Dover Marina
Set against the iconic backdrop of the famous White Cliffs, Dover Marina is an incredibly convenient location for cross-Channel sailing.
Situated at the closest point to Europe and just 20 miles from France, Dover is within easy sailing distance of the French marinas of Boulogne, Calais, Gravelines and Dunkerque, as well as the Belgian and Dutch coasts.
In addition to its close vicinity to Europe, the marina benefits from excellent road access from London and the Home Counties. Dover Marina is also supported by the port’s own dedicated police service and its three berthing areas are key-coded, ensuring the safety and security of marina users.
As part of the Port of Dover, Dover Marina’s history is substantial and has seen a number of developments and transformations. Currently the port is delivering its Dover Western Docks Revival project which is creating a new marina and will allow access for all tides; assisting in the ease of navigation.
FACILITIES & BERTHING
Dover Marina has 400 berths. There are a wide range of different size berths with a maximum vessel size of 30m LOA and 3m draft. They are a selection of 8m, 10m and 12m finger pontoons plus alongside berthing. Lifting facilities are available using a hoist, which is able to lift up to a maximum of 50t.
All pontoons have electric and water supplies and free WiFi is available to all customers. Berth holders receive eight weeks of free quay storage with an annual berth. All berth holders will also be given a parking permit, Transeurope membership and North Sea Sailing membership.
ACCESS
The marina is accessible by road via the A20 or A2. Dover Priory Train Station is a 20 minute walk from the marina where the high speed service offers journey times of 66 minutes into London. Arriving by sea, when two miles off call Dover Port Control on VHF74 or +44(0)1304 241669 to use the entrances.
CRUISING
Dover Marina strives to make all aspects of sailing as straightforward as possible including berthing and navigation. The safety of all users is paramount. For full details of navigation procedures and to watch their navigational safety video, visit: www.doverport.co.uk/marina/navigation-berthing/
LOCAL EATERIES
Overlooking the marina, with additional outside seating, is Cullins Yard. In addition to offering first class food and drink, this converted shipyard showcases its historical memorabilia and hosts live music and acts. www.cullinsyard.co.uk
Fresh from the sea, by the sea, Hythe Bay Seafood restaurant on Dover’s seafront offers the finest seafood and excellent customer service. With views across the harbour, this five star restaurant is popular with locals and visitors alike. www.hythebay.co.uk
Also within close proximity is DeBradelei Wharf shopping centre, with discount shopping on Dover’s seafront. Alternatively St James Retail and Leisure Park has outlets such as M&S, Next, Nandos and a six screen Cineworld, with more outlets in the pipeline. Both of these are under a 15 minute walk away from Dover Marina. www.debradeleiwharf.co.uk/
Sharp and Enright are the nearest chandlery to Dover Marina, just two minutes away. They are a family business with more than 150 years of experience catering for all marine needs. Both online and instore options are available. www.sharpandenright.co.uk
THINGS TO DO
Dover has a long standing and important maritime history. The Commentaries of Julius Caesar mention the ‘Haven between the Hills’ and evidence that the Romans used the port still exists today in the form of the ‘Pharos’, or lighthouse, on the cliffs on the East side of the valley.
The iconic White Cliffs are immortalised in song, poetry and literature and Dover Castle, commenced as it stands by King Henry II, has stood proud with critical roles in both WWI and WWII.
Dover boasts excellent museums, restaurants and bars and also benefits from its long and rich history which is embedded throughout the town itself. The newly formed ‘Blue Birds Trail’ marks out the historic locations and provides a fantastic walking or cycling route.
The iconic Dover Castle is close to the marina and the famous White Cliffs of Dover make for an impressive backdrop to the town.
Fancy a stroll? Then take to the cliffs themselves for a breath-taking hike with views across the Channel and over the town.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/dover-castle
TRAVEL
Dover Heritage Taxis is just minutes from the marina and offers full services whether for visits in the local area, transfers or long distance. www.dovertaxis.com
Dover Priory Station is only a 20 minute walk from the marina offering high-speed services to London (just over an hour) and also trains across Kent including the sights and shopping of Canterbury (25 mins).
Bus services are available to local villages and towns around Dover including Folkestone, Deal and Canterbury. Regular services also operate to London and can be caught from either the port’s Eastern Docks or Dover Town Centre (around 20 mins from the marina).
PERSONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Nigel Scutt, Berth Holder, Boat Name: ‘Entice’, Berthed: Dover Marina, Wellington Dock
“I have been a berth holder at Dover Marina for the past seven years. There is no marina on the South Coast that offers greater access to cross-Channel boating and sailing.
Any visitor to Dover Marina is immediately made to feel welcome, which is just the start of the excellent customer service that is provided. The staff are always on hand to help.
The location is also fantastic for exploring the local area with Dover Castle, excellent restaurants, bars and museums all within easy walking distance. If you fancy going further afield there are also excellent high speed links, again just minutes away from the marina.
I would highly recommend Dover Marina to anyone that enjoys sailing, excellent customer service and a first class experience in an iconic location.”
**BOX
MORE INFORMATION
Chris Windsor, Marina Manager
Dover Marina, Crosswall Quay,
Union Street, Dover,
Kent, CT179BN
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