Marina World

Pushing Boundaries

Dear Readers,

“The marina industry moves slowly,” I was told at the ICOMIA World Marinas Conference in Venice, Italy, in October. “But the pace of change and growth we are seeing now is unprecedented.”

It is important to recognise that these changes do not happen organically or spontaneously. Behind them is a global, yet close-knit village of dedicated professionals who are pushing the boundaries of the marina industry.

Marina Development Indonesia is leading a local and international collaboration to build Bali’s first full-service, international-standard marina, tapping into a market that the country has long seen pass them by. Meanwhile, Bahrain, another archipelagic nation that is over 2,000 times smaller than Indonesia, has invested in a series of new marina projects to stand out amidst a dense but lucrative Gulf market.

But behind the destinations are the people, the real-life individuals who are spearheading these changes in the marina industry. Turkey’s Dilek Seven is redefining the face of marina leadership in a male-dominated environment, while Martin Reuter and his team at Ingenhoven Associates took on the challenge to design a marina for Certosa Island in Venice and were duly recognised by winning the architects’ award at the Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marinas Rendezvous in September.

The ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2025 in Venice was a demonstration of the breadth of brilliant brains and imaginative ideas pushing boundaries in the marina industry. It is a pleasure to recognise some of them in this issue of Marina World

Kind regards,

Patrick Norén Editor

Marina World patrick.noren@marinaworld.com

EDITORIAL

EDITOR IN CHIEF

EDITOR

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR

NEWS WRITER

FEATURES WRITER

Francesca Webster

Patrick Norén

Carol Fulford

Charlotte Niemiec

Mel Symes

Ellaine Zabate

Enrico Chhibber

CREATIVE DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

DESIGN PRODUCTION SALES & ADVERTISING

HEAD OF SALES

SALES MANAGER MARINA WORLD

SALES MANAGER

CLIENT SERVICE MANAGER

Sales Americas & Caribbean

Sales France

Ivo Nupoort

Beatriz Ramos

Marieke de Vries

Brianna Johann

Charly van den Enden

Nuri Ozkaya

Johanna Borreli

Philippe Critot - pcritot@marinaworld.com

Catherine Metais - catherinemetais@marinaworld.com

CORPORATE

FOUNDER & DIRECTOR

TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR

FINANCE DIRECTOR

COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR

Merijn de Waard

Fabian Tollenaar

Laura Weber

Bart Beemsterboer

SuperYacht Times B.V. Silodam 256, 1013 AS, Amsterdam, The Netherlands 31 (0) 20 773 28 64 info@superyachttimes.com www.superyachttimes.com

Cover Image: Bahrain Marina by Bahrain Marina

“Marina World” (ISSN “1471-5856” USPS 19194) is published 4 times a year in January, June, September, and November by “Marina World Limited”, “12 Manea Close Lower Earley Reading RG6 4JN, United Kingdom”. Airfreight and mailing in the USA by World Container Inc., c/o BBT 150-15 183rd St, Jamaica, NY 11413-4037, USA. Periodicals postage paid at Brooklyn, NY 11256.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to “Marina World”, World Container Inc., c/o BBT 150-15, 183rd St, Jamaica, NY 11413, USA.

Europe

Cyprus launches tender for Paphos marina project

Cyprus’ Deputy Ministry of Tourism has launched the tender process for the long-term concession of the Paphos (Kissonerga) Marine Development Project. Interested parties are invited to submit expressions of interest by 16 December 2025 at 11:00, with the bid opening scheduled for the same day at 11:30.

Spanning 165,628 sqm in Kissonerga, Paphos, the project will include a marina with 1,000 recreational vessel slots. Around 70-80 percent of the berths will be wet berths, while the remaining 20-30 percent will be dry berths. Alongside the marina, the development allows for residential and commercial spaces, hotel infrastructure and optional facilities for cruise ships.

The competitive process will follow two phases. The first, the expression of interest, invites qualified economic operators to participate and secure eligibility for the next stage. The second, invitation to tender, will require shortlisted candidates to submit detailed proposals for the concession contract.

The initiative aligns with Cyprus’ broader objectives of enhancing nautical tourism, supporting the local economy, reducing tourism seasonality and ensuring safe navigation zones along the coastline. Advisory support for the project is provided by Deloitte Ltd and Triton Consulting Engineering S.A.

Contract notices are available in the Official Journal of the European Union and the Official Gazette of the Republic of Cyprus. All tender documentation, including the invitation to submit an expression of interest, is accessible through the Cyprus Public Procurement Electronic Platform at www.eprocurement.gov.cy.

Jersey Marinas achieves 5 Gold Anchor accreditation

Jersey Marinas has received the 5 Gold Anchor accreditation from The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) for all three of its St Helier marinas. This follows three years of investment in marina infrastructure and customer service.

The accreditation reflects Jersey Marinas’ service to more than 1,200 berth holders and over 5,000 visiting vessels annually. It also highlights the facilities available at the marinas and the sailing opportunities around the island.

The Gold Anchor scheme has been assessing marinas worldwide for over 25 years. It audits infrastructure, systems and customer service, providing feedback every three years to help marinas maintain and improve standards. The scheme is delivered globally by TYHA and the Marina Industries Association.

Jersey Marinas provides pontoon mooring for over 1,150 craft, with more than 900 annual berths and around 250 for visiting or monthly-lease vessels. The Old Harbour features over 500 dry moorings for craft up to 14 metres.

Berth holders have access to 24-hour security, travel hoists for vessels up to 65 tonnes, WiFi, cafés, shops, pump-out stations, showers, refuelling points, electricity supply, recycling and a launderette. The marinas are located near St Helier’s waterfront, shops, restaurants and entertainment.

Marina di Imperia in Liguria relaunches with 65-year concession

Marina di Imperia in Liguria, Italy, has officially secured a 65-year concession for its completion and management under the Municipality of Imperia’s in-house company, Go Imperia. The agreement ended a provisional phase that had relied on temporary one-year concessions for routine maintenance, paving the way for an extensive redevelopment of the tourist port.

Originally conceived in 1981 with the establishment of Imperia Mare S.p.A., the project has been decades in the making. Early efforts increased the number of berths from 350 to 700, creating the foundation for a modern marina. Plans for a larger facility emerged in 1994 and materialised in 2006 with the creation of Porto di Imperia S.p.A., which obtained a 55-year concession and began construction in 2007.

The 65-year concession allows the development of 1,235 berths, ranging from five to 90 metres, including 782 for tourist vessels and 453 for local boats. At the centre of the project will be the Hall of the Sea, hosting

a five-star hotel with a private dock, wellness centre and panoramic terraces. The building will accommodate the Yacht Club headquarters, a bar-restaurant and the port reception on the ground floor, with offices and guest spaces above.

The project also incorporates sustainable features such as heat pump air conditioning, solar panels, advanced wastewater and stormwater management, and fire protection networks. A photovoltaic system over the wastewater treatment plant, part of the nearby Energy Park project, will supply renewable energy.

The total investment is estimated at €159 million excluding VAT. Funding will rely on the sale of berths and onshore facilities, combined with private sector participation. Construction is expected to be completed within seven years, while parallel urbanisation projects, valued at €12 million, will include a pedestrian and cycle bridge over the Impero Stream, a new bridge over the Rio Baité, sewer upgrades and green area redevelopment.

EXPLORE OUR MARINAS

SPAIN Palma Cuarentena • FRANCE Camille Rayon

ITALY Punta Faro | Varazze | Livorno | San Lorenzo | Arega

CROATIA Borik | Dalmacija | Mandalina | Tribunj • ALBANIA Vlora Marina

U.A.E Port De La Mer | Marasi Bay | Jaddaf Waterfront | Al Seef | Marsa Al Arab D-MARIN.COM

DMARINMARINAS

D-MARIN

MARINA PUNTA FARO, ITALY

APAC

Coffs Harbour Marina completes major upgrade ahead of October launch

Coffs Harbour Marina in New South Wales (NSW) has completed a multi-million-dollar redevelopment, with an official launch scheduled for October 2025. The project delivered new berths, upgraded security and wider precinct improvements to meet the needs of local and visiting boaters.

The upgrades replaced five marina arms and added 143 berths for vessels between 10 and 30 metres.

Marine Structures handled the design, engineering and demolition of the ageing infrastructure before installing concrete deck pontoons with glass fibre polymer. The scope also covered piling, fire services, service pedestals and new gangways with secure access gates.

Coffs Harbour Co-Director Kevin Miller welcomed the outcome and the collaborative process: “We’ve been delighted with the co-operative approach by the Marine Structures team, solving problems as they arose in a conciliatory and positive manner. This project has transformed the marina into a first-class facility, one that reflects the coastline’s vibrancy and the needs of today’s boaters. The state-of-the-art facility elevates Coffs Harbour’s profile as a leading destination for boaters along the NSW coast.”

Marine Structures Director Jacob Morris said the redevelopment aimed to set a benchmark for regional marinas: “This upgrade has been about more than replacing infrastructure – it’s about creating a safe, modern and sustainable facility that the boating community can be proud of. By combining innovative design with cutting-edge manufacturing, we’ve ensured Coffs Harbour Marina will serve the community and visiting vessels for decades to come.”

Fiji’s Port Denarau Marina completes $6M expansion

Port Denarau Marina in Fiji has completed a $6 million USD expansion, adding seven berths over a four-month period. The project includes the South Pacific’s first superyacht berth capable of accommodating vessels up to 115 metres.

The expansion also includes a 208-metre jetty extension, alongside dredging to deepen approach channels and turning basins. These measures were introduced to allow safe navigation and access for larger vessels.

The project uses the Super Elite® Marina System from Marine Structures, which features elastomeric hinge technology intended to improve flexibility, durability and installation time. Fuel supplied by Pacific Energy and power connections at berths were also added as part of the upgrade.

Following the development, Port Denarau Marina has 62 private berths, of which 27 are for superyachts over 24 metres. The additional capacity is expected to support marine services, tourism operators and local businesses in Fiji.

Malakai Naiyaga, Board Chair of Port Denarau Marina, said: “This is more than infrastructure – it is a forward-looking investment in Fiji’s future as the leading superyacht destination in the South Pacific. It enables us to welcome the world’s most prestigious vessels while generating local jobs, supporting marine tourism and strengthening our position on the global stage.”

The project also engaged local suppliers and contractors during construction. In the longer term, it is expected to support charter operations and expand the marine economy in Fiji.

Superyacht marina construction begins in Sri Lanka

Construction has begun on a new superyacht marina at Port City Colombo, a development aimed at expanding facilities for vessels in Sri Lanka. The project is a joint venture involving Browns Investments PLC, China Harbour Engineering Company and LOLC Holdings.

Covering 33,776 sqm, the marina has an estimated development cost of $120 million USD. With completion targeted for 2027, the facility is expected to accommodate up to 200 mid-to-large-sized vessels and will include restaurants, retail outlets, entertainment spaces and seaside bars.

Priyantha Perera, who leads Asia Pacific Superyachts Sri Lanka, said: “The new luxury marina will add a significant incentive in attracting superyachts wanting to explore and enjoy Sri Lanka’s cruising and on-land attractions. The main cruising destinations consist of the north-east coast and the south coast which boasts of some of the most pristine beaches in the world. Sri Lanka also has 143 wrecks around the island that are ideal for keen divers.”

The marina forms part of the wider Port City Colombo project, which functions as a special economic zone (SEZ) adjacent to Colombo’s Central Business District. The SEZ includes business, residential and recreational areas, and operates under a regulatory structure designed to attract investment.

Caribbean

Cumberland Bay Resort and Marina planned for St. Vincent

Plans are underway for the construction of a resort and marina at Cumberland Bay on the island of St. Vincent. The announcement was made by Minister of Tourism Carlos James during his address at the Tourism Stakeholders’ Conference.

The Cumberland Bay Resort and Marina will feature a marina for pleasure yachts and small boats, 10 over-water villas, 50 cottages and a 100-room hotel. According to James, the project is expected to create employment opportunities in the area while supporting the country’s broader tourism development on the mainland.

The minister noted that St. Vincent is projected to have around 4,000 rooms available by 2026. He highlighted that the Cumberland Bay development forms part of this wider expansion alongside other investments on the island.

These include a $375 million USD investment by Sandals Beaches on the Leeward side of St. Vincent, which will provide approximately 375 rooms and require at least 1,500 workers. Additionally, Marriott’s project at Peter’s Hope will add 300 rooms. Combined, the two resorts alone are expected to generate employment for more than 2,000 people.

James said the Cumberland Bay project, together with other initiatives, contributes to the country’s overall tourism growth.

Delivering the marinas of tomorrow

Hi-tech solutions to connect land and sea Pontoons, breakwaters, superyacht piers, floating crossings and constructions, off-the-shelf or customised, with robust and reliable structures in steel, aluminium or concrete.

Marina Santelena e Diporto Velico, Venice - Italy

Alliance Marine launches under new leadership

Oasis Experiences has rebranded as Alliance Marine, bringing together its operations with Monument Marine Group in a move aimed at expanding marina ownership, development and technology services.

The unified company has introduced three new divisions designed to strengthen its position in the sector:

– Alliance Marine Management – providing full-service marina management, including operations, human resources, accounting and marketing.

