In a series of short films made especially for Milford Marina, it’s our pleasure to introduce you to some of our fantastic berth holders and let them tell you their own stories about their boats, their experiences and their passion for the sea. Berthing a boat in Milford Haven provides great access to coastal sailing opportunities around Pembrokeshire, and all of the facilities a boat owner could need, such as hard storage and boat repair businesses, are right here on site at Milford Marina.
In our first film, we’ll join Ian Evans, one of our original berth holders, on a sail up the beautiful Milford Haven Waterway aboard ‘Musketeer’, a classic ¾ tonne racing class yacht, built out of mahogany on an oak frame. Ian fell in love with Musketeer, which he brought back from Looe in Cornwall in 1982, and it has been a permanent fixture and labour of love ever since.
Born in Newquay, Cardiganshire, Ian has always had a passion for the sea. As a teenager, when his friends had pictures of famous stars on their walls, he had pictures of boats, so it was no surprise when, at the age of 14, Ian went to naval training school on board HMS Conway, moored in the Menai Strait, and at 16 he went to sea. An interesting seafaring career followed, culminating with his retirement from the role of Pilot at the Port of Milford Haven in 1990, meaning he could spend more time with his family and, of course, on Musketeer.
Being based at Milford Marina, 12 month berth holders like Ian can enjoy a whole host of benefits, as well as the freedom of 24/7 access, being close to the beautiful nature and wildlife up the River Cleddau and perfectly located for sailing out to the islands of Skomer and Skokholm, famous for wildlife including seals, puffins and Manx shearwaters, and a sea of bluebells in the Spring.
Having met many visiting boat owners over the years stopping off at Milford Haven on passage to other parts of the UK, their feedback to Ian is that the friendliness of the Marina Team and the local community is very welcoming.
With 72 years experience on the sea, Ian’s sound advice is simple, “You have to take what comes and be prepared for everything”.
If you’re inspired by Ian’s passion for the sea and Milford Haven, why not get a quote or contact us for more information on berthing fees and the benefits of taking out a 12 month berth at Milford Marina.