News

SAILING TO A NEW RECORD

Dover Marina

Dover Marina recorded its best ever trading performance in 2005 with a record number of berth-holders and one of the highest numbers of visitors for many years. 

Berth-holder numbers at the 400-berth marina topped 300, an increase of ten per cent compared to 2004, whilst 3,664 visiting boats used the facilities. 

“We believe there is potential to grow yachting tourism and we are supporting a number of initiatives including a partnership between South Coast and Northern France marinas to promote cross-Channel sailing,â€? said Kate O’Hara, Head of Commercial and Marketing, Port of Dover. 

Visitors to Dover Marina come from France, Belgium, Holland, Germany and Scandinavia as well as Britain. Dover Marina is popular because it offers the closest crossing point to Continental Europe and there is a wealth of tourist attractions in the area. 

“We estimate visitors to the marina spent about £1 million in the local area last year visiting tourist attractions, restaurants and pubs as well as buying provisions and using local tradesmen. The business is one of many examples of how the area is benefiting from the activities of the port,â€? Kate O’Hara added. 

The year also saw the marina gain a top quality award following an inspection of its facilities and operations. The Yacht Harbour Association awarded the marina a fifth “Gold Anchor�, the highest mark under its code of practice and an increase of one gold anchor from its previous rating.