– Alliance Marine Development – focused on acquisitions, planning, design and construction of marina destinations.

– Alliance Marine Technologies – building digital platforms for smart operations, real-time data and improved guest services.

The company’s new leadership team consists of Colin Kiley as Chief Executive Officer, Doug West as Chief Operating Officer and Erik Agostoni as Chief Financial Officer. Collectively, they bring over 60 years of industry experience through past roles at Rybovich, Lauderdale Marine Center, Bradford Marine and Willis Custom Yachts.

Alliance Marine stated that its mission is to build a network of marinas and services that supports owners, strengthens the industry and enhances the boater experience. Further acquisitions and expansion projects are expected to be announced in the coming months.

Great Circle Group partners with three Acme Marinas

Great Circle Group has partnered with three marinas operated by Acme Marinas in Massachusetts: MacDougalls’, Falmouth Marine and Vineyard Haven Marina. The agreement establishes Navtronics, a division of Great Circle Group, as the preferred marine technology partner at these locations. The move expands services across Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard.

“This partnership represents a significant milestone in our growth strategy. By joining forces with these premier facilities, we’re able to bring our exceptional marine technology expertise to more boaters while maintaining the high standards of service excellence both our companies are known for,” said Tim Greer, President of Navtronics and Vice President of Strategy at Great Circle Group.

Located on the western shore of Falmouth Inner Harbor, Falmouth Marine will serve as the base for Great Circle’s operations in the region. The facility can accommodate vessels up to 23 meters (75ft) and provides 16 slips, 15 moorings, yacht care and guest amenities.

Jay Kehoe, who leads the Falmouth Marine Center, stated: “Having Great Circle’s marine technology experts on-site creates tremendous value for our customers. This partnership allows us to offer comprehensive marine technology solutions, creating a one-stop experience that makes boating more enjoyable for everyone who docks with us.”

Chris Sullivan, who manages sales and strategic partnerships for Navtronics, will oversee the Falmouth site. “I am looking forward to returning to the Cape and to Navtronics becoming an integral part of the Cape and Islands boating community,” said Sullivan.

Legacy Harbour Marina in Fort Myers to be redeveloped after Hurricane Ian

Legacy Harbour Marina in Fort Myers, Florida, is moving forward with plans to rebuild following the damage caused by Hurricane Ian, which made landfall in September 2022.

The category four storm brought damaging winds and record-breaking storm surge. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, it was the costliest hurricane to impact Florida, causing more than $112 billion in damage. Legacy Harbour was left in ruins and redevelopment efforts were initially delayed.

AIRN Management, LLC, which had taken over the property shortly before the storm, has spent the past three years clearing the site and preparing for reconstruction, according to a press release. Construction began in early 2025, with the marina projected to reopen in Q1 2026. AIRN Management partnered with Bellingham Marine to lead the redevelopment.

Plans include 131 slips ranging from 40 to 150 feet (12-46m). The new design features Bellingham Marine’s Unifloat concrete wave attenuator system, supported by 70-foot (21-metre) steel piles driven into the seabed. Interior slips will use a Unideck aluminum frame dock system with WearDeck synthetic decking.

Larger steel pipe piles with high-density polyethylene sleeves will improve durability and reduce maintenance. Also included in the upgrades will be new utility services, drinking water, in-slip pump-out, fire suppression, fibreglass dock boxes and both single- and three-phase power.

Legacy Harbour spans approximately 13 acres (53,000 square metres) along the Caloosahatchee River, including eight acres of submerged land and 4.6 upland acres. Its riverfront location offers direct access to the Gulf of Mexico and walkable access to downtown Fort Myers.

Middle East

Dubai Maritime Authority launches “Marsa” platform for marina leasing management

The Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA), part of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, has introduced Marsa, a digital platform designed to centralise and improve marina leasing management across the emirate. The launch took place during GITEX Global 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Marsa automates the entire leasing process, covering online berth bookings, automatic fee calculations, invoicing and smart payments. The platform serves 20 marinas across Dubai, with a combined capacity for over 4,200 marine vessels. The platform aims to simplify operations and reduce paperwork for both users and administrators.

Marsa links directly to DMA’s licensing and payment systems and offers real-time dashboards showing berth occupancy, revenues and compliance data. The unified system enables government bodies and operators to handle leasing, maintenance and financial activities via a single interface.

Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Executive Director of the Dubai Maritime Authority, stated: “The launch of the MARSA platform reflects Dubai’s vision of transitioning toward a fully integrated digital economy. We are building a smart infrastructure that promotes efficiency, transparency and user-friendly experiences across the maritime sector.”

Egypt signs $18bn USD Red Sea resort deal

Egypt has signed a 900 billion EGP ($18 billion USD) partnership with Emaar Misr and Citystars to build Marassi Red Sea, a large-scale tourism and real estate project on the Red Sea coast. Spanning over 10 square kilometres, the development will be located just 30 minutes from Hurghada International Airport and is scheduled for completion within four years.

The resort will feature a world-class marina with one main harbour, two boutique marinas and a 400-metre waterfront pier. Plans also include 12 hotels offering both rooms and serviced residences, Maldives-inspired floating cabanas, private beaches, infinity shores, over 500 retail and dining outlets, schools, hospitals and wellness centres. A dedicated district called Marassi Wonders is also planned, with an international conference centre, an aqua park, sports facilities and commercial areas.

The agreement was signed in the New Administrative Capital by Mohamed Alabbar, founder of Emaar Properties, and Hassan El-Sharbatly, Vice Chairman of Citystars Group. Officials expect the project to generate between 150,000 and 170,000 jobs during construction and around 25,000 permanent roles once operational.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly described the development as “a real qualitative leap on the Red Sea coast” and said it would deliver “huge economic returns” for the Egyptian state.

The Marassi Red Sea announcement follows another major investment deal signed in February 2024, when Egypt partnered with Abu Dhabi’s ADQ on a $35 billion USD plan to redevelop Ras El Hekma on the Mediterranean coast.

Introducing Indonesia’s Bali Gapura Marina

For years, Indonesia watched as the world’s superyachts passed by its islands, full of potential yet held back by slow bureaucracy. That is about to change. PT Pelabuhan Indonesia leads a national strategic project to place the country on the global superyacht route. In partnership with Marina Development Indonesia, the project begins with Bali’s first full-service international-standard marina, named Bali Gapura Marina. With the Ministry of Tourism pushing regulatory reform, Indonesia is finally moving from the sidelines to the centre of maritime tourism.

By Patrick Norén

With an enormous population of some 280 million people spread across 17,000 islands, one might have expected Indonesia to be among the regional or even world leaders in boating, yachting and recreational marine infrastructure. Further evidenced by the 13.9 million international tourists that visited Indonesia in 2024, there is no shortage of stunning locations, fun activities and unique experiences to enjoy.

And yet, the world’s largest archipelagic nation currently has only a handful of recreational marinas. Two of these are located either on or near Batam Island, just across the water from Singapore; one is the capital city, Jakarta, and three more are located in Bali, Lombok and West Papua.

However, many of these marinas are small and cannot accommodate the ever-increasing size of yachts and superyachts taking to the seas the world over. The current Benoa Marina in Bali can accommodate only up to 25 yachts, leaving a vast and highly lucrative market thus far untapped. With a lack of government enthusiasm and the sector closed to private investment, Indonesia’s maritime infrastructure has been severely limited, given its vast size and long coastline.

This is now changing at breakneck speed.

Left: A rendering of Bali Gapura Marina at sunset.

MARINA DEVELOPMENT INDONESIA

National strategic project

Long renowned as a popular international tourist destination and centrally located in the Indonesian archipelago, Bali has always been a logical place for the country’s first full-service yacht marina. The idea of a brand new marina in Bali began as early as 1994 and although some progress was made in land reclamation on Serangan Island, work was halted only a few years later due to economic and political crisis.

In December 2012, the then-Governor of Bali Mangku Pastika gave the state company PT Tirta Wahana Bali International permission to reclaim Benoa Bay and transform it into a huge international tourism hub, featuring hotels, theme parks, a golf course and a marina. However, this project stalled again in 2018 after the company’s location permit expired amid considerable local opposition.

In September 2024, PT Pelabuhan Indonesia signed a 50-year concession agreement with PT Marina Development Indonesia (MDI) to invest in, build and operate Bali’s first full-service marina. In early 2025, the Indonesian government declared the Bali Maritime Tourism Hub as a national strategic project under the Ministry of Tourism.

MarinaTrolley ™

•

With dual backing from PT Pelabuhan Indonesia and the national government, Marina Development Indonesia is preparing to position the country as a key destination on the global superyacht route. Furthermore, President Director of PT Pelabuhan Indonesia, Arief Suhartono, emphasised that the Bali Maritime Tourism Hub is not only envisioned to be Indonesia’s first full-service international-standard marina, but also, one day, the largest marina in Southeast Asia, to be launched in carefully planned phases.

“To support this project and our vision of putting Indonesia on the global superyachting map, we are working alongside seven government ministries and organisations,” said Fitri Tresnawida, Board Commissioner of MDI. “After we signed the agreement, everyone at MDI understood that time had become critical. We must move quickly, but without sacrificing quality. Progress had stalled for years and, learning from those who came before us, we realised that collaboration between national and local authorities, the private sector and international partners is not optional. It is essential.”

The speed at which MDI is delivering this project, once and for all, is remarkable. Having broken ground on 22 May 2025, the first floating concrete pontoons were installed at Dock B less than a month later, on 21 June. Dock B will consist of 11 pontoons accommodating 48 berths. This will be the first part of the marina to open for commercial use, with a government-mandated trial period scheduled to begin on 26 November 2025.

“We could not afford trial and error,” said Ulf Backlund, President Director of MDI. “Our timeline is strict and we must hit each milestone with precision for both the government and our investors. That is why we chose only vendors with the strongest track records. From the beginning, we worked with SF Marina, Plus Marine and Boat Lift.”

Left: An aerial rendering of Bali Gapura Marina.

Below: Plus Marine power pedestals installed on Dock B.

MARINA DEVELOPMENT INDONESIA

A name with cultural significance

The original name for the new site - Bali Benoa Marina - did not quite fit the project's vision, however. Being far too similar in name to Bali’s current, smaller and simpler marina led the project leaders to brainstorm a newer, fresher name that better reflected the importance of this new development for Indonesia and honoured the island’s unique cultural heritage.

The new official name for the marina - Bali Gapura Marina - was announced at a press conference in Monaco on 23 September 2025, the day before the opening of the Monaco Yacht Show. Meaning “gateway” in Balinese, Gapura was chosen for its symbolism, representing everything that greater recreational yachting will bring to Bali and Indonesia, as well as for its ease of pronunciation for foreigners. According to Joseph Prabantara, cofounder of MDI, the name will both resonate with the local population and provide a “sense of place” internationally.

The Indonesian Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana said that the name “reflects how every yacht and boat is welcomed at Bali Gapura Marina, crossing from water to land as part of a cultural journey. It also reinforces Indonesia's commitment to placing maritime journeys at the core of national strategic projects, uniting cultural heritage with forward-looking economic priorities.”

“Meaning

‘gateway’ in Balinese, Gapura was chosen for its symbolism, representing everything that greater recreational yachting will bring to Bali and Indonesia.”

Right: Lifting floating concrete pontoons into position.

Below, right: Installing cables inside floating pontoons on Dock B.

Authentic architecture is placed at the centre of the marina and waterfront design, with rules from local authorities ensuring that Bali’s calm aesthetic and spiritual atmosphere are protected. Buildings must follow traditional guidelines concerning their orientation with sunrise and sunset, and the way water flows through the site.

The master plan also applies the Balinese philosophy of Sad Kerthi, the six principles of balance that shape how people live with nature, community and the spiritual world. These principles, which honour the sea, the land, the air, human relationships, ancestors and the soul, guide the overall design. They influence not only how the marina is laid out, but also how it connects with its environment, ensuring development grows in step with Balinese culture and tradition.

“We work closely with our Balinese spiritual advisor, Ir. Wayan Kestawan, alongside the architecture and interior design team,” said Prabantara. “At every milestone, before we take any step on land and water, we hold a blessing ceremony. In Bali, even hospitality staff are required to wear traditional clothing every Thursday under a governor’s decree to protect local culture. We respect this and incorporate it into our marina operations day to day. These details may seem small, but they are in fact a powerful part of what shapes how we work.”

MARINA DEVELOPMENT INDONESIA

International collaboration for local communities

Despite Indonesia’s massive population, enormous coastline and huge potential for recreational boating, there is a lack of specialist knowledge in marina and waterfront development and management. For this reason, the governments of Bali and Indonesia have stressed the importance of international knowledge transfer in the Bali Gapura project. MDI has answered this by committing to hiring up to six local people for each international specialist. 300 people are expected to benefit from immediate employment at the marina, with 1,500 to be indirectly employed.

“Knowledge transfer and skill development form a core part of our hiring strategy,” said Tresnawida. “We expect every foreign expert or specialist we hire to mentor a local successor who can one day take over their role. In our future pipeline, we are also setting up a yachting school so that local people can earn proper certification to work on yachts, because without the right training, they cannot meet international safety and service standards.”

