Marina World - Issue 141 - Jan/Feb 2024

SUPERDOCKS ™

SF Marina is a world-renowned expert on developing new or existing premium marinas. We provide state-of-the-art floating breakwaters and concrete pontoons to anyone anywhere who plans on building a marina with superyacht berths. And who wants it to still be there after the storm.

Zeke’s Landing Marina in Alabama, USA has been regenerated following severe hurricane damage.

Lynne Swafford, talks shop

Marina World FROM THE EDITOR

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Fuel for thought

Our Environmental Products & Projects feature is dominated by the topic of fuel: the alternative fuel sources we could adopt for recreational craft propulsion; the efficiency of its delivery and storage; and how new fuels could impact on marina infrastructure, most particularly at dedicated fuel docks. Establishing fair costs for fuel energy, and the challenge of delivering it in sufficient quantities exactly when and where it is needed, are conundrums facing many governments that impact on populations at both business and domestic level.

As an industry that, by any standards, is a minimal polluter – recreational boating accounts for less than 0.1% of global greenhouse gas emissions – we could be forgiven for resting on our laurels. But, aside from the fact that regulations will come into place to penalise any complacency, the marine industry has long been an, albeit unacknowledged, steward of the environment.

The International Council of Marine Industry’s (ICOMIA’s) newly released Pathways to Propulsion Decarbonisation for the Recreational Marine Industry highlights the efforts that are being made to explore options to reduce carbon emissions from cradle to grave. This is deeply significant as it takes so many important factors into consideration – manufacturing processes, projected product lifespan, recyclability, level of usage, type of materials, and more – and not just the carbon emission of the fuel in use.

For example, if we take our entire diesel-powered boating fleet and swap the diesel for drop-in fuels (biodiesel and hydrogenated vegetable oil), the reduction in carbon emissions will be profound. If we were to take that fleet and scrap it as being environmentally unfriendly and replace it with an ‘eco-friendly’ fleet, the process of scrapping and then rebuilding would quite obviously cause carbon emissions to soar beyond imagining. Excellent compromise rather than broad brush knee-jerk reaction can thus cut carbon emissions and significantly benefit the environment.

ICOMIA president, Darren Vaux, described the report as “comprehensive, peerreviewed research…giving us the data we need to begin educating policy makers, our stakeholder community and boaters on the varied decarbonisation solutions unique to our industry,” and he hits the target by stressing that the report isn’t for every industry, isn’t for any industry, but for “our industry”. The research throws up surprises in its findings that are unique to the use of boats, and promotes the need to consider a portfolio of energy options as no universal “one-size-fits-all” approach is going to bring success.

This commendable kind of industry-specific detailed research is in the realm of the sceptic in its truest sense. Somewhere along the line, sceptic became a derogatory word (e.g. climate change sceptic) but true scepticism is as much about questioning as about doubting. When it comes to protecting the environment, we must remain sceptical (from the Greek skeptikos: ‘one who reflects upon’, and in philosophy: ‘an attitude of doubt’) so as to bring true balance to every solution.

By probing, questioning, and continuously seeking proof of the effectiveness of our environmental measures, we will learn what works and what doesn’t, and that not every shade of green is green enough.

Carol Fulford Editor

Meet the Marina World team 30th January-1st February on booth 821 at AMI Conference & Expo, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

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Launching Norlana superyacht hub

SAUDI ARABIA: NEOM has unveiled plans for the development of Norlana on the Gulf of Aqaba’s coastline. Undeniably exclusive, it will feature a top-level 120-berth marina that is planned as an international hub for superyachts, with water taxi services available for residents and guests.

The community will feature 711 residential properties, ranging from deluxe mansions to spacious apartments and beach villas, all integrated with the surrounding dunes to bring residents closer to nature. It is anticipated that 3,000 people will live there.

A superyacht members club, with stunning waterfront views, will offer fine dining, and a spectacular 18-hole golf course will be nestled among rugged mountains. An equestrian and polo

centre with world-class facilities, and amenities for a diverse range of water sports, including sailing and diving, are to be available to residents and guests.

Norlana will be delivered innovatively and sustainably, with a focus on preserving the surrounding land and marine environments. News of the development follows the recent announcements of Leyja, Epicon, Siranna and Utamo, which are also sustainable tourist destinations located in the Gulf of Aqaba.

Ultra luxury on The Spit

AUSTRALIA: Gordon Corp has appointed globally-renowned construction specialist Multiplex to deliver its $300 million ultra-luxury project, The Mantaray Marina and Residences. Ground breaking is expected soon, which makes it the first development to be delivered under the Queensland Government’s Spit Master Plan.

The Mantaray Marina and Residences, the first development on The Spit in over 20 years, is the vision of project partners Tim Gordon, founder and CEO of Gordon Corp, and pub baron Bruce Mathieson.

“A development of this calibre requires a Tier 1 contractor and our partnership with Multiplex provides quality, certainty, and more than 60 years of local and international experience,” Gordon said. “Mantaray Marina and Residences has been designed as a world-class residential experience and our investment in this precinct will create one of the globe’s most coveted residential and superyachting destinations.”

The Rothelowman-designed residences include a collection of 24 two, three and four-bedroom apartments, villas and penthouses alongside a 67-berth superyacht marina, resort facilities and The Mantaray Club – a members-only onwater lounge.

Designed to Platinum Gold Anchor

standard, the superyacht marina will provide long and short-term berth leasing, immediate ocean passage through the Gold Coast Seaway and year-round deep-water access, top level marina operations, on-site security and full-service concierge.

A retail plaza, designed to create a strong link between The Broadwater and the Pacific Ocean, will connect the precinct to its surroundings and provide access to leading restaurants and cafés.

Multiplex regional director, Michael Sinclair, said construction would commence in early 2024 and would be delivered by a dedicated team of prestige project specialists. “Like many Tier 1 builders, we are selective about the projects we undertake and The Mantaray Marina and Residences is without doubt an exceptional addition to our workbook,” he said.

Prices for three and four-bedroom residences at The Mantaray start at $8.5 million, and the penthouse collection starts at $14.4 million.

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Waikawa extension opens

NEW ZEALAND: Berths are now available for transient and long term berth holders at the all-new Waikawa North West Marina extension in Queen Charlotte Sound, South Island, part of the Marlborough Sounds Marinas group. At planning stage for over ten years, marina construction finally started just days before restrictions came in place for COVID in March 2020. Design of the marina considers climate change, with the potential for the reclamation and breakwaters to be incrementally increased in height should this be necessary in response to sea level rise.

The marina design was also carefully considered to minimise effects on coastal processes. Extensive engineering and physical modelling was undertaken to ensure there were no adverse impacts on the wider bay, particularly the Waikawa awa outlet and delta. Use of only partial depth panels

in the breakwater assists water flow through the marina basin to ensure water quality.

The integration of manewhenau elements at the northern end of the marina and along the breakwater walkway are a testament to the historical and cultural significance of Waikawa Bay.

The new extension provides an additional 251 berths at Bellingham Marine concrete floating pontoons, in sizes ranging from 10 to 30m (33 to 98ft), including some berths specifically designed for multihulls. A notable addition to the marina is a ‘step jetty’ specifically for kayakers, swing mooring users and swimmers.

Tourist-driven marina breaks ground

BAHRAIN: A groundbreaking ceremony for the BD200 million Bahrain Marina project took place in Manama last November. The mixed-use project aims to solidify the country’s position as a distinguished tourist destination by providing options for both permanent and short-term residence.

The marina will provide 182 berths and a 3,200m² (34,400ft²) clubhouse with entertainment activities and marine programmes. There will be 192 retail units, including luxury shops,

restaurants, cafés and a 33-store commercial complex, 274 luxurious freehold homes, 304 deluxe hotel rooms and 1,769 underground parking spaces.

Premier buys leading drystack

UK: The Trafalgar Group has sold its Trafalgar Wharf site in Portsmouth Harbour, Hampshire to Premier Marinas for an undisclosed sum. The property includes Europe’s largest covered drystack storage facility and a significant commercial shipyard that provides bespoke maintenance programmes for commercial vessels and private yachts.

The wider Trafalgar Wharf site is a hub for a wide range of marine and non-marine businesses and will now be known as Premier Trafalgar Wharf. Other Trafalgar Group businesses, including Boat Club Trafalgar and Thornham Marina, are not included in the sale and will continue to operate as usual.

All of the existing operations team at Trafalgar Wharf will be retained and transferred to Premier Marinas as part of the sale agreement.

Premier Marinas CEO, Pete Bradshaw, said: “We’re delighted to add the Trafalgar Wharf site to the Premier portfolio and welcome new team members into our family. The acquisition marks yet another milestone for Premier as we continue to invest and grow our business. Trafalgar Wharf adds new capabilities to our group and we’re confident that we will be able to combine the knowledge of the

existing team and our wider operational experience to further enhance the site and operations.”

Jonny Boys, managing director of The Trafalgar Group, added: “We’re all about doing things differently and putting our customers first. We’re delighted to be handing the reins to Premier Marinas who share our vision to create fantastic boating and waterside experiences.”

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Replacement docks double superyacht capacity

COSTA RICA: Enjoy Group has complemented an aluminium dock system at Marina Bahia Golfito on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica with a floating concrete pontoon solution from SF Marina. The addition doubles superyacht capacity at a destination that is becoming increasingly attractive to owners and crew of large yachts.

“Marina Bahia Golfito is a secluded tropical gem,” said Peter Santesson, SF Marina international project manager.

“During the design phase of the project, we worked extensively with Enjoy Group to ensure the new docks would complement the quality and aesthetic of the extensive upscaling they were undertaking.”

The new array runs perpendicular to a 36ft/11m-wide walkway and consists of three piers that enable the marina to host two 300ft (91m) superyachts, two 200ft (61m) vessels and two 150ft (46m) yachts.

The docks are equipped with 400A/400V power supply, potable water and other utilities in concealed ducts, and individual floating concrete pontoons are joined together with SF Marina’s

innovative connectors that have a breaking load of 2 x 99 tons per joint. The piers are anchored with Seaflex mooring hawsers, which can withstand a substantial drag force then retract to original size.

“We chose SF Marina because it is a well-recognised dock company – one of the best worldwide,” said Pedro Abdalla Slon, marina director. “The project fulfilled all our expectations and looks great.”

Roughly 325nm from the Panama Canal, Marina Bahia Golfito is a private marina offering a wide range of services, including separate crew lounges and eateries and a high-capacity fuel dock that can service two superyachts simultaneously. Enjoy Group has also expanded its adjacent beachfront hotel and has new condominium development and a restaurant.

Partnership boosts nautical tourism

ALBANIA: Premium marina group D-Marin has announced a partnership agreement with Vlora Marina, destined to become the first world-class marina in Albania. The move is believed to mark an important step in the development of the country’s nautical tourism.

Vlora Marina joins D-Marin’s existing portfolio of 23 marinas across the Mediterranean and Gulf regions and marks the operator’s continuously expanding presence in another new country, its ninth to date. The partnership will give customers travelling from D-Marin marinas in nearby Croatia and Corfu access to premium services in Albania.

Vlora Marina, currently under construction in Vlorë – Albania’s third largest city – will offer 438 berths for year-round mooring for vessels up to 50m (164ft) in length, providing muchanticipated marina facilities to the country’s 426km (265mi) coastline.

Complementing the marina itself are plans for an expansive promenade, weaving along the 2km (1.2mi) beach that runs beside the marina. The promenade will feature restaurants and bars, a signature spa, and high-end retail and entertainment facilities. Further ahead, plans could include apartments and 5-star hotels.

Gyozo Lantos, D-Marin director of mergers and acquisitions, described the strategic partnership as an exciting step into a new market. “Customers will be able to enjoy the premium D-Marin experience at Vlora Marina upon completion of the project in early 2027,” he said.

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GLOBAL REVIEW 2023

Renovations, partnership and acquisitions

In 2023, ‘mega projects’ fell down the priority list, with much of the industry looking to renovate existing infrastructure. Mergers and acquisitions dominated news around the world as marinas sought to expand and improve on their current offerings. Charlotte Niemiec picks out some highlights.

A new basin at Dover Marina in Dover, UK opened in April as part of the town’s plan to revitalise its waterfront. Surrounded by the ‘Marina Curve’ – a large outdoor entertainment space completed in 2021 – it is ideally positioned to attract locals and visitors. It offers a total of 160 berths for yachts and small leisure boats. Renovations to Wellington Dock are expected to be complete by April 2024. These will bring a further 135 berths to Dover and complement the facilities available at the town’s Outer Marina.

