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The fourth quarter of 2024 gets off to a resounding start as ground breaks on the first international marina in Indonesia, and Las Olas Marina in Florida, USA officially opens as a new centrepiece in Fort Lauderdale’s world-famous yachting hub.
A top standard marina in Bali with significant capacity for superyachts will give Indonesia the opportunity to further boost its nautical tourism offering, as well as provide locals with exceptional mooring facilities and thus potentially boost boating interest.
There’s no shortage of interest in boating in Fort Lauderdale but there is similar dual aim; to attract visiting vessels – especially superyachts – and create a destination that benefits local people.
Waterfront development today is most often about creating community spaces that are connected directly to nearby urban centres. Marinas have been central to waterside regeneration projects in numerous major cities around the world for decades and are often hubs in ambitious new projects, such as Amaala on the Red Sea (p.32), Bahrain Marina (p.11) and, of course, ongoing Neom projects, such as newly opened Sindala Marina.
The ambitious Marina Port Valencia project in Spain (p.46) is a regeneration plan aimed at reinforcing the city’s yachting connections by boosting facilities and integrating the port and the waterfront with the city. Three individual marinas, a refit and repair yard, a leisure, dining and entertainment area, and office and retail space, will all be balanced to attract local, national and international guests while blending with the local environment and complementing the many other developments underway in the city.
Offaly County Council in the Republic of Ireland has similar aims for redeveloping Banagher Marina (p.43) although a sharper contrast than the densely populated city bustle of Valencia and the greenfield landscape of the market town of Banagher would be hard to find.
Bustling in its own way, popular with boaters, and perfectly positioned on the River Shannon as a gateway to a broad cruising region, the marina and its associated waterfront are being re-evaluated so as to better integrate with the wider town. The aim is to contribute to the long-term sustainability and success of Banagher as a tourist destination and a place to live.
Environmentally responsible and sustainable regeneration of under-utilised waterfront land can create highly prized places to live and visit. What better example than Port Grimaud?
Widely considered to be the world’s first purpose-built marina village, Port Grimaud was created in the French Gulf of Saint Tropez from swampland in the 1960s thanks to the architectural skill and planning genius of François Spoerry. It has expanded and changed understandably over the decades but largely remained true to the developer’s dream of a peaceful, artisan-based community with small homes, small houses and plentiful public spaces.
Change can be good, but Port Grimaud residents currently fear that the Municipality is planning projects that could undermine Port Grimaud’s special character (p.40). Let us hope this is not the case. What’s the point of a World Heritage Site designation if the heritage is not preserved?
Carol Fulford Editor
Meet the Marina World team in the Marina & Yard Pavilion at METSTRADE (Stand 05.711)
UK: Newly formed company, Western Marinas, has acquired Cardiff Marina, the operating lease for Watchet Marina, and taken on a management contract for Aberystwyth Marina. The assets were previously under the management of The Marine & Property Group, which went into administration last year.
The company has been set up by a new management team and their funders with a mission to realise the potential of Cardiff, Aberystwyth and Watchet marinas, as well as Cardiff Marine Village and the associated Dredging Division.
Western Marinas claims that a significant amount of capital is available to ensure that much-needed investment can be made across the sites and has a clear mission to put the marinas back to where they belong as some of the leading facilities in Wales and the southwest.
Initial priorities include the return of fuel sales and full electrical refits, as
well as dredging campaigns at Watchet and Aberystwyth in conjunction with the local harbour authorities.
Western Marinas chair, Andrew Cornish, says: “I have a passion for customer service and creating environments that everyone can be proud to be involved with, be they customers, colleagues, suppliers or just onlookers. I love the marine world and am a boat owner myself, albeit on the Thames right now. I look forward to meeting current and future customers, hearing thoughts and views, and working with the team to make Western Marinas somewhere we are all proud to be associated with.”
ITALY: Pre-registration is now open for the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) World Marinas Conference (IWMC), which will take place in Venice 15th-17th October 2025. The theme of the event is ‘Innovation, Collaboration, Transformation’, and it will celebrate how international cooperation, a central tenet of the marina industry, helps drive progress and future development.
ICOMIA CEO, Joe Lynch, describes the ICOMIA World Marinas Conference as the ideal opportunity for marina professionals to meet and discuss topics relevant specifically to them. “Next year’s conference in Venice will look at ways we can innovate the industry in an effort to transform the way we work in a manner that is beneficial to all, and we look forward to seeing you there,” he says.
Two well-known industry consultants, Oscar Siches and Dan Natchez, who have long been involved in this biennial conference series and are recipients of the ICOMIA Golden Cleat awards for their contribution to industry, stress the benefits of attending.
“The ICOMIA World Marinas Conference never fails to attract top minds happy to share their insights and brainstorm ways to move the industry forward,” Siches notes. “Whether a
marina veteran or just starting out, this is your chance to learn, contribute, and connect with like-minded people.”
Natchez endorses this: “As a designer of marinas and familiar with their operation around the world, I always learn things at the WM Conferences –there is no lock on knowledge and we all learn from each other.”
Hosts for the event are the team at Venezia Certosa Marina, a scenic island marina surrounded by beautifully restored parkland.
The conference is organised with the support of the Region of Veneto and the City of Venice; the Venice Port Authority; the International Airport of Venice managed by SAVE; Assomarinas; Confindustria Nautica; and Confindustria Veneto Est. Sponsors include premium pontoon manufacturer Ingemar, Marina del Cavallino and Marina World (media partner).
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INDONESIA: PT Marina Development Indonesia (MDI) and state-owned port management enterprise Pelindo have announced the groundbreaking of the first full service international standard marina in Indonesia.
The newly upgraded marina, strategically located in the Bali Maritime Tourism Hub in Benoa, just 15 minutes from an international airport, is set to become the region’s premier yachting hub, serving both international and domestic yacht owners.
Representing a significant leap forward in the country’s maritime tourism and infrastructure, the marina will be able to accommodate 180 boats, with over 50 berths available for yachts up to 90m (295ft) long. It will have a modern service area with a hoist of up
new yachting paradise of the world,” said Ulf Backlund, president director of Marina Development Indonesia.
“Indonesia’s distinctive location, safely positioned outside hurricane and typhoon paths, combined with its 17,000 islands, spectacular diving locations, diverse languages, cultures and favourable weather all year long, makes Indonesia the ideal location for such a development. This marina will attract global yachting enthusiasts and open up for exploring Indonesia’s natural beauty in the biggest
archipelago in the world.”
“Indonesia deserves a first-class marina that reflects its status as the
MDI is developing the marina in close collaboration with globally renowned and locally recognised companies
including SF Marina of Sweden, which will build the floating marina system, and Italian firm Plus Marine, which will install electricity and water pedestals with a SmartCloud remote metering system. Discovery Luxe Indonesia contributes a suite of luxury services to offer seamless bespoke on- and offboat experiences, and comprehensive logistics support to ensure an unrivalled experience for yacht owners and crew.
The marina’s design and facilities will adhere to the highest international standards, focusing on sustainability and environmental preservation. Yacht
owners and visitors can look forward to an array of premium amenities, including a prestigious yacht club, luxury hospitality options, and entertainment and commercial areas with extensive retail, offices and dining outlets.
“The new marina in Bali embodies our vision to position Indonesia as a key player in the global maritime industry, combining luxury experience, services, safe and world-class infrastructure,” said Pelindo president director Arif Suhartono. Joko Noerhudha, president director Pelindo Solusi Logistik, added that “the marina will not only attract international yacht owners but also provide an exceptional home base for domestic vessels, contributing to the growth of Indonesia’s tourism and economic sectors.”
Most notably, the Benoa marina is a key initiative in stimulating local economies by creating employment opportunities, promoting tourism and cultivating a lively yachting community. Construction is already underway and the marina is scheduled to welcome yachts to the first dock in July 2025. Full capacity is planned for the middle of 2026. There is currently a temporary buoy mooring system in place for accommodating 30 yachts up to 17m (56ft).
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USA: Suntex Marina Investors has officially opened Las Olas Marina in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Reservations are now being taken for dock space following the close of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
The capstone element of the Yachting Capital of the World’s iconic Las Olas Corridor and gateway to Fort Lauderdale’s world-class beaches and resorts, the marina was designed to be an integral component of the City of Fort Lauderdale’s $130 million investment in public parking, promenades, parks and public walkways.
Construction of the 70-slip megayacht marina has taken two years to complete and included the installation of over 7,000 feet (2,130m) of floating concrete docks, 2,000 feet (610m) of new seawall, along with new restaurants, offices and marina amenities.
Las Olas Marina is now one of the largest megayacht marinas in the United States and was the centrepiece of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The entire marina has been designed to accommodate some of the largest yachts in the world, ranging from 65 to 315 feet (20 to 96m), at Bellingham floating docks. Substantial shore power and unmatched upland amenities for captains and crew members have been incorporated. The marina has retail and office space, a luxury captain’s lounge with a largeformat kitchen, rooftop lounge with plunge pool and an outdoor kitchen.
The beach is just steps away.
As part of the redevelopment project, the marina also contributed to the city’s environmental resilience by converting three acres back to water and natural habitat, and provided seawall improvements to protect against sea level rise. The marina is designed to be certified as a Clean and Resilient Marina.
“In the heart of Fort Lauderdale, our marina is more than just a place to dock, it’s a gateway to the city’s rich history and vibrant culture,” says McLayne Sisk, general manager of Las Olas Marina. “We pride ourselves on offering state-of-the-art facilities and services that cater to guests and enhance and support our local community. Every visit blends luxury, convenience and the authentic Fort Lauderdale experience.”
Suntex’s initial bid was selected by the City in 2016 and the lease was signed on 3rd May 2018. The City Commission gave final site plan approval on 9th July 2019 and the redevelopment project began in the first quarter of 2022. Suntex will own and operate Las Olas Marina for 50 years in partnership with the City of Fort Lauderdale.
USA: A full conference programme, educational preconference workshops, vibrant and fun networking opportunities and over 170 exhibitor booths will make AMI Conference & Expo (28th-30th January, Fort Lauderdale, FL) a must-visit.
View the full programme and register now at www.marinaassociation.org
BAHRAIN: Just one year after construction commenced on the prestigious Bahrain Marina in Manama, the Bahrain Marina Development Company (BMDC) has confirmed that 25% of the first phase of the project has been successfully completed.
“We are extremely proud of the tremendous progress achieved over the past year,” says BMDC chairman Khalid Najibi. “Reaching 25% completion is a remarkable accomplishment that underscores our commitment to delivering a world-class project.”
Although the project is one of the most significant property and tourism developments in the kingdom, Najibi stresses that it is “not just a real estate development.”
“It represents our vision to create something exceptional for Bahrain and the region,” he emphasises. “We are determined to deliver a project that sets new benchmarks for luxury and quality, enhancing Bahrain’s reputation as a premier investment and tourism destination. As we move forward, we remain committed to contributing to the kingdom’s economic vision and setting the bar for future developments.”
The project features an array of luxury residential units, including apartments with panoramic views of the Gulf, five-star hotels and a cutting edge marina with world-class facilities.
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UAE: D-Marin, in partnership with Dubai Holding, has signed an agreement to operate Port De La Mer in Dubai, a new Mediterranean-inspired marina at the tip of the northern peninsula of La Mer.
Positioned within a unique island retreat, Port De La Mer benefits
amenities. Phase one opened in October with 32 berths for yachts up to 40m (131ft) in length, with plans to extend to 160 berths for yachts up to 80m (262ft) in coming years.
“Port De La Mer sets new standards for what is expected from a marina,” says Selcuk Balci, managing director of D-Marin Dubai. “The entire project is inspired by the Mediterranean including the residential communities, recreational areas and the marina itself. It is a truly unique marina for yacht owners in Dubai. We look forward to working in partnership with Dubai Holdings whilst showcasing the highest standard of marina experiences and innovations.”
