Bangor Marina is the second largest marina

Marina

A marina is a dock or basin with moorings and supplies for yachts and small boats.A marina differs from a port in that a marina does not handle large passenger ships or cargo from freighters....

 in Ireland

Ireland

Ireland is an island to the northwest of continental Europe. It is the third-largest island in Europe and the twentieth-largest island on Earth...

 and is located in the centre of the town of Bangor, Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is one of the four countries of the United Kingdom. Situated in the north-east of the island of Ireland, it shares a border with the Republic of Ireland to the south and west...

. The Marina is one of 35 marinas internationally that has been awarded Five Anchors by the Yachting Harbour Association.

The Marina has also been awarded the "Blue Flag" for attention to environmental issues in 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001.

Since opening in 1989, it has grown steadily and now has berths for nearly 600 craft. Sailors are attracted by its unrestricted 24 hour access, proximity in the centre of a quality resort and its facilities and events.

It is in an area that has been known for it yachting opportunities for more than a century. Four long-established yacht clubs are located in the Borough: the Royal Ulster, the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club

Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club

Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club is located in Cultra, County Down, Northern Ireland on the south shore of Belfast Lough-History:The club is one of the clubs on the lough that form part of the Belfast Lough Yachting Conference...

, Ballyholme Yacht Club

Ballyholme Yacht Club

Ballyholme Yacht Club is located in Ballyholme, County Down, Northern Ireland on the south shore of Belfast LoughThe club is one of the clubs on the lough that form part of the Belfast Lough Yachting Conference-External links:* *...

 and Holywood Yacht Club

Holywood Yacht Club

Holywood Yacht Club is located in Holywood, County Down, Northern Ireland on the south shore of Belfast LoughIt was established in 1862. The clubhouse has been renovated several times, most recently in 1998....

. All hold regattas, sailing series and championship events throughout the season.