UK and international marinas share the spotlight with the teams and individuals behind exceptional boating experiences
Marina teams from across the UK and around the world had plenty to celebrate at the Southampton International Boat Show (23 September 2026), as The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) revealed the winners of its 2026 Marina Awards, anchored by Haven Knox-Johnston.
Presented on the Boating Stage, the eight awards put the spotlight on the marinas boaters value most and the people who make them special. From coastal and inland favourites to international and superyacht destinations, the ceremony recognised outstanding service, dedicated teams and practical work to make marinas more sustainable.
The 2026 results
- Coastal Marina of the Year, under 250 berths: Poole Quay Boat Haven.
Runner-up: Emsworth Yacht Harbour. Third place: IGY ST Kats. - Coastal Marina of the Year, over 250 berths: Cowes Yacht Haven.
Runner-up: Mayflower Marina. Third place: Jersey Marina. - Inland Marina of the Year: York Marina.
Runner-up: Shepperton Marina. Third place: Overwater Marina. - International Marina of the Year: Ayla Marina.
Runner-up: Marina De Vilamoura – Nova Marina. Third place: Setur Antalya. - Superyacht Marina of the Year: Marina De Vilamoura.
Runner-up: Yalikavak Marina. Third place: YAS Marina. - Marina Employee of the Year: Harry Durrah, Emsworth Yacht Harbour.
- Sustainable Marina of the Year: Parkstone Bay Marina.
Highly commended: Emsworth Yacht Harbour - Marina Team of the Year: Shepperton Marina.
Special recognition: Dubai Harbour Marina.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, Jon White, TYHA General Manager commented “What makes these awards so meaningful is that they begin with the experiences of boaters. Their votes and comments recognise the welcome, care and attention to detail that marina teams deliver throughout the year. Congratulations to every winner and finalist, and thank you to everyone who took the time to celebrate the people and places that make their time on the water better.”
Now in their fourth year as event sponsors, Paul Knox-Johnston, Sales & Marketing Manager (Marine) at Haven Knox-Johnston, said: “We are delighted to support the TYHA Marina Awards once again. The results show the strength and variety of the marina community, from smaller coastal and inland facilities to international destinations. Behind every award is a team committed to giving boaters a great experience, and we congratulate everyone recognised this year.”
What the winners said
“We’re absolutely ecstatic to win Marina of the Year for the seventh time. I’m incredibly proud of our team and the work they do for the thousands of people who visit us, from day visitors to superyacht crews and everyone in between.”
Kerrie Gray CMM, Marina Manager, Poole Quay Boat Haven, winner of Coastal Marina of the Year (under 250 berths)
“It’s an honour to receive this award. It’s a testament to our staff and suppliers, who work so hard to give our customers a great experience. I’m delighted to accept it on behalf of everyone.”
Daniel Jehan, Managing Director, Cowes Yacht Haven, winner of Coastal Marina of the Year (over 250 berths)
“I’m surprised and excited to win Marina Employee of the Year. I work alongside a fantastic team, so it’s lovely to receive this recognition. I’m delighted.”
Harry Durrah, Emsworth Yacht Harbour, Marina Employee of the Year
“We weren’t sure what to expect, as our entry focused on the restaurant operation rather than the marina directly. This year, we’ve worked to extend our sustainability efforts across the wider business, so we’re delighted to receive this award.”
Henry Cobley CMO, General Manager, Parkstone Bay Group, Sustainable Marina of the Year
The celebrations continued at the ever-popular TYHA stand party, sponsored by IGY Marinas and Marina Projects, where winners, sponsors and guests gathered to swap stories, celebrate their successes and raise a glass to the people who make marinas such special places.
The TYHA Marina Awards 2026 once again demonstrated how the global marina community continues to innovate, inspire, and deliver world-class experiences for boaters everywhere.
For more information about the TYHA visit: www.tyha.co.uk
