WEYMOUTH Harbour is on the crest of a wave with the number of visiting yachts up and crime down on last year.

The amount of cargo handled in the harbour has also almost doubled this year - and the improvement looks set to continue, with better facilities installed during the season.

A report by Weymouth and Portland Borough Council shows the resort's facilities are increasing in popularity for private and commercial mariners.

Richard Burgess, council director of environmental services, revealed visiting yachts staying overnight in 2000/01 increased from 5,221 to 5,563, bringing revenue up £8,158 to £71,370.

He said: "We had an excellent start with revenue being significantly up by the end of June."

Harbour visitors gave 'positive' feedback in a questionnaire on facilities and Mr Burgess said: "The majority of visitors find the facilities good or excellent.

"There were very few negative comments. The berthing information and Yachtsmen's Guide are also considered excellent."

Mr Burgess said since July 4, CCTV around the harbour has played an important safety role.

He said: "The operation is linked with existing ferry terminal security and staff combine their duties.

"It has been very successful and has resulted in numerous arrests and prosecutions. The scheme also contributes to issues like health and safety and missing persons."

The report shows cargo handled was up by 2,773 tons to 5,742 tons.

Improvements over the year include the extension of a pontoon by Trinity Steps to improve berthing facilities for commercial vessels, installation of safer lifting gear for cargo containers and improvements to the pier, including the installation of bait tables, new railings, additional signs and repainting of facilities.

Condor Ferries passenger numbers are down by 25,647 overall, due to the St Malo service being withdrawn after one season last year.

Mr Burgess said: "After September 11 the Government increased the security level at air and sea ports. This will obviously increase costs, although ways of mitigating them are being investigated."

Weymouth Marina manager Russ Levett said: "The numbers of visiting yachts have definitely increased and the size of boat has also increased. We charge per metre, so that means more revenue coming in."