In Dartmouth, MDL Marinas sold its Dartside Quay boatyard to the owners of nearby Dolphin Haven, a boatyard with berthing services just across the Glampton Creek waters. The purchase was followed by substantial site investment. With space for over 300 boats ashore, the seven-acre (2.8ha)

dry boat storage area is serviced by a 65-tonne Wise hoist, which operates from a purpose-built dock. A 20-tonne

Lighthouse Point Marina in Florida was the first of several US acquisitions last year for Port 32 Marinas.

Wise trailer also operates from the slipway.

James Watt Marina on the River Clyde at Greenock, Scotland secured its expansion plans by leasing around 6ha (14.8 acres) of additional land and water. The marina, whose masterplan was drawn up by UK specialist consultancy Marina Projects, will use the Great Harbour space to develop a marine trade centre.

Marina Projects was also heavily involved in plans to further develop the popular 530-berth marina and harbour in the City of Bangor, Co Down, Northern Ireland. The plans aim to reposition Bangor Marina and its associated facilities as a mixed-use development in a new cluster with iconic and high-quality architecture. The marina will better connect the city centre to the waterfront so as to drive tourism and support the local economy.

Developments kept up their usual pace in the Mediterranean. In Spain, marina group D-Marin added three marinas: Puerto Deportivo de Estepona, Puerto Marina La Duquesa and Puerto Marina del Esta. Each is located on the Costa del Sol and together they offer a total of 1,000 berths. The group also partnered up with Italian luxury yachting group Azimut Benetti to add 1,800 berths

The National Yacht Club in Toronto, Canada invested in a new floating aluminium dock system.

GLOBAL REVIEW 2023

across three marinas in Italy. Under the terms of the deal, D-Marin acquired a significant stake in Marina di Valetta and Porto Mediceo in Livorno, and commenced a commercial integration with the award-winning Marina di Varazze.

Construction work began on Marina Jandía, a new facility in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands. Part of Calero Marinas, the project has a capacity of 310 berths and completion is scheduled for early 2024.

In Portugal, the Lisbon Port Administration improved infrastructure at Alcântara by renovating the floating walkways and installing new fingers. Lindley Marinas supplied, installed and refurbished the floating equipment and added 64 new berths. Lindley also completed rebuilds in the fishing port of Setúbal near Lisbon, where it installed concrete pontoons to replace the existing infrastructure. The contract followed the company’s work at Doca des Fontainhas, where it replaced 270m (890ft) of linear galvanised steel floating structures and fingers.

In Italy, the Tuscany Marine Consortium proposed developing the Marina Arcipelago Toscano di Piombino project – a large marina to accommodate 656 boats of 8 to 20m (26 to 66ft) in length, with piers scheduled to be completed by the end of 2023 and early 2024.

Porto Carlo Riva in Rapallo on the east coast of Liguria, Italy, was rebuilt following the devastation caused by a major storm in 2018. A new 7m (23ft) high breakwater, comprising 170,000

tons of natural boulders, was installed. More than 190 new berths and new fixed piers were added to completely rebuild the port at a cost of almost €80 million.

Marina di Imperia in Porto Maurizio was finally set to be completed after a ten-year delay. Berths along Via Scarincio will adjoin a reinforced fixed quayside while a two-storey yacht club will comprise office space, a bar and restaurant, and an overhauled car park.

Plans for the Marina Arcipelago Toscano di Piombino were granted the green light – a large marina expected to open in 2024 in Piombino. The marina will accommodate 656 boats of 8 to 20m (26 to 66ft) in length.

Across the Mediterranean Sea, D-Marin led a partnership with TEMES SA to deliver a premium marina experience in Pylos on Navarino Bay on

Marinetek completed a new marina in front of the main gate of the medieval walled town of Kotor, Montenegro.

the southwest coast of Peloponnese, Greece. Pylos Marina currently has berthing capacity for 129 yachts up to 30m (98ft) in length. Meanwhile on Crete, Camper & Nicholsons Marinas agreed to provide management, operational and branding services to the boutique marina at Elounda Hills, an ultra-luxury sustainable resort on the Mediterranean island.

In Croatia, the second phase of pontoon installation was finalised at the Port of Novalja on the island of Pag. Marinetek Adriatic installed 18 Premier pontoons and three breakwater modules to complete the project, which offers 190 permanent and seasonal berths. A 60m (197ft) long breakwater was built as the site experiences challenging weather conditions and relatively high waves.

D-Marin installed a visually impressive €1.7 million solar power network to increase its current investment in renewable sources at Borik, Mandalina and Dalmacija marinas in Croatia, and works are ongoing at two of the company’s Turkish marinas, Didim and Turgutreis. Combined, the panels produce 4.9GWh of energy per year – the equivalent annual energy consumption of 1,345 households – which equates to 71% of the energy used by D-Marin across the five marinas.

A new marina was completed

Family-owned Ross Marine opened a 160slip drystack at newly built Clark Island Marina in South Carolina, USA.

GLOBAL REVIEW 2023

directly in front of the main gate of the stunning medieval walled town of Kotor in Montenegro. The investment offers mooring for 142 boats from 8-50m (26164ft) in length at a Marinetek floating marina system.

North America and the Caribbean

Acquisitions dominated the year’s activities in North America, with multiple purchases for marina group Port 32 Marinas. Its first – Lighthouse Point Marina on the Intracoastal Waterway – added 102 wet slips for boats of 25 to 80ft (8 to 24m) and a large popular restaurant with six visitor slips. The marina had been family-owned and operated for over 50 years and had never been up for sale. The group also celebrated the grand opening of Port 32 Fort Lauderdale, Florida in June. The modern and versatile full-service facility was built from the ground up to accommodate vessels of all sizes up to 180ft (55m). The wet slips are designed for vessels up to 150ft (46m) for inwater repairs and refits.

Meanwhile, Suntex Marina Investors acquired Roosevelt Lake Marina in Arizona, Fair Haven Yacht Works and Green Cove Marina, both in New Jersey. Green Cove is a full-service marina along the coastline with around 250 slips ranging from 14-46ft (4-14m). It has a full range of amenities and is situated on 8.5 acres (3.4ha) within a fully protected natural breakwater.

World-famous Rivergate Marina & Shipyard on the Brisbane River in Queensland, Australia went up for sale.

Integra Marinas – a leading owner, developer and operator of marinas in major coastal growth markets along the east coast – acquired The Perry Marina on Stock Island in Florida’s Key West. It is the largest deep-water marina in the Florida Keys, offering 288 wet slips on Bellingham Marine floating concrete docks and can berth superyachts up to 350ft (107m) in length. It also purchased Williams Island Marina in Aventura, Florida. The marina spans 14 acres (5.7ha) and offers 106 wet slips at a combination of fixed and floating docks. Vessels of up to 160ft (49m) can be accommodated with unobstructed access from the Intracoastal Waterway.

Full-service marina and yacht repair facility Bradford Marine’s purchase of the neighbouring Roscioli Yachting Center created South Florida’s ‘biggest’ marina. Key elements of the merged sites include expanded lift capacity via the addition of a 320-ton machine; an additional 5,000ft (1,520m) of covered dockage bringing the total on site to over 19,000ft (5,800m) for yachts up to

Plans for Sindalah, the first luxury island destination in Saudi Arabia’s ‘Neom’ project, were announced. Opening is scheduled for this year.

180ft (55m); and an additional 1,000ft (300m) of covered drystack that brings Bradford Marine’s total dry dockage to 3,500ft (1,070m).

Investment firm Monarch Alternative Capital formed Go Outdoors, a platform to acquire, develop and operate marinas and RV resorts across the USA. The platform will initially comprise 11 marinas and four RV resorts offering over 5,500 marina slips in Georgia, New York, Pennsylvania and Tennessee.

Family-owned company Ross Marine opened a 160-slip drystack at the newly-built Clark Island Marina in South Carolina, with a second phase planned to double the number of drystack spaces available.

In Canada, the National Yacht Club in Toronto invested nearly $5 million in a new aluminium floating marina system to replace its ageing infrastructure.

In the Bahamas, a megayacht marina was announced as part of the $250 million Calypso Cove cruise port project at Long Island. A 200-room hotel, casino, waterpark, 18-hole golf course and retail outlets are part of the plan. Construction was expected to start by the end of 2023 or early 2024.

Also in the Bahamas, an agreement was signed to develop Bluewater Cay Marina in the Yamacraw area on the southeast side of Nassau. Leading hospitality and property developer, Legendary Marina, is on an ambitious multimillion dollar mission to create a resort that will transform the yachting

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GLOBAL REVIEW 2023

landscape. The centrepiece of the marina plan is a 120-slip dock capable of accommodating boats up to at least 200ft (61m) and a dry storage facility for 750 boats of up to 55ft (16.7m) in length. The drystack will be rated for a Category 5 hurricane. The marina will also boast excellent accommodation, restaurant spaces, a tiki bar with a pool, a general store and onsite fuelling facilities.

With the conceptual design and marina site plan now completed, work on the innovative Porto Habacoa superyacht marina and ultra-luxury resort in South Abaco was poised to begin. Designed from the ground up to provide flexible berth sizes and give large yachts generous manoeuvring space, the marina will offer 152 wet slips of 60 to 700ft (12 to 213m) and drystack storage for 200 boats. All docks will have fuel and pumpout points. The marina basin will be surrounded by a range of different residential offerings, a yacht club, a small casino, and a marina village with shops and restaurants.

St George’s Marina and Superyacht Dock on Ordnanace Island in Bermuda officially opened for superyachts in May. The facility is able to accommodate up to ten superyachts and has a 170ft (52m) fixed concrete pier and an additional 140ft (43m) floating dock.

Marina Technologies Inc (MTI) replaced the dock system at Blue

D-Marin signed a partnership deal with Azimut Benetti whereby it acquired a large stake in Marina di Valetta and Porto Mediceo and commenced commercial integration with Marina di Varazze (right).

Haven Resort on Leeward Channel in Providenciales Island, which was destroyed by Hurricane Irma in 2019. The marina, long-renowned for its boutique-style charm and idyllic location, now offers 71 slips for megayachts up to 220ft (67m) at a heavy-duty aluminium dock arrangement manufactured at MTI’s factory in Montreal, Canada. Special features of the rebuilt marina include inslip pump-out, ample electricity supply and in-slip high-speed fuelling using built-in hydrants and mobile fuel carts. This eliminates large and unsightly dockside fuel dispensers and pumps. Wide-ranging services and amenities are offered to marina guests including a crew lounge.

Legendary Marina struck up an agreement to develop Bluewater Cay Marina in Nassau, Bahamas into a key resort.

Australia and New Zealand

In Australia, Melbourne City completed a $1.97 million upgrade of the city’s marina in Victoria Harbour, enabling it to better welcome larger vessels.

Sydney’s Heritage-listed Jones Bay Marina received council approval for an upgrade to address the shortage of marina berths for large vessels in Sydney Harbour and see significant capital poured into the harbourside marina over the course of the year.

The world-renowned Rivergate Marina & Shipyard on the Brisbane River in Queensland went up for sale, as it announced plans for a major expansion to support the fast-growing superyacht industry. Yard facilities include 300-tonne and 75-tonne mobile hoists, a 55m (180ft) refit shed, hardstand, berthing for vessels up to 90m (295ft), a 24-hour fuel wharf and over 20 on-site marine trades. The 105berth marina has all-tide deepwater access. Rivergate’s expansion plans include a 3,000 tonne ship lift, additional open hardstand space, refit sheds and support building, and inwater service berths suitable for a wide range of superyachts, commercial and defence vessels.

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We also supply floating docks and breakwaters

We also supply floating docks and breakwaters

GLOBAL REVIEW 2023

The McGowan Government delivered a major funding boost for the coastal pool at Perth’s Ocean Reef Marina waterfront precinct. The marina’s new project budget of $223 million will see the coastal pool become an iconic new destination, with the pool deck extended and the addition of an architecturally-designed hospitality building. It is expected to be a significant tourism draw for Ocean Reef and Western Australia. Once complete, Ocean Reef Marina will provide recreational, tourism, residential and boating facilities for local residents and visitors. The new marina will have up to 550 wet berths and a drystack for 200 boats, new boat ramps, more than double the existing trailer parking and a family beach.

In New Zealand, Whitianga Marina in Mercury Bay completed an ambitious 16-month renovation and expansion project with new pontoons and walkways, and a unique curved sea wall. The new highlight sea wall is both durable and efficient to protect the marina basin from heavy ferry and yacht wakes and wind-generated waves. Whitianga Marina can accommodate 231 vessels ranging in length from 10 to 24m (33 to 79ft) and is a Certified Clean Marina.

