Is Wales under-rated as a cruising ground? A lot of people and organisations in Wales think so and so they have come together to promote one of the most scenic and historic and wildlife-rich parts of the British coastline to encourage more sailors to visit their wonderful waters.
Jim Wilson, from Wales Watersports International, explained that Visit Wales appointed WWI as its official marketing and promotional partner for the country's watersports and marine leisure tourism sector from 2005-2007.
“We have had superb support from the Welsh Assembly,” he said. “The Government in Wales has recognised the value of the industry -£160 million a year, and growing all the time.”
And Wales was investing in the future of sailing, he added, with more marina berths being built all the time. He hoped yachtsmen priced and crowded out of the South Coast would consider taking their boats to Wales. “It is cheaper in the Celtic Sea, and a friendlier area, too. People are much more welcoming,” he said.
More than £1.1 million has been invested in boating facilities on the River Teifi Estuary in Cardigan Bay in a European Union supported project. Some 200 metres of pontoon has been installed, providing berthing for more than 30 boats, both in the historic town of Cardigan and the pretty village of St Dogmael's.
There's a new slipway in Cardigan town centre for trailer sailers and other small craft, and additional services include a “welcome boat” scheme operated by Teifi Fairway Committee to help visiting boats navigate into the estuary.
Construction is also due to start next year on a new 400 berth marina at Beaumaris on the Isle of Anglesey - expected to be completed by early 2009.
Jim Wilson says that more and more yachtsmen are discovering the attractions of Wales, which not only offers lots of delightful harbours and anchorages of its own, but also ready access to the cruising grounds of Scotland, Ireland and the West Country.
Jim was speaking at the Southampton Boat Show, where WWI is making its presence felt - it is the first stand show visitors encounter as they go through the main entrance into Solent Hall. The show continues until Sunday September 24th.
For more information visit www.waleswatersports.co.uk and www.southamptonboatshow.com