Khalid Al Malik, managing director of Dubai Holding, added: “Port De La Mer represents a strategic milestone in our long term vision to position Dubai as a premier global leisure and tourism destination. It will be added to the current marinas in our key waterfront destinations, including Jaddaf Waterfront, Marasi Bay and Marina, Al Seef Dubai and Marsa Al Arab, setting a new benchmark for luxury marinas worldwide.”
USA: Salty Sam’s Marina in Fort Myers Beach, Florida is well on the road to recovery after being left in ruins due to the destructive force of Hurricane Ian in September 2022. underscores its commitment to supporting communities affected by natural disasters. Work at Salty Sam’s is not only about rebuilding but also about strengthening the local boating community and fostering a sense of renewal and hope in the wake of the hurricane.
Golden Marine Systems, in conjunction with Gorman Marine Construction, is working to rebuild the marina, which already has a new D-Dock. Golden Marine used its 850 series dock system with low maintenance Endeck Ashwood decking for the new pier, incorporating 12in (30cm) adjustable cleats, pile guides and finger piers. The result is a robust and versatile mooring solution that has been designed to withstand harsh marine conditions while providing a safe and comfortable environment for boaters.
The ongoing efforts at Salty Sam’s Marina (work on C-Dock is now underway) represent another step in the broader restoration of the marina
from premium dining, shopping, entertainment, leisure and hospitality and the Fort Myers Beach area. The project is part of a larger initiative to rebuild and enhance the region’s waterfront infrastructure, making it more resilient against future storms. Golden Marine’s involvement
Mike Shanley, president of Golden Marine Systems, said the company was very proud to have been chosen to replace the marina and looks forward to completing the project. The marina restaurant and activities have remained open during the construction and everyone looks forward to the resumption of public boating activities.
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NEW ZEALAND: Waiheke Island, New Zealand’s newest marina, is now fully operational and earning acknowledgement for the innovative thinking behind its build.
Set within excellent cruising waters and with stunning panoramic views, Waiheke Island Marina (previously Kennedy Point) presented environmental challenges for developers due to the area’s ecological sensitivity.
First, developers had to determine how best to shelter 180 marina berths from wave fetch and ferry wakes without disturbing a colony of ‘Little Penguins’. A traditional rock-pile breakwater would have impacted currents and the area’s delicate flora and fauna. Second, the marina required a new office and car park but the adjacent land was already
developed. Both problems were solved using SF Marina floating solutions.
Mirroring the island’s scalloped coastline, two sections of 460m (1,510ft) breakwaters comprising 23 individual 20m x 6m (66ft x 20ft) SFBW600 series floating concrete pontoons were installed – six on the western section and 17 on the main portion.
Three breakwater sections on the
UK: The Yacht Harbour Association’s (TYHA’s) renowned Code of Practice, an industry guide to marina design, construction and operations, is being revised and updated with the support of specialist marina design consultancy Marina Projects. Launch is planned for autumn 2025.
First created in 1977 and subject to several subsequent updates, the Code of Practice now requires modernising to reflect its use at an international level. Both TYHA and Marina Projects will combine their extensive experience to develop the Code into an industry standard that provides thorough guidance and covers the most up to date practices.
Factors most affected over time include boatyard operations, superyacht requirements, sustainability and environmental changes, boat types and usage. Global trends also need to be considered to ensure the document is fully up to date and future-proofed.
“The leisure marina sector is growing and evolving at a rapid pace, putting increasing pressure on marina designers, builders and operators to maintain the highest standards and deliver exceptional service to customers,” said TYHA’s Jon White.
“Ensuring that our Code of Practice offers the best possible guidance for our members across 30 countries is therefore crucial. We are thrilled to collaborate with the renowned industry experts at Marina Projects on this important review.”
Mike Ward, managing director of Marina Projects, also welcomed the collaboration and emphasised the team’s full support of the revision, noting that the expanded use of the Code around the world meant that it was now applied in an increasing range of varied circumstances. “The industry is changing at an increasing pace, customer demands are evolving, and its is essential that the industry led design and operational guidance provided by TYHA not only keeps pace but also sets the course for improving standards across all aspects of marina design and operations for the foreseeable future,” he noted.
western arc nearest to the shore are 3.4m (8ft) in overall height while the remainder are 4m (13ft) high. All have a 0.6m (2ft) freeboard. The pontoons are connected via SF Marina’s patented coupling system that absorbs and distributes stress loads. Internal steel piles anchor the breakwater to the seabed and accommodate the marina’s 3.5m (11ft 6in) tide.
The office and 2,100m² (22,600ft²) car park are built on top of 27 SF1250 floating concrete pontoons. Like the breakwater, they are engineered to be exceptionally stable and virtually unsinkable. Rainwater is channelled from the platforms and filtered to remove pollutants before being returned to the environment. Building on top of an SF Marina floating concrete platform is not new. In Sweden, a two-storey, 33-room hotel uses similar pontoons for its foundations.
The pontoons were built in Port Whangerei by SF Marina’s manufacturing partner Heron Marine and towed 145km (90mi) to Waiheke Island.
Waiheke Island Marina received one of two New Zealand Marina Operator Association (NZMOA) Outstanding Initiative Awards for its construction at this year’s Marinas and Boatyards Conference (see p.26). Praise was given for building the marina without causing permanent changes to the seabed or coastal currents.
Heron Construction was also awarded an Outstanding Initiative Award for building the world’s largest marina attenuator and New Zealand’s largest floating pods.
Network with almost 1,200 people
Over 25 educational sessions focusing on leadership, operations, design and engineering, HR and industry trends
One-stop shop exhibit hall with over 170 booths showcasing cutting-edge products and services
Pre-conference workshops and marina and boatyard tours JANUARY 28-30,
Specialist builders of marinas with more than sixty years’ experience
Industry
Installation barges, dedicated piling
NORTH CYPRUS: Liza Singer passed the management of Karpaz Gate Marina Resort on the Karpaz Peninsula to North Cyprus-based tourism specialist Arkin Group in September. She remains involved on a consultancy basis.
Singer joined with the late British entrepreneur David Lewis CBE when the marina project was first initiated in 2004 and continued to act as the owner’s representative and managing director of the €120 million project.
During almost two decades at the helm, Singer led the design, development, construction and operation through various stages of
Award-winning Karpaz Gate Marina and (inset) outgoing managing director Liza Singer with Arkin Group chairman Erbil Arkin.
expansion, including the 2021 opening of the nautical-themed 52-room hotel and leisure facilities.
During these challenging years, she managed to introduce the region’s first modern yacht marina to the
international sailing community, and led the resort’s predominantly local team of staff to shape the marina for 5 Gold Anchor Platinum status with The Yacht Harbour Association, and win the 2023 Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marina of the Year award.
“It has been a great privilege to establish a company and operation in a remote region with such special political and social circumstances,” she said. “I had the honour of accomplishing the dream of a great visionary and it has been fulfilling and gratifying to witness the positive impact of our resort on the surrounding area and its contribution to the economy in one of the TRNC’s most deprived areas.”
“I leave my role as managing director with pride that the marina and resort has made a real difference, putting the region on the map for the global sailing community and bringing international guests to the Karpaz Peninsula by land and sea,” she added.
Expanding its portfolio with the Karpaz Gate Marina Resort, Arkin Group will capitalise on its hotel management and yacht sector expertise, while affirming its commitment to the region’s people and the growth of tourism.
Erbil Arkin, Arkin Group’s founder and chairman, said: “We have monitored the growth and success of Karpaz Gate Marina with great interest in recent years, so we had no doubts about accepting this exceptional opportunity which complements our current hotel range perfectly.”
USA: Saylorville Lake Marina, a full-service Suntex facility on Saylorville Lake, a reservoir on the Des Moines River in Polk City, Iowa has completed a number of upgrades.
Most significant is the addition of an all-new captain’s lounge known as The Bridge, which has a wealth of amenities for slip holders and guests and panoramic views of the lake. It also serves as an excellent space for hosting marina events.
Other enhancements currently underway include upgraded technology to give easier access to the marina. Additional capital improvements are also planned for the future, including a new dry storage building, ship store and restaurant, as well as an improved fuel dock, upgraded bathrooms and new courtesy slips.
AUSTRALIA: Marine Structures, an entity formed in September/October by the strategic merger of Superior Jetties with The Jetty Specialist, is looking to play a big part in the international superyacht marina sector.
Superior and The Jetty Specialist have dominated the design and construction of state-of-the-art superyacht berthing and pontoon systems throughout Australian marinas for many years, with highlights such as Southport Yacht Club on the Gold Coast, Queensland (above). Internationally, their host of projects include the ADNEC Superyacht Marina (Abu Dhabi), Paihia Wharf (New Zealand), multiple sites for Port Klang (Malaysia), Eden Rock (St Barts) and several other projects in Japan, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Hong Kong, Taiwan and The Philippines.
Now positioned as Australia’s largest pontoon manufacturer, Marine Structures is poised to compete at a higher level. “Our continued growth globally, especially in the Asia Pacific
UK: The winners of The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) Marina Awards 2024 were announced on 18th September at a ceremony on the Foredeck Stage at the Southampton International Boat Show.
accredited marinas. “These awards are incredibly special because they are voted for by berth holders themselves,” White said. “They truly celebrate
region is a natural progression given the increasing demand for high-quality, cutting-edge pontoons designed to accommodate larger and more sophisticated superyachts, as well as full ferry infrastructure projects,” says Marine Structures director John Hogan (left).
“We’ve earned a reputation for excellence in Australia, and we’re confident that our experience, combined with our innovative designs, will make us a trusted partner for governments, marinas and superyacht facilities around the world,” he adds.
the cream of the crop marinas that offer unbeatable service and an extraordinary experience for berth holders and visitors alike.”
• Eight awards were handed out, with both winners and runners-up welcomed to the stage. The stand-out marinas were:
• Poole Quay Boat Haven (winner Coastal Marina of the Year – under 250 berths) and Emsworth Yacht Harbour (runner-up)
• Boatfolk Royal Quays (winner Coastal Marina of the Year – over 250 berths) and Beaulieu Marina (runner-up)
• Overwater Marina (winner Inland Marina of the Year) and Shepperton Marina (runner-up)
• Portonovi Marina (winner International Marina of the Year) and D-Marin Didim Marina (runner-up)
• Vilamoura Marina (winner Superyacht Marina of the Year) and Yalikavak Marina (runner-up)
Vilamoura Marina also won Sustainable Marina of the Year; Aqueduct Marina was recognised as Marina Team of the Year; and Mucella Kara of Karpaz Gate Marina awarded Employee of the Year.
UK: Walcon Marine has signed a contract with British Marine to continue to deliver the marina at the annual Southampton International Boat Show (SIBS) for the next 15 years. The marina is among the largest recurring temporary marinas in the world.
“We are delighted that British Marine has shown its confidence in our ability to deliver new marinas well into the future,” says Walcon Marine managing director James Walters. “We built our first marina for what has become one of Europe’s largest on-water boat shows in 1973. Since then, it has grown and evolved into what it is today, a facility hosting 350 power and sailing boats of all types and sizes.”
The build up and break down of the marina is a major logistical feat. Each year, work begins early in the spring when the fabrication of the pontoons gets underway, with finalisation of the layout following sometime later. The
next phase is to install around 50 piles using Walcon’s piling rig, after which the process to install almost 10,000m² (107,600ft²) of pontoons begins. The pontoons are brought in by sea on Walcon’s barges. Last of all, just a week or two before the show opens, and with the boats already coming in, the three bridges that link the marina to the shore are installed.
“It is a major planning and logistical challenge,” Walters adds, “but the experience that we have accumulated over the years serves us well. Since we installed our first SIBS marina back in 1972, SIBS has experienced all sorts of weather, including some serious storms
and the waves that go with them, but SIBS has come through thanks to our heavy duty wave attenuating pontoons that form the outer perimeter and which
also host the largest yachts, tall ships and other vessels.”