Middle East and Africa

In Egypt, Marinetek designed, manufactured and installed the floating pontoon elements at Ismailia Yacht Marina on Al Temsah Lake, the first marina on the Suez Canal, which will have 96 berths for vessels of 10-40m (33-131ft) in length. The Suez Canal Authority, the project investor, planned to open the first phase of the marina by the end of June and will build a modern service centre and other related facilities in subsequent phases. The marina will encourage smaller yachts to stop and rest in the Canal on their way between the Mediterranean and the Red Sea and is a significant step in the country’s aim to further develop its nautical tourism.

Saudi Arabia announced plans to develop Sindalah, the first luxury island destination in the ‘Neom’ smart city project and one of the most important projects supporting the country’s national tourism strategy. Scheduled to open in 2024, Sindalah is expected to reshape the luxury international yachting calendar by offering a new season for visitors and guests to enjoy. Perfectly positioned as a glamorous gateway to the Red Sea, Sindalah will be the closest ultra-prime superyacht marina to Europe and the Mediterranean. Expected to become an iconic destination for the world’s yachting community, the maritime facility will offer 86 berths for yachts up to 50m (164ft) and additional serviced offshore buoys for superyachts up to 180m (590ft). Superyacht maintenance company MB92 Group entered into a partnership with Neom to establish a 10,000m² (107,600ft²) yacht repair facility at Sindalah.

Finally, Dubai-based master developer Nakheel launched a new marina along the northern coastline at Dubai Islands. The marina, which will accommodate 13 superyachts up to 47m (154ft) in length amid its 248 berths, will have easy entry to the sea and 40 dry berths for trailers up to 20m (66ft). Features include 24/7 dock assistance, complimentary club car transfer, utilities and ice supply, waste collection, pump-out, free Wi-Fi, showers, washrooms and a laundrette. Security systems in place include 24/7 CCTV surveillance and gated access. The newly opened Dubai Islands Beach is within walking distance of the marina, hotels just steps away.

Integra Investments purchased Williams Island Marina in Aventura, Florida to boost its US portfolio to six marinas.

Porto Carlo Riva in Rapallo, Liguria, Italy was rebuilt following devastation caused by a major storm in 2018.

TALKING SHOP

A resilient rebirth at Zeke’s Landing

When Hurricane Sally hit the US Gulf Coast in September 2020, Zeke’s Landing Marina in Orange Beach, Alabama lay directly in its path. While it incurred substantial damage, a dedicated team armed with ambitious plans saw the marina reopen just eight months later. Charlotte Niemiec invites marina owner, Lynne Swafford, to talk shop.

Orange Beach, Alabama is well known as a water sports hub, with yearround warm weather, soft white sand, seafood galore and plenty of activities, such as sailing and dolphin spotting, to explore. A hub of maritime activity in the area for more than three decades, the marina offers the largest charter fleet in the Gulf of Mexico, along with its sister sites Sportsman Marina and San Roc Cay Marina. The marina, which was established in 1988 to build upon its premier restaurant that opened three years earlier, has always focused on charter fishing boats, reserving its wet slips for private boats.

When Hurricane Sally battered Orange Beach with 110mph (177kph) winds, it devastated the region and obliterated many parts of the marina. Only the category 5 hurricane-rated, 220 slip dry storage building stood firm against the storm as the team

Left & below: Hurricane Sally ripped through Zeke’s Landing Marina in Alabama leaving a trail of destruction.

conservation efforts beyond the marina’s immediate environs. “The focus will be on fish conservation, reef restoration programmes and making conservation a lifestyle rather than an effort,” Lynne Swafford explains.

Lessons learned

helplessly watched Sally sweep away all the docks and the dock store.

Undeterred, the team began to rebuild and successfully reopened the dock store in April – just seven months later. The docks reopened a month after that and a redesigned restaurant in September 2022. The marina’s revamped facilities now boast a reconstructed office, a dockside gift and apparel shop, and an event centre, all fortified with state-of-theart infrastructure designed to hold up against the strongest storm. With its new lease of life, the team envisions the marina becoming a year-round business rather than a seasonal one, as it seeks to expand its operations, introduce more activities to foster stronger relationships with customers and extend its

Lynne Swafford

The speed and quality of the reconstruction effort stands as a testament to the team’s collective dedication as it rallied to bring supplies together against all odds. Learning valuable lessons from the rebuilding process, Zeke’s Landing prioritised strategies that would “futureproof” the marina in the event of further hurricanes.

“Predicting storm strength is challenging, so we went beyond current codes,” Swafford says. “We introduced breakaway pilings to minimise the impact on infrastructure if a boat breaks a piling. We revised our hurricane plan to make it mandatory for boats to leave Orange Beach if it is in the cone of a named storm. We installed larger pilings, relocated our dock store and improved our drainage systems. We enhanced our fuel system with triple-

Completely restored in a surprisingly short time frame, Zeke’s Landing has been ‘future-proofed’. The reconstruction also reinforced the marina team’s commitment to expanding the facility.

walled tanks and reduced the fuel lines by 400ft [122m]. We brought the entire property up to code and exceeded code in most aspects.”

Additionally, the marina doubled its parking capacity by obtaining city approval to rezone the adjacent property. “This reconstruction not only restored our physical infrastructure but also reinforced our commitment to growth and to provide a resilient and high-quality experience at Zeke’s Landing,” Swafford says.

Staying afloat throughout

Despite the challenges – and without any grants or financial assistance – Zeke’s Landing managed to keep its customers satisfied during the reconstruction phase. It brought in temporary facilities such as floating docks, portable fuel stations, power sources, restrooms and offices. It did so even as the reconstruction effort overlapped with COVID, causing disruptions in the supply chain and construction delays resulting from labour shortages.

Today, the full-service marina once again offers 220 drystack storage spaces and 57 wet slips

TALKING SHOP

accommodating a wide range of sizes from 24-65ft (7-20m), on two 300ft (91m) floating docks and two fixed pier systems. “We offer fuel at each slip and for dry storage at the launch, including premium fuel. However, we do not provide pump-out services,” Swafford confirms.

Although it is not equipped for superyachts, the marina can comfortably accommodate boats up to 67ft (20m) and it has two Wiggins Marina Bull boat hoists and a 1994 Taylor 90 Forklift. The marina is now operating at full capacity with an

extensive waiting list since 2019, reflecting its enduring popularity.

Zeke’s Landing takes pride in its comprehensive amenities and services, featuring outdoor bars, a full-service restaurant, a dock store, charter fishing, bait and ice delivery, fuel services, fish cleaning stations, an event venue, dolphin cruises, haul-out service, showers, on-site boat maintenance, cleaning and detailing. Its revamped restaurant – now adorned with paraphernalia from the storm, such as fishing rods – reopened last September, along with a new event venue.

The marina’s commitment to security is evident through 24/7 personnel, an IP security system, padlocked access and video surveillance.

In terms of environmental responsibility, Zeke’s Landing has implemented advanced initiatives, including an underground drainage system for the entire property and plans to add a triple stack storage to increase its dry rack slips by 100. Staff members are trained to identify and respond to oil or fuel releases, with spill kits readily available on the dock. The marina participates in regular trash pickups and disposal services, emphasising its conscientious approach to day-to-day operations.

Zeke’s Landing’s story stands as a testament to its resilience, innovation, and commitment to providing an unparalleled maritime experience in the face of both natural disasters and global challenges.

Hurricane Sally heads directly for Zeke’s Landing

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

New research outlines pathways to decarbonisation

The International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) took to the stage at Metstrade in Amsterdam last November to announce new peer-reviewed research outlining a multi-path approach to decarbonising recreational boating.

The research, which specifically looks at marine propulsion in boats under 24m (79ft) in length, reveals that due to the unique on-water environment for recreational boating, and the varied interests of boaters and the experiences they seek, a variety of solutions must be considered to continue reducing carbon emissions from recreational boats.

The research report, titled Pathways to Propulsion Decarbonisation for the Recreational Marine Industry, provides guidance to global governments and boating industry stakeholders as they work together to shape investments in technology and policy.

Decarbonisation is defined as the process of gradual reduction and/or neutralisation of the footprint from fossil fuel carbon. Recreational boats account for less than 0.1% of global greenhouse

gas (GHG) emissions, specifically 0.7% of transportation carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the United States and 0.4% of transportation CO2 emissions in Europe. For context, 46% of emissions are generated by powering homes and industry, and 14% of emissions are generated by global transportation. In the last two decades,

the US recreational marine industry alone has decreased marine engine emissions by more than 90% and increased fuel efficiency by more than 40% - and it isn’t slowing down. Beyond this progress, the global recreational marine industry remains committed to leading conservation efforts that protect the natural marine environment and identifying ways to expand its collective efforts.

“Our love for boating is fundamentally reliant on a healthy and sustainable marine environment, and we must take care of it to ensure the experiences boating provides can be enjoyed for generations to come,” said Darren Vaux, president of ICOMIA. “For the first time, we’ve united the global recreational marine industry around our most comprehensive, peer-reviewed research to explore opportunities that could reduce recreational boats’ carbon emissions, giving us the data we need to begin educating policy makers, our stakeholder community and boaters on the varied decarbonisation solutions unique to our industry. This new research provides guidance on the focus for the innovations we can begin exploring today to create a better boating experience that reduces our environmental footprint.”

The Pathways to Decarbonisation for the Recreational Marine Industry report, commissioned by ICOMIA with leading global engineering consulting firm, Ricardo plc, investigated propulsion technologies across nine common recreational watercraft to compare the impact of lifetime GHG emissions, financial costs, usability, performance, range and infrastructure implications. The propulsion technologies investigated included:

Darren Vaux (left), president of ICOMIA, and Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of the US National Marine Manufacturers Association announcing the new research at Metstrade 2023.

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

• Battery electric (electric-powered boats and watercraft)

• Hybrid electric (internal combustion engines using liquid fuel and electric)

• Hydrogen (internal combustion engines or fuel cell)

• Internal combustion engines with sustainable marine fuels (sustainably produced liquid substitute for conventional fossil fuel)

• Internal combustion engines with gasoline or diesel

Unique demands

Recreational boats are considerably different to most other forms of transport, including automotive (on-road vehicles). Unlike automobiles, which are relied on to get from point A to B, recreational boats are used for leisure and vary significantly in not only how, but how often, they are used (e.g. many petrol-powered recreational boats are operated an average of 35 to 48 hours per year). The research also looked at the impact on cost of ownership based on propulsion technology and, compared to boats on the water today, increases in cost of ownership ranging from 5% to 250% are expected until alternatives achieve market scale.

with immediate, widespread adoption of sustainable marine fuels.

• Hydrogen is an emerging technology and another potential source for reducing carbon emissions from boats, as long as its production process is optimised. Hydrogen, if produced via electrolysis with zero fossil fuel electricity, can reduce carbon emissions for certain craft categories.

• Electric propulsion is part of the strategy to decarbonise. However, it is not universally suitable for all types of recreational craft and use

Due to the diversity of the types of boats in use and the varied experiences sought by boating consumers, from fishing to watersports to cruising, the research shows there is no universal, “one-size-fits-all” approach to decarbonise recreational boats. As a result, in addition to current internal combustion and fossil fuel-powered boats, the industry must consider a portfolio of technologies, including:

• Sustainable liquid marine fuels, such as renewable dropin fuels, are expected to be the most suitable source of energy to decarbonise recreational boats by 2035 – by as much as 90% –without compromising the distance a boat can travel or its performance. Of the approximately 30 million recreational boats in use worldwide, with an average total lifecycle of 40 to 50 years and global annual sales making up approximately 2% of the size of the current market, there is great potential for increased decarbonisation of recreational boats

cases. Electric-only propulsion may have a higher GHG contribution from raw materials and manufacturing than conventional propulsion systems. Watercraft types with lower utilisation are unlikely to find that battery electric systems yield a reduction in GHG compared to the baseline internal combustion engine. It is important to note that this study considers both battery lifetime in years and recharging cycles as battery performance is expected to degrade over time regardless of utilisation. This could impact watercraft that have a long life span but are not frequently utilised as it may require several battery replacements throughout its lifetime.

• Hybrid boats that use both electric and internal combustion engines powered by liquid fuels offer the potential for reducing carbon emissions from boats in certain scenarios—namely boats used for longer periods of time and for greater distances. As a result, hybrid technology provides the most potential for emissions reductions for

boats that are used for rentals and other high-use environments.

The path forward

The new research paves the way for the recreational boating industry to begin educating global governments and boating industry stakeholders on the technologies and policies needed to further reduce carbon emissions.

Key next steps the industry is seeking include:

• The adoption of a technology neutral decarbonisation approach for marine environments.

• An acceleration of the development and distribution of sustainable marine fuels and consumer education campaigns that support the adoption of these new fuels.

• Consumer safety and government entities partnering with the recreational marine industry to establish marine electric technology standards and consumer safety protocols.

