Buckler's Hard Yacht Harbour named top coastal marina

BUCKLER’S HARD Yacht Harbour has been named Coastal Marina of the Year.

The facility beat more than 160 accredited marinas across the globe in The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) awards, which were based on votes by boaters.

The Beaulieu River and the yacht harbour is one of the few privately-owned estuaries in the world, and its wildlife has been preserved by four centuries of custodianship by the forebears of Lord Montagu.

A recent £400,000 investment has seen an upgraded facilities building more in keeping with the marina’s natural New Forest setting.

Speaking after the announcement, Lord Montagu said: “I am delighted that Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour has won this award, especially as it is based on the votes of people who visit and keep their boats on the river.

“The work done by harbour master Wendy Stowe and her staff to improve the facilities and services is evidently appreciated by our customers, and I would like to thank them for this ringing endorsement.”

TYHA general manager, Jon White, said: “The array of marinas that stood out in this year’s competition showed how strong today’s marinas are at achieving and often exceeding the modern consumer’s standard of quality service and excellent facilities.”

The award will be presented by the association at a ceremony on 24th April.