AUSTRALIA: The latest economic survey of the health of the Australian marina industry reveals that its 291 marina facilities contribute $2.24 billion to the national economy, provide premises for over 2,600 small businesses and support close to 22,000 jobs. The industry is performing well, with average berth occupancy exceeding 86%.
The survey, conducted every two years by the Marina Industry Association (MIA) and largely funded by International Marina Consultants (IMC), revealed Queensland as a predictable highlight: home to the largest marinas in the country; housing around 320 boats at each facility; and reporting the highest average turnover at $3.4 million. Over 80% of the marinas lease space to marine related tenancies, most of which are small business operators who provide services to boaters. Underscoring the employment contributions of marinas, each marina employs about 14 Queenslanders and further engages over 50 contractors.
With an election looming, the industry is keen to ensure that future state governments appreciate the value that the marina industry brings to the economy and the impact it also
has on the tourism sector, with many tour operators, particularly in North Queensland, operating from marinas.
Head researcher and report author, Dr Ed Mahoney of Michigan State University, notes that governments need to facilitate more efficient assessment and approval frameworks: “The findings indicate there is a need for additional marina boat storage capacity, especially on-water storage
spaces, in many locations in Australia. A high percentage of marinas cannot accommodate additional boats and already have waiting lists for spaces that become open,” he says.
“An increasingly tight supply of onwater boat storage is likely to negatively impact boat sales, drive up the price of both on-water and on-land marina boat storage alternatives and have a negative effect on the recreational boating industry in Australia. There is a need to encourage a more favourable climate for marina operational development. This includes educating residents and elected officials about the economic contribution of marinas including support of jobs and labour income.”
The full 61-page report is available for purchase on the MIA website www.marinas.net.au
NEW ZEALAND: Half Moon Bay Marina in Auckland was named New Zealand’s Marina of the Year for 2024 at the recent New Zealand Marinas and Boatyard Conference. The boatyard at Bay of Islands Marina won Boatyard of the Year while Waiheke Island Marina and Heron Construction each took top honours for innovation (see separate story p.17).
Organised by the New Zealand Marina Operators Association (NZMOA), the awards were established in 2018 to recognise and celebrate excellence in the marina industry. Judges praised recently expanded Half Moon Bay Marina for realising its full potential while addressing rising boating costs, and for delivering operational excellence. The marina now
hosts 580 boats and employs 22 staff.
The boatyard at Bay of Islands Marina was singled out for its crucial role in Northland’s economy and maritime community, and for recent positive developments and a distinct “team culture”.
Tom Warren was awarded the Graham Ade Memorial Trophy for his 30-year contribution to the industry,
Half Moon Bay Marina, winner of the 2024 Marina of the Year. Below: Proud team members from Bay of Islands Marina accept the Boatyard of the Year award.
having worked across several prominent marinas and played a leading role in industry governance and training.
Seventeen marinas were also recognised for their progress in the Clean Marina programme, a mission to minimise the environmental impact of the country’s $540 million marina and boatyard industry. Ten of the 17 fly the Clean Marina flag at the highest possible Level 3 status.
Commenting on the fact that nearly one third of all marinas in the country are on a Clean Marina journey, NZMOA chair Chris Galbraith noted: “Our industry is demanding more and better environmental protection all the time. The only way we can move forward as an industry is by having absolute respect for the environment, and that has sparked some remarkable innovation.”
AUSTRALIA: The Marinas26 International Conference and Trade Exhibition will be held in May 2026 at the Royal Pines Resort on Queensland’s Gold Coast.
Marina Industries Association (MIA) president, Andrew Chapman, explained: “The event remains timed to follow the 2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) so delegates can enjoy a day or two at the show ahead of Marinas26, which will kick off with our customary welcome reception event on Sunday 24th May after SCIBS closes.” Two full days of conference and exhibition follow on 25th-26th May, concluding with a gala dinner. The study tour takes place on Wednesday 27th May and will explore exciting new marina facilities.
The MIA’s biennial event has become a must-attend for marina owners, operators and suppliers across the Asia Pacific region. Close to 400 delegates attended Marinas24, which was held in Brisbane earlier this year.
Towed, self-propelled, and highway trailers
Towed, self-propelled, and highway trailers
Sling lift trailers and boat hoists
Sling lift trailers and boat hoists
Remote control hydraulic trailer tugs
Remote control hydraulic trailer tugs
Galvanized boat storage stands
Galvanized boat storage stands
Simple operation, rugged durability, flexible features
Simple operation, rugged durability, flexible features
We also supply floating docks and breakwaters
We also supply floating docks and breakwaters
by Quentin Bresson
Water is a vital resource that covers over 70% of our planet. It is also a place of dreams, fantasies and discoveries; a place that has fed the imagination of many adventurers. It is at the heart of our economies and our developments, offering infinite opportunities as long as we look after it and take care of its ecosystems. With this in mind, and the opportunity it offers, the industry is working to envision a future, built on a tremendous ambition: the ability to live on water.
The definition of health given by the World Health Organization (WHO) has not changed since 1946. It combines physical, mental and social well-being, and goes well beyond the absence of disease or infirmity. A pan-European project is underway to study the links between urban blue spaces, climate and health. This project, named BlueHealth, adopts interdisciplinary approaches to examine how well-being could be encouraged through the development of blue infrastructure, i.e. aquatic spaces. Its aim is to influence the design, planning and management of accessible, high-quality blue spaces.
Demographic growth, urbanisation and increasingly scarce natural resources have strongly impacted the availability of developable land, resulting in major social, economic and environmental impacts. Inequality is rising worldwide, and access to housing is becoming increasingly complex. And yet the most expensive cities in the world in terms of cost per square meter
are also those with access to water: for example, Hong Kong, Singapore, Geneva, Zurich, Copenhagen and Paris. Building on the water could be a practical and quick-to-implement solution to reduce land stress. In addition, the architecture is a powerful
A community space developed by the City of Ottawa in Canada offers local people a safe natural swimming pool.
Below: Harbour Cruises Marina in Vancouver Harbour is strongly community-based, built for high density pedestrian use and to safely moor recreational boats and small cruise vessels.
marker of urban development and the construction – or renovation – has long taken ecological challenges into account.
When waterfronts are properly developed and integrated into the local ecosystem, spaces that border the water become favoured locations that improve standards of living. They are also relaxation and leisure spaces that are highly valued by residents and encourage interaction and living as a more connected community: promenades, parks, play and pedestrian areas, museums, cultural centres, event venues, and more. As a result, life on water is becoming available to all, offering an ideal publicly available setting that goes beyond how traditional marinas are seen. A one of a kind community space has, for example, been developed by the City of Ottawa: a safe natural pool, surrounded by aluminium docks and featuring access steps that have been specially designed for sunbathing and relaxing.
The industry is, unfortunately, facing an aging population in certain marinas and markets. With an aging clientele that is gradually giving up boating, berth renewals thus not taking place, and new habits being adopted, some marinas are facing a dilemma because their income depends solely
on berth rental. Integrated waterfront development should be seen as an opportunity for marinas to strengthen their business by diversifying their activity and thus their revenues.
Floating living or commercial spaces are innovative approaches to development, particularly in areas facing environmental and space-related challenges, but such infrastructure on water requires rethinking, not only in terms of living and working spaces themselves, but on construction methods as well. The range of options is increasing to cover homes, hotels, retail, small residential and tertiary buildings, combining minimal footprint and astonishing customer on-water experience.
Economics have demonstrated that developments on water are perceived as premium areas helping developers achieve a better overall ROI in comparison to similar land-based infrastructure, specifically in regions and countries where land is extremely expensive.
In addition to their proven social and economic benefits, shoreline and waterfront developments have to be designed around protecting and developing the marine environment where innovative approaches co-exist with nature.
Environmental protection can be broken down into three main areas, each of which is essential in its own way: decreasing the impact of
construction; protecting the existing; and regenerating.
Decreasing consists of putting the construction and design process through an environmental filter that, for instance, focuses on anchoring systems with limited seabed footprint, such as anchoring screws and underwater elastomeric systems, or using modular dock technologies that can be moved and reorganised in response to ecosystems dynamics.
Protecting can be summed up in policies drastically limiting impacts linked to property management, e.g. introducing independent wastewater treatment solutions and encouraging wastewater reuse.
Regenerating lies in leveraging the infrastructure to improve the surrounding marina ecosystem. Floating developments and incorporated floating gardens help develop biodiversity and create habitats for marine life. Floating solar panels and wind/wave turbines can be installed and used to generate renewable energy.
Harbours, marinas and waterfront cities are key areas of concern in the face of climate change, in part because they are directly affected by the expected consequences of rising water levels. This could affect harbour infrastructure, impacting its use and access, and could even lead to facilities being damaged or destroyed, with major economic consequences.
These areas are also particularly sought after within the context of rising
temperatures thanks to their unique position at the interface between land and water. Depending on their layout, the cooling effect of the water and the openness of natural spaces and high levels of vegetation, make them islands of cool that are in high demand during periods of intense heat. Simply seeing a body of water gives us a sense of coolness even before we feel its effects. Faced with this dilemma, harbours, marinas and cities with inland waters are transforming themselves into innovation hubs that are creating the future of urban living, including the rise of floating cities.
Waterfront development is already a reality. Projects are being developed to meet urban residents’ new expectations, and as usable space on land becomes increasingly rare. This infrastructure brings to life a vision – a common future. Many cities across the world have seized the opportunities to develop on water and today, some of these urban areas are among the most densely populated in the world. Many of these cities have become major metropolises, attracting both businesses and residents. They offer a privileged living environment with pleasant, highly prized natural landscapes.
Following a year and a half of research and development, Poralu Marine – as a solution provider – put together a team dedicated to waterfront development businesses. The focus is to tackle very concrete issues: opening up new possibilities and enabling public and private stakeholders to see the water as a new space full of opportunities. By always focusing on the expectations of operators and users, Poralu Marine has created a range of competitive packaged solutions as well as undertaking fully customised projects that meet the needs of specific situations and build on our proven expertise all over the world.
Marinas have to consider diversified waterfront development as a way to meet the increased demand for public access to water. Building on water encourages us to go beyond the limits of land and completely rethink our lifestyles. This future is possible thanks to unrivalled technical innovations and the expertise of people within the industry who are committed to positive social and environmental change. Quentin Bresson is manager for Poralu Marine’s waterfront development business unit.
Red Sea Global (RSG) continues to make substantial progress with the development of Amaala, the ultra-luxury Saudi Arabian destination on the northwestern coast of the Red Sea that takes health and wellness as its central theme and focus.
RSG is redefining coastal lifestyle with spaces in Amaala designed for deep connection to nature, self and the community. From medical and integrative wellness and sundrenched adventure to world-class art and transformative events, the resort seamlessly integrates space for both people and nature.
“We have achieved remarkable progress across every aspect of Amaala, from our signature resorts and immersive experiences to essential utilities and infrastructure. Our unwavering focus is on infusing sustainability and regenerative principles into every facet of the development. Once complete, Amaala will present an extraordinary collection of assets and experiences that will elevate wellness, lifestyle and human connection,” said John Pegano, Group CEO at Red Sea Global.
To date, RSG has awarded more than 600 contracts for Amaala worth nearly SAR 23 billion ($6.13 billion) to world-leading partners who share its ambitions to co-create luxury and wellness destinations that are developed in line with responsible development practices, prioritising regenerative initiatives and collaboration with local communities.
As development advances, several key areas are moving toward
completion, each one bringing the destination closer to welcoming guests:
Triple Bay Marina Village: The Equinox Resort is now topped out and concrete structure work on the Village Boutique Hotel main building, condominiums and villas is nearing completion. This bustling hub will soon offer guests a haven of scenic boardwalks, waterfront restaurants, luxurious boutiques and well-known retailers, plus a vibrant year-round events programme, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Red Sea.
The Marina: Flooding of the marina basin, the resort’s stunning central feature, was complete at the end of 2023 and the floating pontoons and fixed docks are under construction.
Yacht Club: All construction contracts have been awarded and concrete works are close to completion, with structural steel and MEP works now started.