• An expansion of R&D tax credits and investments to improve electric battery density and hydrogen research that can be applied to the marine environment.

• Continued research to evaluate existing and emerging technologies and how to best apply them to the unique marine environment.

“Despite our progress over the past two decades, our industry recognises and embraces the challenges and opportunities to create a sustainable future for recreational boating. We are excited to support and encourage the latest innovations to create a better boating experience,” Vaux continued.

“Sustainable marine fuels allow boaters to act now while the industry continues innovating and investing in new technologies that push the boundaries of what’s possible. Through this research and a global education campaign, we’re uniting the recreational marine industry around a portfolio of solutions that creates positive change through multiple pathways and a framework to collectively move our industry forward.”

To support the report findings, ICOMIA, on behalf of the global recreational marine industry, has launched Propelling Our Future, an international campaign to educate and advance the industry on research-driven technology solutions. To learn more and to download a summary of the full report, visit propellingourfuture.com

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

Resilient marina renovations lead to coral relocation

by Marie Guyer and Anne Shoffner

Fisher Island, a private barrier island community south of Miami Beach, Florida, is renovating its 1980s resident marina with sea level rise resilience and the modern boater in mind. Remarkably, the artificial and highly active marina basin supported a thriving stony coral community, creating an environmental obstacle when upgrading from a fixed to floating dock system.

Outgrowing the existing 86-slip marina and approaching the end of the useful life of the timber fixed docks, an overhaul was due at Fisher Island Club’s resident marina. With this renovation, Fisher Island Club seized the opportunity to safeguard its marina investment by incorporating resilient docking features.

In South Florida, the estimated service life for a marina is 30 to 40 years, during which time water levels are projected to change significantly due to sea level rise. For fixed dock configurations, water level increases trigger premature replacement or repairs, creating an additional expense and an unwelcome interruption in marina operations. To circumvent these future water level challenges, Fisher Island Club chose a floating dock system. Floating docks inherently adapt to changes in water levels, as well as storm surge, offering a level

of resilience to the projected sea level rise. Bellingham Marine was selected as the general contractor and floating dock manufacturer for the project.

Optimising berth configuration

The original marina satisfied the market when built in the 1980s, with most slips under 60ft (18m) in length, but the new configuration has been designed for the modern boater, with 80% of slips in the 60 to 70ft (18 to 21m) range and 20% in the 90 to 120ft (27 to 37m) range. Efficient use of the existing basin also

Divers investigated the health of the coral colonies and how best to transplant them.

Fisher Island Club’s fixed slip marina system has now been reconfigured and replaced with Bellingham Marine floating docks to help mitigate problems with projected sea level rise.

allowed for 13 new slips, for a total of 99-slips.

Basin modifications

The change from fixed docks to floating docks, the increase in vessel draft, and the creation of new slips necessitated dredging and removal of previously placed rock riprap. The existing rock riprap, approximately 1 cubic yard per linear foot of seawall, was directly in the proposed footprint of the 8ft (2.4m) wide marginal floating dock and lined the 2,200ft (671m) perimeter of the basin seawall. The riprap consisted of rock boulders approximately 2 to 6ft (0.6 to 1.8m) in diameter and was installed with the original marina.

Through discussions with environmental agencies and review of historical information, it was determined the rock riprap was originally required by the County as a means of creating nearshore habitat as well as providing toe scour protection for the seawall. Fortunately, the State and Federal government allowed for its replacement under a permit exemption without mitigation requirements. The replacement toe scour protection measures have a lower profile to accommodate the rise and fall of the floating docks with the tide. The engineering design and permitting for the marina basin renovations was provided by Cummins Cederberg.

Thriving coral colonies

As part of applying for environmental permits for marina construction in Florida, in-water surveys were performed by the Cummins Cederberg marine science team to document any protected marine organisms, such as

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

stony coral colonies or seagrass in the construction area. Within the Fisher Island Club marina, marine scientists identified several hundred healthy ‘urban’ stony coral colonies, ranging from 6in to 3ft (15cm to 1m), growing on the rock riprap below the fixed docks.

These ‘urban’ corals are the focus of many researchers, who are trying to determine how and why the corals, growing in marina basins, large ports and industrial areas, are doing so well. The stony corals found in the resident marina were particularly hardy and well-adapted to their environment, which was remarkable considering the existing fixed docks decrease light penetration and the vessel activity increases water turbidity, both of which can be harmful to coral colonies.

Coral relocation

To allow for rock riprap removal, the local permits required all stony corals greater than 6in (15cm) be detached from the rock riprap and transplanted to a suitable off-site location. To relocate the corals, it was first necessary to find a nearby recipient site with appropriate water depth, clarity and substrate with enough available open space to reattach the stony corals from the marina basin. A site with relatively shallow water, located east of the island and immediately south of the entrance to Port of Miami, was selected as the most suitable location to transplant the colonies.

Following acquisition of the appropriate authorisations and permits, stony corals were harvested from the riprap substrate and relocated to the preferred coral recipient site. Coral colonies were assessed for size, overall health and growth form. Stony corals presenting signs of disease, overgrowth by an invasive boring sponge species or heavy algae, or with low potential for survival (e.g. breaking apart into very small fragments) were not removed.

Boulder relocation obstacles

Several large colonies of stony corals ranging from 2 to 3ft (0.6 to 1m) in width were unable to be successfully removed from the rock riprap due to their growth form (vertically on the riprap) and fragility. For those specimens, it was determined the entire “coral boulder” would need to be moved. This unexpected setback was overcome through coordination between the Cummins Cederberg environmental

science team and the marine contractor selected for the dredging and riprap, Kearn’s Construction Company, who faced the challenge of carefully relocating massively sized boulders using heavy equipment and support divers without damaging the coral.

With each coral boulder tagged and identified by marine scientists, the Kearns Construction team carefully lifted the entire coral boulder out of the marina basin with heavy duty slings secured by commercial divers and a long-arm excavator.

“Working hand in hand to coordinate the coral boulder relocation was crucial for the success of the corals,” says Kearns Construction operations director, Brock Sullivan. “The engineer, environmental science team, and us (the contractor) had to be in sync to make sure there was no delay to the marina renovation schedule, and more importantly no harm to the coral colonies.”

The coral boulders were placed on a construction barge and transported within a short period of time to a designated area on a breakwater outside the marina basin containing existing riprap and naturally occurring corals. The time on barge for these coral boulders was minimised to reduce long-term exposure to ambient air and the potential for the living coral colonies to dessicate or be exposed to harmful direct UV radiation.

Final marina construction

Over 450 coral colonies were relocated from boulders below the fixed docks in the marina basin. Results from a

The remarkably resilient ‘urban’ corals, which have been successfully relocated, grew on the rock riprap below the fixed docks.

six-month coral monitoring programme required by the County permit documented a success rate of over 95%, meaning almost all the relocated stony corals remained firmly attached to the seabed, were free from coral disease and were doing well in their new environment.

Notably, record high water temperatures during summer 2023 led to coral bleaching events throughout South Florida, and the relocated ‘urban’ corals appeared to fare better than neighbouring natural corals, as they were likely conditioned to unfavourable environments from living in an active marina basin.

When moving from a fixed to a floating dock system, challenges are to be expected. Through coordinated efforts with the environmental, regulatory, engineer and contractor team, we were able to resolve the basin renovations including coral relocation and permitting tasks related to the rock removal and dredging. To complement the engineering team and contractor, having an experienced team of environmental scientists and regulatory experts played a crucial role in providing Fisher Island Club with its resilient marina updates.

Vessels have started to move back into the completed sections of the new marina, offering partial marina access to residents. Construction is expected to conclude in early 2024.

Since 1963 Walcon has proven itself to be a worldwide leader in the design, construction and installation of marinas and berthing facilities,

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

Mobile fuel station pioneers sustainability and efficiency

Swedish company Fossil Free Marine has unveiled a groundbreaking solution that promises to reshape the landscape of marine fuelling. Its recently introduced unmanned mobile marine fuel station, featuring a patent-pending design and EU protection, takes strides towards sustainability and efficiency.

Constructed from vacuum-injected composite materials, the 24 x 4.3m (79 x 14ft) unmanned station prioritises eco-friendly engineering. Its advanced materials not only enhance durability but also align with the industry’s commitment to minimising environmental impact. Recent findings on sustainable drop-in fuels emphasise the importance of such eco-conscious practices in the maritime sector.

The station’s ability to refuel up to four 40ft (12m) boats simultaneously introduces a new level of efficiency. Adherence to the same safety standards as unmanned land-based stations and fuel cisterns in EU water catchment areas ensures a high and consistent level of fuel safety, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to sustainable solutions.

In the realm of maritime ventures,

safety and reliability are non-negotiable and the station has undergone

Marking the installation of the first Fossil Free Marine unmanned fuel station operated by leading Swedish fuel retailer OKQ8.

rigorous scrutiny, with its design and construction verified by DNV according to ship classification standards. This verification adds a layer of credibility, aligning with industry-wide recognition of the need for sustainable practices.

Future-proofing for fuels

What sets this unmanned marine fuel station apart is its forward-thinking approach. Designed to adapt to the ever-changing fuel landscape, it has the capacity to handle a spectrum of liquid fuels. From modern dropin biofuels to the promise of future e-fuels like methanol, the concept has been created to remain relevant and efficient in an industry characterised by innovation.

Recent findings from ICOMIA’s study, ”Propelling our Future” (see p.27) further underline the significance of sustainable drop-in fuels. The study identifies these fuels as the optimal solution for decarbonisation in most pleasure boat applications and use cases, emphasising their superior ”cradle to grave” life cycle assessment. Fossil Free Marine’s commitment to sustainability aligns with the industry’s acknowledgment of sustainable drop-in fuels as a crucial element in the journey towards environmental responsibility.

Measuring up at an impressive 60m³ (2,120ft³), the unmanned station boasts six tanks, providing a versatile solution for various liquid fuels. This capacity not only caters to current fuelling needs but also anticipates the evolving landscape

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

of alternative fuels. Approved for delivery by leading sustainable fuel producers like Neste and Preem, the station positions itself at the forefront of the industry’s shift towards cleaner energy sources.

For marina operators seeking a reliable, sustainable and future-ready solution, the station emerges as a strategic investment. Its compatibility with a range of fuels positions marinas at the forefront of environmental responsibility, meeting the demands of a market increasingly inclined towards sustainable practices. As an option, also available as a retrofit, the marine fuel station can be equipped with up to two modern odour-free grey/black water pump-out stations and a 7.5 m (25ft) extension kit for electric boat charging, enabling two electric boats to fast charge simultaneously without disrupting traffic to the fuel pumps.

Built-to-order, stations are constructed at a leading Swedish composite shipyard, which also supplies the Swedish Navy – thus meeting military standards for quality and construction. Down the line, Fossil Free Marine stations will be shipped as ready to assemble kits, “IKEA style”, for local assembly in key global markets, such as the USA.

The unmanned advantage

Beyond its eco-friendly credentials and adaptability, the unmanned nature of the station introduces a new era of efficiency. Automated processes streamline fuelling operations, reducing the need for manpower and potential human error. This not only enhances safety but also contributes to costeffectiveness and operational efficiency for marina operators.

Designed with a user-friendly experience in mind, the station’s modern fuel dispensers with card readers and app control and short convenient hoses aim to streamline the refuelling process for vessel operators. The automated systems not only ensure efficiency but also make fuelling a seamless process for

boaters, emphasising practicality and convenience in maritime operations. Beyond its environmental and operational advantages, the station also presents economic benefits for marina operators. The reduced need for manpower and streamlined processes contribute to cost savings, together with a low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) due to a service life of up to 50 years, making it an economically viable choice for those looking to invest in sustainable solutions without compromising on efficiency.

The first Fossil Free Marine unmanned mobile marine station has now been in operation for well over a year in a busy marina just outside Stockholm. Operated by leading Swedish fuel retailer OKQ8 (part owned by Kuwait Petroleum), it has quickly become an iconic installation and talking point among local boaters.

Looking ahead

The Fossil Free Marine solution reflects advancements in technology and materials and aligns with the maritime sector’s broader goals. As the industry navigates the complexities of alternative fuels and environmental responsibility, the unmanned station stands as a tangible example of progress. As such, it is not just a product but a symbol of collaborative progress. Approved for delivery by key players in the sustainable fuel market, it exemplifies a shared vision for a cleaner, more sustainable maritime industry. As the industry navigates towards a low-carbon future, such collaborations become crucial for achieving collective environmental goals. www.fossilfreemarine.com

Now a talking point in and around the busy marina in Islinge, Lidingö (right), the new fuel station has been open for over a year.

