Liverpool's historic docks celebrate 'six-cess' with international Blue Flag marina award

Top marks for quality

We've received the latest accolade from environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy after its marinas in Liverpool received top marks for the quality of environmental information, management, safety, and boating services. 

The water quality within the docks is of the highest standard and is home to an array of wildlife including thousands of blue mussels, hundreds of eels and, during the summer months, a bloom of moon jellyfish.

We've benefited from our team of local volunteers who have assisted with keeping the docks well looked after and clear of litter.

Making a place come alive

Andrew Goudie, our North West harbour manager, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be awarded this prestigious international Blue Flag award for the sixth year in a row, having been the first marina owners in England to receive it.

“As a charity we are extremely proud of our colleagues, volunteers and partners, who look after Liverpool’s South Docks to the very highest standard.

“Research has shown that being by water makes us feel happier and healthier, and this award really highlights how a water space can make a place come alive through water-based activities, daily exercise or spending time looking at the array of wildlife. There’s no better place to escape and visit than the iconic docks.”

Jewel in the Crown

The Royal Albert Dock and Salthouse Dock moorings are situated on Liverpool’s world-famous waterfront, near to the Pier Head and city centre. With an abundance of character and steeped in maritime history, the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ Royal Albert Dock attracts millions of visitors every year.

Both marinas consist of finger and linear pontoons, offering electricity and water supply and can accommodate up to 60 vessels large and small in Albert Dock, with 46 visitor moorings and 20 long-term moorings for canal boats in Salthouse Dock.

Preserving the biodiversity

Sean Morrison, Estate Manager at Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, added: “Achieving this award for the sixth year in a row continues to emphasise the fantastic work of everyone involved in upholding the dock’s environmental standards.

“We’re committed to preserving the biodiversity of our iconic waterfront, and this award reflects the collaborative work carried out across the estate to ensure the dock remains a clean, safe and vibrant environment for both wildlife and visitors alike.” 

Now in their 39th year, the International Blue Flag Awards are the world’s most recognised accolade for beaches and marinas, which assure visitors that they are clean, safe and meet the highest environmental standards.