Maritime & Marine

"Real boost" as marinas strike gold again after retaining prestigious five gold anchor accolade

Poole Quay Boat Haven which has retained its five Gold Anchor status together with The Port of Poole Marina.

By Staff Reporter [email protected]

Published: April 11, 2021 | Updated: 18th September 2023

One of the highest accolades recognising quality of service and facilities has again been awarded to two Poole marinas.

Poole Quay Boat Haven and The Port of Poole Marina, both operated and managed by Poole Harbour Commissioners, have retained their prestigious five Gold Anchor status.

It’s the fourth consecutive assessment where both marinas have achieved the internationally recognised sign of quality assessed by The Yacht Harbour Association.

Kerrie Gray, Manager of Poole Quay Boat Haven and Port of Poole Marina, said: “2020 was a difficult year for everyone.

“So, it was a real boost to hear that after the meticulous review process we had once again been awarded a 5 Gold Anchor status by The Yacht Harbour Association.

“The marina team pride itself on maintaining a high standard of care for our visitors.

“This prestigious accolade is a credit to them and their continuous hard work and commitment.

“For that, I thank and congratulate them all.”

The Gold Anchor Award Scheme ratings can vary from one to five gold anchors.

It involves a three-stage process:

  • Independent assessment
  • ‘Mystery Shopper’ telephone inquiry
  • Berth holder’s online questionnaire.

The overall findings from each of the three factors contribute to the final Gold Anchor rating.

It is a voluntary assessment focusing on customer service and facilities within marinas and harbours.

Kerrie said: “We are proud to be recognised for the service we provide and would like to thank our loyal customers for their continued support.

“We see over 9,000 visitors pass through Poole Quay Boat Haven each year.

“We will continue to offer the best service we can in the hope that they will return to Poole time and time again.”

Jon White, General Manager of The Yacht Harbour Association, offered his “huge congratulations” to Poole Quay Boat Haven on the  5 Gold Anchor accreditation.

He added: “Kerrie and her team have worked extremely hard during these challenging times to ensure a continued high-level standard of quality service and excellent facilities, gaining them their well-deserved 5 Gold Anchors once again.”

Poole Quay Boat Haven offers up to 125 berths for everything from jet skis to 75m superyachts.

The Port of Poole Marina has 90 berths up to 50m.

Poole Quay Boat Haven is also host to various nautical events and is home to Vendée Globe hero Pip Hare and the award-winning Poole Harbour Boat Show.

The five Gold Anchor status won praise from BCP Council.

Chris Saunders, pictured left, Director of Destination and Culture at BCP Council, said: “This prestigious award is great news again for Poole and is just reward for all of the hard work and commitment that has gone into delivering this quality service.

“Poole is a modern contemporary resort with a high-quality natural environment, hotels and attractions.

“The continued achievement of this award adds to that quality message and helps to put the town in the forefront as a leading UK boating destination.”

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