Bangor Marina Celebrates 20 Years

30th April 2009

Northern Ireland’s biggest marina has just celebrated its 20th birthday, with the help of Miss Northern Ireland, Judith Wilson. The marina and harbour formed part of North Down Borough Council’s £18 million Seafront Development Scheme, designed as a town centre regeneration project for Bangor and has become the region’s major marine leisure tourism gateway.

The marina has set the benchmark for developments of its type in Ireland, becoming the first to gain The Yacht Harbour’s Five Gold Anchor award in 1996, the European Blue Flag Award in 1998 and the RYA Customer Award in 2003.

Quay Marinas Limited has managed the development since its opening in 1989 and was awarded a further 15 year management and operating licence in 2008, following an open tender process.

In addition to enjoying the loyal custom of over 450 resident berth holders, the marina is firmly established as the cruising destination of choice for visitors from all over the world and as a base for local, regional and national championship sailing. The marina is also a member of Trans Europe Marinas.

The harbour supports a local fleet of fishing vessels up to 60 metres in length and an annual programme of public events and maritime festivals as well as welcoming super yachts, commercial traffic and naval visits.

Published in News From the Afloat.ie Archive

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