Over a decade ago, the early stages of the marina project drew controversy as some local communities opposed the development. Many feared they would be left out of future income opportunities since most relied on fishing and farming at the time. To address these concerns, Marina Development Indonesia has launched roadshows in the villages most directly affected by the project, managed by the professional recruitment firm REDY. The aim is to provide residents with a clear pathway to jobs and stable incomes at the marina. These communities will be the first to receive visits and their residents will have priority to apply for positions ranging from hospitality and deckhand roles to waste management, with opportunities for long-term career development.

Trash is one of Bali’s most pressing challenges and, as a major tourist destination, the island has long struggled with plastic waste. Bali Gapura Marina is addressing the issue head-on, positioning itself as a driver for cleaner beaches and oceans. “This problem is costly, but we must face it,” said Backlund. “That is why we hired awardwinning local entrepreneur Dian Kurniawati to work with our master plan architects, contractors and stakeholders on waste management policy. She is helping us design and implement a system that embeds sustainability into Bali Gapura Marina from the very beginning, ensuring it is part of the foundation rather than an afterthought.”

New horizons for Indonesia

The Bali Gapura Marina project represents an exciting new beginning for Indonesia’s already vibrant and extensive tourism industry. “It cannot just be Bali,” emphasised Prabantara. “We are the largest archipelago in the world.”

With MDI planning to build several brand-new marinas across the archipelago and five to seven of these being scheduled for only the next ten years, Indonesia has big plans to turn potential into prosperity.

“This is not just about building a marina,” concluded Prabantara. “It is about building Indonesia’s future. It means shifting mindsets, reforming regulations and raising the skills of our people.”

Below, right: Joseph Prabantara (R) on site at Bali Gapura Marina; A rendering of green areas at the marina.

MARINA DEVELOPMENT INDONESIA

The leading supplier of superyacht floating docks

By SF Marina

When it comes to mooring the world’s most luxurious vessels, only the best will do. That’s why superyacht owners, operators and developers worldwide choose SF Marina — the leading provider of premium floating dock systems for superyachts.

At the core of SF Marina’s offering is its signature innovation, Superdocks™. Engineered specifically for large yachts, Superdocks™ deliver outstanding strength, stability and durability. Built with reinforced concrete pontoons and EPS flotation, they withstand extreme loads and environmental conditions — all while offering seamless access, regardless of tide or vessel displacement.

SF Marina goes beyond dock manufacturing to deliver turnkey marina infrastructure solutions. From concept and design, to layout planning, structural calculations, production, installation and even long-term management, the company handles every phase. This makes SF Marina the partner of choice for both private marinas and complex mixed-use waterfront developments.

This full-scope expertise is on display at Port Nimara, a landmark project where SF Marina provided a complete floating infrastructure solution. Designed to accommodate superyachts while supporting a dynamic, mixed-use waterfront environment,

Port Nimara illustrates SF Marina’s unique ability to integrate functionality, aesthetics and performance into a cohesive design.

SF Marina’s global track record includes high-profile marinas such as Porto Lotti in Italy, where a custom Superdock™ system was installed to meet growing megayacht demand without compromising the site’s elegance. In Florida, Pier 66 features SF Marina’s robust floating platforms, offering world-class berthing in Fort Lauderdale — one of the world’s busiest yachting hubs. In Portland, Maine, Fore Points Marina shows how modern floating docks can blend into historic urban shorelines, while Berth One in West Palm Beach exemplifies how Superdocks™ enhance exclusive residential and commercial marinas. To complement its dock systems, SF Marina also offers premium stainlesssteel bollards, engineered for secure mooring and visual harmony in luxury marina settings.

With decades of experience and a commitment to innovation, SF Marina delivers infrastructure that meets the highest standards of the superyacht industry — from single berths to large-scale, mixed-use developments.

Discover more at www.sfmarina.com and www.portnimara.com

SUPERDOCKS ™

PUSHING LIMITS

Proud partner of Port Nimara – the new superyacht marina and destination in Anguilla.

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

Future-proofing marina safety

By Seaflex

Traditional mooring methods — such as piles, chains and winch-and-cable systems — are still widely used all around the world. Decades of use have revealed their true performance when it comes to sustainability, longevity, lifetime cost and, most importantly, their actual function during extreme weather events.

A proven alternative

Seaflex revolutionised the marina industry in the 1970s by inventing elastic mooring technology, offering a safer and more sustainable mooring alternative. Its self-adjusting system has been proven through rigorous third-partyapproved tensile force and cycle testing, and many early Seaflex installations have now lasted more than twice their original 20-year warranty.

Over the past five decades, Seaflex has partnered with leading pontoon manufacturers and marine engineering firms to secure thousands of floating structures all around the globe — from small residential docks and buoys to large commercial marinas and wave attenuators. In addition to supplying their advanced mooring system, Seaflex works closely with clients to optimise the mooring design for any site; from shallow, sheltered waters to deep, hurricaneprone locations with extreme water level variations.

The science behind progressive dampening

While other mooring systems may be designed simply to hold a structure in place, Seaflex actively protects the floating investment itself, especially under the most extreme conditions. Its unique design minimises wear and tear, extends the life of the installation and completely avoids disturbing sensitive seabeds.

The key lies in Seaflex’s progressive dampening effect. Unlike traditional springs or other rubber-based systems, which have linear or regressive stress-strain properties, Seaflex hawsers react progressively; as the force increases, so does their resistance, reducing motion and destructive peak loads during the most extreme storm events.

In simple terms: Seaflex performs at its very best when conditions are at their very worst.

Future-proof your investment

For marina developers, municipalities and waterfront property owners, a mooring system isn’t just hardware — it’s the difference between long-term security and catastrophic loss during extreme weather. It’s not just about holding structures in place; it’s about protecting them for decades to come while preserving the surrounding marine environment.

Get peace of mind — request your custom mooring design by contacting your local Seaflex dealer or emailing info@seaflex.com

Above: This Seaflex-moored floating solar power plant in Korea survived Typhoon Soulik, with recorded winds of 144km/h.

Right: This Swedish marina has been moored with the Seaflex Mooring System since 1982 and remains “practically maintenance free” to this day.

SEAFLEX

Protecting marinas with Marinetek breakwater pontoons

By Marinetek

Want to build a marina, but the location is too exposed? Marinetek’s heavy-duty floating breakwater pontoons could be just the solution you need. Developed and tested over 30 years, Marinetek’s breakwater pontoons have often been installed in the harshest environments. Their exceptional strength, coupled with excellent wave attenuation capability, is a design achievement resulting from worldwide technical research.

Theoretical calculations, tank testing and real-life field tests have given impressive results. Marinetek is the only breakwater manufacturer in the world to publish wave attenuation diagrams with proper research for its different breakwater models.

Breakwater pontoons reduce the wave height by absorbing part of the energy and dissipating smaller amounts by friction and turbulence. The main technical parameters like width, height, weight and moment of inertia are selected for maximum attenuation capacity. The connection between the pontoon units is semi-flexible with sufficient rigidity to enable the breakwater to work at its highest capacity.

Well-executed floating breakwaters protect the interior of the marina from waves in exposed locations, thereby widening the possibilities of where a marina with safe operations can be built.

Marinetek offers three series of breakwater pontoons –two with keels – to cover different protection and wave attenuation needs. Using tested standard pontoons makes designing a marina’s wave protection a lot faster and cost efficient than starting the wave attenuation pontoon design from scratch for each project. While the standard models help speed up the design process, Marinetek’s breakwater pontoons can also be customised to meet special needs, like large units with extra width up to seven meters wide. The pontoons can also be adapted to custom applications like curved designs.

Marinetek builds its renowned breakwater pontoons in several manufacturing locations across the world. Having also mastered logistical challenges in transporting large and heavy units, Marinetek offers global installation for their breakwater pontoons.

In addition to their use in wave attenuation and marina protection, large breakwater pontoons can be customised for other floating solutions where extreme load-bearing capability and stability are needed.

Below, from top: Building a heavy-duty breakwater to protect the inner marina opens up more options for marina locations, such as Marina Drage in Croatia; Marinetek’s breakwater pontoons can be adapted to custom marina designs, like the curved breakwater at NJK Valkosaari Marina in Helsinki, Finland.

MARINETEK

Monaco Smart Marinas Rendezvous 2025

By Patrick Norén

Taking place at the Monaco Yacht Club on 21-22 September 2025, the fifth edition of the Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marinas Rendezvous gathered global experts to discuss the future of marina development. Organised by M3 Monaco, the event focused on practical solutions for sustainable marinas, coastal innovation and data-driven management.

Bringing together approximately 250 representatives from across the marina industry, the event included keynote speeches, networking sessions, workshops, conference panel discussions and the annual Monaco Smart Marinas awards ceremony. Investors, marina project promoters, marina managers, shipyards, startups, manufacturers, shipowners and politicians were all present.

High-level political engagement

The Rendezvous was distinguished by the participation of two high-level Monegasque and Albanian political representatives. Céline Caron-Dagioni, Monaco’s Government Counsellor, Minister of Equipment, Environment and Urban Planning, argued that “economic attractiveness, environmental protection and innovation in urban development can, and must, reinforce each other”, and highlighted that Monaco is “fully engaged” in the maritime sector’s energy transition, including in the adoption of biofuels, hydrogen and electrification.

Furthermore, the Rendezvous was joined by the Deputy Prime Minister of Albania, Belinda Balluku, who also serves as the country’s Minister of Infrastructure and Energy. In her remarks to the conference, she spoke of Albania’s potential to become a “dynamic maritime hub” with a network of interconnected marinas designed with a sustainable future in mind. Deputy Prime Minister Balluku said that Albania’s marina strategy is “not only about tourism, it’s about nation branding”, adding that her country will be one that “values sustainability, embraces innovation and guarantees excellence”.

Focused panel discussions

Conference sessions with industry panellists made up the majority of the second day. The three sessions focused on creating exclusive coastal destinations while preserving nature, financial and regulatory frameworks for developing coastal tourism destinations, and the role of data as a strategic lever for responsible marina management. Roundtable workshops addressed startup financing, adapting marinas to the needs of crews and vessels, and sustainable fuels. SEA Index®, a Monaco Yacht Club tool to measure and reduce the environmental footprint of yachts, also announced a collaboration with Pick a Pier.

The event closed with the annual Monaco Smart Marinas awards ceremony. Marina Resort Cavtat in Croatia was awarded the International Smart & Sustainable Marina Award for its “strong regenerative vision and fully integrated sustainability approach”, while IGY Marinas and Marina da Glória in Brazil won two jury’s choice awards.

Gwilen (France) and BetterSea Power (Italy) won the two startup awards, while Metarina (Germany/Spain) and Kontis (Croatia) won the two scaleup awards. Ingenhoven Associates GmbH (Germany) won the professional architecture award and a team of students from the Iran University of Art won the student architecture award. The event offered the opportunity for startups and scaleups across the sector to pitch their solutions and products, resulting in vibrant discussions between companies and other industry representatives.

MONACO SMART & SUSTAINABLE MARINAS RENDEZVOUS

Impressive networking opportunities

The Rendezvous impressed with the density and quality of networking opportunities. The full spectrum of marina industry stakeholders - ranging from the small startups that power innovation to the high-level political representatives that decide whether to give the governmental green light - were present, visible and engaged.

Uniting the small yet global marina industry, the Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marinas Rendezvous succeeded in providing a targeted, specialist platform for knowledge sharing and valuable networking. It was a welcome and highly complementary warm-up to the Monaco Yacht Show, and Marina World looks forward to partnering with M3 Monaco for next year’s event.

Left: Group photo at the fifth Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marinas Rendezvous.

Right: Bernard d’Alessandri, General Secretary of the Monaco Yacht Club, inspects a scale model of Marina Resort Cavtat in Croatia.

ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2025

By Patrick Norén

The ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2025 (IWMC 2025) took place from 15-17 October in Venice, Italy, at the iconic Arsenale di Venezia. Originally a Byzantine shipyard, the construction of which started around 1104, the facility produced one vessel per day in its heyday. This October, the prestigious location proved to be the ideal venue for this biennial gathering of the international marina industry.

Having started with evening drinks in the famous Piazza San Marco, the programme was jam-packed with contributions from industry heavy hitters such as the CEO of Safe Harbor Marinas, Baxter Underwood; the CEO of MarineMax, Brett McGill; the CEO of SF Marina, Michael Sigvardsson; and the CEO of Marinetek, Santeri Suoranta. It was particularly pleasing to see an enormous breadth of global representation featured in the programme, with representatives from the USA, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Portugal, Sweden, Finland, Croatia, Slovenia, Brazil, Hong Kong, Japan and Australia, to name but a few, taking to the stage to share their expertise.

The second day was dedicated to a north and south tour of several marinas, including Certosa Island Marina, Darsena Mosella and Porto Turistico di Jesolo. A particularly valuable addition to the programme, these two tours gave delegates the opportunity to see for themselves the range of facilities around the city and its lagoon, bridging the gap between the theory of the conference and the practice of real life.

The evening of the second day saw the arsenal host a stunning gala dinner in an extraordinary venue, during which Jean-Michel Gaigné was awarded the Golden Cleat lifetime achievement award.

A close-knit village of dedicated professionals

IWMC 2025 was an outstanding gathering of global marina professionals defined by lively discussion, close networking and a profound sense of community. While the international marina industry is by its very nature spread out across dozens of countries on every continent, IWMC 2025 succeeded in making the sector seem like a closeknit village of dedicated professionals. Above all, however, the event was, quite simply, fantastic fun.

