A new set of marina awards
The Yacht Harbour Association announced its 2026 Marina Awards during the Southampton International Boat Show on 23 September. The programme recognises marina services, teams, sustainability and the experiences reported by boaters.
Marina De Vilamoura took the superyacht category, while Ayla Marina received the international marina distinction. Those are separate awards and should not be combined into a single overall marina ranking.
Coastal places for visiting yachts
Poole Quay Boat Haven won the coastal category for marinas with fewer than 250 berths, while Cowes Yacht Haven took the larger coastal-marina award. The results place everyday berthing and customer service alongside large-yacht facilities.
A prize does not imply that a marina can accommodate every 12–24-metre vessel. Owners must still check depth, available berth dimensions, approach restrictions and reservation terms.
Recognition for teams and sustainability
Harry Durrah of Emsworth Yacht Harbour received the employee award, and Parkstone Bay Marina was recognised for sustainability. The ceremony also acknowledged marina teams and shortlisted facilities.
Those categories underline that the marina experience is shaped by people and operating practices as well as pontoons and utilities. Award recognition is not a substitute for a current inspection or service enquiry.
Using the results to plan a visit
For luxury-yacht owners, the award list offers named destinations and organisations to investigate further. It can help start a marina comparison without replacing practical route and berth planning.
British Marine provides the official dated results and ceremony photograph. Confirm each destination’s actual availability, amenities and conditions directly before committing a voyage.
