BOAT havens in Poole have been recognised with the highest level of accreditation on offer.

For the fifth consecutive time, Poole Quay Boat Haven and Port of Poole Marina have retained their Five Gold Anchor status, the top accreditation level delivered by the Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA).

Marina manager Kerrie Gray said: “I am delighted that we have retained our Five Gold Anchor status. Thank you again to our loyal customers for their continued support. I am very proud of my team who have worked so well over the last few years.”

The Gold Anchor scheme has been developed by the marina industry with the aim of raising standards and providing customer-centric services.

It involves an assessment across categories such as ambience, planning, policies and procedures, customer service, environmental, on water facilities and infrastructure, followed by a mystery shopper check.

Poole Quay Boat Haven offers 125 berths for a variety of vessels from jet skis to superyachts, while Port of Poole marina has 90 berths welcoming vessels up to 50m.

Poole Harbour Commissioners are currently consulting on their masterplan update, a 20-year plan aspiring to become UK’s top marine leisure location. This plan includes adding a new Marine Centre, south of the current Poole Quay Boat Haven, adding around 600 new berths.

Captain Brian Murphy, Poole Harbour Commissioners’ chief executive, added: “The new Marine Centre will offer enhanced and improved facilities for our existing customers whilst addressing the shortfall of available berths for new customers and visiting vessels alike.”