Guernsey Marinas aims to become 'premier marine destination'

Thursday, 8 May 2025 09:30

In a brand refresh Guernsey Marinas - part of Guernsey Ports - will focus on bringing more private leisure boat visitors to the island.

The rebrand comes as a 'commitment' to creating 'exceptional' experiences at the harbours, infrastructure and services for the community, visiting yachts, superyachts and regattas.

Guernsey Marinas will use existing staff and resources to boost revenue from marine tourism and grow the leisure sector.

20,000 people visited Guernsey by private vessel in 2024, an 11% increase on the previous year.

Assistant Harbour Master, Kieran Higgs, says they are 'charting a course towards becoming a premier marine destination for all vessels'.

"This will be achieved over time through sustained investment in our facilities and a commitment to excellent customer service, working in partnership with the blue economy across Guernsey.

"We are already a marina of choice for dozens of prestigious sailing races and regattas, which come to explore our exciting cruising grounds and vibrant waterfront."

Kieran Higgs, Assistant Harbour Master (pictured left) at the St Malo Boat Show.

To show Guernsey off to the maritime community, Guernsey Marinas attended the first-ever St Malo Boat Show.

The company also introduced Passeport Escales last summer to increase the island's visibility to other European destinations.

Guernsey Ports mooring holders can register for a Passeport Escales at the Marine Services Centre for £35, giving them up to 10 free nights per season, with over 100 marinas to choose from in the UK, France and other European countries.

In terms of infrastructure, £300,000 was invested in completing a pontoon upgrade at Victoria Harbour in winter, with a further £1.3 million directed into replacing and rearranging pontoons in the QE2 Marina, since 2024.

Over the next decade, £20 million will be spent on improving the marinas by upgrading ageing infrastructure and maximising operational use.