Corallium: Steel and façade works at RSG’s marine life institute, which will be home to various marine research operations and visitor experiences, is well advanced and the distinctive, reefinspired building is now visibly taking shape.
Wellness Core: Superstructures are present on 80% of the 220 buildings within this zone, which will include world leading wellness resorts such
One of the most luxurious new resort destinations in Saudi Arabia, Amaala adopts health and wellbeing as its core theme and will provide the highest levels of ‘wellness’ opportunities in a broad mix of offerings.
as Jayasom and Clinique La Prairie. Guests will discover an environment where they can focus on mental, physical and energy regeneration.
Triple Bay Central: The worldrenowned partner resorts and residences in this area are well on track, with Rosewood and Six Senses surpassing the two thirds complete milestone. At Four Seasons, the landscaping, MEP and façade works are underway. Set to open their doors in 2025, the resorts are a key part of Amaala’s wellness and lifestyle ecosystem, providing guests with access to some of the world’s premier hotel, health and leisure brands.
Ocean Golf Course: Amaala will boast three nine-hole golf courses, plus a further nine-hole executive par 3 course. Phase one of the development will total 18 holes and is proceeding well, with all major works complete for three holes, and the remaining 15 holes underway. The courses will allow visitors to experience sports and relaxation in a luxurious environment with scenic ocean views.
Primary Infrastructure: Works are heading towards completion including 35km (21.7mi) of internal roads, plus power, water, irrigation and communications infrastructure. RSF is targeting to energise in December 2024.
Public Realm and Landscaping: RSG expects three million plants and trees to be planted before the end of the year.
In another major development, earlier this year the Ministry of Health approved the design for the Amaala Hospital, which will provide healthcare services for residents and visitors to the 420,000ha destination.
Once complete, Amaala will feature close to 4,000 hotel rooms across 30 hotels, as well as 1,200 luxury villas, apartments and estate homes. It will also be supported by high-end retail, fine dining, wellness and recreational facilities. Amaala will be powered entirely by solar energy, saving the equivalent of nearly half a million tons of CO2 emissions every year.
by Greg Weykamp
By now, we’re all getting used to seeing electric vehicles (EVs) on the road everywhere we go, and we’re now seeing more and more electric boats on the water. If this sounds surprising, consider the following numbers. In 2010, only 300 EVs were sold in the USA. In 2023, that number rose to over 1.2 million in the US and over 9.5 million worldwide. What is the bestselling vehicle in America? The Ford F150 of course, with over 750,000 sold. Worldwide though? The bestselling vehicle of any type was the Tesla Model Y, with 1.23 million sold – nearly half a million more than the F150. The second most popular car in the world was the Toyota Rav4, which costs on average $20,000 less than the Model Y. As this is a magazine about marinas, why do we care about that?
Well first of all, these are our customers. They might be interested in finding EV chargers at your marina, and that might make them choose your marina over a competitor. More to the point though is that the traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) we’re all used to is facing bans all over the globe in coming years.
Starting next year, the sale of new ICE vehicles will be banned in Norway, and ICE powered boats will be banned in the central historic canals in Amsterdam. In 2030, new vehicle ICE bans are due to take effect in the UK, Iceland, Sweden, Israel and Singapore. In 2035, Canada, the European Union, Japan and Chile will implement bans, and more will follow in 2040.
While the US has not set a date for the end of ICE vehicles nationwide, at least twelve states will ban new ICE vehicles starting in 2035, including coastal states such as California, New York, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Connecticut and Maryland. If your
marina is in any of those states, it is only a matter of time before more and more of your customers start showing up with electric powered boats.
Serving electric powered boats in our marinas raises some interesting issues we all need to start preparing for, including building charging infrastructure (and eventually selling less petrol/ gas and diesel) in both wet slip and drystack marinas, fire safety, and weight considerations in drystack facilities (electric powered vehicles of any type are currently significantly heavier than ICE
Left & below: A solar walkway in the Maldives harnesses clean energy for waterfront use. Images: Seavolt
powered vehicles due to the weight of the batteries).
The risk of fire
Let’s address fire safety first, since the way the news media covers EV fires encourages most people to firmly believe they are far more likely to catch fire. The truth may surprise you though. According to NHTSA statistics, there is a car fire every five minutes in the US.
Sixty-eight out of every 100,000 ICE vehicles will catch fire every year, with the most common cause being electric wiring. In comparison, only 3.8 out of every 100,000 electric powered vehicles will catch fire.
This means that an ICE vehicle, likely the one you’re driving, is 29 times more likely to catch fire than an electric vehicle. The majority of EV fires are caused by physical damage to the battery, such as hitting an object or a collision rather than faulty components. The bottom line is that if you’re worried about an electric boat catching fire in your marina or drystack facility, you should really be worried about all of those boats with a tank full of combustible liquid!
While EV fires are quite rare, they are very difficult to extinguish. As fire departments become more familiar with EV fires, they are developing new techniques to address them. These include techniques to breach the battery compartments to apply water
directly to the location of the fire, which has proven to be very effective, or special blankets to contain the fire. While I can assure you that the statistics support the fact that electric vehicles are much less likely to catch fire, the same cannot be said of lower priced and poorly designed e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards, and other similar low-cost electric powered toys. There have been a number of instances of fires caused by cheap e-bikes during charging, leading to fires and bans on storing or charging them indoors. At least for now, while we believe it is safe to store and charge electric boats inside since they are very well engineered, we do not recommend allowing e-bikes or similar electric powered toys to be charged unattended inside boats or buildings.
Charging challenges
Charging of electric vehicles of any type, boats or cars, falls into one of three categories. Level 1, or slow charging, uses a standard 120v 20amp receptacle, just like you might use to charge your phone. For most cars, this level of charging can add four to five miles of range per hour. While this might work to charge your Torqeedo outboard, it is not much use for charging the much larger battery of an electric boat propulsion system.
Level 2, or medium charging, typically uses a 240v 48amp or similar receptacle. This level of charging can add 40-50 miles of range per hour, or roughly a ten-fold increase in charging speed. This level will fully charge most vehicles overnight or in six to eight hours.
Finally, Level 3, or fast charging (often called “supercharging”) relies on Direct Current systems at up to 350kW. These systems can charge at speeds of up to 1,000 miles of range per hour, and charge nearly any electric vehicle from zero to 100% in 40-60 minutes.
So, what will we need to provide in our marinas to take care of our boaters? For the most part, Level 2 medium speed charging is sufficient for the vast majority of boating activities using a standard 50amp shore power connection. As we design new marinas to incorporate the new ground fault protection requirements, we recommend consideration of building in additional capacity for future increases in demand for electric power. While not likely a major issue in the next ten to 15 years, once there are a lot of electric powered boats
in marinas, we will be seeing “load sharing” technologies that are already present in Level 2 home EV charging systems to balance charging loads throughout the marina.
For special use cases, such as boat rental facilities and high traffic transient docks, several manufacturers produce high speed Level 3 chargers that should be organised much like a fuel dock. Don’t locate them on your fuel dock though, because you don’t want them taking up space for 30-40 minutes, and there are specific requirements for how close they can be to fuel dispensers.
Charging an electric powered boat in a drystack facility presents a few challenges, the most obvious of which is how to plug in a boat on the third or fourth level of your rack? Potential strategies to address this using existing technology for the foreseeable future might include locating electric boats only on the bottom level where access is easy, or charging the boats in a service rack using a high speed charger before storing the boat in the rack later.
Keeping in mind that we’ve only really had EVs in high volumes for about 15 years, newer technologies that might transform the industry in the future include induction charging built into the racks and hulls of boats, battery swapping, or most likely, increasing charging speeds by a factor of two or three times, will eliminate the issue altogether once charging becomes as fast as filling a gas tank.
Start looking for electric boats at your next boat show, and you might be surprised at how many options are already on the market. Just like the automotive industry, the market for electric boats is starting at the high end and will eventually trickle down to lower priced options.
Some of the most interesting boats available today are the Nautique GS22E powered by Ingenity, which is a very capable wake sports boat that is fully electric, runs two to three hours in full wake sports mode, and can hold up to eleven people. Other builders include X Shore, Candela, Navier, Duffy and Forza, all of which are pushing the boundaries of the technology.
Torqeedo builds a wide range of electric drive systems ranging from small outboards up to 100kW systems capable of powering much larger vessels.
In summary, if you haven’t explored the world of EVs or electric boating, I highly encourage you to give it a try. Having driven exclusively electric powered vehicles myself for the last four years, often more than 30,000
miles per year with regular long road trips of well over 600 miles, I can assure you that the technology is ready for prime time and only getting better. The cost of fuelling and maintaining an EV is much lower than ICE vehicles, and when you consider the total cost of ownership, EVs are generally less expensive overall despite higher initial
purchase prices. I firmly believe that electric powered boats will make boating more fun, quieter, cleaner and less expensive in the future, and the future will be here before you know it! Gregory Weykamp is president/ principal of Edgewater Resources, LLC, a waterfront consultancy based in Michigan, USA.
LINDLEY MARINAS IS SEEKING NEW GLOBAL DISTRIBUTORS TO EXPAND ITS INTERNATIONAL PRESENCE.
As a pontoon manufacturer, we are committed to being a brand recognized for innovation and reliability. Over 40 years of industry experience, our team provides extensive support across all floating solutions. We aim to broaden our reach into new territories and are looking for dedicated distributors to support our geographic expansion.
An internationally recognised pioneer of the waterfront village concept, Port Grimaud in the French Gulf of Saint Tropez is a World Heritage Site with a unique ambience. Residents fear that interventions in the name of progress may threaten its self-sufficient infrastructure, environmental balance and unique spirit. Donatella Zucca, a property owner in Port Grimaud, explains.
Port Grimaud was built in the 1960s to designs drawn up by architect and sailor François Spoerry, a resistance fighter from Alsace who survived the WW2 horrors of Dachau concentration camp. He sought to create a lakeside village with a strong artisan imprint, to be inhabited by people from all over the world as a symbol of love, peace and brotherhood.
Cristoforo Rocco di Torrepadula, an expert in the financing of infrastructure investment and a longstanding owner of a house in Port Grimaud, looks back. “The marshy land at the base of the Gulf of Saint Tropez, which no one wanted to go near, seemed ideal for realising Spoerry’s dream from scratch,” he explains. Transforming an inhospitable area into a place of life
and beauty represented a victory of good over evil. “The authorities wanted to develop the area economically,” he continues, “so the idea of a project financed mostly by foreigners (70% at the time compared with 48% today) was listened to and accepted.”
The Municipality gave Spoerry carte blanche and he created a paradise where it was only possible to travel by water, with mooring in front of each house, a school, post office, bank, pharmacy, clinic, playgrounds and all that is still in place today. Spoerry’s model was the Venice “of the past”, a series of canals crossed by slow moving mid-sized and small boats in harmony with house size and the fragile balance of the waters.
Natacha Lamy, a doctor in marine
biology who has been on site since 2023 to study marine life, says that it is incredible to see how much nature has taken over Port Grimaud in under 60 years; an amazing phenomenon if you think about its artificial nature as a village created from nothing. The seabed is home to a prolific balance of marine flora and fauna thanks to the genius of the architect who incorporated a system of incoming and outgoing fresh and salt water currents to energise a lifeless swamp.
Inevitably, over the years many of the original elements of Port Grimaud have disappeared, giving way to property typical of holiday resorts. Today, there are 7km (4.3mi) of canals and 14km (8.6mi) of quayside, 2,400 houses and over 2,000 moorings divided between three sectors (Port Grimaud 1-3). Land is managed by three autonomous associations spread across the 75ha (185 acre) Grimaud Municipality.
In anticipation of the end of the existing state concessions and following an audit commissioned in 2019, the Municipality voted in 2022 to terminate the concessions earlier than agreed due to problems with consistent management, and to take over the port concession itself. This action continues to be opposed by owners’ associations for Port Grimaud 1 and 2 with legal action ongoing. The Municipality’s declared intention to improve, update and renew the port via a mega project presents worrying implications to build on concerns over other changes.
