With the vibrant city of Newcastle on the ‘doorstep’, 24-hour access, and some of the best marina facilities on the northeast coast, boatfolk’s Royal Quays Marina is well worth a visit, or long-term stay says Sue Pelling
Since boatfolk marina group took over the reins from Quay Marinas in 2019, the already highly popular 350-berth Royal Quays Marina facility continues to make its mark and is now considered one of the east coast’s most highly desirable locations for visitors and berth holders alike. With its enviable status as Yacht Harbour Association ‘Marina of the Year’ in 2019, 2020 2022 and 2023 plus The Yacht Harbour Association ‘TYHA 5 Gold Anchor Marina’ standard, it’s not surprising why there’s not only a constant flow of visitors, but also a vibrant community of permanent berth holders. There are exciting plans afoot too with an additional 50 berths in the pipeline for 2024. As well as its sparkling facilities and renowned customer service, Royal Quays is well-known for its busy programme of events including an annual summer party, band concerts, Easter and Christmas socials, and charity events. The Marina team work hard to encourage customers to get the best use out of their boats, and Royal Quays is particularly popular for newcomers to sailing.
Annual berth holders also have a selection of privileges that makes berthing at a boatfolk Marina even more desirable including a National Cruising Pass, which means you get 300 free nights of berthing at any of its 10 sister marinas. Plus, because Royal Quays is part of Trans Europe Marinas half price visitor berthing scheme, berth holders can benefit from that too. They also get two free tickets to the Southampton Boatshow per year (with boatfolk boatshow hospitality), 10 per cent discount on boatyard lifting and washing, and fuel at preferential rates available through the dedicated boatfolk App. Visitors’ benefits include a seventh night of free berthing with boatfolk’s full ‘Stamp Album’ system available through the dedicated boatfolk App.
The marina, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, is open 24/7 including the fuel station (unleaded petrol and diesel) and access is at all states of the tide. This means that when you sail into River Tyne after a tough day on the North Sea you can be sure of a warm welcome any time of the day by its friendly and knowledgeable team headed by Matthew Simms, the Marina Manag
