power plant closes down after 46 years|date=7 January 2022|via=www.bbc.co.uk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://port.hunterston.eu/index.htm|title=..:: Hunterston Coal Terminal ::..|website=port.hunterston.eu|access-date=17 June 2024|archive-date=17 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240617153203/http://port.hunterston.eu/index.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Climate==

{{See also|North Atlantic Gyre}}

{{climate chart
| Greenock
| 1| 6|74.6
| 1| 7|54.5
| 2| 8|53.8
| 3|11|37.9
| 6|15|34.4
| 9|17|35.1
|11|19|39.2
|11|18|52.2
| 8|16|45.3
| 6|12|80.5
| 3| 9|67.5
| 2| 7|68.6
|maxprecip = 81
|float     = 
|clear     = 
|units     = <!-- Celsius -->
|source    = <!-- Temp.: [[:File:Greenock Temp.GIF]] --> Precipitation:<ref>{{cite web |title=Climate & Weather Averages in Greenock, Scotland, United Kingdom |url=https://www.timeanddate.com/weather/@2647948/climate |website=Timeanddate.com |access-date=9 October 2019 |language=en |archive-date=9 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191009190405/https://www.timeanddate.com/weather/@2647948/climate |url-status=live }}. Data for period 1985–2015.</ref>
}}

The Firth's maritime climate is considerably milder than contintental locations at the same latitide. Whilst the reason for this mild climate is the subject of debate<ref name=ClimateMythology>{{Cite web|url=http://ocp.ldeo.columbia.edu/res/div/ocp/gs/|title=The Gulf Stream Myth|website=ocp.ldeo.columbia.edu|access-date=10 November 2021|archive-date=30 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161230021448/http://ocp.ldeo.columbia.edu/res/div/ocp/gs/|url-status=live}}</ref> it is historically considered to be due to the moderating influence of the [[North Atlantic Drift]], a warm oceanic current that is the eastern extension of the [[Gulf Stream]]<ref name=GulfStream>{{Cite web|url=https://www.weatheronline.co.uk/reports/wxfacts/Accessory-clouds.htm|title=Weather Facts: Accessory clouds &#124; weatheronline.co.uk|website=www.weatheronline.co.uk}}</ref>  which originates in the tropical waters of the [[Gulf of Mexico]].

{{clear}}

==Concerns==

{{see also|Dead zone (ecology)|l1=Ecologically dead rivers|Water pollution}}

Worldwide, human-made causes including the [[Exploitation of natural resources|over-exploitation]] and the pollution of water systems, are among the biggest threats and concerns which are damaging aquatic ecosystems and in extreme cases cause [[Dead zone (ecology)|ecological death]].

The durability of [[plastic]]s in the natural environment, [[plastic pollution]], imposes threats on aquatic life and the [[aquatic ecosystem]]s. Plastic debris may result in entanglement and ingestion by aquatic life such as birds, fish and [[marine mammal]]s, causing severe injury or death. Human livelihoods and life itself can also be impacted by plastic pollution. In severe cases, with effects on surrounding tourism or real estate value, the clogging of drains and other hydraulic infrastructure leading to increased flood risk and further pollution.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=van Emmerik |first1=Tim |last2=Schwarz |first2=Anna |title=Plastic debris in rivers |journal=WIREs Water |date=January 2020 |volume=7 |issue=1 |article-number=e1398 |doi=10.1002/wat2.1398 |doi-access=free |bibcode=2020WIRWa...7E1398V }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-64889284|title=Oceans littered with 171 trillion plastic pieces|date=8 March 2023|via=www.bbc.co.uk}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cp8256l20l0o | title=How Loch Long became a magnet for Scotland's plastic waste | date=3 February 2025 }}</ref><ref>https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cr5eyjd2zz7o</ref>