Cascais, PORTUGAL +351 214 692 024

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+55 21 3942 8828

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

Whitepaper illuminates key

role of bi-directional

charging

UK-based Aqua superPower has released an important whitepaper shedding light on the immense potential of Vessel-to-Everything (V2X) technology for the maritime industry. The landmark report rounds off the Virtual Bunkering of Electric Vessels (VBEV) project, which was funded by the UK Government to assess the financial, technical and operational feasibility of bi-directional charging infrastructure in the maritime sector.

V2X is the overarching term for using bi-directional charging technology to transfer the energy stored by electric vessel batteries to the grid, buildings or load. With a sharp focus on the value of V2X technology for electric vessels, the VBEV project seeks to drive the sector’s decarbonisation and foster the development of a robust marine V2X ecosystem, enabling widespread adoption.

Battery electric vessels have been identified as a cornerstone in the UK Government’s Clean Maritime Plan, particularly for short to medium range vessels like ferries, workboats and recreational boats. Furthermore, these batteries can also be seamlessly integrated with alternative fuels to create hybrid systems for vessels with longer range requirements.

Upgrades at marinas, harbours and ports are anticipated to include charging infrastructure and shore power, dramatically increasing power demand and grid capacity, and reshaping dynamic between the energy and maritime sectors. As the adoption of battery electric vessels surges, substantial investments in enabling infrastructure at both system and site levels are indispensable.

The paper, titled ‘The Opportunity for Bi-directional Charging in the Maritime Sector’, offers crucial insights into the

cross-sector maritime V2X possibilities, including:

• Enhancing energy flexibility and energy arbitrage services to support the power grid, thus promoting renewable energy generation, grid resilience and energy security.

• Seamlessly integrating battery electric vessels into marina energy management, optimising onsite renewables, managing grid constraints and reducing energy costs.

• Revolutionising the financial model for electric vessels by generating consistent revenue from V2X services, ultimately reducing the lifetime costs of vessel ownership.

• Capitalising on the projected growth of battery electric vehicles, advancements in V2X technologies, escalating demand for renewables and the maturation of energy markets to drive the maritime sector towards net-zero emissions and economic opportunities.

The paper aims to underscore the pivotal role V2X can play in the maritime sector and the wealth of opportunities it presents. It also outlines the key steps necessary to make marine V2X a reality, emphasising the critical need for universal communication standards among OEMs, utilities and charging companies to accelerate adoption.

In conjunction with the paper, Cenex (UK Centre of Excellence for Low Carbon and Fuel Cell technologies) has also published a report titled ‘Vessel-toGrid: An Analysis of Revenue Streams and Vessel Archetypes for Bi-Directional Charging of Electric Vessels.’ As part of the VBEV project, this report zeros in on the value of V2G for electric vessels, providing a comprehensive perspective on the immense potential of V2X technology in the maritime sector.

“Aqua superPower is proud to lead the exploration of the future of maritime technology,” notes Adam Marshall, chief technology officer. “This whitepaper illuminates the potential of technology as a transformative force in the maritime sector. It underscores how bi-directional charging infrastructure can empower electric vessels as not only consumers, but as contributors to the grid, enhancing sustainability goals, reducing operational costs and catalysing an industry-wide shift towards clean energy solutions.”

Aqua superPower CEO, Alex Bamberg, explains that V2X is not only a relatively novel concept in the maritime sector but is also in its infancy

in the automotive industry, where it is in early stages of commercialisation with significant research and development projects ongoing. “The VBEV project sets the stage for a groundbreaking UK demonstrator of bi-directional boat charging, poised to unlock the substantial opportunities and benefits that this transformative technology offers to the maritime sector. We are proud to play a leading role in making V2X a reality for the benefit of all stakeholders,” he says.

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

EV charging in the marina industry

Rolec has been a trusted supplier of electrical facilities to marinas around the world for over three decades and, in recent years, has also developed a fastpaced EV (electric vehicle) charging business for the UK market.

Over the past ten years, emissions have been the biggest discussion point in the UK, leading to increased investment in renewable energy. Over 800,000 people are now driving electric cars and a larger conversation is opening up about how much waste we produce as a nation.

As the UK prepares for a net-zero future, demand for greener modes of transport and charging infrastructure increases. The transition to fully electric vehicles means that EV remains one of the largest green tech industries, with the most potential for growth over the next decade. In fact, according to the International Energy Agency, the number of electric cars on the road globally surpassed 10 million in 2020, despite the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend is expected to continue as more manufacturers invest in electric vehicle technology.

Zero-emission transport is not purely a car issue. If we expand our perspective to include other forms of transport, we might be surprised to find out that the most significant thing that we can do to reduce our individual environmental footprint is to stop flying. Travelling abroad is

responsible for around 1 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions globally each year – which is more than the emissions produced by entire countries – making it the next on the chopping block for the environmentally conscious people among us.

With this in mind, the marina industry has the potential to become the saving grace for Britons looking to get away from it all without sacrificing the planet in the process.

Charging away from home

Infrastructure needed to support the transition to fully electric in the UK is not currently meeting demand. This factor was identified as the main concern for EV drivers in Zenith’s EVXperience report, with range anxiety and the struggle of finding somewhere to charge-up on journeys seen as a roadblock to enjoying an EV staycation. Having the option of charging at your destination will, for many, make the difference between a relaxing family vacation and a weekend trawling the countryside trying to get charged up.

It is, therefore, no surprise that, according to new research by the UK Department for Transport (DfT), almost

Operators who put their marinas on the EV map, attract new guests who are eager to access convenient charging.

half (47%) of the available public charging network, or 19,044 charge points, can be found in destination locations. Adding charge points at marina facilities, gives EV drivers the security of knowing that they won’t have to plan their trip around charging, which will encourage them to favour the marina for their next short-break or summer holiday.

Put your marina on the EV map

Around 90% of EV drivers seek out destinations that have charge points over those that do not. If operators put their marinas on the EV map, they attract new guests by providing convenient charging. Another thing to consider is the number of EV drivers who will travel that bit further in search of charging. If you know your area is lacking public charging infrastructure, and most areas are, offering charge points increases the likelihood that EV owners will choose your marina over others than don’t offer charging. Depending on your location, EV charge points can be available to guests for the duration of their stay, as well as being offered to motorists passing through the area. And charge points visible on charging apps, like ZapMap, attract drivers to the marina for a top-up en route to another destination.

Vehicle downtime, although a source of irritation for EV drivers, also opens up an additional business opportunity. A café, mini golf, or even just a vending machine will be much appreciated by families looking to pass the time as their car gets juiced up, and these have the potential to become additional revenue streams.

However, when taking the UK’s high energy prices into account, the thought of giving away more electricity to visitors might seem like a daunting proposition. But with the right backoffice software, charge points can pay for themselves over time. Charging tariffs can be completely customised with segment pricing for different groups, like staff and public; tariffs raised during peak hours; and reserve charge points set up for certain visitors

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

Rolec’s partnership with Wattif provides marina owners with different funding options.

at certain times. This means that the marina can guarantee that visitors will have charging available to them.

Wattif funding

Thanks to its strategic partnership with Wattif, Rolec is in the unique position of being able to offer fully funded, part funded, and subscription options to marina owners, enabling them to install EV charging infrastructure with less risk to business.

Wattif’s 100% fully funded turnkey solution covers the cost of charge point installation, purchase, maintenance and software. Charging infrastructure can be installed without any risk of investment for the business. Alternatively, marinas can take advantage of a 50% partially funded option. If opting for this, Wattif takes responsibility for the cost of installing, maintaining and operating the charge point and also

shares the initial upfront cost. The third, subscription, option provides an all-inclusive EV infrastructure solution without initial costs. Wattif handles everything from set-up to site management, and marina owners can still access OZEV (Office for Zero Emission Vehicles) grants.

Whichever Wattif model is selected, all operating costs are included. Wattif EV will always operate and maintain the charge points, meaning operators can spend less time looking at EV charge point management and more time with visitors.

www.rolecserv.com

“Ocean Reef Marina”, Panamá

MARINAS

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

Adapting marinas to alternative fuel propulsion systems

by Ian Dobson and Esteban Biondi

Climate change mitigation requires widespread changes to reduce green house gas (GHG) emissions, including changes to recreational navigation energy sources. Some of the questions being asked across the sector include: What does the future look like? How do marinas need to respond? When do I need to act? PIANC RecCom working group 217 is drafting technical guidance for the adaptation of marina infrastructure to support the energy transition of the recreational navigation industry.

The fuel puzzle

Front and centre to the question of adaptation is the need to understand which fuel propulsion systems will be used by recreational watercraft in a decarbonised future. The range of theoretical alternative fuels available for recreational boating activities is varied, but very few are being implemented at scale. Potential fuel sources include electric engines, synthetic liquid fuels (for internal combustion engines), hydrogen (fuel cell and combustion), methanol, and hybrid combinations thereof.

Whilst electrical supply systems are already commonplace in marinas,

significant changes are required to address the needs for battery charging for primary propulsion systems. For each type of solution, the supply chain of the energy source and the availability of vessels will determine the marina requirements.

Which fuel will win?

The sustainable propulsion system of choice for recreational vessels will drive the demand for marina adaptation. Recreational navigation propulsion systems continue to evolve as powertrains and fuel technology provide more advanced solutions. The automotive industry was thought to be a reference for technology development, but boats

significantly differ from cars. The increased mass of fuel systems in vessels creates a disproportionate amount of drag increasing fuel consumption, the impacts of autonomy changes are more significant in marine environments, and the use patterns of private vessels are very different from private cars. ICOMIA evaluated the GHG life cycle emissions of alternative propulsion systems in its recent report on Pathways to Propulsion Decarbonisation for the Recreational Marine Industry (see p.27), concluding that “the diversity of the recreational marine industry means environmental sustainability and decarbonisation initiatives cannot take a one-size-fits-all approach related to propulsion technologies.”

Electric vessels are presently the most visible introduction to alternative fuels. There are a growing number of fully electric and hybrid propulsion vessels available to buy on the market today, ranging from RIBs to 90ft (27m) catamarans. Multiple small boat designs are available with full electric propulsion systems, with some manufacturers having a long waiting list. Due to energy density, cost of battery energy solutions and desired range, hybrid energy systems are predominant for yachts and catamarans.

Next to the market, and in early rollout, are the hydrogen-electric hybrids, most of which will utilise a hydrogen fuel cell to provide electric power. There is also much development in the world of commercial shipping, with solutions under development that include hydrogen, ammonia and methanol. These types of solutions are presently considered the alternative pathways to providing non-fossil fuel propulsion to superyachts, even if the 37th America’s Cup will showcase the introduction of hydrogen fuel cell chase boats.

Synthetic liquid “drop-in” fuels, such as biodiesel and hydrogenated

Ian Dobson

Esteban Biondi

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

vegetable oil (HVO), can be used in internal combustion engines, with relatively minor modifications, to lower emissions of carbon and other pollutants. However, their emission performance varies widely due to production methods and source materials. Other fuels for internal combustion engines include methanol and hydrogen-based diesel substitutes.

Since there is a vast fleet of recreational vessels with internal combustion engines that cannot easily be replaced, synthetic drop-in fuels (often labelled ‘transition fuels’ as they are unlikely to be carbon zero) are likely to provide a valuable interim solution to the wider market in the near term. However, the ICOMIA report highlights that the life cycle emissions of the most carbon-efficient drop-in fuels can be lower than alternative propulsion systems with low usage, due to the emissions embodied in the mining and fabrication of the propulsion system itself.

in the decarbonisation process of the recreational navigation industry.

The traditional fuel berth is the most obvious piece of infrastructure to review. It is highly likely that the berth will need to cater for the dispensing of an increased number of liquid fuel types. Synthetic drop-in liquid fuels, which can be stored in traditional tanks, are the most straightforward to adapt to, but a wider variety of fuel storage and dispensing systems may need to be available.

The storage and delivery of hydrogen will require more complex systems for pressurised storage and dispensing. However, aside from capital investment in specialist equipment, operators also face a huge impact on space requirements. Larger fuel berths will be required, with associated landside storage and access space that will absorb commercial space. Infrastructure requirements for methanol may be less demanding than hydrogen, but there are still details to be worked out.

If you think that it is ‘too early to say’ or it ‘remains unclear’ which fuel will win the race to replace fossil fuels, you might be providing the right answer to the wrong question. There is already consensus that the industry will require an array of solutions to meet the wideranging needs of the customer and the medium-term landscape will require infrastructure to support an array of fuelling systems.

