Portland, the host of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic sailing races, is set to become one of the hotspots for superyachts this summer with several deep water berths and anchorages available during the event. Portland Port, situated at the end of a peninsula off the Dorset coast, has teamed up with superyacht concierge service MGMT to provide a bespoke service for superyachts setting sail for the 2012 Olympics.
Portland port
The Olympic sailing takes place directly after the Superyacht Cup Race in Cowes. By basing the yachts at Portland, owners and charterers heading for stadium events in the capital can now get round the problem of Thames River height restrictions, thanks to helicopter transfers from Dorset into the heart of London.
Amanda Milner, Portland Port’s Commercial Sales Manager, said: ‘As some big sailing yachts are unable to cruise down the Thames, Portland would be a good location to use as a base. Yacht owners and their guests who wish to be in London for the 2012 Olympic Games will be able to leave their yachts at Portland Harbour, and take a helicopter transfer directly into the heart of London, where the stadium events will be held.’
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MGMT Director Mark Upton said: ‘From July, the River Thames and its surrounding waterways will welcome the largest number of superyachts ever witnessed to the capital at any one time.
‘Due to partnerships with innovative companies like Portland Port, MGMT is able to offer the ultimate luxury packages including transport to and from Olympic events, in order to ensure our clients really do have a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Portland Port, which has multiple deep water berths suitable for vessels over 24m LOA, is also perfectly placed as a stop-over destination between Falmouth, the Solent and the Isle of Wight, for superyachts participating in the 2012 Regatta circuit.
Superyacht builder Sunseeker International operates a facility just a stone’s throw away from the Port. Portland Port can also arrange bunkering, skilled marine engineers, coded aluminium and steel welders, electricians and machinists, joiners and carpenters, fibreglass and hydraulic repairs, high pressure washing and diving specialists, shoreside power and fresh water.
The pretty, traditional seaside town of Weymouth is only 15 minutes away. Amanda added: ‘If you or your family or friends want to come ashore, then Portland Port can act as a gateway to the South West. Visitors can take the time to explore the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Bath, Stonehenge and the Jurassic Coast.’