==See also==

{{columns-list|colwidth=20em|
* [[River Clyde]]
* [[Islands of the Clyde]]
* [[Irish Sea]]
* [[Inner Seas off the West Coast of Scotland]]
* [[Seas west of Scotland]]
* [[European Atlas of the Seas]]
* [[List of seas]]
* [[Recreational diving]]
* [[Wreck diving]]
* [[Underwater diving environment]]
* [[Marine Protected Areas in Scotland]]
}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==Sources==
* ''The Clyde: River and Firth'', 1907 and reissued 2010, Neil Munro, with illustrations by Mary Y and Y Young Hunter
* ''The Firth of Clyde'', 1952, [[George Blake (novelist)|George Blake]]
* ''Glasgow and the Clyde'', 1965, Ward Lock Guide
* ''Clyde Coast Connections'', 2010, Neil Grieves
* ''From Comet to Cal Mac : Two Centuries of Hebridean and Clyde Shipping'', 2011, Donald E Meek and Bruce Peter
* ''Firth of Clyde: Sailing Directions and Anchorages'', 2012, Clyde Cruising Club 
* ''HM Naval Base: Clyde'', 2012, Keith Hall

==External links==
{{oscoor gbx|NS 11413 45543}}
{{Commons category|Firth of Clyde}}
{{EB1911 poster|Clyde}}
{{Sister project links|collapsible=collapsed|voy=no|species=no|c=Category:Firth of Clyde}}

* [https://www.peelports.com/port-locations/clydeport/ Clydeport - Official Website] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619150528/https://www.peelports.com/port-locations/clydeport |date=19 June 2024 }}
* [https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/locations-and-operations/bases-and-stations/hmnb-clyde/ Royal Navy HMNB Clyde - Official Website]
* [https://www.gov.scot/policies/marine-environment/ Scottish Government, Marine Environment - Official Website] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619184502/https://www.gov.scot/policies/marine-environment/ |date=19 June 2024 }}
* [https://www.nlb.org.uk/ Northern Lighthouse Board - Official Website]
* [https://marine.gov.scot/information/protected-places-and-controlled-sites-war-graves-designated-under-protection-military/ Scottish Government, War Graves - Official Website] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621105411/https://marine.gov.scot/information/protected-places-and-controlled-sites-war-graves-designated-under-protection-military/ |date=21 June 2024 }}
* [https://www.ramsar.org/ RAMSAR Organisation - Official Website] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130409081737/http://www.ramsar.org/cda/en/ramsar-documents-list/main/ramsar/1-31-218_4000_0__ |date=9 April 2013 }}

{{Navboxes
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{{Clydeshipyards}}
{{River Clyde}}
{{Islands of the Clyde}}
{{Marine Protected Areas in Scotland}}
{{aquatic ecosystem topics|expanded=marine}}
{{coastal geography}}
{{river morphology}}
{{Wetlands}}
{{Recreational dive sites|wrereg}}
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{{Portal bar|Scotland|Scottish islands|Oceans|Geography|Ecology|Environment|Underwater diving}}
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[[Category:Firth of Clyde| ]]<!--please leave the empty space as standard-->
[[Category:Scottish coast|Clyde]]
[[Category:Estuaries of Scotland|Clyde]]
[[Category:Cowal]]
[[Category:Firths of Scotland|Clyde]]
[[Category:Islands of the Clyde]]
[[Category:Underwater diving sites in Scotland]]
[[Category:Landforms of West Dunbartonshire]]
[[Category:Landforms of Argyll and Bute|Clyde]]
[[Category:Landforms of Inverclyde|Clyde]]
[[Category:Landforms of North Ayrshire|Clyde]]
[[Category:Landforms of South Ayrshire|Clyde]]
[[Category:Highland Boundary Fault|Clyde]]
[[Category:Nature Conservation Marine Protected Areas of Scotland|Clyde]]
[[Category:Geography of Scotland|Clyde]]
[[Category:Bodies of water of Scotland|Clyde]]
[[Category:Bodies of water of the Irish Sea|Clyde]]
[[Category:Ramsar sites in Scotland]]