This is a well sheltered, tidal (+/- 2 ½ hours HW) port but access can be difficult in strong easterly winds as the entrance is via a narrow channel between 2 breakwaters. The harbour is busy with commercial vessels dealing with regular lo-lo services from the United Kingdom and Ireland and is the only Manx port with facilities to handle imports of bulk cement. The harbour, directly alongside the town centre, also has its own small shipyard, used mainly by local and visiting fishing vessels.
The disused Queen's Pier in Ramsey Bay was built in 1886 to provide a low water landing for passenger ferries and was last used in 1970. Debates continue on the various proposals currently being considered for its future.