London, England: There are purists, and there are those that say “We should just do the right thing here.” Well, this year’s Favourite Yachting Bar Competition was as close as it gets amongst the top two haunts who drew a combined 26,000 votes and hence, we’re ‘doing the right thing’ and announcing that the Pier View in Cowes on the Isle of Wight (finally!) and Plas Heli in Pwllheli, Wales, are sharing the podium for the World’s Favourite Yachting Bar in 2015!

“Yes!!” said ‘Pier View Sue’ Wescomb, the publican of the Pier View in Cowes when Wight Vodka called her on New Year’s Eve to give her the news. “Anyone who comes in from the Solent can expect a warm welcome, great food and drink, and very healthy banter here! We are so appreciative of our clientele and all of those who voted us as the best yachting bar in the world! Thanks also to the team at Wight Vodka and Scuttlebutt Europe; we will raise a glass to our win this evening and ring in the New Year!”

And for those who have not (yet) ventured to 52 Degrees North, 4 Degrees West, it’s due time as this is home to the Welsh National Sailing Academy which just opened this past summer!

Plas Heli, with a brand new venue, brand new bar and restaurant, brand new pontoons, brand new deck and now, voted as the co-winner of 2015’s Favourite Yachting Bar, will definitely see in the New Year with pride. Stephen Tudor, Secretary of Plas Heli, said “Wow! Since opening this summer and holding 7 international events with sailors from 44 countries, our nomination would not have happened! We’re so proud to be voted in and indeed to share the podium with the fantastic Pier View!”

Dan Hiza, co-owner of 50° North, the company behind Wight Vodka, said “We can’t believe the number of people voting this year. It’s fair to say that the Pier View and Plas Heli ran away with the contest, drumming up their members and clients to vote, but we also need to give high mention to the Candy Store in Newport, Rhode Island, coming in a solid 3rd Place. I’ve had a few cocktails myself at the Candy Store in year’s past, and the atmosphere and team there are fantastic! 2016 might be the year for them, but now we celebrate the venerable Pier View and the ‘newcomer’ Plas Heli; we’re raising a glass to your honour!”

About 50° North 50° North are the creators of Wight Vodka. The company’s spirit and enthusiasm for the ocean, coupled with the centuries-old regatta traditions of the Isle of Wight (and of course a full appreciation of superior vodka!) culminated in the creation of the world’s smoothest, 42% ABV potato-based vodka. One sip of Wight Vodka will make a believer out of the most discerning connoisseur, and the company welcomes your joining a unique and elite class.

Visit us on Facebook and www.wightvodka.com

Tack & Gybe Responsibly.