Dart Harbour celebrates success at British Ports Association Awards

Dart Harbour & Navigation Authority has been recognised on the national stage after winning the prestigious SME Port of the Year Award at the British Ports Association (BPA) Awards, which celebrates outstanding performance and innovation.

This is a significant achievement for the team at Dart Harbour and is a testament to their dedication to the River Dart and the local community.

The award also reinforces Dart Harbour’s central role in South Devon’s maritime industry, recognising its ongoing investment in infrastructure and facilities, alongside its commitment to developing future talent through apprenticeships and regular team training.

The Harbour Master and CEO Paul Britton attended the awards ceremony, hosted by the Port of Dover alongside the Association’s Annual Conference.

Paul received the award on stage and has since reflected on this achievement.

He said: “I am so very proud of the team here at Dart Harbour.”

“It is absolutely fantastic to be recognised by this prestigious award at national level.”

“We constantly work hard to improve the River Dart and give access to the water for everyone, from leisure users to our vital commercial partners who use the port for trade and innovation.”

“This award means a great deal to the whole team and we are all very proud.”

“We will continue to nurture and develop the harbour with enthusiasm and drive.”

The nominations for the award were judged by an independent panel of industry experts who commented: “Dart Harbour was recognised for its inclusive culture and innovative ethos.”

The panel also praised the harbour’s delivery of a new training pontoon for Britannia Royal Naval College, alongside improvements to ageing infrastructure and facilities.

Captain Bray from Britannia Naval College said: “Access to the River Dart remains a vital part of how we deliver the absolute best training to our naval officers.”

“As the College reframes its training around war fighting readiness, it is right that we do so from a modern and up-to-date facility.”

“We could not have done it without the fantastic support of the Dart Harbour & Navigation Authority and their superb sub-contractors.”

This award marks a significant milestone for Dart Harbour and John Milsom, Chair of the Dart Harbour Board, added: “I am delighted that Dart Harbour’s achievements have been recognised by the BPA with its SME Port of the Year award.”

“The award is a credit to the brilliant team that our Harbour Master Paul Britton has developed over the last few years, as well as the team’s expertise and hard work.”