September 2025 WATERLINE | 29 RATED BY THE ANCHORS WHY MORE MARINAS ARE EMBRACING THE 5 GOLD ANCHOR ACCREDITATION PROGRAM By Chris Stone, Operations Manager Marina Industries Association In the world of hospitality, star ratings signify quality, trust, and experience. In the marina industry, it's the Gold Anchors that serve this purpose, and more and more marinas are setting course for accreditation through the Global Gold Anchor program. Designed to benchmark marina facilities and services on an international scale, the program provides operators with a robust framework to measure performance across customer service, amenities, environmental practices, and management processes. Much like hotel ratings, the Gold Anchor program offers clarity to operators, staff and boaters while creating genuine business identity for operators. Participation is more than just a flag and boasting rights, it’s a strategic decision. Accredited marinas report stronger operational improvements and a deeper understanding of how they compare to others in the industry. Facilities are assessed by independent auditors and rated from 3 to 5 Gold Anchors, with Platinum reserved for the very best marinas across the globe. What sets the program apart is its combination of customer feedback, onsite audits, and over 80 criteria giving operators a well-rounded view of their strengths and areas for growth. It's not just about meeting standards, it’s about striving for excellence. Marinas use the process to refine staff training, improve guest experiences, and align more closely with best practice management. GOLD ANCHOR The Gold Anchor accreditation is your opportunity to stand out by showcasing your marina’s commitment to high standards and customer-focused services. The program helps marinas raise standards, improve performance, and differentiate themselves in a competitive marketplace. Elevate Your Marina with Gold Anchor and Superyacht Ready Accreditation Join the program today to take your marina to the next level. For more information, visit marinas.net.au or contact Chris Stone, Operations Manager, at manager@marinas.net.au. If your marina meets the requirements to accommodate superyachts, you can apply for Superyacht Ready status. Available to Gold Anchor-certified marinas, this accreditation highlights facilities with the infrastructure, security, and services needed for superyachts, making it easier for skippers and owners to find suitable marinas for their vessels. For marinas servicing or expanding into the superyacht market, the Superyacht Ready (SYR) designation, offered alongside the Gold Anchor program, is becoming essential. SYR provides a globally recognised assurance that a facility is equipped, experienced, and capable of welcoming and servicing vessels over 24 metres. As superyacht visitation increases across the region, being Superyacht Ready not only improves service delivery and compliance but positions a marina as a serious player in the global cruising network. It’s a signal to captains, crew, and charter operators that your marina meets the high expectations of this growing sector. With dozens of accredited marinas across Asia-Pacific and beyond, the Global Gold Anchor program, as well as Superyacht Ready, offers access to a respected international brand and community. If you're looking to elevate your marina's profile, gain a competitive edge, and join a program committed to high standards, now is the time to come aboard. Learn more at www.marinas.net.au/gold-anchor or email MIA Operations Manager Chris Stone at manager@marinas.net.au
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