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Hamoaze
Devonport Dockyard.jpg
Devonport Dockyard and the Hamoaze from the Rame Peninsula, Cornwall
Physical characteristics
River mouth Plymouth Sound
50°23′44″N 4°12′28″W / 50.39556°N 4.20778°W / 50.39556; -4.20778
Basin features
Tributaries
  • Left:
    *St John's Lake
  • Millbrook Lake
Inland ports HMNB Devonport

The Hamoaze is a special part of the River Tamar in England. It's an estuary, which means it's where the river meets the sea. The Hamoaze is found between where the River Lynher joins the Tamar and the Plymouth Sound.

What's in a Name?

The name Hamoaze first appeared in 1588. It probably came from a small creek that led to a place called Ham. This area was north of what is now the Devonport Dockyard. Later, the name Hamoaze was used for the whole main waterway. The "ose" part of the name might come from an old English word, "wāse." This word means 'mud' or 'ooze.' This makes sense because the creek had many mud-banks when the tide was low.

Important Waterway

The Hamoaze flows right past the Devonport Dockyard. This dockyard is one of the three main bases for the Royal Navy today. It's a very busy place where warships are built, repaired, and kept.

Staying Safe on the Water

Because so many large warships use the Hamoaze, it can be tricky for smaller boats. Many small watercraft also use the waterway. To keep everyone safe, a special person called the Queen's Harbour Master for Plymouth controls all the boat traffic. They make sure everyone follows the rules.

Towns and Villages

Several towns and villages are located along the banks of the Hamoaze.

Crossing the Hamoaze

There are two main ferry services that help people cross the Hamoaze:

  • The Torpoint Ferry is a special chain ferry. It can carry vehicles like cars and trucks.
  • The Cremyll Ferry is for passengers and cyclists only.

You can even find a street in Torpoint named after the Hamoaze!

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