Active Marinas programme will run again in 2015

Sailors and powerboaters in West Wales can take advantage of the Active Marinas programme, with a repeat of last year's successful programme.

Milford Haven and Neyland were the first in West Wales to become part of the Active Marinas scheme, which has helped sailors improve their skills and develop their social sailing throughout the UK.

The two marinas are running the scheme again in 2015, after maximum take up of the guided tour of port control and coastguard at Milford with Neyland Yacht Haven's river run proving a real hit as well.

Also the opening of the new lock gates at Milford Marina will make better access to the waterway and more opportunity for both venues' berthholders to rendezvous and cruise in company day excursions.

The scheme was such a success last year that many did not get a chance to attend everything, including boat jumbles, first aid course, safety days and an engine maintenance workshop

The two marinas will be sharing the whole of their programme in a unique way, to help people enjoy the waters of the River Cleddau and the coastline round Pembrokeshire.

"It is great to see the Active Marinas scheme having a real and ongoing impact," said Steven Morgan, RYA Cymru Wales chief executive officer.

"Milford and Neyland become our third and fourth Active Marina partners after the initiative was launched in Wales in August 2013 at the All Wales Boat Show, so their success enables more boaters to enjoy our beautiful natural environment in Wales."

Being part of the Active Marinas scheme involved offering training and social events for sailors to brush up on their skills and find like minded water enthusiasts.

The RYA's Active Marina Programme is designed to help people get more out of life with their boats.

The programme encourages and supports increased berth holder activity by partnering with marinas, RYA recognised training centres, berth holder groups and yacht clubs to establish or enhance a programme of training, cruising and social opportunities.

Lucy James, Marketing Manager at Milford Marina said, "Working in partnership with Neyland Yacht Haven in 2014 was a really positive experience for Milford Marina.

"The training, social and cruising events were well received by our berth holders. We are really looking forward to this year's calendar of events and continuing to work with our neighbours."

Neyland's 420 berth marina offers a base to explore the 23 miles of Milford Haven's sheltered waterways, whether stopping for one night or staying on as an annual resident.

"Neyland Yacht Haven are delighted to continue as an RYA Active Marina, we are very much looking forward to working with the RYA and alongside Milford Marina to ensure that our bertholders and owners enjoy the various social and educational events on offer," said James Cotton, Neyland Yacht Haven Director.

www.ryacymruwales.org.uk