A number of people came up to me during the event to say that this iteration of IWMC was the largest ever, especially in terms of exhibitor numbers. This being my first IWMC, I do not have any personal reference point in this regard. However, Joe Lynch, Frank Hugelmeyer and Alberto Sonino must be congratulated for setting a high bar for the organisers of IWMC 2027, taking place in Shanghai, China.

Marina World looks forward to partnering with ICOMIA once again for what promises to be an essential international meeting in the marina industry calendar.

Thanks to all our partners, supporters, sponsors, participants, speakers, and institutions of the ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2025!

Con il contributo della Regione Veneto

AMI 2026 A showcase of innovation & solutions

Next February, the marina industry converges on Daytona Beach for what has become an unmissable event on the marina industry calendar: the Association of Marina Industries (AMI) Conference & Expo 2026.

From 2-4 February at the Ocean Center, with the Hilton Daytona Beach Resort as host hotel, this conference is not just a gathering. It’s the fulcrum where careers, innovation and the business of marinas pivot for the year ahead.

The AMI Conference & Expo stands out for its balance of education and trade engagement. Attendees will find over 150 vendors with over 170 anticipated exhibit booths bringing the latest in docks, haul-out systems, software, pump-out technologies, electrical systems and more. AMI 2026 is your opportunity to come face to face with the suppliers who can transform your operations.

But the Expo is only one anchor. Backed by a robust lineup of more than 25 seminars and breakout workshops, you will have the chance to engage deeply with themes reshaping the industry: resilience in the face of climate challenges, management best practices, electrification of marina infrastructure and business innovation. Meanwhile, intimate, hands-on workshops create the space for nuance, experimentation and real dialogue.

The two keynote sessions presented by leading experts in their fields will focus on: “The power of presence: Unlocking peak performance and transformational leadership in the modern era”, and “From overwhelmed to hopeful: Building a culture of hope, health and happiness”. The keynotes will be followed by breakout sessions and workshops that will drill down into the keynote presentations, providing attendees with clear strategies and takeaways to improve both their personal and professional lives and performance.

Examples of the breakout session topics to be covered include but are not limited to:

– Marina messaging makeover: AI for smarter community connections;

– Activating purpose-driven vision & heart-centred leadership;

– Breaking down the buzz: Understanding today's drystack delivery systems;

– Comparing today's leading drystack systems and what sets them apart;

– The hidden cost of changing nothing: Innovation, data and strategies driving marina success;

– Future-proofing the waterfront: Marina development in a changing world.

The educational component kicks off on day one with two pre-conference workshops focusing on Marina 101, entry level marina training and artificial intelligence followed by a marina and boatyard tour.

Every year, attendees report that the conference pays for itself many times over. From discovering cost-saving technologies and learning smarter operational systems, to meeting new suppliers that improve margins or service quality, the tangible return on investment of participation is undeniable. One conversation in the exhibit hall can uncover a vendor who streamlines maintenance. A single session might reveal strategies to reduce liability or boost occupancy. Networking with peers often sparks partnerships that open entirely new revenue streams.

Beyond the immediate gains, the long-term return is even greater: better-informed decision-making, a stronger professional network and insights to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive marketplace. If you are in the marina industry, this is not an event to be missed.

Engineering on the water

Floating technology is today well established, but specialist companies are still using it to open up new ways of living on and with the water. From floating homes and solar farms to offshore wind platforms and even floating cities, this futuristic-looking technology offers a practical solution to real-world challenges.

By Charlotte Niemiec

With centuries of experience building on and around water, Finland and the Netherlands are world authorities when it comes to taming it to human needs. It's no surprise then that these countries are home to many expert floating solutions companies, two of which are Bluet Floating Solutions and Bartels & Vedder.

The former was founded in 2016 in Finland by CEO Tytti Sirola and chief engineer Kimmo Saharinen. Their joint vision was to provide modular, sustainable and flexible floating solutions that enhance waterfronts and create spaces for both recreation and infrastructure. Their approach stemmed from a need to rethink how humans interact with water –not as a barrier but as a platform for innovation.

Meanwhile, Dutch company Bartels & Vedder – founded by the former CEO of floating technologies company Aqualife Nederland, Jelle Vedder, and engineer Chiel Bartels – has engineered projects all over the world. Bartels & Vedder traces its roots back to 2003 and now claims the world’s largest track record in floating engineering projects.

Why choose floating designs?

Both companies believe floating buildings provide solutions to land scarcity and enable the development of underutilised waterfronts. They are also highly adaptable to changing environmental conditions, such as rising sea levels. For marinas, floating utility buildings are a gamechanger because they can increase capacity and maintain the integrity of coastal ecosystems without the need for land reclamation. They can also benefit the environment, says Vedder, by providing a reef-like structure for sea life.

Both companies are sensitive to the environment. Bluet uses eco-friendly materials in its platforms and offers several anchoring systems to avoid dropping concrete sinkers on top of coral reefs or protected seaweed sites. “We highly value the environment and always wish to avoid dredging or landfilling if possible,” Sirola explains. Floating structures are dynamic: they rise with the water, they can be relocated and expanded and they continue to serve their purpose regardless of shifting tides or increasing water levels. “This flexibility is crucial for cities and regions experiencing the impacts of climate change,” she adds.

Vedder adds a further benefit: building on water provides multiple uses of the same area. Floating houses can be constructed on water ponds storing excess rainwater, thus creating an extra revenue stream. Alternatively, old harbours in cramped city centres can be regenerated and reimagined by building on water, allowing for this high value space to be used again.

Project highlights

Bluet designs and delivers its own floating infrastructure, having created a modular utility building concept to allow clients to easily increase their service facilities, such as marina offices, small cafés, saunas and more, all of which are easily modifiable. The company works with architects and other professionals to bring its concepts to life, reserving its expertise for the engineering and execution stage.

One of Bluet’s current projects is a floating infinity pool similar to one it completed at the Mandarin Oriental Lake Como in Italy. Appearing to blend seamlessly into the lake, it is the largest floating infinity pool in the world. The new project will have a five-star hotel and wellness facility attached. “We will use our new patented system as the structure – and it will have a moving sundeck as a pool cover to enable energy sustainability,” Sirola explains.

Bluet’s floating pools come with heated and natural water options and range in size from small leisure pools to 50m Olympic-sized pools. Their natural water system includes filtration mechanisms specifically designed to maintain water purity and reduce algae growth. Bluet has recently begun offering concrete options, which require less maintenance. “Our floating platforms are built with modularity in mind, allowing easy expansion or adaptation to future needs – a feature not widely seen in the industry,” Sirola adds.

Left: Floating geothermal pools at Vök Baths, Iceland.

Below: Floating villas in the Netherlands.

BARTELS & VEDDER

The company is also working on a floating residential project in Helsinki, Finland, which will offer 30 apartments and a marina. Bluet is responsible for the floating infrastructure and leads the technical team. “These projects highlight our ability to scale and adapt,” says Sirola. Meanwhile, Bartels & Vedder also has several projects on the go. “We are engineers and try to find solutions for building on water,” Vedder explains. “We have developed and patented different technologies, each offering a different solution for specific needs.” The company is working on a 10,000m2 floating park in Rotterdam and a 3,200m2 floating rowing club and floating jetty in Düsseldorf, Germany. Both projects will use mooring piles to cope with water level differences of up to eight metres .

The company has also completed impressive projects in Asia, including a floating ferry terminal in Malaysia. Situated on Kenyir Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest reservoir, the 6,000m2 ferry terminal comprises five 30m jetties and a 60m connected bridge. It is encased in large white domes,

the largest of which has a span of around 40m and a height of around 25m. The water levels here can differ by up to 17m, so the company used Seaflex anchors, which can handle these differences, to moor the completed structure.

Tailoring its approach to local needs, the company used fibreglass hulls in two projects in Delft and Woerden, because they needed to be lighter, deeper and fit in tight spaces. On the other hand, the floating system used in Malaysia needed a modular floating island technique that could be easily assembled on-site in the unforgiving Malaysian jungle. To accommodate this, the platform was completely pre-fabricated.

Installing floating rental accommodation in marinas adds an extra revenue stream for marina owners. Bartels & Vedder is now working with a Dutch marina looking to install affordable modular floating apartments. Sitting on a platform of around 20x18m, the 30 apartments will comprise three units on top of each other and five next to each other in double rows.

Overcoming challenges

Floating technologies are not without their challenges. Among these are ensuring their structural integrity and stability in high waves, strong currents and strong winds, dealing with the corrosive effects of saltwater and maintaining buoyancy under heavy loads, which requires continuous innovation and testing. Bluet always requires a full water study to secure the design for each specific site and project, so it can balance the materials it uses with the natural dynamics of the water on which they will float.

Vedder agrees, adding that the main things you need to consider during the design and engineering process are to think about whether it can be constructed, whether it is stable, comfortable and cost-effective, and whether it fulfils the client’s needs. To this end, his company has developed nautical stability programmes that calculate drift forces, allowing them to engineer the structure and mooring in such a way that it can cope with these forces and allow for water level differences.

Sirola adds that because there is no globally harmonised floating solutions standard, Bluet created its own. Her company also conducts detailed assessments of local water conditions before beginning any project. Its modular systems are designed to adapt to water changes, with reinforced structures and safety features like anchoring systems and shock-absorbing platforms that provide stability even in extreme weather conditions.

Materials are a factor, too. “While the basic principles of construction remain the same, floating units required specialised materials to withstand constant exposure to water,” explains Sirola. “This includes durable, corrosionresistant materials and lightweight yet strong structures. Additionally, floating buildings demand construction techniques that prioritise flexibility and buoyancy, which can sometimes limit traditional building methods.” The materials selected are often project-specific, with no onesize-fits-all solution.

“I often say that budget is the only limit,” says Vedder. “It needs to be affordable in order to make the project feasible for the client.” Most of the projects Bartels & Vedder completes use EPS foam with concrete or hollow concrete basements, because these structures need almost no maintenance.

Left, from top: Floating pool at Lake Como, Italy; Floating ferry terminal in Malaysia; Floating sea pool in Allas, Helsinki.

BLUET

BARTELS & VEDDER

Utilities

Utilities are an integral part of floating architecture. Systems need to be set up so that they can connect to municipal networks, including electricity, water, sewage, data, floating treatment plans for waste and water recycling systems. While there are challenges in maintaining these systems in an ever-changing water environment, careful planning makes it possible to manage these resources safely and efficiently. If required, Bluet can deliver a floating solution as an independent unit, with solar power, water treatment systems and sewage tanks. “Generally, we say that our floating infrastructure is not just a pontoon – we deliver on water the same that is needed on land,” says Sirola.

There can also be regulatory challenges, especially in countries with strict zoning laws or where water bodies are publicly owned, Sirola explains. Her team has experience working in many areas and it has learned a lot from various permitting requirements, which vary globally and even locally. Bluet joins the project team at an early phase to assist in the permitting and lower the risk of technical issues to ensure all projects meet the regulatory requirements and environmental standards.

“In some areas, floating solutions are still a relatively new concept, which means navigating legal grey areas, but we see this as an opportunity to shape the future of floating constructions,” says Sirola.

The future

Bluet believes floating construction is just getting started. Floating solutions will not be a “niche solution” in the future, but a scalable model that will play a significant role in the future of urban planning and developments, Sirola predicts. “As cities face challenges related to land scarcity, rising sea levels and environmental sustainability, floating solutions offer an innovative way to expand infrastructure while preserving natural landscapes.”

Vedder also believes this technology is scalable, but adds: “We need to keep in mind that floating buildings are just one of the tools in the toolbox for building structures. We always need to keep an eye on the end goal of building affordable structures – and floating buildings are just one of these methods.”

Right: “Winkelboat” floating homes in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

BARTELS & VEDDER

Redefining marina leadership

As one of Turkey’s pioneering female marina managers, Dilek Seven has redefined leadership by turning a marina into a destination shaped by trust, tradition and progress. With a career that spans cruise ships, hospitality and marketing, she brings a distinctive approach to marina management, combining operational with cultural insights and an inclusive vision for the future.

By Ellaine Zabate

Below: Kiyi Istanbul Marina.

KIYI ISTANBUL MARINA

In the global marina industry, leadership requires more than the ability to manage berths and balance operations. It demands vision, resilience and the skill to create destinations where technical standards, hospitality and community engagement align.

For Seven, the marina manager of Kiyi Istanbul Marina, the sea has never been just a workplace but the foundation of her professional identity. Her early career aboard cruise ships gave her first-hand insight into navigation, international guest expectations and financial planning – experiences that shaped her long-term vision for marina management. “During my years at sea on cruise ships, I have long known that the sea is not just a workplace but a way of life,” she recalls. “I saw how maritime environments bring people together and I dedicated my career to creating a permanent space where that culture could thrive.”

This foundation provided her with both technical and commercial skills. Handling financial planning on board and working with a global clientele instilled a precision and cultural sensitivity that remain central to her leadership today.

Her later transition into hospitality and marketing broadened this base. “My background in hospitality instilled in me a customer-first mindset – the ability to anticipate needs, personalise services and deliver memorable moments,” she explains. Meanwhile, marketing taught her how to position a brand competitively and reach international audiences. She believes both disciplines are essential to marina management, where smooth daily operations must be matched by a strong brand identity and customer experience culture.

