6: Interview with Mike Smith the manager of Torquay Marina in Devon

Question highlights below!

What is a Marina?

Basically a Marina is a safe and secure place to keep a boat secured to a pontoon berth.They come in all shapes and sizes and can be found around coastal location and on inland waterways.The berthing fees costs vary depending on location, standards and services.

What/Who is MDL (Marina Developments LTD)

The MDL team includes experienced and professionally qualified specialists in all facets of marina development and marina operations. As well as the UK base, MDL has offices in France, Italy and Spain with experienced representatives in each country. During the course of 45 years operating in the marina sector we have developed a complete in-house management and development resource that is not only self sufficient but broad in its experience and knowledge.

Freedom Berthing gives you even more freedom to explore any of the 18 marinas in our UK network stretching from Devon to Suffolk, plus over 130 European destinations in France, Spain, Italy and Portugal.

How long has Mike Smith worked for MDL?

I have worked at MDL 18 years in June and managed Northney Marina, Dartside Quay and Torquay Marina.

Prior to that I served in the armed forces for 22 years:

Training and coaching soldiers on fitness and teaching adventure training.

What do you think Makes Torquay Marina so special ?

I believe Torquay Marina is a fabulous Marina to berth a boat.

Torquay Marina is in the north-east corner of Torbay, and sheltered from the prevailing south-westerly winds, so it’s a safe haven for boats, in all weathers.

With modern facilities and easy access to superb cruising destination.

Its a fabulous location to stay at because of its location within easy reach of fabulous restaurants, Theatres, bowing alley, leisure facilities. .

We have been awarded 5 Gold Anchors and been have come runner up twice in the Marina of the Year competition.

What are you excited about in 2020?

I'm looking forward to having all our customers back, they are like an extended family.

We have been really busy over the winter preparing and planning for the new season ahead.

Busy Events and Social Program,

Pre season party

Summer Ball

Rally to Salcombe and Brixham

VE Day pontoon party

Torbay Airshow

Marina Training and safety day

Easter and Christmas family events Crab fishing.

New Plymouth South West Boat Show at QAB 20th & 21st June