Sailors and power boaters in West Wales can take advantage of the successful RYA Active Marinas programme for the first time, thanks to two neighbouring marinas working together in a unique partnership.

Milford Marina and Neyland Yacht Haven are the first in West Wales to become part of the RYA Active Marinas programme which has helped sailors improve their skills and develop their social sailing throughout the UK.

Although the two marinas are normally competitors, they will be sharing the whole of their programme in a unique way, to help people enjoy the Milford Haven Waterway and the coastline around Pembrokeshire.

Lucy James, who has recently been appointed as Marketing Manager for the Port of Milford Haven, which owns and operates Milford Marina, said that she is confident the partnership will benefit berth holder experience at both marinas, and added “The RYA Active Marina programme is something we’re very proud to be part of, and looking forward to giving berth holders at Milford and Neyland an exciting calendar of events this season.”

“Neyland Yacht Haven are delighted to have become an RYA Active Marina, we are very much looking forward to working with the RYA and alongside Milford Marina to ensure that our berth holders and owners enjoy the various social and educational events on offer,” said James Cotton, Neyland Yacht Haven Director.

“Milford and Neyland became our third and fourth Active Marina partners after the initiative was launched in Wales in August 2013 at the All Wales Boat Show,” said Steven Morgan, WYA chief executive officer.

“We are looking forward to working with all the partners to make the scheme a great success and enable more boaters to enjoy our beautiful natural environment in Wales.”

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

Boat ownership is all about freedom and having fun. 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.

For further details on the RYA Active Marina programme, please contact Eira Griffiths on 01646 696303.

Picture Captions: from left to right Anna Mullarkey (Port of Milford Haven Marketing Communications Executive), Lucy James (Port of Milford Haven Marketing Manager), Eira Griffiths (Milford Marina Co-ordinator), Roland Bowen (Pembrokeshire Cruising), Hester Walker (WYA Regional Development Officer) and James Cotton (Neyland Yacht Haven Director).