Guernsey marinas records strong visitor growth this summer
- Guernsey Marinas has experienced a 22% increase in yacht arrivals in Q2 2025 compared to the previous year.
- The number of private vessel arrivals is set to surpass 20,000, maintaining momentum from last year.
- A refreshed brand and targeted marketing strategies have enhanced Guernsey’s visibility as a sailing destination.
- Infrastructure improvements, including a £300k upgrade in Victoria Marina, contribute to the growth.
- The reciprocal boating programme Passeport Escales is promoting Guernsey to broader audiences.
Guernsey Marinas is celebrating a successful summer season, marked by a 22% increase in yacht arrivals compared to the same quarter of the previous year.
Latest figures from the States indicate this upward trend follows an 11% increase the year prior, signalling the island’s growing status as a prime sailing destination.
The number of visitors arriving by private vessels is anticipated to surpass the 20,000 mark achieved in 2024.
Kieran Higgs, Head of Leisure for Guernsey Marinas, said: “It has been a really positive season so far. We’ve hosted a record number of visiting regattas, and the interest we received at boat shows in the Spring has converted to increased bookings from sailors visiting Guernsey for the first time.”
Guernsey Ports has revitalised its leisure marine brand, Guernsey Marinas, a refresh launched earlier this year that has been promoted through digital campaigns, as well as international boat shows.
“Combined with our presence at events such as the inaugural St Malo Boat Show and the upcoming Southampton Boat Show, we are showcasing our cruising grounds to new audiences and connecting with return visitors about recent upgrades to facilities.”
Improvements include a £300,000 upgrade of pontoons in Victoria Marina, part of an ongoing initiative to enhance ageing marina infrastructure.
Another strategic effort to boost visibility was Guernsey Ports' participation in the Passeport Escales programme last summer, which allows mooring holders to enjoy up to 10 free nights at over 100 marinas across Europe.
“The scheme offers real value for our mooring holders while also promoting Guernsey to a wide audience. This has helped to put Guernsey on the map and promote our excellent cruising grounds to a whole new audience.”
Primary markets for Guernsey Marinas include France and the South of England. Additionally, there has been an influx of group sailings from the Netherlands and Germany.
Higgs also highlighted joint marketing efforts with Brittany Ferries and VisitGuernsey, which have generated increased interest from French visitors travelling by ferry or their own vessels.
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