The London Boat Show has been the opportunity for UK boat owners, to vote for Largs Yacht Haven as UK Coastal Marina of the Year 2017, as part of the Yacht Harbour Association (THYA) annual awards.

The award has been proudly received by Carolyn Elder, Largs Yacht Haven's Marina Director, at the London Boat Show. The ceremony was hosted by TYHA with sponsors GJW Insurance and British Marine.

The prestigious award is the highest accolade in the marina industry with only Gold Anchor accredited marinas nominated.

After reaffirming its position as Scotland’s Finest Marina in late-2016 after being awarded Five Gold Anchors again for an unprecedented third successive time, Largs Yacht Haven has now gone one step further to be crowned the UK’s finest.

Commenting on the accolade, Carolyn Elder said to Yachting Art Magazine:“What a way to start 2017, we’re absolutely thrilled! I must praise our entire Haven Team for their hard work. It is our staff who really set our marina apart by setting extremely high standards and delivering an incredible service to our berth holders. What makes this award extra special is that it was voted for by boat owners in the UK. We have been overwhelmed by the comments and votes we received. We’re extremely grateful to our berth holders and visiting boat owners who voted for us.”

Once described by Olympic sailor Shirley Robertson as “the perfect sailing venue”, Carolyn is hopeful this award will bring a new wave of sailors to Largs, saying, “Largs and the Scottish west coast offers incredible sailing and motorboating opportunities for every type of boater. I really hope this award puts Scotland on the map for offering quality boating experiences.”

Sarah Hanna, the Chairman of TYHA, commented, ”Customers voted in unprecedented numbers for Largs Yacht Haven proving that this 5 Gold Anchor accredited marina provides an exceptional experience for its customers. The marina team, led by manager Carolyn Elder, should be very proud of this achievement.”

The Largs Yacht Haven marina

The family-owned marina, part of Yacht Havens Group, is located on the Firth of Clyde on the west coast of Scotland. With the stunning waters of the Clyde and the isles of Cumbrae and Arran within easy reach, Largs arguably offers the most stunning cruising ground in the UK. 

With over 700 marina berths, 24 hour staff, on water fuel, quality washrooms and a comprehensive boatyard operation, Largs has all the facilities a boat owner would need. Furthermore, with a stunning collection of waterfront eateries, shops and an active Sailing Club, the marina is at the heart of the community. 

As the Scottish base for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, Largs Yacht Haven will also host the start and finish for the Trust’s Round Britain 2017 adventure which sees 100 young people in recovery from cancer taking part in a 2000 mile national sailing relay.