Future-proofing infrastructure

The challenge for the marina owner and operator is digesting this changing landscape and coming to informed business decisions on how to invest in assets whilst meeting customer expectations and achieving carbon emission targets (internal or regulatory). From an institutional and industry perspective, PIANC RecCom intends to create the conditions for marina adaptation so that marina facilities do not become a bottleneck

Electric hook-ups at berths are commonplace to enable powering of vessels for ancillary purposes. In general, these power systems need to be upgraded for increased amperage in order to be used for slow charging of batteries (‘drip feed’ charging stations). Marinas may need to invest in new pedestals, wiring and transformers to provide slow-charging berths for some full electric and hybrid vessels across the marina. However, the challenge comes when significant numbers of boats are being charged at the same time, causing increased simultaneity requirements during peak charging demand periods or exceeding the total power demand on the marina electrical system.

This problem of available electrical energy supply becomes increasingly more problematic where super-fast chargers are provided (anywhere between 7kW and 22kW) for electric boats, in addition to car chargers in the car park. The mix of super-fast chargers to drip charges should be assessed based on the customer mix, but also in the context of what the local power grid can support.

New propulsion systems in the recreational navigation industry will require a mix of infrastructure adaptations in marinas. Different marinas will have to respond to different emerging demands, depending on vessel sizes, user profiles and environmental conditions. Significant investments will be required over time, so careful analysis and planning will be required. Whilst there are many questions to be answered, PIANC RecCom intends to lay out the fundamental principles with the working group 217 upcoming report and develop more detailed guidance as needed in the future.

Ian Dobson, managing director of TILT Engineering Design, is a member of the PIANC Recreational Commission and is chair of the Working Group titled – The impact of Alternative Fuel Vessels on Marina Design and Management. Esteban Biondi, principal at Applied Technology & Management, is chair of the PIANC Recreational Commission.

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MARINAS

EVENTS

Metstrade remains essential anchor point

The 35th Metstrade in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (15th-17th November 2023) continued to uphold its pole position as the leisure marine industry’s essential anchor point event. Busy networking in the Marina & Yard Pavilion (MYP), and two well-attended vibrant Marina World sessions in the theatre, reinforced the value of the show for all associated with the marina and yard sector.

Metstrade 2023 comprised 1,540 exhibitors from 53 countries across 11 halls at RAI Amsterdam. There were 240 first-time exhibitors, and 18,630 visitors spanning 130 nationalities.

Croatia was the latest nation to launch a pavilion, bringing the total to 29, and the sector-specific pavilions also increased, with the Foiling Technology Pavilion and Start-Up Pavilion joining the well-established Superyacht Pavilion, Construction Materials Pavilion and Marina & Yard Pavilion.

Speaking after the show closed, Metstrade director Niels Klarenbeek emphasised: “It is an absolute privilege to have the heritage and strong bow wave of positive sentiment from 34 editions behind us, but we take nothing for granted. Our team is committed to ensuring that Metstrade facilitates the connections and business required for a successful year ahead.”

“Without the underpinning creativity and enterprise of the supply chain, we have no marine industry. Our 2023 numbers are impressive but they don’t

tell the whole story. We are particularly grateful to have received so much positive feedback about the quality of the interactions between our audience and exhibitors over an extremely busy three days,” he added.

Pavilion networking

Most Marina & Yard Pavilion exhibitors reported a steady level of visitors and good interest for the wide variety of products on display. David Bayé of Spanish power pedestal manufacturer Viltec, a first-time exhibitor, described the event as very productive.

“Compared to other shows we usually attend, we think it was very well organised in many aspects and there was a large representation of the most important companies in the marina sector. The business contacts we made were numerous and of high quality.”

Mark Coy of US-based dock float manufacturer Den Hartog, was equally

The Marina & Yard Pavilion (left) formed part of a busy Metstrade show (below).

satisfied. “Metstrade 2023 was another great success,” he said. “This is our eleventh year of exhibiting and the event provides us the opportunity to meet with new client prospects, existing clients, colleagues and friends. This year we were also able to meet our Japanese distributor Yachting World.”

Marina World was delighted to host a Waterfront Drinks reception, which was well attended by marina owners, operators and MYP exhibitors.

Looking to the future

In the first of two Marina World discussion sessions in the Metstrade theatre, both expertly chaired by marina consultant Oscar Siches, attention was focused on ‘Marinas of the Future’. Siches was joined by Melanie Symes of marina consultancy Innovamarina and Patrick Lindley, CEO of Portuguese marina builder Grupo Lindley. The key issues of operational stumbling blocks, sustainability, and best use of data were amongst topics discussed.

Siches on operations: “We should spend time teaching Government how to deal with marinas. Government has never understood marinas. There are exceptions but boating is still considered a sport for people with money. And we are probably the least polluting sport in the world, especially sailing.”

Symes on sustainability: “I think we need to look outdoors – outside

our comfort zone. We need to be proactive and we don’t have the innate knowledge so we are going to have to ask.”

Lindley on building sustainably:

“Part of our role is to help marina owners manage infrastructure more efficiently. We’ve been looking at materials and starting to measure carbon footprint and we are surprised by some new findings. The carbon footprint of concrete and aluminium, for example, are very similar and I’m getting data that tells me that tropical hardwood has the same carbon footprint as composites.”

In terms of data usage, Symes pointed out the value of using data from diverse sources, e.g. oceanographic data, and Lindley emphasised that “data is measuring the path, not predicting the future.”

The future of marinas in many parts of the world is also affected by concession terms – another reason for tightening up good relations with local councils and Government. Lindley emphasised that a path needs to be found that encourages investment in

EVENTS

infrastructure in the end stages of a concession.

Discussing diversity

Franco Ceroici of Italian dockside equipment manufacturer Plus International joined Oscar Siches to discuss the merits of diversity within the marina workforce. Idan Cohen of Pick-a-Pier, scheduled as the third presenter, was unfortunately unable to travel from Israel due to the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Siches, a well-travelled Argentine who has lived in Mallorca, Spain for many years, gave a fascinating slide presentation explaining the diversity issue:

“It is estimated that 80-85% of our perception and learning are facilitated

through our visual sense. Vision is important for many different skills including interacting with others, spotting danger or opportunities to play, eat, sleep, finding things we need, reading, writing etc.” But what we ‘see’ doesn’t give us the full picture. “A minority position [in society] often makes you ‘racialised’ before you’re allowed access to your ethnic identity. While in their home countries they were Moroccan or Jordanian or Algerian, they come to the EU – and they’re Arabs.”

“Diversity recognises that people are unique and that each person is different in a visible and non-visible way. The qualifiers include race, nationality, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age and disability.”

How can we embrace diversity?

Current staff shortage might actually help. Ceroici, a Slovenian brought up in Italy, noted: “Diversity is very small in the European workforce, but now it’s harder to get staff, employees are coming in from other parts of the world.” But we need to ‘individualise’ rather than ‘generalise’ these new recruits. “It’s important to greet and acknowledge people; make them visible,” Siches emphasised. “We have a duty to reeducate – the cleaner and the CEO both go to the barbecue.”

The problem with diversity is within companies. “Your marina is a mini America – different people and different cultures. We are permanently being judged by the community and they have more power than us. Gender, religion – everything enhances your marina,” Siches concluded.

Oscar Siches (standing) with Patrick Lindley and Melanie Symes discuss marinas of the future.

Franco Ceroici (left) and Oscar Siches fully engage the audience in highlighting blinkered views on diversity that rob us of the chance to enhance our lives and businesses.

COMPANY UPDATE

Keeping it in the family

UK-based WISE Handling looks to the future with new managing director, Paul Illingworth, at the helm. Officially engaged in August 2023, he spent his first six months meeting customers, reviewing service policy and overseeing work on a variety of new orders.

A retired colonel, Illingworth served for 35 years in the British Army, graduating as an explosives engineer with the Royal Logistics Corps, and ending his army career in the General Staff as head of the Ministry of Defence department responsible for all procurement, training and safety for the UK’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Search community.

As an ‘Illingworth’ he was, however, perhaps destined to have a second challenging career. WISE, established in 1972, is an acronym of Watson, Illingworth & Sutcliffe Engineering and has always been owned and operated by this triumvirate ‘family’. Peter Illingworth, Paul’s father, used his schoolboy son for free labour to clean out the company van, Paul recalls whimsically, and whilst still at school he completed a project to design a

boat cradle that WISE then put into production. He worked during school holidays in the drawing office supporting chief engineer Keith Tubman –but adventure in the army beckoned.

As part of WISE succession planning, Illingworth was invited for interview in December 2022 to replace Barrie Sutcliffe as managing director. He passed the test, but sadly was unable to benefit from the intended extended handover due to Sutcliffe’s untimely death last year.

Looking back

WISE started out manufacturing cantilever racks for the steel industry but, after just a year of operation, built and delivered its first marine hoist to Ridge Wharf Yachting. In 1977, the company clinched its first overseas order, for Vilamoura Marina in Portugal.

In the 1970s and 80s, the marine business raced ahead of the racking business and became the company’s primary division, and over the next two decades the company expanded its manufacturing facilities in West Yorkshire where machining, shot blasting, fabrication, hydraulic assembly, painting and product testing are conducted.

The portfolio

WISE products cover a complete range of marine hoists, amphibious marine hoists, self-powered slipway hoists, tractor-towed trailer hoists, boat transporters and industrial hoists. Lift capacity varies by product from 10 to 800 tonnes, with variable width and bespoke frame sizes available to order. Across the powered range it offers the latest Tier 5 diesel engines and battery power as a further option. Remote operation is via a Scanreco handset, linked into the hoist electronics pack to give remote diagnostic monitoring of functions.

All designs incorporate durable components that are suited to harsh marine environments. Selected use is made of galvanising, bronze, 316 stainless steel and other maintenancefree components.

A Wise hoist is integral to operations at Phuket Boat Lagoon in Thailand.

Paul Illingworth

HMS

Talking to Paul Illingworth

On company strengths:

As a family owned and run organisation, there are distinct advantages regarding the governance of the business and the freedoms at the disposal of the directors and I have been amazed by the passion of the staff to support our customers. There is a huge amount of loyalty to the brand and that is borne out in examples of length of service of key members of staff, such as Malcolm Chapman who recently celebrated 50 years with WISE.

The company is also fortunate to have some new young talent and this is a key focus area we are continuing to invest in, a recent example of which has been the appointment of a new service manager and a design apprentice.

During the first month of my tenure, it was great to meet several of our customers during a tour of the south coast of England and northern Europe and gain operational feedback from the

COMPANY UPDATE

coal face. My primary focus as the new WISE managing director is to ensure we continue to meet our customer requirements and deliver the highest standards of support. The technology employed in our new machines gives us the ability to remotely monitor performance and adjust settings, and we also have a wealth of data that we are beginning to exploit in support of effects based/preventative maintenance.

We will, of course, be judged by our performance, but I am acutely aware of the impact to operational output when a key piece of machinery is off the road and am keen to work closely with our customers to mitigate such impacts.

On export:

As a UK manufacturer our home base is our strongest market, followed by Europe, the Middle East and Asia. China offers an interesting prospect upon which to build existing sales, and South America and Africa are new markets worth exploring. We have recently seen an increasing demand in the industrial sector with orders from Rolls Royce, Siemens and Urenco amongst others. This gives us a unique opportunity to reverse engineer technology

Rear Admiral Asquith CB takes command of HMS Raleigh’s SP25 controls as VIP guest for the hoist commissioning day.

employed in our bespoke industrial products into the marine range.

On hybrid and electric:

Personally, I have not witnessed a seismic shift from diesel power to hybrid/electric. The vast majority of enquiries in 2023 were for diesel and those who expressed an interest in hybrid/electric are nervous about the ability to sustain duty cycles in busy yards and the life/cost of a replacement battery. There is no doubt an underlying intent to transition to green energy. However, whereas the balance has tipped in the car industry, the boat handling market is still in the very early stages of transition.

Raleigh’s new SP25 self-powered slipway hoist delivered in December 2023.

A W50 hoist for Vlaamse Yachthaven Nieuwpoort in Belgium undergoing function and factory load testing before despatch this month (January).

On hoist trends:

There is definitely a trend for larger capacity hoists. In analysing WISE repeat orders over the past 50 years, we have seen a 20% growth in capacity. This trend is also recognised in broader beams in particular market areas as boat owners switch to catamarans and demand grows in the crew transfer vessel market. The WISE variable width range offers customers the flexibility to cater for a broad span of boats and, coupled with an ability to operate on slipways, has the potential to reduce the infrastructure costs of building a wider dock.

On materials and quality:

As a UK manufacturer and member of Made in Britain we have a drive to source UK products where possible. Our experience of working with customers in the nuclear, aviation and defence sectors has given us a deep understanding of exacting quality

subject to routine independent quality testing to assure certification. All WISE products come fully CE certified in accordance with BS EN 15011:2020 ‘Crane, bridge and gantry crane’ standards and the company operates to ISO 9000 Quality Management standards.