In recent years, the tennis club near the entrance to Port Grimaud 2, for example, has disappeared. We, and our children, played there for years, guided by a very good and much-loved teacher. In its place is a car park for Port Grimaud 3 properties. We have owned an apartment in Port Grimaud
Everything in Port Grimaud was originally designed and planned as an artisaninfluenced small scale community. The simple beach (right) and the multi-dwelling canalside buildings and small boats (below) capture the essence of the village.
2 for over 50 years and we miss some nice services, such as the boat that delivered hot croissants. The restaurant opposite the shipyard had difficulty obtaining permission to reopen after modernisation and improvement works, and the newsagent/chandler/general store in Place du Sud closed. Several other establishments have been replaced by land and docks allocated to fast charter boats, and boats moored in front of houses and navigating the canals are increasingly bigger.
From the sofa at his house, fronting his garden and boat, I ask Cristoforo what strikes him most about the project and why he is taking part in almost all of the meetings on the topic organised by the Municipality. “We started receiving very aggressive threats in 2022 from the Municipality for additional mooring payments, despite having already paid until the concession expires in December 2025,” he says. “This anticipated the end of the concession by three years and everyone has been wondering what right they have to do this. There is a legal issue, which has to be discussed in court. Those who do not pay face a fine and, if the demand is sent to a Port Grimaud property that is not a person’s main residence, as happened to me, it’s seen late and followed by a letter from the bailiff demanding payment within ten days or a bank account freeze.”
Another controversial issue, he adds “is the offer of a 35-year concession to home owners for the right to have a boat in front of their house. This right is registered to a person, is not transferrable and has to be renewed annually.”
By taking possession of the water plan, residents fear that the Municipality is developing projects that clash with both the DNA of Port Grimaud and its environment despite the mayor’s sincere insistence that he recognises their importance. Projects include building a mega breakwater to protect the
entrance to Port Grimaud 1; moorings for 30 to 40m (98 to 131ft) yachts that will need adequate services for captains and crew (not mentioned in plans); demolition of the harbour office for an expanded building and – as can be seen already – increased space for charter boats which, by boosting the number of boats on site, complicates traffic in the canals and places stress on the seabed.
In short, the plans are to transform Port Grimaud into something very different from what it fortunately still is and, roughly speaking, compete
with Saint Tropez where the seabed is appropriate for port use. A new breakwater and perhaps systematic dredging work would affect the water current in addition to changes caused by increased boat traffic. This will make it difficult to respect the spirit of Port Grimaud despite claims and promises made by the mayor to François Spoerry’s widow Denise Spoerry.
At one of the meetings organised by the Municipality this summer, Dr Jérôme Stevens, who sailed in Port Grimaud as a teenager, while appearing in favour of modernisation, expressed his fear that Port Grimaud would become an annex of Saint Tropez, with its procession of large luxury boats in contrast with the peaceful art de vivre focusing on the sea, sailing and nature that has always reigned.
Environmental stability is paramount. Spoerry studied the play of water currents for a long time to ensure that they moved water everywhere, self-cleaning it and giving entry to fish. Sea bass and sea bream actually spawn in some of the inner reaches. The River Giscle also contributes, flowing in and out between Cogolin Marina and Port Grimaud 2 up to six times a day. There is much ongoing discussion. We must hope to retain such an excellent environmental footprint but also to maintain harmony with the spirit of a very special and magical place.
Underutilised but bursting with potential, Banagher Marina in the Republic of Ireland is set to be revamped as the local council unveils a development masterplan that places it at the heart of the town. Charlotte Niemiec reports
Banagher Marina in the market town of Banagher in West County Offaly, Ireland sits on the banks of the River Shannon, the longest river in the British Isles. The marina facility has been gradually developed since the 1960s, and today bustles with activity, providing safe moorings for pleasure boats and privately owned cruises. An essential asset to the town, the marina plays an important role in local tourism and economic activity. It is not just a functional space for boating and water sports, it is also a gateway to the broader Shannon region and is home to cruise hire companies, water adventure
Conceptual designs for the revamped marina.
hubs and other outdoor activities.
The marina and associated waterfront have, however, long needed improvements to enhance their usability and attractiveness. Early in the planning stage, Offaly County Council launched a public consultation to gather input from the community. This highlighted several key priorities for locals, including improving basic amenities such as toilets, seating and signage, addressing parking and traffic congestion, and ensuring the marina and water access were suitable for use. The community also called for walking and cycling paths to connect nearby areas, enhancing the
Banagher Marina on the River Shannon is a hub for outdoor activities.
Photo: Robert G216
town’s appearance, providing a wider variety of accommodation options, supporting casual trading and dining, and expanding both water and landbased activities. Additionally, options for developing the pool area were being explored through Galway County Council.
The council then asked Place + Urbanism and CHL Consulting to develop a masterplan to address these needs, to capitalise on the town’s potential and align it with the goals of Ireland’s 2040 planning initiative, which emphasises sustainable development, tourism growth and regional revitalisation.
The masterplan’s overarching vision is of a pedestrian-friendly, vibrant community space that maximises the marina’s natural setting while offering modern amenities and experiences. Its plan would integrate the marina into the wider town, making it accessible to more people and creating opportunities for economic development.
Proposals for the marina area take into consideration the fact that this is a working marina with boatyards that provides a base for two long-standing cruise hire companies and two waterbased activity centres, while also needing to provide access to the water for individual boat owners.
The masterplan focuses on several key objectives, each designed to contribute to the long-term sustainability and success of Banagher as a tourist destination and a place to live.
One of its major goals is to prioritise pedestrian movement within the marina and reduce vehicles. This
There is plenty of opportunity for developing the waterspace (right), which is currently used for quayside mooring (below).
includes limiting vehicles in key areas, redesigning parking facilities and installing seasonal bollards that shut areas off during busier times of the year so as to make the marina a safer and more enjoyable space for walking and leisure. Public spaces within the marina area will also be significantly upgraded, including new landscaping, seating areas and public art installations.
The ground surface along the marina will be upgraded to prioritise pedestrians, and landscaped along the river’s edge. Parking will be eliminated from the marina front itself, apart from limited temporary parking for cruise hire customers. Parking will be provided for single vehicles and cars with boat trailers to the rear of the marina to encourage increased use of the marina by private boat owners.
Boating facilities will be improved to reinforce the marina’s role as a boating hub. New jetties will be built to offer a total number of 250 berths, mooring facilities will be improved and there will be better boat access. According to the masterplan, these upgrades will cater to the growing demand from both local boaters and tourists to use the River Shannon for recreational purposes. The improved facilities will also position the marina as a key stopover point for those exploring the broader Shannon waterways, boosting the town’s reputation as a boating destination.
Foremost in the designs are plans to link the marina with the town’s key areas via new pedestrian pathways,
making it easier for residents and visitors to move between the two. It is hoped this improved connectivity will help draw people into the marina area and encourage them to explore other parts of the town, such as shops, restaurants and historical sites.
The plans identify the Royal Shannon Hotel as a key opportunity for regeneration and development. This protected structure, located on the main street and adjoining the marina, has been vacant and semi-derelict for years. Offaly County Council recently acquired the building and commissioned a separate Conservation Masterplan and Feasibility Study to explore its potential. The vision is to redevelop it for either civic functions or accommodation, with a focus on ensuring it contributes to the overall objectives of the masterplan.
The masterplan proposes the creation of a gateway to the marina at the hotel, complemented by a raised boardwalk designed to link the marina with historic sites and other points of
interest in the area. The boardwalk will provide an elevated, scenic route that allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of the Shannon River while learning about the region’s history and heritage.
A new boathouse is also proposed to store Banagher’s local long boat, the ‘Sionn Mhara’. This is envisioned to be located within the public realm near the hotel. The area will be integrated into the new public plaza, providing routes that connect to the marina.
All aspects of the design focus on using sustainable materials and construction methods in the marina development, along with the implementation of environmental management practices to protect the surrounding natural areas.
Banagher town “has high amenity and natural heritage value, with the marina being the most active boating hub in the South Shannon,” said the Council’s Anna Marie Delaney. “This offers the potential to develop and enhance outdoor activities that will attract visitors from elsewhere and create a pleasant tourism experience for the area.”
Council director of services, Andrew Murray, added: “This masterplan is the culmination of a comprehensive public consultation process involving the community, local businesses, marina businesses, various sections of Offaly County Council, Waterways Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, Uisce Éireann and local residents. This masterplan will act as a catalyst in supporting regeneration projects and drive sustainable tourism, social and economic development of Banagher into the future in line with the aspirations of Ireland 2040.”
An ambitious project to revitalise Marina de Valencia – now to be named Marina Port Valencia – on Spain’s Mediterranean coast was firmed up in October when Valencia Port Authority signed a contract to move renovation plans and operations forward.
Further to a call for bids in May, the port authority has now appointed a joint venture between Semar (Serveis Maritims Port Eivissa) and Ocibar, two groups that have specialised in benchmark projects in the Mediterranean, to develop and operate the projects for a minimum period of 35 years.
The plan features three individual marinas known as Marina Norte, Marina Sur and Marina City, which will revamp the entire site to give it a totally new ambience. Furthermore, due to Valencia’s ideal geographical location and its connections with the yachting sector, e.g. as host to the America’s Cup, the intention is to transform the
area with top-class yachting and social attractions.
The planned renovation works will reshape Marina Port Valencia into four unique areas. The first will include the three marinas, equipped to host vessels of 8 to 130m (26 to 430ft), in the heart of the city. The second will involve the construction of a refit and repair yard with first-class specialist companies and the third a leisure, dining and entertainment area expertly integrated into the environment to make the marina a must-visit for local, national and international guests. The fourth area is planned as an architecturally stunning office and retail space with exceptional sea views, complemented
The Marina Port Valencia plan includes three individual marinas: Marina Norte, Marina Sur and Marina City.
with parking spaces, bike lanes, jogging tracks, terraces and landscaped gardens.
operators
One key factor in the success of all the facilities managed by Semar and Ocibar is that both companies are renowned for their excellence and their culture of service, while also providing facilities with their own personality and full integration into their setting. When it comes to developing a new project, they both pay close attention to in-depth analysis and study of the local environment and socioeconomic status.
There are several entities involved in the concession. Semar is a joint venture between two companies well known in the yachting and tourism industries: the IPM Group and the Alonso Marí Group via Insotel Marine Group (IMG).
The IPM Group is an association of leading companies in the international yachting industry that started operating in the 1990s with the construction and management of Marina Port de Mallorca. It has since been involved in the creation and management of various marinas and yards such as Marina Ibiza, Marina Port Ibiza, Marina Palma Cuarentena, Marina Port Mahón, STP Shipyard Palma, Varadero Ibiza and Varadero Valencia.
IMG Group is part of the Alonso Marí Group, a business conglomerate that includes leading companies in tourism, yachting, construction, property development and services. It has over 50 years’ experience and employs over 2,000 people.
IPM and IMG joined forces over ten years ago to create Marina Ibiza and turn it into a five-star facility with an international reputation as a superyacht destination.
Ocibar has specialised in the construction and management of
Patrick Reynes (left) giving a preview of the Marina Port Valencia project at the Valencia Boat Show.
yacht facilities for over 25 years and its portfolio includes Port Adriano in Mallorca, designed by Philippe Starck; Porto Tarraco, a marina in Tarragona that specialises in superyacht wintering; laid-back Marina Santa Eulalia in Ibiza; and Marina Botafoc, which boasts more charter berths than anywhere else in Ibiza.
The company also specialises in revitalising marinas, providing retail space, outstanding design features, and events and concert venues.
The project is also being supported by numerous partners, including Erre Arquitectura and Ingeneria Civil de Levante, which have been involved in architecture and engineering on both land and sea; GEICorp technical, strategic and financial advisors; and Global Management Consultancy led by highly experienced project manager Jose Luis Fayos who provided consulting services on the Marina Port Valencia project.