Dilek Seven

KIYI ISTANBUL MARINA

Building more than a marina

When Seven joined Kiyi Istanbul Marina, she was motivated by its ambition to be more than a berthing facility. Envisioned as a lifestyle destination, the marina blends technical excellence with retail, dining, wellness and cultural spaces, creating a place where visitors can live, connect and belong.

Conveniently located in Büyükçekmece, just 30 minutes from Istanbul International Airport, the marina offers berths for yachts ranging from 12 to 80 metres, a 300-tonne lift and shipyard facilities with strict safety protocols. But its real distinction lies in its integration of lifestyle amenities – a model that transforms the marina into a cultural and commercial hub.

The complexity of the project was also one of its greatest challenges. “Marina construction is very different and difficult from land constructions,” Seven notes. She had to oversee the building of infrastructure, the development of operational systems and the recruitment of a new team across every department. “Balancing operations, financial systems and customer satisfaction from day one was a defining moment for me and my team.”

Today, she takes pride in how the marina has evolved. “We built not only berths but a culture,” she reflects. Events, eco-conscious initiatives and community programmes have positioned the marina as a meeting point for yacht owners, local families and international travellers.

Leadership anchored in trust

Recognition as one of Turkey’s first female marina leaders placed Seven in a pioneering position. With it came responsibility – to prove that inclusive leadership could thrive in a traditionally male-dominated industry, and to show how trust and empowerment can anchor long-term success. “Being recognised as one of the first female leaders in marina management in Turkey gave me a duty to lead by example,” she says.

Her leadership philosophy is based on transparency, trust and accountability. “My leadership is rooted in empowering my team, giving them space to innovate while holding us accountable to the highest standards,” she explains. In practice, that means cultivating an environment where technical staff, guest relations and marketing all share ownership of the marina’s success.

“The team I built is the true engine behind the marina,” she emphasises. Their professionalism and resilience have enabled the facility to reach international standards in record time. For customers, this approach translates into what Seven describes as “professionalism balanced with warmth”, an ethos that draws on both global best operations and the depth of Turkish hospitality.

For Seven, trust is the defining currency of leadership. It assures yacht owners that their vessels are safe, families that they are welcome and international visitors that their expectations will be exceeded. That trust transforms the marina from a simple service provider into a long-term destination.

Left: Kiyi Istanbul Marina.

KIYI ISTANBUL MARINA

Anchoring tradition in innovation

Istanbul’s unique setting has shaped Seven’s leadership philosophy. “Istanbul is a global city where East meets West, tradition meets modernity. That duality forces us to be dynamic marina leaders: we must be rooted in safety and regulations while also embracing hospitality, culture and international standards,” she stated.

For Seven, tradition and innovation are complementary strengths. “On one side, we honour maritime tradition and the spirit of Turkish hospitality. On the other, we invest in renewable energy, digital booking systems and modern infrastructure. Innovation should not erase tradition; it should elevate it.”

This balance sets her marina apart from many others in Turkey and across the Mediterranean. Its “marina and lifestyle” model attracts both superyachts and local communities, turning berthing into a destination experience. At the same time, the project has become a catalyst for local development, stimulating retail, tourism and employment in Büyükçekmece while contributing to Istanbul’s global maritime reputation.

Seven also keeps a close eye on wider customer trends. Post-pandemic, she observes that visitors increasingly demand digital convenience, sustainability and premium amenities. High-speed connectivity, eco-conscious practices and tailored services are no longer luxuries but baseline expectations. “Marinas that fail to adapt to these demands risk losing relevance,” she says.

Shaping what’s next

Seven is determined to strengthen Istanbul’s position on the Mediterranean yachting map. One flagship initiative is the launch of Yacht Club Istanbul, an exclusive membership programme offering curated experiences, gourmet events and personalised services. In addition, she is advancing renewable energy solutions and digital systems to make the marina more sustainable and future-ready.

But her vision extends beyond projects and infrastructure. Seven is equally committed to developing the next generation of marina leaders through consultancy and mentorship. She views inclusivity not as symbolic but as structurally embedded in hiring, training and promotion. “The industry is now witnessing more women and young professionals entering, which is encouraging,” she says. “But there is still work to do in mentorship, equal access to leadership and structural support.”

Her advice to aspiring professionals is direct: “This industry rewards passion, courage and persistence. Every new voice makes the sector stronger. If you believe in yourself and commit to learning, there is space for you in maritime leadership.”

Ultimately, she measures success not solely by occupancy or the growth of the marina but by the loyalty and pride people feel when they arrive. “If someone anchors at our marina ten years from now, I want them to feel absolute trust – that their yacht is safe, their family is welcome and their expectations are exceeded. More importantly, I want them to feel part of a living culture where tradition, sustainability and innovation meet.”

Left: Kiyi Istanbul Marina.

KIYI ISTANBUL MARINA

Towed, self-propelled, and highway trailers

Sling lift trailers and boat hoists

Remote control hydraulic trailer tugs

Galvanized boat storage stands

Simple operation, rugged durability, flexible features

We also supply floating docks and breakwaters

The case for lightweighting

For decades, marina construction has been guided by some exceedingly simple principles: one lingering example being that thicker, chunkier and heavier means better. More steel, thicker concrete and heavier decking have long been equated with strength, stability and longevity. Concrete pavers in particular have become the industry’s decking of choice.

By Derek McGivern

HENDREN PLASTICS

“The implications of these weight savings are enormous. Firstly, the reduced structural steel requirements and less dead load means lighter framing and less money in steel.”

The weight equation

Weight reduction in engineering is not a new concept. Buildings, infrastructure, automobiles, aeroplanes and even spacecraft have all benefited from designs that use less mass to achieve greater performance, lower costs and improved efficiency. The same principles apply to docks.

Just as other engineering disciplines have adopted efficiency and lightweighting, the dock industry is starting to question whether heft should remain a primary standard. A new generation of lightweight, panelised decking solutions is challenging the status quo, offering marinas and manufacturers a different set of advantages that one can no longer afford to ignore.

Traditional concrete paver decking can weigh more than 78kg per square metre, while modern polymer-based decking panel solutions often weigh more than 90 percent less. On a marina pier with multiple fingers, this can translate into tens of thousands of kilograms removed from the structure.

For example, consider a marina dock configuration with ten 1x7m finger pontoons connected to a main 2.5x36m pier. That's 160m² of dock surface. With 60x60cm concrete pavers weighing 30kg each, the decking weighs in at 13,333kg. With lightweight, panelised decking at 7.32kg per m², the same amount of dock decking weighs just 1,171.2kg. That's a reduction of over 12,000kg.

The implications of these weight savings are enormous. Firstly, the reduced structural steel requirements and less dead load means lighter framing and less money in steel. This is especially relevant given today's tariff environment. Secondly, you have lower material and freight costs with more dock per truckload, fewer lifts and less fuel.

Other benefits include faster installation thanks to smaller crews, reduced handling risks and quicker project turn-over, improved modularity as lighter panels allow for pre-fabrication and higher quality control in manufacturing facilities, and easier maintenance. Decking can be replaced, under-deck services inspected and repaired, or docks adjusted, all more easily. In short, less weight means more efficiency across the board.

Left: A wave attenuator being lowered into the water.

Below: Patented Wave Defender® system courtesy of Roto Marine Products® by Cellofoam®.

Inertia: The hidden hitch

However, lightweighting introduces a challenge unique to floating docks: the issue of inertial mass as it relates to dock heave and sway with wave action. We know from secondary school physics that inertia is the tendency of an object to resist changes in its state of motion, while inertial mass is a measure of how much resistance an object offers to acceleration.

Essentially, inertial mass quantifies the inertia of a specific object. In general, the less mass a dock has, the more it will react to motion from waves. A heavy, concrete-decked dock resists movement simply because of its mass. A lightweight dock, on the other hand, responds more readily to waves and wind. For the end user, this can mean a dock that feels more active under foot.

This is why concrete, despite its inefficiency, has endured. Its sheer mass serves as a passive dampening system. Removing that mass requires rethinking how dock stability can be achieved.

Below: Diagram of a floating dock inertial dampener.

Right, from top: A wave attenuation system; A wave attenuator being lowered into the water; A wave attenuator placed in the water.

“However, lightweighting introduces a challenge unique to floating docks: the issue of inertial mass as it relates to dock heave and sway with wave action.”

From ballast to baffles

One obvious solution is to add ballast back into the system — but doing so undermines the very efficiencies gained by lightweighting. You can also moor the docks very tightly to the bottom, but this necessitates ongoing additional maintenance and is difficult with water level changes. The more elegant and less expensive approach is passive inertial dampening.

Rather than adding permanent weight, engineers are designing systems that use hydrodynamic resistance to reduce sudden motion, such as a hollow float drum perforated with holes and mounted below a standard float allowing water to fill the cavity. This water does not add any static weight but acts as a fluid baffle. When waves attempt to lift the dock, the resistance of the water inside the baffle slows the motion, effectively mimicking the stability of a heavier system without sacrificing efficiency. Commercially available products already apply this principle, providing dock builders with cost-effective, ready-to-use dampening solutions.

HENDREN PLASTICS

Foam Filled Float

Hollow Float

Custom Washers Available

Water Regulation Holes

Below: Patented Wave Defender® system courtesy of Roto Marine Products® by Cellofoam®.

Lightweighting: The future of dock design

The trend is clear: lighter, more efficient structures are the future — not just in cars, planes and buildings, but in marinas as well. Engineered panelised decking solutions are unlocking significant cost savings, faster build cycles and improved lifecycle performance. In permanent dock construction, the benefits are immediate and virtually without compromise. In floating docks, inertial dampening technologies ensure stability without reverting to outdated heavy designs.

For marina owners and manufacturers, the opportunity is twofold. You can operate more efficiently by building faster, transporting cheaper and maintaining with less effort, and delivering more value with docks that are safer, cooler, disability-accessible, longer lasting and more sustainable.

The industry ethos that “heft equals best” is giving way to a new reality: lighter equals smarter. The docks of the future will not be measured by their mass, but by how effectively they balance efficiency, performance and user comfort.

CELLOFOAM NORTH AMERICA INC.

- Easy recharging and guaranteed autonomy for a full working day, thanks to the high-performance lithium-ion battery core.

- Incorporation of an autonomous solar panel support system, which provides up to 20% of the daily energy used.

- Optimization of the docking area thanks to the variable span, allowing to adjust the boat hoist to the beams of the different boats.

Boat Hoists Marine Jib Cranes

Dry Docks

Boat Transporter

Sustainability rooted in practice, not PR

Sustainability is not a trend, a one-off project or a problem to be “solved”. For us at Rolec and other businesses in the marina sector, it is a mindset and an ongoing commitment that combines ethical responsibility with practical business sense. Done properly, it is about anchoring changes that last and not simply ticking boxes.

By Lexi van Rensburg

We all know that the marina sector is closely tied to nature. Coastal and inland waters are delicate ecosystems and those who manage, operate and develop marinas cannot ignore their duty to protect and preserve. Visitors increasingly expect clean energy, waste reduction and sustainable infrastructure and not as optional extras. The challenge is not whether we can afford to act, but whether we can afford not to.

A longstanding commitment

The most responsible companies were already taking steps that aligned with environmental stewardship long before “sustainability” became a boardroom talking point. At the time, many of these decisions weren’t branded as such, we simply viewed them as good practice.

For example, using local supply chains reduced unnecessary transport miles and supported regional economies. Engineering products for durability meant fewer replacements, lower material usage and extended product life cycles. Minimising waste was about efficiency and diligence. On Rolec’s part, these principles were quietly embedded into the company’s operations long before they became part of environmental, social and governance (ESG) checklists.

At its core, sustainability has always been about consciously building for the future. Decisions made in design, sourcing and manufacturing directly affect customers, industry and future generations. ISO 14001 certification - as we achieved in 2015 - can formalise our environmental management systems and give structure to future sustainability initiatives.

The strength of manufacturing control

As UK manufacturers, Rolec maintains full control over the build and development of our core product range. This visibility across the entire life cycle - from concept to creation, delivery and ongoing maintenance - gives us opportunities to implement positive innovations at every stage.

For example, by upgrading our solar array and reducing our consumption of heating oil across the site, we achieved an estimated annual CO₂ saving of 76,410kg. Battery storage can also capture excess solar energy to power factories and charge electric vehicles without drawing from the grid. These steps not only reduce emissions but also improve energy resilience, something that many marinas are equally striving to achieve as energy prices fluctuate and sustainability targets tighten.

Reducing the size of packaging is another simple way that companies can become more sustainable. After we reduced the size of our packaging, we could ship 50 percent more products per pallet, which has cut transport-related emissions by 33 percent and lowered logistical costs. This benefits both our operations and operators who are conscious of supply chain impact. At the same time, we ensured all materials used in preparing products for shipping are certified by the UK’s Forest Stewardship Council and 100 percent recyclable. A switch to water-based inks further reduced our carbon footprint by nearly 40 percent. These measures may sound incremental, but collectively they demonstrate how small, thoughtful decisions build towards meaningful results.

Left: Sustainability in marinas must be rooted in practice.