Ongoing success

Last year was a busy year for WISE, with the final quarter seeing deliveries of a trailer hoist to Emsworth Marina (UK), and three self-powered slipway hoists to Castlepoint Boatyard and FM Marina in the Republic of Ireland, and HMS Raleigh in Cornwall, UK. Factory load testing was successfully completed for a W50 marine hoist due for dispatch to Vlaamse Yachthaven Nieuwpoort in Belgium this month (January) and a new BT25 boat transporter design is nearing completion for Lymington Yacht

COMPANY UPDATE

Left: A W320 hoist working at integrated marine services company Base Marine in Exmouth, Western Australia. Below: A 25 tonne industrial hoist specifically built for Rolls Royce.

is a W60 marine hoist for Premier Marina’s Chichester Marina in the south of England, and the second a W300 marine hoist for a Saudi Arabian customer.

When asked what practical advice Illingworth would give to a yard manager looking to purchase a new piece of yard machinery, he says: “Talk to us. The process of buying a hoist can be a complicated one, and a large capital investment that needs to deliver to expectations. Getting the right specifications to meet the operational demands of the marina is vitally important and cannot be decided on without the right level of consultation.”

If your chosen hoist proves to be the right choice, it’s a solid investment.

Marine

in the UK has recently bought a second WISE hoist to replace a WISE machine purchased in the early 1970s. Forty years of solid service represent the level of quality that Paul Illingworth values – “and we are looking forward to the next repeat order in 2064!” he smiles.

Dickies

Services

New transporter –fit for a Princess

A brand new heavy-duty self-propelled HBC45M HF recently rolled out of the Roodberg factory in the Netherlands.

The customised transporter, with a capacity of 45 tons, was built for Benny and Jessica Martinsson, owners of four

Rental service boost in South Florida

Princess dealerships in Scandinavia and thus the third largest distributor for Princess Yachts. The couple already

Port 32 Marinas, a leading owner, operator, developer and acquirer of a growing collection of marinas in Florida, has expanded boat rental services at its facilities in Tierra Verde, Naples, Cape Coral and Marco Island.

The company’s fleet of newer and larger boats from trusted brand names is designed to suit busy families, frequent travellers and avid boaters. Each boat is outfitted with top-of-the-line technology and comfort amenities and is kept in optimal performing condition. Boaters can choose between half or full day rates. Pricing for a half day ranges from $275 to $399 and a full day from $350 to $525 depending on locations and boat type.

“We are thrilled to expand our boat rental amenities at our southwest Florida marinas,” says CEO Austin Schell. “From beginners to seasoned boaters, we aim to create world-class boating experiences for the waterfront communities we serve.”

Additionally, through its partnership with Gulfstream Boat Club, Port 32 offers boat rentals at its other Florida locations including Lighthouse Point Marina, Tierra Verde, Tampa and Palm Beach Gardens.

owned around seven Roodberg products due to company take-overs and were thus familiar with the quality of the brand.

The Martinssons discussed their need for a transporter with higher capacity, self-drive and remote control functions at Metstrade 2022. With the yachts getting ever bigger, adjustments were required in the way they are handled and, despite having sufficient manpower available, they both liked the idea of Benny being able to singlehandedly transport and stow a boat safely and in optimal condition from the boat crane to the storage hall.

All work, from concept drawings, welding, coating, motorisation to automation took place in-house in a few months and the Princess dealers flew to the Netherlands to personally receive the new machine. A smiling Benny, with his hands-on mentality, was able to check and try out all the technical aspects and, after some last-minute adjustments, the HBC45M was on its way to Sweden by special transport in October 2023.

www.roodberg.com

Freedom adds two Sydney clubs

Freedom Boat Club has opened two new locations on Australia’s Sydney Harbour: Freedom Boat Club Mosman Bay at Mosman Bay Marina and Freedom Boat Club Manly at North Harbour Marina. Both locations will be corporate-owned and add to Freedom’s growing Asia-Pacific business, which now has nine locations.

“We are thrilled to be expanding our presence on Sydney Harbour by opening at these two iconic and unique marinas set within the heart of the local community,” said David Kurczewski, general manager shared services Asia-Pacific. “Both locations are highly sought-after and give our members additional opportunities to explore Sydney’s Waterways and provide truly local boating opportunities for more of the broader Sydney region.”

“We’re inspired by the support from our marina partners as we expand the Freedom brand on Sydney Harbour and throughout Australia. We look forward to

continuing to deliver remarkable member experiences and seeing our members create incredible memories on the water this season and beyond.”

The new clubs, which opened in December 2023 for the peak of the Australian boating season, grant unique access to Sydney Harbour. Mosman Bay Marina is highly regarded as one of Sydney’s most desirable marinas enabling Freedom to offer its innovative boating model in the heart of Lower North Shore neighbourhoods. North Harbour Marina serves as the boating hub of Sydney’s famous Northern Beaches.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Safe storage for lithium batteries

Lithium battery fires on boats are not just a risk, they are a reality. Incidents causing the destruction of multiple yachts are now a weekly occurrence, according to iAqua Ocean Safety, manufacturers of the iAqua Lithium Safety Store, a product engineered to prevent these disasters.

If marinas mandate the use of the Lithium Safety Store for all boats, this policy not only enhances the protection of individual vessels but safeguards the entire marina from the domino effect of spreading fires, setting a new benchmark in maritime safety. They can also tap into a profitable venture by providing the stores for rent.

As lithium batteries age, they become more vulnerable to fires. Tiny cracks can form in their casings, allowing seawater or salt moisture to seep in, creating a high risk of spontaneous and uncontrollable fires. Even new batteries aren’t immune, especially when charged with high-capacity, quick chargers provided by manufacturers to

The Lithium Safety Store, available in different, stackable sizes, contains vulnerable batteries and any ensuing fire, and has early warning alarms and fire-suppression.

Lithium battery fires on boats are now a frequent occurrence and can spread alarmingly quickly.

shorten charging times.

The Lithium Store took years to develop and is backed by multiple patent applications covering the usage of ground-breaking materials and unmatched construction levels to contain violent lithium fires of up to 2,000°F/1,100°C; and rapid-response advanced communications to give essential early warnings of fire.

Each store is built with a 1in (2.5cm) thick wall fortified with Kevlar to give intense heat resistance and blast protection. The UL 94VO rated insulation core ensures heat remains contained, and a sleek, high gloss glass fibre or carbon finish adds strength and enhances the appearance of the box. Thanks to its heat-blocking construction, the unit can be comfortably moved using standard protective safety wear so that it can be relocated to an open area or, if necessary, discarded overboard.

The stores are also equipped with early warning systems and fire-suppression and have a built-in water inlet fire extinguishing port that allows any unit to be manually flooded via a one-way inlet valve. And each comes with a handheld digital infrared temperature reading gun operating from 58°F to 932°F (-50° to 500°C), with backlight for day/night usage. Heat can thus be monitored from a distance to enhance safety.

Three different sizes are available in stackable designs with carrying handles to make each convenient to use and tidy to store – and installing the Safety Store onboard, not only protects the boat and the marina but can also reduce vessel insurance premiums.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Eco pedestals promoted for export

Spanish company Viltec further promoted its Marconn power pedestal range at Metstrade last November. Launched in 2018, and the recent recipient of some first prize awards for sustainability, innovation and emerging technology, the product is marketed as 100% sustainable – for a variety of reasons.

Marconn is ‘eco intelligent’; improving efficiency and control of power and water consumption to promote environmental awareness among users. Key features include: centralised access control and connection from the marina office; easy maintenance with 360° technical access; grounddirected perimeter LED lighting; individual water and electricity meters and antitheft system; warning to the user of excessive consumption and disconnections; and monthly bill payment or pre-pay bill via an app.

Each pedestal can service up to ten users and the Marconn platform has app and web

for multiple customers. A remote control and management system is also offered. Wi-Fi connection points are incorporated in all units.

Marconn pedestals installed at Port d’Aro in Spain (left) and at Horizon Marina in France (below).

But perhaps the most striking feature is the sustainable and reusable pedestal housing (two pedestals in each of two categories – Urban and Oceanic). The Oceanic pedestals either incorporate recycled fishing nets or bottle caps reclaimed from land and sea. Over 580,000 of the latter, equivalent to 1.5 tons of recycled materials have been used to date. The shells are made of polyethylene, which is non-toxic, does not chip, crack or absorb water, and resists impact and solar rays. Mass colour guarantees that the pedestal colour will not fade.

Thanks to their design, supply intakes can be positioned to suit customer requirements and operators can also select the type of socket used. Logos or images can be incorporated in the casing and the top door, as well as the registration doors, which offer ample space for lettering or advertising. Any other functional information, such as mooring numbers, can also be incorporated.

Real-time management comes via a cloud-based intuitive, multiplatform web application and users can download the Marconn app for full control of their utilities’ usage.

Pedestals can be customised to suit any environment. In the BeCharter Cambrils project in Tarragona, for example, a pedestal was manufactured for wall-mounting.

Viltec looks after customers by offering regular maintenance and swift spare parts supply, and looks after the environment by planting a tree for every pedestal it installs. Marconn pedestals, fully available for export, have been tried and tested in several Spanish marinas including Port d’Aro (Girona); Port Ginesta (Castelldefels); and Port Forum (Barcelona). www.viltec.net

FIRST PORT OF CALL FOR MARINA PROFESSIONALS

The Marina & Yard Pavilion is a specialised pavilion at the METSTRADE Show; the world’s largest marine equipment trade show. The MYP has been showcasing marina specific equipment for over a decade, ranging from pontoon and boat mooring systems to safety equipment and dock fenders. As the marina industry hot spot at the METSTRADE Show, this is where you meet marina professionals from around the world.

PAVILION METSTRADE

MARINA & YARD

Marina World official media partner

Man Overboard alarm readies for export

The Man Overboard Marina Alarm System, designed by Melbourne-based Paul Williams, was developed in prototype form in 2018. In 2019, Williams partnered with fellow Australian manufacturer, DEK Technologies, to deliver a high tech alarm system with an intuitive user interface.

Now, having undergone 18 month tests at Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron (Australia) – where it has already saved a life – and Westhaven Marina (Auckland, New Zealand), the system is ready to go into full commercial production.

The concept is a deceptively simple

solution for marina owners and operators to mitigate risk if someone falls into the water from the dock or a berthed boat. The person in distress pulls on a rope (pull switch) that runs underneath the whole length of the dock edge. This activates an audible alarm and strobe light that alerts anyone

Installing the Man Overboard alarm on its orange pole (left) and the completed project (below).

nearby, and sends a signal to the base station.

Immediate texts and emails are then sent out to up to six people that the marina has pre-programmed into the system, along with cascading phone calls. If no one is available, emergency services are contacted.

The system is completely wireless and powered by renewable energy, and has a ‘heartbeat’ that signals every hour to reassure the monitors that the alarm is live.

Williams, who was actively discussing the concept at Metstrade last November, cautiously eyes export opportunities. “I believe we are ready to go global,” he tells Marina World. “[However], this is a technical system that requires a fair amount of installation work and pre-programming from a technical end. As our technology evolves, hopefully so will the ease of installation.”

www.manoverboard.net.au

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Smart Marinas guide…

The International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) Marinas Group (IMG) has produced a Smart Marinas Guide. Produced by IMG members to assist marinas in navigating digital transformation, it looks at the future of marinas, why the move to digital matters, why everyone is talking about it, and what marinas can start doing now to prepare.

Martinho Fortunato of IMG said:

The Smart Marinas Programme was first introduced to IMG in October 2019 in light of a pressing need for the marina industry to respond to technological developments, such as digital transformation processes that enhance efficiency and seamless user experiences across the transportation and hospitality industries.”

“We realised that there is clearly

considerable scope for ICOMIA to assume a global role in developing programmes on crucial marina-related issues, such as interconnection, data collection and sustainability.”

The document aims to kick off the process for future work needed in terms of regulation, policy making and development of best practices, outlining the vision and defining some basic terms.

…and 2022 industry statistics

ICOMIA has also released the latest edition of its Recreational Boating Industry Statistics, a much-valued reference document that offers a wealth of industry intelligence.

The report indicates that throughout 2022 boat sales were still elevated despite fiscal pressure from inflationary increases. Demand for new boats continued to outweigh supply.

Recruitment and retention of staff in all areas of the industry remained sluggish, with both large and small companies considering workforce challenges to be a significant concern.

A wider emergence of alternative boat propulsion technologies was reported, as was an increased shift towards charter, boat rental and boat sharing opportunities, particularly among younger boaters.

