Lough to Lagan Flotilla - Belfast Harbour Marina hosts yacht gathering

by Neil O’Hagan on 10 May 2012 The largest flotilla of yachts ever assembled in Belfast Lough took place on Sunday, 6th May to help officially open Belfast Harbour’s new marina. Over 60 boats sailed up the Lough into the new facility at Abercorn Basin in the heart of Titanic Quarter.

The event, organised by Belfast Harbour, began at 12 noon when 60 yachts and motorboats from across Northern Ireland congregated at the centre of Belfast Lough. They were then led into Belfast Harbour by the RNLI and a Harbour pilot boat, before disembarking at the marina for a BBQ. The marina is Northern Ireland’s largest city-centre marina and will accommodate an increasing number of leisure craft and recreational visitors to the city. Located beside Titanic Belfast and the Odyssey Arena, the marina offers a new dimension to Belfast’s tourism offering.

Speaking at the event Trevor Anderson, Belfast Harbour’s Operations Director, said: 'It is fantastic to see the marina filled by the local boating community. Belfast Harbour is encouraging boats to berth here on a permanent basis and also to use it as an opportunity to visit the city and Titanic Belfast. 'Since Titanic Belfast opened there has been a large increase in the numbers of visitors to the marina and this is something we want to build upon as Titanic Quarter continues to grow.' The marina provides boats a near city centre location with easy access to Belfast Lough.

Facilities on site will include water, power, security and a toilet and shower facilities. Belfast Harbour Marina website