Patrick Reynes, CEO of Marina Port Valencia and IPM-IMG Group, gave a preview of the plan at the Valencia Boat Show in mid-October where he stressed how the project
will complement the spectacular development that Valencia is currently experiencing by thrusting the Valencian yachting industry into the limelight, and integrating the port with the city.
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Building on the success of past events, the Monaco Smart and Sustainable Marina Rendezvous, held at the Yacht Club de Monaco in September, brought together nearly 250 important players in the marina sector to explore how technology, finance and architecture can revolutionise marina operations, sustainability and the user experience.
Across two days of debates and networking, this year’s event showcased innovative solutions for managing marinas, practical ways to secure investment, and expert input on how to design marinas with environmental sustainability in mind.
In a session that explored optimising marina experiences through technology, moderated by Gino Battaglia, president of the Italian Yacht Masters Association, industry leaders discussed how technology is becoming a crucial component in improving marina management and user experience.
Captain Kelly J Gordon said practical tools like smart apps for dockage arrangements, fuel management and crew provisioning would be a great help to boaters. Such tools
Arrogant Architects’ modular floating marina design ‘Modularity, Responsibility, Mediterranean’ won the Coup de Coeur award.
could reduce the reliance on informal communication channels like WhatsApp by consolidating essential information in one platform. She suggested that a single portal to guide boaters on everything from entrance requirements in the destination country to the local weather would be invaluable.
Maria Vera Vives, head of expansion and sustainable development at Spain’s Alcudiamar Marina, highlighted how
technology is already being used in marinas to monitor energy consumption and water quality. Providing realtime data systems like these to help captains avoid unexpected bills and mistakes is essential for better resource management, she believes.
Stavros Katsikadis, president of the Greek Marinas Association, agrees, and added that it is important to source energy that is renewable, especially as the demand for power from megayachts and superyachts continues to grow. Sustainability is key, he said: “I like to use the Greek word, αιώνιος, which means eternal in Greek, everything we do, from the design to the building, we try to do it forever. This must be a law for all marinas.”
Randy Durband, CEO of South Korea’s Global Sustainable Tourism Council argued that before adopting advanced technologies, marinas should focus on developing robust data collection and analysis systems. Sharing data is essential for sustainable management and improving operational efficiency, he said.
A second session focused on the financial challenges of marina development and the role of sustainability in securing investment was moderated by Pascale Ferry, deputy director at Monaco Statistics. Investors are increasingly prioritising projects that incorporate sustainability from the outset, according to Klaus Peters, CEO of Brazil’s InterMarinas. He said certification is a key factor, with higher levels of sustainability certification translating into tax incentives and better investment opportunities.
Property/real estate
The lotus flower inspired Structurlab’s modular platform design; winner in the architecture category.
also plays a vital role in making marinas financially viable, added Ronnie BenZur, founder and CEO of Habacoa Marina in the Bahamas, currently under construction and scheduled to open in late 2026. Combining marina facilities with real estate projects, such as hotels, creates a higher value for both components. For example, marinas not only provide access to the sea but also enhance the value of nearby properties.
Liza Singer, founder of Karpaz Gate Marina in North Cyprus, stressed that marinas must also consider local employment opportunities to gain incentives from governments. She noted that marinas are evolving from mere boat parking spaces to central hubs that contribute significantly to the local economy, further enhancing their appeal to investors. Governments are beginning to understand that the seafront is the most lucrative part of the city, she said.
The panel agreed that another critical factor for attracting investment is data transparency. Collecting and sharing comprehensive data, ranging from boat statistics to energy and water usage, allows for better feasibility studies and more informed decisionmaking by investors. There are no good feasibility studies on marinas yet, Ben-Zur ventured, because marinas in the US do not publish their rates and there is no obligation to store or collect information.
A final session looked at the pivotal role architecture plays in the sustainable development of marinas. Moderator Oscar Siches opened the discussion by stressing that modern marinas must be considered from multiple perspectives, including those of users, promoters and government regulators. He noted that marinas have transitioned from being purely nautical businesses to becoming hubs of hospitality that welcome not only boaters but the broader public as well.
“You go [to a marina] to have a good time, you don’t necessarily have to have a boat to access them, you can access them by land, too,” Siches said. “There is a new social component in the marina that was not present 20 years ago.”
Janna Bystrykh, head of the architecture programme at the
Academy of Architecture in the Netherlands, highlighted the need to address both climate and biodiversity goals in marina design. Marinas impact local ecosystems, such as nurseries and seabeds, making it essential to consider biodiversity during the planning and construction stages. She advocates for a holistic approach that considers the impact of materials, legislative requirements and the protection of local species. Siches agrees: “Doing something now, before something from above (the Government) will ask you to do it, is easier. The key is to act now.”
Collaboration between architects and engineers is vital, particularly when addressing environmental challenges such as carbon emissions and rising sea levels, noted Effie Nakajima, senior associate at the UK’s Zaha Hadid Architects. A client’s vision drives the design process, but architects must balance multiple viewpoints – from engineers to environmentalists – to create functional and sustainable marinas, she said.
New Zealand innovator and architect, Henry Glogau, said architects must deeply understand the local context to design marinas that are environmentally and culturally sensitive. This approach is especially important when adapting existing marinas to climate change or enhancing biodiversity.
The event culminated in the presentation of the Smart and Sustainable Marina Awards 2024. The 744-berth Alcudiamar
Marina in Mallorca, Spain won the category for most sustainable and intelligent marina. Mar Vera Vives was delighted to accept the award on behalf of the marina. “It has been a real pleasure to participate in these two days of intense networking and fellowship with such high-level professionals in the sector,” she said. “This award is a recognition of the hard work of the entire Alcudiamar team over many years, so I also thank each of them and the event organisers for this honour.”
In the innovation category, Clean Sea Solution won the start-up prize for its project aimed at reducing plastic waste in marinas and the ocean, while Ecocean won the scale-up prize for its strong involvement with biodiversity and scientifically proven help in regenerating life in marinas.
Germany’s Structurlab won in the architecture category for its lotus flowerinspired design of modular platforms for quick assembly and reconfiguration. Using recycled materials, solar power and rainwater collection systems, the design minimises ecological disruption while adapting to seasonal visitor flows. Its eco-friendly anchoring methods better protect the underwater ecosystem, while allowing larger boats to moor outside no-boat zones.
Bulgaria’s Arrogant Architects was the public’s favourite, winning the ‘Coup de Coeur’ award for its modular floating marina design project called ‘Modularity, Responsibility, Mediterranean’. The design includes the installation of artificial nurseries, thermal insulation improvements, seawater heat pumps and the use of prefabricated local materials to reduce CO2 emissions.
Finnish marina systems builder Marinetek has carved an international place for itself over the past three decades. Co-founder Markku Rantanen and CEO Santeri Suoranta look back, and look forward, as they speak to Marina World on the company’s 30th anniversary.
When Ilkka Seppälä and I started Marinetek in 1994, we had both already worked in the marina industry for more than a decade. We knew how the business was done but wanted to do things a little differently: our goal was to be an international company that offered modern, high-quality concrete pontoons that were built to last for decades.
Also, instead of offering just standard pontoon models, we wanted to use our experience to serve customers better by helping them design their marinas and then – when needed – design custom pontoons to meet their needs and optimise the marina’s performance. Reliability naturally became our core value, and it came from our hearts and our actions – our slogan is “more than marinas, we deliver peace of mind”. We’ve always paid extra attention to durability, from product design to manufacturing and marina design to delivery and installation. And we’ve always been true to our principle of not overpromising or under-delivering. That
meant that, at times, we turned down projects where the circumstances for a marina were not right and we couldn’t guarantee optimal performance, durability and lifespan.
I’ve enjoyed working in the marina industry immensely. The company’s values are my values, which means I haven’t had to force anything or do something I don’t approve myself. It has been great to see how the industry and technology have developed in past decades – and to have been able to answer to the need of larger and more heavy-duty pontoons with the continuing growth of the size of modern yachts and the size of marinas.
Sustainability aspects have been getting more important in recent years and I’m happy to say that our dedication to building pontoons and marinas that have a long lifespan has always also been a sustainability matter. When you build something that lasts, it does not have to be built again anytime soon, which minimises the use of natural and financial resources.
Louis Marina was Marinetek’s first project in the Caribbean.
Of course, we are not just relying on that to meet modern sustainability needs. Constant product development and the search for better solutions have always been part of our company culture and we aim to be industry leaders also in sustainability.
I’m proud of the way we’ve been able to grow the company over the years. We started our business with international projects, which I’m sure helped our reputation to grow. We quickly became the market leader in our domestic market in Finland, but also we were able to expand our reach internationally.
With our growth there have been some very memorable milestones in different parts of the world. In 2005, with the founding of Marinetek Adriatic in Croatia, Marinetek grew strongly in the Mediterranean area. At the same time, we were working on a multi-year project in Dubai. When it was finished in 2007, Palm Jumeirah Marinas was the largest marina project in the world.
During those hectic years of growth, Marinetek also expanded its operations to North America and the Caribbean. Delivery in phases of the luxury marina of Port Louis in Grenada started in 2009 and was completed in 2010. Also in 2010, Marinetek North America delivered its first project: Palm Harbor in Florida’s West Palm Beach, which was immediately acknowledged as the Marina of the Year in Florida.
Conquering the world did not end there. The first Marinetek project in Southeast Asia was completed in 2015, and Phuket Yacht Haven in Thailand is now widely regarded as the first port of choice for superyachts in the tropical Andaman Sea.
I have many favourite projects but Port Louis Marina in the Caribbean
The iconic Palm Jumeirah Marinas in Dubai, stars in the Marinetek portfolio, were game-changers for the company.
and Ocean Village & Marina Bay & Superyacht Marinas in Gibraltar are on the top of my list. Palm Harbor Marina in Florida, Aker Brygge in Norway, Port Hercules in Monaco and Limassol Marina in Cyprus also stand out. And we must never forget Palm Jumeirah Marinas in Dubai, which was a gamechanging project for Marinetek.
Q: Where is Marinetek currently operating and have there been any significant changes to its market reach?
A: We have our Group headquarters in Helsinki, Finland, and our own factories in Finland, Latvia and Croatia. Our other units are strategically located to cover central and northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Middle East and Africa, Southeast Asia and North America –with focus on the east coast. These have been our main markets in recent years.
Q: Five years ago the owners looked to distance the company from generic ‘floating solutions’ and refocus on the core business of designing, manufacturing and supplying pontoon systems for marinas. Have you continued with this?
A: Yes. We are focusing on being recognised as the best designer and supplier of recreational marinas. Outside the marina business we offer our know-how and technology for
selective floating solutions projects, which we consider case by case.
Q: What are your strongest markets and where do you see most growth?
A: We see Europe as our home market, and we are also strong in the Middle East. Further growth is coming from the North American and Southeast Asia markets.
Q: Have you redesigned any aspects of your range or worked with any new materials?
A: We work constantly on product development and sustainability to improve our products and at the same time lower our environmental footprint. This includes production methods and materials. A lot of this is not instantly visible in the product itself, but results in longer product lifespan, improved durability, and lower CO2 emissions.
Q: Is new thinking in terms of the
The expansion at Ingå Marina in Inkoo, delivered by Marinetek in the second quarter this year, has 486 berths. It is the largest single-phase recreational marina project ever to be undertaken in Finland.
environment and the increased implementation of smart technology affecting the design of marina systems?
A: We have a strong focus on sustainability. We follow and scientifically measure our CO2 emissions and aim to decrease our footprint. This is done through product design and materials as well as energy consumption at the factories and use of green energy where suitable.
We are supporting marina owners and operators in developing smart technology for their marinas and making the marinas ready for e-boating. We have partners who can supply charging stations and versatile solutions to marinas – both for the pontoons and shore areas. We are closely following the smart technology development and adapting to the changes quickly.
Q: How do you see marinas developing in general over the next 30 years?