Below: Using 100 percent recycled materials and integrating solar panels into marina infrastructure are two simple ways to improve sustainability.

Closing the loop

Waste is another area where continuous improvement can deliver change for sustainability-conscious companies across the marina industry. Not only should manufacturing refuse be diverted to recycling facilities, but any remaining waste can be converted into solid recovered fuel (SRF) to avoid sending things to landfill. At Rolec, at the time of writing, 70 percent of our manufacturing refuse is diverted to recycling facilities, and the remaining 30 percent of waste material is converted into SRF.

This approach reduces environmental burden while supporting a circular economy, meaning one where raw materials are continuously repurposed. For the marina sector, the concept of circularity has particular resonance. Marinas generate waste ranging from packaging and plastics to maintenance residues, and every site has a role to play in ensuring these materials are handled with care throughout multiple life cycles.

“ESG for show does nothing to serve the long-term interests of businesses, communities or natural environments.”

ESG beyond compliance

Today, ESG factors dominate the conversation around a green future. But the real test is ensuring that these commitments go beyond compliance. ESG for show does nothing to serve the long-term interests of businesses, communities or natural environments.

For marinas, ESG must be genuine and measurable. Coastal protection, biodiversity, energy efficiency and the experience of berth holders all intersect in ways that cannot be managed through surface-level initiatives. Customers are discerning and regulators are watching. The businesses that will thrive are those that view ESG not as a hurdle, but as an opportunity to enhance operations and work towards an ever more sustainable future.

Our role as manufacturers is to align our processes and supply chains with these long-term goals. That means designing durable products, reducing emissions, managing waste ethically and providing infrastructure that helps marinas meet their own sustainability goals.

Left: Sustainability efforts should not be a finite project, but instead an ongoing process.

Top: Visitors increasingly expect clean energy, waste reduction and sustainable infrastructure and not as optional extras.

Looking ahead

No single company can claim to have “solved” sustainability. The nature of the challenge is that it demands constant progress, adaptation and shared responsibility. The real impact comes from working together, and collaborations across the industry can deliver holistic solutions that help marinas achieve better energy management, more effective solar initiatives, measured resource consumption and longterm strategic development.

As Rolec’s Commercial Director, Holly Brown, put it: “Sustainability in practice is about doing what’s right because we always have and because we always will.”

That’s why sustainability efforts should not be a finite project, but instead an ongoing process. Each year brings new opportunities to reimagine, refine, reduce and renew no matter what the industry, and the marina sector is no different. The real measure is not in what one says, but in what one does. Only by prioritising substance over image can we ensure that progress is genuine and lasting, rooted in practice and not in PR.

Below: Only by prioritising substance over image can one ensure that progress on sustainability is genuine and lasting.

•

Sales & Acquisitions

Harbor Lights in Rhode Island sold off-market

Harbor Lights, a 70-acre leisure and hospitality property overlooking Narragansett Bay just south of Providence, Rhode Island, has been sold in an off-market transaction. The buyer and sale price were not disclosed.

The Colliers Leisure Property Advisors team, led by Andrew Cantor, Dan Grovatt and Matt Putnam, represented the seller, Monument Marine Group, while SVN Marinas represented the buyer. Monument Marine Group acquired Harbor Lights in 2023 as part of its focus on marine industry investments.

“Since purchasing this marina, Monument has refined its growth strategy and asset targets, leading to a decision to divest. Selling this property is a part of that larger strategy and will allow Monument to reinvest in properties located within its target markets,” said Cantor, senior vice president at Colliers and a founding partner of the Leisure Property Advisors team.

Harbor Lights includes 208 boat slips, a nine-hole golf course, an infinity pool and a 15,394 square foot clubhouse. The clubhouse provides event space for up to 250 guests and a 100-seat restaurant. Its location at the mouth of Warwick Cove provides direct access to Narragansett Bay.

“Harbor Lights is a great facility with tremendous potential for hosting large events in a unique setting. The acquisition of Harbor Lights will expand the buyer’s marina and event footprint in New England and provide multiple revenue streams,” Cantor added.

Glen Cove Marina for sale in San Francisco Bay Area

Glen Cove Marina in Vallejo, California, has been placed on the market with an asking price of $3,950,000 USD. The offering covers 185 wet slips and a controlling 80% interest in the dockominium association.

Situated on the Carquinez Strait, the marina provides direct boating access to the San Francisco Bay, the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the Napa River. Its location is also 15 minutes south of Napa Valley.

The marina’s revenue is generated exclusively from slip rentals. Current operations show steady income, with an 8.6% capitalisation rate projected after the next rate adjustment.

The sale is being managed by Colliers’ Leisure Property Advisors, represented by Senior Vice Presidents Andrew Cantor, Dan Grovatt and Matt Putnam.

Premier Marinas acquires Boatfolk

Premier Marinas has acquired Boatfolk in a deal that has doubled its network, creating a combined portfolio of 22 marina locations across the United Kingdom. Supported by investment from its longterm owner Wellcome, the agreement brings two established operators under one group and sets the stage for closer collaboration of services.

Mansford, the UK-based operational real estate fund manager, was advised by CBRE on the sale of Boatfolk. Charles Knight, Founding Partner at Mansford, said: “We are proud to have created a market-leading business in Boatfolk. Our approach has always been to build institutional-quality assets. We are delighted that Boatfolk is joining Premier’s stable of best-in-class investments to form the UK’s leading marina business.”

Pete Bradshaw, Chief Executive of Premier Marinas, stated: “Boatfolk’s owners have been seeking new ownership for some time, and I’m delighted to confirm the conclusion of that process. In Boatfolk, we see a fantastic portfolio of marinas in great locations, a talented team and a customer ethos that resonates with that of Premier Marinas. We have much in common, and my team looks forward to working with our new colleagues to unlock the benefits for all our customers.”

Headquartered on the Hamble River at Lower Swanwick, Premier Marinas operates 11 marinas, including Brighton, Chichester, Falmouth, Gosport, Noss on Dart, Port Solent, Southsea, Sovereign Harbour in Eastbourne, Swanwick, Trafalgar Wharf and Universal. The company is wholly owned by Wellcome, a charitable foundation that funds global initiatives in health and science.

Boatfolk also operates 11 marinas, with locations including Bangor, Conwy, Deacons, East Cowes, Haslar, Penarth, Portishead, Portland, Rhu, Royal Quays and Weymouth. Boatfolk will continue to operate under its existing structure while plans are developed in the coming months to coordinate activities across the enlarged group.

Kennebunkport Marina acquires Southern Maine Marine Services

Kennebunkport Marina has acquired Southern Maine Marine Services (SMMS), a family-run business with more than 40 years of experience in boat maintenance and sales. The agreement expands the marina’s operations and retains the skills and services that SMMS has provided to boaters in southern Maine.

SMMS owner Paul Lariviere will continue with the business as special projects lead. In this role, he will assist customers with large-scale refits and repowers while also directing a training programme for marine technicians, as reported by Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors.

The marina is located on the Kennebunk River and has over 90 wet slips and docking for vessels up to 26 metres (84ft) long. Its sheltered position inside the river mouth provides easier navigation, and amenities include valet service, a boat ramp, Wi-Fi, showers, laundry, shore power, emergency maintenance and pump-outs.

Shawn Dumas, General Manager of Kennebunkport Marina stated: “This is an exciting step forward for both businesses and, more importantly, for the boating community we serve. By joining forces, we will be able to offer boaters in southern Maine better pricing, more comprehensive services and direct access to a wider array of brands.”

SMMS previously provided boat sales, mooring services, hauling and storage, and canvas work, alongside being a Mercury Outboard dealer. With the acquisition, Kennebunkport Marina will now represent Mercury, Suzuki and Yamaha outboards.

Antin to acquire UK marina operator Aquavista from LDC

Antin Infrastructure Partners has signed a binding agreement to acquire Aquavista Watersides & Marinas, the UK’s largest marina owner and operator. The transaction is expected to close in October 2025.

Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Nottingham, Aquavista operates 32 inland and coastal marinas with more than 5,300 berths across England. The company provides residential and leisure berths, floating homes, boat sales and marine services.

The acquisition represents a new stage of growth for Aquavista following a seven-year partnership with private equity investor LDC. During this period, the business nearly tripled its revenue and doubled its marina network through acquisitions, including the purchase of Castle Marinas in 2021.

David Bains, Partner and Head of the East Midlands and East of England at LDC, said: “Our seven-year partnership has established Aquavista as a market leader through organic and acquisitive growth, including the strategic acquisition of Castle Marinas, which we supported with significant follow-on funding. It has been a privilege to support this locally headquartered business to become a national success story, and we wish the very best to Steve and his team on the next stage of their journey.”

Aquavista’s CEO, Steve de Polo, stated: “LDC has been an invaluable partner and the scale we’ve achieved together has enabled us to significantly enhance our services putting us in an incredibly strong position for future growth. We are delighted to partner with Antin to build on the strong foundations developed with LDC’s support and accelerate our growth.”

Antin’s Mid Cap Fund I will invest in Aquavista alongside its management team. This marks the sixth investment by the €2.2 billion ($2.59 billion USD) fund, which focuses on mid-sized infrastructure companies in Europe and North America across the energy, environment, digital, transport and social sectors.

Simon Soder and Assia Belkahia, respectively Senior Partner and Partner at Antin Infrastructure Partners, commented: “Aquavista has all the characteristics we look for in our mid cap strategy, notably high barriers to entry and strong resiliency, and benefits from supportive long-term tailwinds.”

Blakehurst marina and waterfront development site up for sale

A large waterfront property in Sydney’s Blakehurst, combining residential development with a commercial marina, has been released to the market through an expressions of interest campaign. The offering spans multiple land parcels along Princes Highway and includes direct frontage to Shipwrights Bay.

The leasehold marina provides approximately 50 berths, which are in demand given the location within one of Sydney’s well-used boating corridors. The property currently generates income through its facilities, including dual slipways, a dry dock, restaurant space and boat servicing infrastructure.

The land also accommodates a boat broking business, an office with residential amenities and parking for about 20 vehicles. The landholding spans 2,649sqm with over 80 metres of water frontage and about 46 metres of street frontage.

Existing improvements on the properties include a recently completed four-level home, two federationstyle homes with boathouses and pontoons, and a larger residence with waterfront access.

The expressions of interest campaign for 731-739a Princes Highway Blakehurst closed on 9 October 2025. Interested parties are advised to contact the exclusive selling agents Brett Ramsey, Jon Brookes and the team at Brookes Partners Real Estate for further information.

Expansion, authenticity and sustainability with

Dean Smith

Francesca Webster sits down with Dean Smith, Chief Commercial Officer of D-Marin, to discuss their latest marketing campaign as well as new acquisitions, competition in the Mediterranean and sustainable development in the marina sector.

D-MARIN

“We see our responsibility as being the people that are going to anticipate these challenges that every customer will face - and try to iron them out for you.”

D-Marin has recently launched its new “Feels like yachting should feel” campaign. How do you envisage this campaign changing things for D-Marin?

Well, it’s less about changing things and more about bringing our current customer experience to life by showing our actual marinas and highlighting where we prioritise our efforts. Let’s face it, when you buy a boat, your dream is to have a great time. You’ve got this wonderful expectation that it’s going to be all adventure and sunshine and suntans, that it’s going to be amazing, but often the reality is that it can be a bit challenging. We see our responsibility as being the people that are going to anticipate these challenges that every customer will face - and try to iron them out for you. It’s our intention to help you, so that your yachting feels like you imagined it would in the beginning, like the feeling you had when you first bought your boat. “Feels like yachting should feel” is our nod towards the fact that yachting is great fun. You shouldn’t put up with hassle or put up with your service being a little bit average.

As we grow, we need to appeal to many more customers. We need to show how we are different. Most marinas are advertising that they have berths, they have security, they have a boat hoist, they have nice people on the front desk. Sure, these are all very functional claims. With D-Marin properties you can and would absolutely expect all that stuff to be good. But on top of it is a mindset or philosophy, one where we recognise you want to have a good time and we’re going to put ourselves out there to try and deliver on that.

What you’re talking about is very client focused, it’s very focused on the owner. Are there benefits from the captain and crew’s perspective?

We know that our relationship with a captain is a businessto-business relationship. Captains have got some very functional things they need to do. They have to manage this massive asset for a demanding owner and within a strict budget. They want to make sure that there’s transparency, reliability and many other things that will make their lives easier, they want to know they are dealing with a team that understands. At the same time, they need to think about the owner and their experience when they are in the marina.

The two shouldn’t clash, they should complement each other. We’ve made sure that we train our staff to deal with different customer groups in slightly different ways. Even if you are representing the owner or you are the owner, you are both our customer.

Left: Didim Marina in Turkey. Right: Staff at Porto Mirabello in La Spezia, Italy.

Dean Smith

D-MARIN

“Surprised, the captain confirmed he had some water ingress and was trying to deal with it, so our team invited them in, sorted out a berth and offered to assist him in fixing it. This is the kind of authenticity in service I mean.”

With massive international investment becoming more common in the marina industry, we’re seeing major companies buying one another up. What other things are you looking at as a company to make sure that you’re staying on top of your game?

