LOWESTOFT Haven Marina is celebrating after achieving the Yacht Harbour Association's highest rating.

LOWESTOFT Haven Marina is celebrating after achieving the Yacht Harbour Association's highest rating.

The marina, which is owned and operated by Associated British Ports, has been awarded five “gold anchors” for its facilities, which include a designated visitors' pontoon, boat lift and onshore storage, luxury showers, access to engineering and repair services, boat sales and a restaurant.

ABP has recently invested £500,000 in the development of a new satellite site in the Port of Lowestoft's Hamilton Dock, which will house 46 new berths near the town centre and is due to be completed by spring 2008.

“The award of our fifth “gold anchor” is a tribute to all the efforts of our staff, who, in the three and a half years since we opened, have worked extremely hard to establish Lowestoft Haven Marina as one of the most attractive and accessible marines for the yachting community on the east coast,” said ABP marina manager Sarah Hanna.