A: Recreational boating brings positive experiences to people. We believe this will continue as a trend and marinas will develop further to be oases in urban areas, not just parking spots for boats. I see more services, like restaurants and boat rental companies, developing in marinas and marinas therefore becoming more popular places for people who don’t own boats; links between land and water, and cool places for people to hang out.
From a technical viewpoint, electrification of boats will change the infrastructure in marinas and the number of boats as well as the size of boats is increasing, which will create demand for bigger marinas.
CANADA: Montague Harbour Marina, one of the most popular marinas and boating destinations within the Gulf Islands in British Columbia (BC), is situated on the southwest shore of Galiano Island.
Offering transient and annual moorings, the facility has a fuel dock, restaurant, general store, kayak and moped rentals, and caters for boaters and island residents. Operation is seasonal – May to September. The facility is well-run with tenured key staff, making it suitable for an owner/ operator or an investor.
Montague Harbour is the only marina on Galiano Island and located in one of the largest natural harbours on the BC east coast. It is an oft visited and established destination along a famous cruising route.
Price: CA$3,000,000
Contact: Alan Johnson (Colliers Canada) +1 604 661 0842
SCOTLAND: Located on the northwest coast of the Highlands in an area renowned for its unspoilt beauty, white sandy beaches and superb sailing waters, Arisaig Marina benefits from a good range of dayto-day amenities in Arisaig village and excellent transport links to major cities and airports.
The marina is well sheltered and located at the head of Loch nan Caell, an ideal safe and secure mooring spot. There is adequate car parking and profitable additional income streams from a café and gift shop, both of which are very popular with peak season tourists.
Arisaig Marina has 45 seasonal moorings, 25 additional moorings for short to medium term stays and hardstand for wintering up to 70 yachts. There are buildings for boat repairs and storage; offices; sanitary facilities for boaters; and fuel services.
Two passenger ferries (one with 80-person capacity and another for ten passengers), which transport day trippers to various small islands
including scenic Eigg and Muck, are included in the sale of the business, as is a further boat currently under restoration.
The shoreside land is held under absolute ownership/heritable title and the water space is leased from the
Crown Estate from 2021 for 25 years. Price: Offers over £1,250,000
Contact:
Neil Calder (Shepherd) +44 (0)1463 712239 or Euan MacCrimmon (Strutt & Parker) +44 (0)1463 723593
ENGLAND: A rare opportunity to acquire a picturesque moorings business ‘Kew Marine’ on the River Thames in Richmond comes with a new 50-year lease (with statutory renewal) and includes 170m (560ft) of pontoon moorings on the south bank of the river. A Thames lighter barge ‘Lambeth Bridge’, which has been converted into a large rental property, is also included in the sale.
Kew Marine is just a stroll away from world-famous Kew Gardens and the business is in a quiet setting on the river which is mainly used by recreational and rowing boats. A boat service runs through this reach of the Thames and there are good public transport connections.
The residential and leisure moorings business, which has been owned by one family for over 20 years, brings in an average annual turnover of £140,000 and, subject to consents, there is opportunity to extend the pontoons and divide ‘Lambeth Bridge’ into two rental properties.
Price: Offers over £1,500,000
Contact: Ed Jefferson (Colliers) +44 (0)117 917 2011
FL, USA: A boutique facility ideally positioned at the heart of revitalised downtown Panama City, Bristol Harbor Marina enjoys good steady income with potential growth opportunities. It has excellent access to the Gulf of Mexico via the nearby Saint Andrews inlet.
The marina infrastructure comprises new fixed piers for 49 boats, all with water, electricity and in-slip pump-out. There is gated security, car parking, a commercial office and retail unit and an outdoor covered
pavilion. Bristol Harbor is home to several commercial and recreational charter operations, further enhancing its appeal and visibility. Boasting the highest ranking for
environmental sustainability and resilience, Bristol Harbor is recognised as a ‘Resilient Marina’ by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
There is opportunity to boost income by raising slip rates, which are currently well below the norm for the local market, and revising rental fees for long term commercial tenants in the recently renovated three-suite office building. The space is currently leased through to 2025.
Bristol Harbor Marina is being marketed by Safe Haven Advisors (SVN) in partnership with Five Bridge Real Estate Services.
Price: US$2,550,000
Contact: David Kendall (SVN) +1 561 723 8463 or Josh Sheppard (SVN) +1 407 399 1120
NC, USA: An increasingly busy and popular stop-over for yachts travelling locally along the east coast, Dowry Creek Marina in Belhaven offers seclusion in a scenic environment while also being close to services and shopping.
Family-owned and operated, it is widely believed to be the busiest transient marina in the Carolinas and was designated the third best small marina in 2023 by Marina Life. It accommodates around 73 boats at docks part-owned by the Boataminium Owner’s Association (BOA), which pays 75% of the dock maintenance cost. The marina management owns 40 slips or 55% of the slips, and all the real estate and buildings.
Amenities include a large clubhouse, fuel dock, swimming pool and clubhouse apartment. There is a kayak, paddle board, canoe and pedal boat rental service. The 235-seat restaurant
is available to the buyer as an option but could be retained by the sellers who would then lease the building from the new owners.
Dowry Creek Marina is set in 14.8 acres (6ha), around 5 acres (2ha) of which is designated for a potential RV park.
Price: US$4,000,000
Takingthe toGreenapproach the VacuumproblemBlackwater seweragesystems are ideal for use in marinas Theandportsofanysize. fromFlovacsystemcancapturesewageandbilgewater Noboatsandallfacilitiesaroundthemarinacomplex. Validateselectricalpowerrequiredatdockside MARPOL
Kropf Industrial, manufacturer of the industry-leading Conolift line of boat handling equipment, reveals that its first allelectric travel lift is now in service at a yacht club in Ontario, Canada.
Claimed to be a first for North America, this all-electric 40ton capacity lift has already been through a rigorous testing programme at Kropf’s facility. It is now being utilised by a Torontoarea marine facility for haul-out and launch operations, providing opportunities for final refinements and demonstrating the performance of the unit in a range of conditions. To date, the lift has exceeded expectations for ease of use, reliability, battery life and low charging times.
The all-electric design completely eliminates an internal combustion engine and a hydraulic system, which results in a machine that is emissions and spills free. Reliable, proven technologies were utilised throughout the design process, ensuring safe,
long-term operations and ease of maintenance and service.
The lift is a fully-featured machine with all of the options available on a diesel-powered unit, including
proportional controls, two-speed winches, sling positioners and fully radio-remote operation. Diagnostics, machine status updates and service are simplified through use of a large external touchscreen, and the machine can be remotely diagnosed and serviced through connection to a Wi-Fi network.
The advanced all-electric design benefits from Conolift’s proven fabrication methods, and is robust with high-quality finish.
The machine offers quiet and safe operation, without the risk of spills, and with lower service requirements than a traditional diesel/hydraulic unit. www.kropfindustrial.com.
Strengthening its constant commitment to innovation and sustainability, Italian company Boat Lift continues to deliver machines with electric power, and to design width flexibility into its machines.
One of its most recent achievements is the Pelican Lift mobile dockside crane (right). This unique and patented design enables operators to perform lift and launch operations even when no dockside infrastructure is available. The positive response from operators confirms that the lift solves a widespread issue in the industry as marinas and shipyard activities are often limited by infrastructure building costs and permits. The front cantilever beam of the Pelican means it can reach out well beyond the dock edge, ensuring easy and safe lift and launch operations in conditions that do not allow the use of a travel lift.
Boat Lift has also expanded its electric option across its entire range. Zero-emission products are equipped with advanced control systems and high-efficiency lithium batteries, with the aim of making boat handling operations increasingly efficient and sustainable.
Since 2014, Boat Lift has also been on a mission to offer its boat hoists in adjustable width versions. Thanks to nearly a decade of continuous product refinement and technology
development, the company’s expandable travel lifts are now sophisticated handling and lifting devices, offering a wide range of benefits for marinas, ports and shipyards.
The recent commissioning of a 300 tonne variable width travel lift for Nautor Swan (Badalona, Spain) represents the culmination of the refinement process featuring several advancements and leading to the manufacture of fully customised solutions. Due to the hydraulic expansion, the variable width lifts make the most of boat storage areas, reaching spaces inaccessible with standard machines and thus maximising the use of space. Finally, in demonstration of its continuous effort to offer a customeroriented approach, Boat Lift has
recently launched a self-propelled trailer rental service. Customers who are seeking more flexibility and convenience when it comes to lifting and handling boats can rent a Boat Lift trailer, ensuring better shipyard equipment management without constraints and hidden costs. www.boatlift.it
After over two years of design, manufacture and in-depth factory testing, Marine Travelift has introduced the Electric Series (E-Series) of boat hoists.
The company’s engineering team spent countless hours designing and perfecting the 700-volt battery powered system for its 50BFMII boat hoist, which carries a 50 tonne lift capacity.
“Our goal from day one was to design and build a zeroemissions boat hoist that not only met the quality of a diesel unit but has the same work capacity, ease of use and operational efficiency our customers have come to expect,” says Marine Travelift engineer Weston Wedeward. Power consumption was optimised to ensure the E-Series met or exceeded the performance of a standard engine machine, and every feature and option available on dieselpowered boat hoists is also available.
The first machine was equipped with options such as electronic allwheel steering, 5ft (1.5m) top beam extension, work/drive lights and two-
speed hoists to ensure the correct power requirement was chosen to accommodate all option configurations. Extensive performance testing was done over an 18-month period in various weather conditions, load configurations and travel distances to ensure optimal performance of the system in all working scenarios.
The hydraulic functions of the boat
As dealer and service provider for Ascom and Abi Trailers across the USA and Caribbean, Forklift Exchange has delivered an Ascom BHT 80 boat hoist and an Abi Trailer MBT 25 hydraulic trailer to Key Largo Boatyard & Storage in Florida. Both will significantly enhance operations and business capacity. www.forkliftexchange.com
hoist are powered by a reputable world leader in electric powered components and the batteries are manufactured in the USA. The system utilises scalable DC fast charging interfaces from onroad electric vehicles to safely charge the batteries and a full charge can be accomplished in an eight-hour period with the recommended 30kW high speed smart charger. “In a normal marina setting customers can expect to lift somewhere between 10 to 14 vessels in a day on a full charge,” Marine Travelift executive vice president Kurt Minten says. “They can also plug in the machine when idle throughout the day to further maximise the battery life and increase daily run time.”
The E-Series machines utilise multiple layers of safety features from the moment the machine is keyed to the ‘on’ position. High voltage junction boxes, isolation monitor, fuses and grounding straps are just a few of the safety features that ensure the operator and batteries are kept safe during every phase of operation. Both the batteries and electric motor are temperature regulated with a glycol cooling system to maintain a safe operating temperature, regardless of the ambient temperature.
“Sometimes we see new products in our industry rushed to market before they are ready and the customer has to essentially work through the testing and prototype phase,” says Minten. “There is a certain level of expectation when customers receive a Marine Travelift boat hoist, so we take that very seriously and dedicate the extra time to fully test everything. For this project we went as far as setting up the machine at a local marina to let them use it through the fall haul out season,” he reveals.
www.marinetravelift.com
It has become a tradition for Dutch company Roodberg to exhibit at Metstrade in Amsterdam every November, and for 2024 the company brings something new to its stand (05.760) in the Marina & Yard Pavilion.
Visitors should look out for a 1:16 scale model of a column-mounted slewing crane, specially made for the show to clearly highlight the specifications of a 65 tonne capacity machine currently in build for Wajer Yachts in the south of France.
The SPC65 is fully electric, making it environmentally friendly and easy and precise to operate. Maintenance has also been streamlined, as one of the crane’s special features is the location of its slewing drive at the bottom of the column. An inspection door gives easy access to all components inside the SPC.
All steel box sections are watertight, and the crane is equipped with four Roodberg wire rope hoists, designed for outdoor use in the toughest conditions. And because the four-point lifting yoke is integrated into the horizontal arm of the SPC, the overall height can be much lower than a single-point crane, which can make it easier to obtain planning permission.