I think growth is fantastic, but if you grow but don’t add value to the new property then all you are doing is adding properties. It might be that all the individual properties in your portfolio are amazing and that customers appreciate the one they are in, but why should they care about this group that owns all of them if there is no value added? Whether it’s marinas, jets, whether it’s car services, whatever it is, there should be something that anchors them all together, a level of service that you as a customer have really enjoyed. In D-Marin we’d like to make sure we can replicate your enjoyable service authentically in each marina, every time.

One anecdotal story is that we once had a captain whose owner had to move the boat to a different location. He had our safety sensors on board the boat, and he went sailing off to his new marina. Whilst they were cruising past one of our other marinas, the bilge sensor alarm on our system alerted. Due to the fact that he wasn’t a current customer the team looked to see if they could identify the boat and they spotted him just outside the marina. This prompted a call to the captain to ask if everything was okay as we just received his bilge alarm. Surprised, the captain confirmed he had some water ingress and was trying to deal with it, so our team invited them in, sorted out a berth and offered to assist him in fixing it. This is the kind of authenticity in service I mean.

Below: Boat hoist at Didim Marina in Turkey.

Right, from top: D-Marin Göcek in Turkey; Electric car charging at Didim Marina in Turkey.

D-MARIN

Expansion is part of the industry and it’s definitely part of the marina sector. What does D-Marin look for when they’re considering a new facility or a new property?

It has to be complimentary, it would be pointless building in or buying properties which are just around the corner from the prime spot. So we’re looking for that “location, location, location”. Then we want solid infrastructure that can take care of smaller vessels to the biggest superyachts. We also want to upgrade the facilities and services so that they are aligned with all other marinas on our network. We don’t want to reduce the character of a marina, but we do want to make sure it’s a standard that you’d be happy visiting yourself.

At the moment we are very much thinking about the Mediterranean and have been for the last four years. But we could be very easily persuaded to find beautiful locations in other regions. What’s great about the D-Marin platform is that it can scale, we’ve got nine countries now. So that’s nine tax treatments, that’s nine different cultural approaches, that’s nine different administration processes. This is quite a powerful benefit as it allows us to consider almost any marina in any region. We have been in the UAE since 2019, but it could be interesting to go a little bit further afield.

We’ve recently seen Safe Harbor acquiring Monaco Marine, which is a big step for them entering Europe. Does that feel like an opportunity for you or is the competitive edge sharpening?

We openly welcome more sustainable investors in our sector. We are ambitious, yes, we are competitive, yes, but do we see this as a threat? No. If Safe Harbor has clients that they can bring to Monaco Marine, it’s going to benefit everyone. That synergy is going to benefit employment and skillsets. It’s a super specialised area and we need these companies to exist, we need them to flourish. And if Safe Harbor investment enables them to do that, then that’s great.

D-MARIN

Marinas are sometimes near protected marine areas, making sustainable marina development that respects existing ecology quite a sensitive topic. How do you deal with this when developing new or existing facilities?

There is limited available coastline in Europe and the Mediterranean for the construction of new marinas. How do you view this challenge when you’re looking at new facilities?

There are quite a lot of brownfield port sites that are underutilised because container ships are five times the size they were 25 years ago, meaning that a lot of the older smaller facilities can’t be used for their original commercial purpose and therefore need redevelopment. I think there’s plenty of those that would allow for marinas, shipyards and new leisure marine facilities to be built without impacting on a place of natural beauty.

Whilst there’s lots of them out there, you do need to be confident and able to convince customers and investors of the potential, which isn’t all that easy. We believe that our approach of consolidating and having a scalable platform provides a lot of comfort to all. Nevertheless, you have to be quite skilled to say that you’re going to buy into an old shipyard and turn it into a beautiful leisure marina. It’s not a small job.

Restrictions around getting permits and licenses are vast and difficult; but not impossible. The permits are designed to allow new development and the responsible evolution of old properties, so there is a way. Do you have to work hard? Sure, of course you do. It’s expensive, it’s difficult, but we are demonstrating that it’s very achievable.

Technology will also help here. D-Marin are very focused on developing alternative energy solutions such as solar so that we can be more independent from the local grid and not become a burden. The same goes for water and waste. One important step is to measure everything and our inclusion in the ECO Vadis grading system allows us to do exactly that.

We recognise the interest in hydrogen and electric bunkering systems, but it’s still early days. Development will only come with demand, but demand will only come with development. We’re at the stage now where we completely agree that our customers visiting by electric car need fast, reliable charging. Do we have the same demand on the water? Not yet but thankfully we do have ample electricity pillars that you can connect your boat into and it will recharge easily overnight.

Below: Lefkas Marina in Greece.

D-MARIN

The global dry stack evolution

Dry stack storage has long been one of the most efficient ways to store boats, yet its adoption around the world remains uneven. In the United States, dry stacks have become a mainstream solution, especially in regions where waterfront real estate is scarce and storms are a persistent threat. Outside the US, however, they are still considered a relative novelty.

By Robert Brown

The gap between dry stack use in the US and elsewhere presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Global marina operators are increasingly pressed to maximise capacity, improve resilience and deliver higher returns on valuable waterfront sites. The US experience offers a blueprint: decades of innovation in dry stack design, operations and automation. The question is not whether these systems work, but how international markets can adapt them to local realities.

The US head start

The United States embraced dry stacks earlier and more aggressively than most other markets. Several factors drove this trend, namely growing boat ownership in coastal and inland regions diminishing slip supply as residential development consumed waterfront land. Storm exposure also underscored the value of indoor, hardened storage.

These pressures pushed developers, engineers and operators to look beyond the traditional slip marina model. By the early 2000s, dry stacks were no longer experimental. They were becoming a backbone of US marina infrastructure.

Today, the US boasts a range of dry stack models, from simple steel-rack warehouses to high-density, automated facilities that rival the efficiency of logistics hubs. This evolutionary arc is precisely what makes the US a useful case study for international markets just beginning to explore the model.

Why dry stacks work

The advantages of dry stack storage are clear and consistent, whether in Fort Myers or Fréjus:

Use of space: A single acre of land can store five or more times as many boats in a dry stack as it can in slips. For markets facing land scarcity, this is the most compelling argument.

Operational efficiency: Modern systems, especially automated ones, can deliver boats to the water in minutes with predictable turnaround times. That efficiency translates into a better customer experience and higher throughput on busy weekends.

Resilience: Dry stack structures, especially those built in concrete tilt-wall or similar robust systems, offer superior storm protection compared to open slips or steel racking. Tilt-wall has become a hallmark of US facilities seeking Category-5 resilience.

Financial performance: Higher density means more boats per square foot, which translates into stronger revenue per acre. Combined with value-added services, the return profile often outpaces that of traditional marinas.

Left: ASAR automated crane lifting a boat inside the dry stack storage system.

GCM CONTRACTING SOLUTIONS

Case study: Gulf Star Marina, Fort Myers Beach, Florida

One of the clearest demonstrations of dry stack innovation is Gulf Star Marina in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. Completed in 2020, it is widely recognised as the world’s first fully automated dry stack, with multiple-vessel-deep storage.

Instead of forklifts, Gulf Star employs an automated storage and retrieval system powered by a dual-lift, dualtravel crane. The system can deliver boats from rack to water in about seven minutes without diesel engines, operator error or weather delays and offers over 99 percent reliability.

The structure itself, built using tilt-wall concrete panels, an approach that has defined many resilient US marinas, was engineered to withstand Category-5 hurricane winds. It was the first to resume operation during Hurricane Ian and had zero vessel damage.

The benefits have been dramatic. Storage density increased by more than 250 percent compared to the site’s prior forklift-based configuration. The marina also added amenities such as valet parking, a ship store, refuelling and a bait shop that transform the facility into more than just a storage building.

Gulf Star is not meant to be copied wholesale everywhere, but it provides a compelling benchmark for the industry when automation, density and resilience converge.

WORLD CLASS MARINAS

formerly The Jetty Specialist & Superior Jetties

Global market realities

If the US has shown the way, why hasn’t the rest of the world followed as quickly? The answer lies in a mix of regulatory, financial and market factors.

Firstly, in many markets, governments control most waterfront land, making zoning, leasing and environmental permitting the single biggest hurdle. What is permissible in Florida may face years of review in Australia or Italy, slowing development and adding uncertainty.

Secondly, automation and concrete construction require significant capital costs and upfront investment. In markets with lower berth fees or less concentrated demand, the financial case can be harder to make. Finally, in emerging boating regions, the market may not have matured and demand may not yet justify the density of a dry stack, particularly one with automation.

Adapting the model globally

For international marina operators, the key is not replicating US dry stacks but adapting the principles to local contexts. Four areas stand out:

Automation and sustainability as force multipliers: Labour costs and availability vary globally, but automation offers consistent benefits such as predictable efficiency, reduced liability and higher throughput. Today’s systems are all-electric, further reducing operating costs and supporting sustainability goals. In regions with expensive or scarce labour, automation paired with sustainable operations may be the single most important driver of viability.

Density and urban integration: Waterfront land is increasingly part of mixed-use developments. Dry stacks can be integrated with retail, hospitality or residential components, adding both financial and community value. In some cases, conversions of underperforming dry stacks into hotels or lifestyle spaces, as seen in Florida, suggest future hybrid models.

Resilience and sustainability: Climate risk is not unique to the Gulf of Mexico. Typhoon exposure in Asia, cyclones in Australia and flooding in parts of Europe all underscore the value of hardened, storm-rated structures. For many, tilt-wall concrete offers a proven path to both resilience and long-term durability. Its ability to integrate solar arrays and efficient mechanical systems also supports the global push toward environmental responsibility and sustainability, which is increasingly a regulatory requirement in many regions.

Lifestyle and mixed-use pairings: International developers should not underestimate the appeal of fully mixed-use marina living. Pairing storage with lifestyle amenities such as residential, hotel, retail or club components creates destinations that are both profitable and appealing. Gulf Star’s valet parking and retail spaces are one example, but future developments may include marina villages where storage, living and leisure are seamlessly integrated.

Left: Interior view of an ASAR automated crane placing boats into dry stack storage racks.

GCM CONTRACTING SOLUTIONS

Lessons for international operators

The US dry stack story offers three clear lessons for operators abroad. Firstly, one should adopt innovation early. The markets that embraced dry stack first are now reaping the rewards. International operators should not wait until finding slips becomes impossible before exploring alternatives.

Secondly, one should build for resilience and sustainability. Whether hurricanes, typhoons or regulatory pressure, designing for resilience and environmental sustainability will pay dividends over the long term. Structures that protect assets also protect operators’ reputations.

Finally, one should think beyond storage. The most successful dry stacks are more than racks and lifts. They are hubs of service, retail and lifestyle activity. This is particularly relevant in regions where marinas are cultural and social anchors.

Looking ahead

The global marina industry stands at an inflection point. Demand for boating access is rising, waterfront land is increasingly scarce and climate pressures are intensifying. Dry stack storage is not a silver bullet, but it is one of the most proven solutions available.

The US has shown what is possible when necessity meets innovation. Facilities like Gulf Star Marina demonstrate the potential of combining automation, density and resilience in one package. For international operators, the task is to adapt - not simply adopt - the US model, tailoring it to local cultural expectations, regulatory landscapes and financial realities.

The opportunity is enormous. By learning from US successes and avoiding its early missteps, international markets can accelerate their own adoption curve. In doing so, they will not just solve a storage problem; they will create a new class of marina infrastructure that is efficient, resilient and globally competitive.

Below: Aerial view of a dry stack marina showing docked yachts with a storage building in the background.

Expand Your Drystack Marina’s Capacity and Profitability with Automation

Maximize every square foot of your drystack. ASAR’s fully automated storage and retrieval system delivers up to 250% more leasable space, faster turnaround, and 99%+ uptime — all while reducing labor and preventing damage from human error. Designed for high-demand coastal markets, ASAR combines design, engineering, and permitting expertise to make your marina a flagship operation.

•

• Operates quietly with low impact

•

Provides multi-deep storage capacity

Reduces drive aisle requirements

Integrates seamlessly into architecturally distinctive designs

•

Improves sustainability through efficient land use and all-electric systems

A smart design for Certosa Island with Martin Reuter

Patrick Norén speaks to the Managing Director of Ingenhoven Associates, Martin Reuter, about their award-winning “Smart Spine” marina design that considers history, landscape, environment, energy and human impact.

Firstly, congratulations on winning the architects award at the Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marinas Rendezvous! Can you tell me more about Ingenhoven Associates, your work, history, ethos and past projects?

Thanks for the congratulations, it was a pleasure to be part of the Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marinas Rendezvous. Ingenhoven Associates is an architectural studio, founded in 1985, deeply rooted in the understanding that architecture emerges from deep analysis, informed decisions and collaboration. It’s an integral approach and we believe that architecture needs to try to improve the environment because we are adding something to the world that lasts for quite a long time. As such it should be responsible and benefit future generations.

We are pioneers within the field of ecological and sustainable design, and we have been working on this since we started. It is an evolving matter, you can’t stop searching and learning, you have to be open-minded. It’s collaborative, it’s a team approach, it’s about working with clients, engineers, specialists and different societal, economic and political stakeholders. We bring together specialists and perspectives to discover solutions beyond the obvious.

Left: A render of waterfront accommodation on Certosa Island.