Highlights include:

• 2023 global data snapshot and a comprehensive market overview

• Detailed national reports from 25 countries

• Global summaries of key product segments

• Import/export data for the international boat trade

• Marine engine statistics from ICOMIA’s Marine Engine Committee

• International boat show statistics

• The Superyacht Group’s annual report

• Industry articles selected by IBI magazine

• Raw-data spreadsheets

The IMG Smart Marinas Guide can be downloaded free of charge, and the Statistics Report is priced at €880 (50% discount to ICOMIA members). www.icomia.org

Dura adds smaller size mesh

UK-based GRP marine products supplier Dura Composites has added a new 30mm Mini Mesh product to its d² GRP grating range.

Available in popular and efficient panel sizes of 3007 x 1027 and 4027 x 1267mm, the 30mm product comes in green, grey, dark grey and sand colours to suit a wide range of environments. As with the entire Mini Mesh range, the 13mm open hole size meets requirements of the European Ball Fall tests, and it still maintains a 900mm span on 1.5Kn point load at L/100.

d², a patented GRP grating series designed, developed and available exclusively from Dura Composites, is known for safety, strength and swift installation. It has advanced anti-slip properties and is anti-corrosive making it ideally suited to harsh maritime conditions. Its composition has been safety tested to over one million footfalls.

Dura Composites claims that, as well as its small hole size, safety features and impressive strength-to-weight ratio, 30mm Mini Mesh uses 17.33% less embodied carbon than the 30mm grating available elsewhere in the industry, making it a sustainable choice.

A 30mm Mini Mesh product was available as part of an earlier grating range several years ago but now, as part of the d² range, it has been designengineered for maximum performance and efficiency.

www.duracomposites.com

Storm protection in Quincy Bay

Safe Harbor Marina Bay in Quincy Bay, seven miles south of Boston, Massachusetts, now benefits from an SF Marina floating concrete breakwater system.

Marina Bay’s west basin has a long history of recurring storm damage and the new breakwater is engineered to overcome extreme weather events. It not only protects the marina’s floating timber docks and fingers from the area’s numerous seasonal storms, but also reduces costly repairs.

Steel-reinforced and virtually unsinkable, each of the 14 Type-400 SF Marina pontoons used in the project has a buoyancy rating of approximately 102.4 psf yet offers exceptional stability. An exclusive coupling system absorbs and distributes stress loads. The pontoons are anchored on 30in (76cm) steel piles.

Designed in an L shape, the attenuator is 722ft (220m) long x

13ft (4m) wide on the west basin. Doubling as docking space for transient megayachts, it has electric and water supplies routed through integrated utility ducts. A second smaller section extends from the marina’s rubble mound breakwater to overlap the larger portion and protect the harbour mouth. Each of the 21 pontoons is secured with a pair of 30in (76cm) steel piles.

Whether cruising the Boston skyline, fishing for flounder or exploring the many small islands in the area, both local and visiting boat owners find Safe Harbor Marina Bay ideally situated. It can accommodate vessels with drafts up to 12ft (3.6m) and up to 150ft (46m) long without beam restrictions. The marina hosts four restaurants and a short stroll along the Nantucket-style boardwalk provides access to an extensive range of shoreside amenities and communitycentric activities.

www.sfmarinausa.com

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Extra berths at The Boat Works

A Stage 5 expansion of additional sheds and hardstand at The Boat Works on the Australian Gold Coast has been completed in time for the new season.

The next phase will comprise work on the waterfront, which includes new marina berths at a Super Elite concrete pontoon system manufactured and installed by Superior Jetties.

Andy Vollmer, Superior Jetties project manager, outlined the work: “We have added nearly 300 linear metres [980ft] of new berthing, and we have given the rest of the marina a subtle facelift with new pile caps for a refresh and to help incoming captains and owners identify marina arms by colour as they approach,” he explained.

All in-water service berths are reinforced with ProFender premium dock protection for the safety of every vessel.

The Boat Works’ owner, Tony Longhurst, said the new sheds and hardstand, teamed with the 18 new berths, will be immediately snapped up by visiting boats. “There is a huge demand to accommodate more boats undercover and our 70 sheds have reached capacity,” he confirmed. “We are proud to offer new opportunities for growth for all our marine service providers and partners within our two worldclass yards. Their success in turn enhances our operational efficiency.”

The Boat Works marina boasts full-service berths for vessels of all sizes, including wide-bodied multihulls of any beam. It welcomes up to 30 superyachts to 65m (213ft) in length, with the benefit of extra wide pontoons for in-water service works and provisioning. Superior Jetties also installed 50 superyacht berths in the superyacht basin just three years ago.

Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) has committed to continual dredging works within the Coomera River to ensure a 3.5m (11ft 6in) depth at low tide.

The Longhurst family is investing heavily in infrastructure ahead of a predicted influx of yachts in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic Games and the rising demand for berths 20m (66ft) and above.

“The Boat Works is an accredited Superyacht Ready marina and holds 5 Gold Anchor certification,” stated general manager, Shane Subichin. “We have evolved to provide two world class boatyards – marina and superyacht yards, with high-end facilities and new lifting equipment, while maintaining our focus on customer service,” he added. www.superiorjetties.com

Pacsoft launches MarinaPay

Marine software provider Pacsoft has launched a new payments platform for marina and boatyard operators that takes the pain out of managing credit card transactions for berth rentals, fuel and the myriad of other products and services most operators sell on site.

Pacsoft general manager, Sean Cocks, says the new MarinaPay platform is seamlessly integrated with PacsoftNG marina management software and its online customer portal, making it easy for businesses to make the shift.

“We wanted to create a bespoke payment solution for the marina and boatyard industry that solved some of the issues often thrown up by more generalist payment offerings,” he notes. “MarinaPay is an end-to-end payment service, so you’re only dealing with one company, and it includes timesaving features like bulk invoicing to automate recurring payments, such as monthly berth rental invoices and integrated token generation.”

MarinaPay offers competitive rates and can be set up to process both online payments and those made via on-site payment terminals. It is currently available in New Zealand and Australia and will be offered in Canada, the USA and the UK in coming months.

“We’ve had some fantastic feedback from users of our software who have taken the leap and come on board with MarinaPay. They can now take payments from customers using our mobile-friendly customer portal, which comes complimentary with MarinaPay subscription,” Cocks continues.

The customer portal is a PacsoftNG add-on that makes it simple for marina customers to log in from anywhere, via any device, to update their personal and vessel information, upload documentation, make payments online, and digitally sign agreements. www.pacsoftmms.com

Port Vell launches bunkering service

Marina Port Vell in Barcelona has launched a new pipeline fuel supply service that allows for a more efficient and flexible service to clients

The fuel system, part of the marina’s ongoing investment plan, aims to reduce environmental contamination risks while enhancing safety, allowing refuelling without the need to move to a loading dock or petrol station.

A 510m (1,670ft) pipeline distribution network has been installed to supply fuel directly at mooring points via a pumping system. Between 400 and 450 litres can be loaded per minute, meaning that a 1,000 litre capacity tank onboard a 60m (197ft) superyacht can be filled in four hours as opposed to the eight hours expected via a conventional pump.

The marina reached an agreement with Termopetroli, a leading company in the supply of fuels and lubricants for superyachts to provide the service.

Breaking ground on the future

US-based Brownell Boat Stands & Equipment celebrates its 70th year in 2024. In a timely nod to recent growth, the company has broken ground on a new US manufacturing facility and signed a new, exciting partnership with P&D Marine Services in the UK.

At almost 50,000ft² (4,645m²), the new manufacturing facility, located in Dartmouth, Massachusetts is 10% larger than Brownell’s current factory, which has served the company for all of its seven decades of business. Not too far from the current facility, the site will provide for an easy transition for existing, experienced staff.

Set for a January 2025 opening, the new facility is designed for a more natural flow in the production process allowing Brownell to expedite workflow, improve efficiency, maintain the company’s high quality standards, and provide even better value to its customers. With these improvements, the new facility is planned to serve Brownell well for the next 70 years. Signing a deal with its first-ever distributor in the UK represents an exciting expansion into a new market. P&D Marine Services will give Brownell

its first significant presence in the UK, and reflects the ever-increasing global footprint of the company. P&D has a storied past almost as long as the Brownell brand, with over 50 years in the industry.

“These are some huge steps that we’ve been taking recently and we couldn’t be more excited for the future growth that awaits us here at Brownell,” said Peter Hughes, vice president sales and marketing. “Throughout our history as a company, we’ve maintained the highest quality standards – we’ve never had a recall, never had a failure, not once in seven decades in the industry. These thrilling new ventures will simply serve to boost our companywide commitment to be and produce the absolute best of the best that our industry has to offer.”

www.boatstands.com

New agent for Capria

Argentina-based stacker machinery expert Capria has expanded its operations in North America by appointing Simone Structures as its newest sales and technical service representative.

Simone Structures recently completed the installation of an eight ton Capria top-running stacker crane at Aqua Waterfront Village, a lakeside community in Kelowna, BC, Canada (see Marina World November/December 2023).

“Working with Jamie Sheaff and his team went exceptionally smoothly,” said Monica Capria, marketing and business development. “Their supportive project management was great, but they also had the technical knowledge to get the crane up and running smoothly without issue. This resulting partnership just makes sense.”

Covering the Canadian Pacific northwest, Simone Structures has extensive experience with cranes and heavy industrial equipment. The company comprises a team of highly qualified engineers, technicians, operations and sales personnel. www.thestackermachinery.com

moored at the marina.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Index to Advertisers

AMI Conference & Expo, USA 20

ASAR, USA 45

Aqua superPower, UK 54

Bellingham Marine, USA 7, 9 & 11

Bluewater Marine & Dock, USA 54

Boat Lift, Italy 10

Capria, Argentina 26

Conolift by Kropf Industrial, Canada 22

D-Marin, Greece 29

Den Hartog Industries, USA 46

Eagle Floats by Hendren Plastics, USA 61

Flovac, Spain 67

GH Cranes & Components, Spain 20

Gigieffe, Italy 46

Golden Manufacturing, USA 14 & 15

Ingemar, Italy 12

Inmare, Italy 53

Lindley, Portugal 36

Livart, China 48

Marex, Croatia 26

Marina Master by IRM, Slovenia 54

Marina Projects, UK 68

MARINAGo by Scribble Software, USA 18

Marinas24, Australia 48

Marine Travelift, USA 57

Marinetek, Finland 4

Martini Marinas, Italy 42

METSTRADE, Netherlands 59

Molo, USA 38

PierPump by Vogelsang, Germany 8

Plus International, Italy 32

Poralu Marine, France 35

Ronautica, Spain 40

Roodberg - a brand of Frisian Industries, Netherlands 63

SF Marina System, Sweden 2

Seaflex, Sweden 6

Seijsener, Netherlands 36

Sunwalk Docks, USA 42

Superior Group, Australia 60

Twinwood by Soprefa, Portugal 38

Walcon Marine, UK 32

Water Witch, UK 26

Waterfront innovations in Canada

Poralu Marine has created a natural swimming pool within a protected environment in Ottawa, Canada (below). A world-first project for the company, the pool offers 1,000m² (10,800ft²) of aquatic space for local residents.

Located on a riverbank, the pool has no energy or water treatment requirements and is very cost-effective to run. It offers all the comforts of a traditional pool (swimming lanes, underwater steps, ladders, floating islands etc) and is formed of platforms along the bank and projecting into the river.

The project is one of two recently completed examples of the company’s innovative design approach to sustainable waterfront development in Canada. The second project, a 300m (980ft) long promenade (top), connects land and water at Bondar Marina in Sault-Sainte-Marie. It links the marina directly with the city hall and was a real technical challenge, with anchoring onto riprap.

about urban design in a different and innovative way. The new leisure

“Our aim is to help cities think

infrastructures we’ve created in Canada protect the environment. They also allow local governments to enhance their appeal and give their residents unique spaces where they can enjoy nature to the fullest,” said Quentin Bresson, manager of Poralu Marine’s waterfront development business unit. www.poralu.com

THE SMART GREEN FUTURE OF SEWAGE COLLECTION

Vacuum sewerage systems are ideal for use in marinas and ports of any size.

The Flovac system can capture sewage and bilge water from boats and all facilities around the marina complex.

No electrical power required at dockside Discreet, small diameter pipework

No risk of water contamination

Validates MARPOL certification

Eco-sustainable system

Ease of installation

No odour, no spills

CONCEPT DESIGN & MARINA MASTER PLANNING

FEASIBILITY STUDIES & MARKET RESEARCH

BUSINESS PLANNING

MARINA & WATERFRONT DESIGN

TENDER AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT

MARINA OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT

ENVIRONMENTAL & LEGISLATIVE ADVICE

PROPERTY CONSULTANCY SERVICES

GLOBAL WATERFRONT & MARINA DEVELOPMENT

CONSULTANCY AT ITS BEST