Oban Marina goes digital

Oban Marina has digitised its check-in procedure, employing the HarbaApp to reduce time spent checking in as well as to better protect its visitors during the pandemic.

“Our check-in process was somewhat inefficient in terms of the number of people involved and the time spent on it. We were also unable to operate our tiny reception space due to social distancing requirements.” says Samantha King, director at Oban Marina, via the Harba blog.

Previously a convoluted process taking 20-30 minutes, check-in and payment at Oban Marina is now quick and easy through the HarbaApp as well as through the web browser. Oban Marina’s customers download the free HarbaApp prior to, or upon arrival, and then enter their data only once. For those who do not want to download the app, it is also possible to check-in and make a payment for marina facilities online. 

These technological advancements at Oban Marina mean that the marina no longer needs to employ two staff members solely dedicated to the check-in process. Instead of time-wasting administrative duties, employees can now focus on delivering better customer service, including greeting boaters as they arrive at their berth.

King says: “Harba helped us to increase productivity as well as to improve our customer experience through quick and safe payments and check-in. Our boaters love it.” 

In addition, the HarbaApp integrates with the HarbaMaster marina management software used at the marina which, it says, affords a better overview of its berth availability, reporting and statistics. 

Moving to various digital solutions seems like a natural and essential transition for marinas worldwide. According to King, if marinas don’t move together with the digital age, they will fall behind and miss all the financial gains that digital systems offer. Moving to a digital system can allow them to redirect their resources to more important areas of the business.

“It is definitely worth investing a small amount of time for implementation as it is well worth it. Harba provides an affordable package that will result in long term customer satisfaction and lead to increased productivity.”