Roodberg has designed the crane to be as compact and aesthetically pleasing as possible and, like all of the company’s products, durability, longevity and low maintenance costs are key objectives. This is achieved by using high quality materials, such as stainless steel guide rails as standard, galvanised fasteners, stainless steel control boxes with ventilation and heating to avoid condensation, and a very high quality two component paint finish that seals all cavities and matches the rounded edges of the components for optimum coverage.
www.roodberg.com
For over two decades, Italian company Cimolai Technology has been a leading global provider of specialised and innovative solutions for handling and lifting. This year, it once again rises to the challenges presented by a dynamic market, with a full order book in several different sectors, including tailor-made solutions that make the best use of its technical expertise.
Numerous projects completed for the nautical sector confirm its specialisation in the production of medium to large capacity machines. The 1,500 tonne fully electric boat hoist, just assembled in Oregon, USA, marks a significant step forward in its efforts to integrate green technologies into its product range, supporting clients in reducing their environmental impact. Also noteworthy is the recent delivery to Greece of a telescopic unit, which, with hanging boats weighing well over 1,000 tonnes, can adjust its track width by 5m (16ft 5in); a symbol of ongoing innovation.
While Cimolai Technology’s larger machines are a true hallmark of its capabilities, the company remains equally dedicated to serving clients with ‘smaller’ needs. It currently has a variety of smaller machines in production, all of which offer the
same high level of quality and precision as larger models.
Amongst the company’s recent highlights is its collaboration with Midcoast Boatyard & Marine in Wickham, Australia, where it is set to deliver a 50-tonne boat hoist in spring 2025; a US order from Boston Harbor Shipyard & Marina for an 80-tonne telescopic MBH, a machine capable of adjusting its width to accommodate space needs; and the supply, following public tender, of a 110-tonne boat hoist for Port Nelson Marina in New Zealand.
With each new project, Cimolai Technology continues to set new benchmarks in the industry, delivering cutting-edge solutions that combine technical excellence with a customercentric approach.
www.cimolaitechnology.com
The Tango smart dockside pedestal (above) and the Harbour Commander Cloud system from Marex are proving to be a popular combination in new and refurbished Croatian marinas.
At the end of 2023, Zadar-based Marex installed both products as part of the modernisation and renovation of the port of Rab on Rab Island. Rab County Port Authority, with co-financing from EU funds, invested €5 million in modernising and enhancing the port to meet the highest safety standards.
Tango smart pedestals were installed along with the Harbour Commander Cloud system, which gives the marina team a simple and secure way to manage berths and provide users with intuitive access to electricity, water and other port services. The project has not only contributed to the economic growth
When Hurricane Beryl, a Category 5 storm, hit the Caribbean islands of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in July it had a severe impact on the island of Canouan. The team at Sandy Lane Yacht Club & Residences had every reason to fear an environmental catastrophe as the storm lashed its infrastructure but the vacuum sewer system installed by Flovac between 2016 and 2018 proved its resilience and reliability.
Sandy Lane Yacht Club is a luxury port that has become the central hub for megayachts in the Grenadines. Of its 120 berths, 24 are dedicated to megayachts up to 100m (330ft) in length.
The two-year project involved constructing a 2.5km (1.5mi) sewer network and installing a vacuum station and reclaimed water treatment plant. The installation was designed to handle the complex conditions of the island, which measures just 5.6 x 2km (3.5 x 1.2mi) and relies on desalination for its water supply.
Flovac integrated its Flovatronic
of the island but has also strengthened Croatia’s position as a leader in nautical tourism.
Marex is also greatly involved in the supply of infrastructure for a new marina – Molum Marine Club – being built in the municipality of Sveti Filip i Jakov between Sibenik and Zadar on the Dalmatian coast. It is timed to complete for the 2025 boating season offering 127 berths for vessels of 10 to 30m (33 to 98ft) with possible outer pier mooring options.
Special attention has been given to the technological outfitting of the marina and Marex Tango pedestals operating via Harbour Commander
system into the Building Management System (BMS) it installed to give comprehensive real-time control of the sewer network and other facilities of the complex.
Only minor repairs were required following the storm despite the fact that the small and exposed island suffered direct impact from devastating winds and torrential rain. Full functionality continued as normal and underscored the importance of having robust, reliable infrastructure – especially in a vulnerable environment.
www.flovac.es
Cloud are central to the management of berths and services.
The marina will also feature Marex high quality stainless steel mooring fixtures, including a total of 369 bollards with three, five or ten tonne load capacities. The company also provided a LeeStrom pump-out system via its exclusive dealership agreement. The LS 2000W TS, which has a capacity of 300 litres/min (66 gallons/ min), offers an efficient and rapid solution for the drainage and pump-out of wastewater from boats and adheres to the highest standards of marine and environmental protection.
www.marex-es.hr
For over 35 years, Den Hartog Industries in Hospers, Iowa has elevated the quality of foam- lled oat drums, setting the industry standards and is a leader in the marine industry on quality, durability and longevity. Visit www.ace oatdrums.com for a variety of product sizes, speci cations with bouyancy and technical information.
Newly launched by US company EZ Dock, the Optimus Float Port is the ultimate solution for protecting a pontoon or tritoon vessel, delivering superior reliability, durability and convenience.
the risk of damage caused by water exposure, such as corrosion, algae growth and wear and tear, helping to extend the lifespan of the watercraft while minimising ongoing maintenance requirements.
Engineered with precision, the port ensures a boat remains dry, secure and entirely out of the water when not in use. This significantly reduces
The Optimus Float Port is compatible with a wide range of pontoons and tritoons, supporting boats that weigh up to 5,400lbs (2,400kg) and measure between 16 to 27 feet (5 to 8m) in length. Its robust construction provides stability, while the innovative design allows for seamless docking and undocking, making it a practical solution for boaters of all experience levels.
www.ez-dock.com
Via Professional Submarine Services, Spanish company Almarin has supplied and installed an aluminium pontoon with concrete floats to provide temporary moorings for storm shelter at the port of Ibiza in Ibiza (above left).
The Lindley pontoons form a pier of around 180m (590ft) long with a walkway at each end. The mooring system consists of articulated radius arms to enable the infrastructure to adjust to tidal movements.
On its home market in Portugal, Lindley was also recently contracted by Atlântinivel to supply 100m (330ft) of concrete pontoons for a Docapesca project in the fishing area in Vila do Conde (above right). The pontoons
provide an excellent mooring pier that improves working conditions and safety for fishermen. Emergency ladders and pedestals, and a complete lighting system were also installed. www.almarin.es & www.lindley.pt
In addition to introducing a new marina service pedestal range and updated DC charging hardware for electric boating this year, Rolec has launched its innovative BerthVend Network solution.
Featuring Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN) technology, this new wireless berth-management system is specifically engineered to suit site expansions where current infrastructure is already in place. The software offers
greater flexibility and efficiency in managing marina utilities remotely, enabling continuous communication and control over essential services. LoRaWAN’s long range, low power usage, scalability and secure data
handling make it an ideal solution for managing marina services.
Key benefits are:
• Enhanced connectivity: LoRaWAN’s long range covers extensive marina areas with fewer gateways, ensuring reliable, seamless connectivity for all devices.
• Cost-effectiveness: low power usage and fewer access points make LoRaWAN an economical choice, reducing installation and operational costs.
• Security and scalability: with endto-end encryption and a scalable setup, LoRaWAN keeps data safe as the marina’s connected services are expanded.
Unlike complex networks like Zigbee, Rolec says that LoRaWAN’s simple, long-range set-up is easy to deploy and ideal for large marina spaces. www.rolecserv.com
AMI Conference & Expo, USA 18
ASAR, USA 12
Aqua superPower, UK 58
Bellingham Marine, USA 7 & 75
Bluet, Finland 48
Bluewater Marine & Dock Specialities, USA 64
Boatlift, Italy 42
CJ Plast, France 48
Capria, Argentina 60
Conolift by Kropf Industrial, Canada 28
D-Marin, Greece 27
Den Hartog, USA 70
Dura Composites, UK 56
EZ Dock, USA 30
Eagle Floats by
Hendren Plastics, USA 69
Edgewater Resources, USA 47
Flovac, Spain 62
Forklift Exchange, USA 67
GH Cranes, Spain 49
Gigieffe, Italy 34
Golden Manufacturing, USA 14 & 15
IWMC 2025, Italy 20
Ingemar, Italy 10
Inmare, Italy 50
Lindley, Portugal 38 & 39
MPP Engineering, UK 70
Marex, Croatia 60
Marina & Holiday Park Solutions, UK 70
Marina Master by IRM, Slovenia 50
Marina Projects, UK 76
MARINAGo by Scribble Software, USA 33
Marine Structures, Australia 37
Marine Travelift, USA 53
Marinetek, Finland 4
Martini Marinas, Italy 45
Molo Marina Management/ Stellar Systems, USA 61
Monaco Yacht Club, Monaco 24
Nautipark, France 64
Pacsoft, New Zealand 58
Perspective Products, USA 58
PierPump by Vogelsang, Germany 8
Plus Marine, Italy 16
Poralu Marine, France 22 & 23
Premier Materials, USA 50
Rolec, UK 24
Ronautica, Spain 16
Roodberg - a brand of Frisian Industries, Netherlands 71
SF Marina System, Sweden 2
Seaflex, Sweden 6
Seijsener, Netherlands 48
Smarter Technologies, UK 56
Strongwell, USA 60
Twinwood by CJ Plast, Portugal 34
Walcon Marine, UK 18
Water Witch, UK 56
Wiggins Lift Co, USA 62
It’s 4.00pm on a Friday and staff at Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club (RHKYC) have just received news that a typhoon is heading towards Hong Kong. Rapidly informing hundreds of boat owners of the danger and any actions they need to take would be almost impossible for some clubs, but a PacsoftNG smart software system makes it possible for RHKYC to keep its 1,000-plus boat owners up to date.
“The software allows us to manage many aspects of the club and easily send out an email alert to every boating member with an individual berth, mooring or hardstand space,” says marine manager Alan Reid. “In the case of a typhoon, quickly communicating any danger or required actions is essential because there’s often someone who is unaware of the impending severe weather and it’s vital they arrange for their boats to be secured to avoid damage.”
sailors, rowing and sail training. In all, there are over 15,000 members living locally and abroad.
PacsoftNG’s membership communications features also simplify the club’s day-to-day operations by making it easy to find individual members’ email addresses and send them personalised messages directly; such as information about an issue with their boat or an update about mooring maintenance in their part of the marina or mooring field.
“It makes life a lot easier for us because we can send reminder emails, instructions or information to a limited set of people,” Reid acknowledges, adding that prior to the club first introducing PacsoftNG in 2007 there was no marina management software in place to handle communications to its vast membership.
Now, the fully upgraded software takes care of many key operational functions, automating repetitive tasks that used to be processed manually.
The club is spread over three locations in Hong Kong. Kellett Island in Causeway Bay is the main location for racing; Shelter Cove near Sai Kung harbours cruisers; and Middle Island near Repulse Bay is the base for dinghy
The smart software simplifies the complexity of managing berth rentals across these locations, as well as handling batch invoicing and managing membership records. It also helps the club manage the extensive range of professional boatyard services it offers, including all the associated quoting, invoicing and communications involved.
“The future looks bright for the club for sailing and rowing, including paddling,” Reid says. “We’re training an increasing amount of children and adults and encouraging more people to take to the water to try the sports out. The club encompasses a large training centre with 80 dinghies and a fleet of 28 RIBs on hand to use for rowing and sailing training.”
RHKYC’s biggest regular race event is the Around the Island Race; a 26 nautical mile race around Hong Kong Island that welcomes an average of more than 1,500 participants in more than 200 boats. And Hong Kong Race Week is the club’s signature dinghy sailing event – over 240 competitors from over nine countries and regions raced over three days in 215 boats earlier this year.
www.pacsoftmms.com
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