Martin Reuter

INGENHOVEN ASSOCIATES

Have you previously worked on marina projects? Why did you decide to enter the Certosa Island Competition at the 2025 Monaco Rendezvous?

We hadn’t per se worked on marina projects before, however we had worked on a lot of waterfront developments which also included boat-decks and berths, but not a classic marina. Having said that, there is always a first time to work on a task and we did so in many fields before - always achieving outstanding designs. It is about mindset - people who are searching for sustainable, smart building solutions are exactly the clients that value our understanding and expertise. They have the same approach, they want to explore things, they want to have innovation, they search for the better. As such the Monaco Yacht Club gave us the certainty that the Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marinas Rendezvous was exactly the right competition for us.

“We believe that mixed use is the right approach, especially if you take a holistic view of cities and marinas.”

The Certosa Island Competition brief called for designs that integrate hospitality, cultural amenities, maritime services and heritage context within a framework that advances environmental performance and long-term adaptability. How did you approach this complex brief?

A complex brief is actually quite helpful, since it gives you something to solve. In this case the mix was interesting. We believe that mixed use is the right approach, especially if you take a holistic view of cities and marinas – e.g. shorter distances, 24/7 activation, advantages with regard to energy demands. Even high-rise developments are better with mixed use. As such it is not unusual for us to look at different topics “under one roof”.

How did we approach it? We looked into the different parts of the development, we were trying to find a way to combine infrastructure and logistical considerations, we were trying to find a concept that binds these things together while still keeping them independent and modular. Our design - the “Smart Spine” - was the concept that could ensure this. It is something that can grow, react to different uses, is resilient and future-oriented.

Your winning design features a “Smart Spine” that follows the island’s shore. How did you decide on this design? What are its most valuable and unique aspects?

When we start to work on a project we start with analysis. So we looked at Certosa Island, at the history of the island, its current status, the existing buildings, the landscape and its potential. Based on that analysis we decided to only use the space that is currently impacted by humans instead of reimagining the build mass of the past. That is to say, the water’s edge of the marina. So we said: “Let’s put all the important basic infrastructure there, let’s make use of that wall along the channel, let’s grow from there but let’s not waste or use any other land.”

What did that mean? It meant that we literally have a spine that gives you all the infrastructure you need such as energy, connections, logistics and so on. From there you can grow into certain areas and extend via a modular approach, which allows the design to adapt to future changes and needs.

You have previously mentioned that your “Smart Spine” design ensures resilience against rising waters. How adaptable or scalable is this design? Can it be replicated in other locations vulnerable to rising sea levels, such as Venice?

The principle could be replicated. It is a design which can grow because it is modular, it can be shorter, it can be smaller, it can be narrower, it can react to changing conditions and can be scaled. The design lifts all critical infrastructure up and therefore guarantees functionality even when sea water levels rise.

The conceptual approach can be replicated in other locations, but we believe that the actual design is a particular solution for the particular location. This simply means that the resilience aspect can be copied but the solution and the architectural expression might be slightly different due to local conditions.

Left: A render of waterfront accommodation and the marina on Certosa Island.

Below: Ingenhoven Associates’ design for Certosa Island centres around a “Smart Spine” along the shore.

INGENHOVEN ASSOCIATES

Your design integrates clean energy, logistics and circulation, and generates surplus renewable energy. How does it achieve this?

We do this by making use of the sun, which in Venice is stronger than in Germany or in more northern parts of Europe. But of course, our design is reducing energy demand in the first place. With our solar sail - a PV cell canopy that is branching out from the smart spine - we create huge amounts of energy – all we need. We can further make use of the water’s geothermal energy but not too much because we don’t want to destroy the ecosystem.

What does the future hold for Ingenhoven Associates? Will you be engaging more in marina and waterfront design?

The future holds further opportunities in the field of sustainability, adaptability and resilience. We as an industry have the chance to positively impact our future world as such buildings have to change and react to social, economic and ecological challenges.

Are we going to design more marinas? Yes, if you are looking into this market there seems to be the urge and the wish for more sustainability, and we are the right partners to do so. We are eager to bring our knowledge, curiosity and expertise as well as interesting, surprising and responsible answers to the table.

Below, from top: A render of Certosa Island waterfront and marina at sunset; A render of a bar and restaurant area on Certosa Island.

INGENHOVEN ASSOCIATES

The rise of houseboats in Abu Dhabi

A new aesthetic is beginning to compete with the superyachts of Abu Dhabi, one that offers greater space, comfort and usability without compromising on privacy or luxury. Houseboats are becoming increasingly popular second homes not just in the UAE, but have started spreading to Bahrain and Qatar too.

By João Fabião

“They serve as stationary second homes, or perhaps a modern interpretation of the majlis, the traditional Arab gathering space where families and friends come together.”

While Abu Dhabi is making waves in the recreational boating scene, it is also surprising in ways that have left marina developers, operators and planners rushing to adapt. Late last year, I checked in with several Abu Dhabi marina facilities ranging from modest docks to prestigious superyacht facilities. What struck me wasn’t just the gleaming superyachts or the turquoise waters of Abu Dhabi, but a recurring, unexpected sight: floating, double-decker barges with a boxy, modern exterior and wide, floor-to-ceiling windows.

Despite taking the spot of a yacht berth (or two), the new aesthetic clearly did not resemble traditional yachts, nor did they look like commercial boats. But their presence was unmistakable and ubiquitous. These were “houseboats”, and marina managers are looking for ways to cater to this new marina user type and their operational requirements as this market segment continues to grow.

Top: Houseboats are becoming increasingly popular in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

AL KOUS MARINE

Houseboat construction is predominantly by local and UAE-based manufacturers who tailor these vessels to suit regional preferences and cruising conditions. Typical models currently range from 15-50 metres in length, typically with twin outboards on catamaran or trimaran hulls. These floating second-residences, office or event spaces are designed with comfort and stability in mind.

Mohammed Aloklah, Project Manager and Supervisor at Al Kous Marine — one of Abu Dhabi’s leading houseboat producers — offers some insight: “We’ve built over 80 houseboats so far and currently have 11 under construction, including the largest in the world at 52 metres,” he says. “Most of our clients are from the Gulf region, especially the UAE, but interest is growing internationally. What appeals most is the freedom, privacy and luxury these boats offer. They’re more spacious than yachts, giving owners more room, comfort and usability without feeling tight or limited.”

In many cases, houseboats rarely leave their berths. Instead, they serve as stationary second homes, or perhaps a modern interpretation of the majlis, the traditional Arab gathering space where families and friends come together to relax, converse and enjoy each other's company. Other houseboats look like satellite offices or commercial units, reflecting the diverse range of functions these vessels can serve.

Abu Dhabi’s extensive network of calm channels and protected islands creates ideal conditions for houseboating, where wave action is minimal and longdistance offshore capability is less critical. Whether moored or slowly cruising the serene waterways, these vessels appear to be resonating with the lifestyle aspirations of many local boaters.

“Whether moored or slowly cruising the serene waterways, these vessels appear to be resonating with the lifestyle aspirations of many local boaters.”

“Today, every marina in Abu Dhabi hosts houseboats. In one of the most exclusive marinas in the city, houseboats now occupy more than half the available berths for large superyachts.”

Left, from top: In many cases, some houseboats will never leave their berths; Abu Dhabi’s extensive network of calm channels and protected islands creates ideal conditions for houseboating.

Below: Houseboats have also taken part in recent boat shows in the region.

Growth and growing pains

Unsurprisingly, houseboats present challenges to marina facilities designed and styled for yachts. For developers, the boxy pre-fabricated aesthetic clashes with the idyllic imagery of a luxury marina landscape and high-end destination. For other marina tenants, the addition can create a new dynamic or stigma. For marina operators and planners, the multihull designs make houseboats difficult to berth in conventional marina layouts designed for monohull yachts. Meanwhile, the increased beam often requires reconfiguration of dock spacing or results in inefficient use of premium berth space. Additionally, the demand on marina utility infrastructure often surpasses the available capacity at the berth and across the facility.

Ronald Rodrigues, manager at Hidd Al Saadiyat Marina in Abu Dhabi, confirms the growing interest but also

highlights operational concerns: “Space is a limiting factor. These vessels are wide and only fit certain berths. From an operational standpoint, they pose challenges. Many lack proper electrical certifications or holding tanks since there’s no formal regulation for houseboat construction yet.”

Despite these obstacles, the momentum is undeniable. Today, every marina in Abu Dhabi hosts houseboats. In one of the most exclusive marinas in the city, houseboats now occupy more than half the available berths for large superyachts. Across the emirate, they account for a small yet steadily growing share of total demand. The trend is even beginning to extend into Dubai, Bahrain and Qatar, although their more open and wave-exposed waters present limitations to widespread adoption.

AL KOUS MARINE

Planning for the future

The emergence of houseboats in Abu Dhabi serves as an important reminder that effective marina planning begins with an understanding of local conditions, trends, demographics and fundamental principles. It is not enough to rely on standardised templates, uninformed assumptions or attractive global benchmarks to replicate.

It is the duty of planners and consultants to engage with the nuances of local boating culture and regional preferences, as well as to communicate effectively with owners to craft a realistic vision for the marina property and its probable use. By offering variety and flexibility in marina design, planners can better position developments to stay agile and accommodate unforeseen trends and evolving customer demands.

This case study illustrates the value of building adaptability into marina infrastructure. By remaining attentive to evolving patterns and open to innovation, planners can create waterfronts that are not only functional but also reflective of the communities they serve. In a dynamic industry like recreational boating, adaptability is not just a design principle — it is a strategic imperative.

Below: A houseboat in Dubai, UAE.

Cautious uptake for electric boat handling

Although there is an increasing focus on decarbonisation in the marine industry, when it comes to boatyard equipment diesel power is still king. When representatives of several leading boatyard equipment manufacturers were asked if “interest” in electric boat handling equipment was “building”, the unanimous response was “yes”. But we can all be interested in something we cannot or will not buy.

By Carol Fulford

While Maria Luisa Olivero at Italian company Boat Lift reports that customers “are increasingly concerned with sustainability and carbon footprint in the working environment”, Jordan Kropf, sales manager at Kropf Industrial, Canada, says that, while the topic is becoming a regular conversation as facilities look ahead towards replacing equipment, “almost all of our enquiries currently do not even reference electric.”

Ander Etxebarria, GH Motion director for Spanish company GH Cranes & Components, however, speaks more positively. “Interest has accelerated over the last two to three years as real-world units pass multi-year operation with stable uptime and predictable costs. Customers who have seen electric boat hoists in daily service are now more confident in lifecycle performance and residual value,” he says, adding that “battery pack pricing and availability have improved, making total cost of ownership and CAPEX more attractive versus diesel in some use cases.”

The level of interest is also regional. “It strongly depends on the country,” says Stephan Dijkstra, sales representative at Roodberg. “Here in the Netherlands, for example, the use of diesel-powered machines, such as forklifts and trailers, is no longer permitted indoors.”

Brock Rubens, senior sales director at US-based Marine Travelift, adds: “Most of the interest comes from a handful of markets where there are benefits, and maybe even funding available to go electric. In most cases, however, the funding they receive is not adequate to cover the additional costs of an electric system that is designed properly for the application.”

Previous page: Port of La Rochelle.

Left, from top: A GH70e lift in Bermeo, Spain; A Kropf/ Conolift MML-40e electric hoist; A Roodberg LM50E electric boat hoist.

GH CRANES

KROPF INDUSTRIAL

ROODBERG

Although Etxebarria asserts that value is better perceived by customers able to actually see electric hoists at work, cost –to purchase, operate and maintain – is nonetheless a major issue and a significant stumbling block. Carlotta Zanon in the marketing department at Cimolai in Italy, reports: “For the time being, the cost of a fully electric solution is considerably higher than that of a standard one. However, this gap is expected to narrow with technological improvements and greater standardisation. Maintenance activities and the related costs for fully electric machines are, on the other hand, significantly lower compared to hydraulic solutions, which require frequent interventions on pumps, filters, hydraulic motors, fittings and potential oil leakages.”

A key worry lies with the batteries. “Concerns are mainly the additional cost, and the service life and replacement cost of the battery packs,” says Kropf. “Batteries will need to be replaced, most likely multiple times, during the life of the machine and that is not cheap,” Rubens notes. “We still have Marine Travelift equipment operating in the field from the 1960s and battery lifecycles are said to be around ten years.” And, with a telling revelation about customer reticence, he adds: “One of the most asked questions is if the machine could easily be converted back to diesel power if needed.”

In addition to cost, Olivero cites concerns about performance of electric machines in comparison with diesel equipment, and Dijkstra, while emphasising cost, says operational planning is a further challenge. “Users must consider factors such as route planning, charging times and battery range, all of which require more foresight than simply refuelling a diesel machine. External conditions, like temperature and wind, can also affect performance and battery life.”

“For our clients, time is money. Their goal is to move as many boats as efficiently as possible each day. That’s why the convenience of a machine that can be quickly refuelled with diesel is still very appealing when compared to a machine that may be temporarily unavailable during charging.”

Etxebarria points to three reservations: skills and service readiness – “operators and yard technicians are very comfortable with diesel engines”; aftersales issues with identifying local partners for battery diagnostics; and “perceived risk around charging logistics, shift planning and cold-weather performance until teams gain hands-on familiarity”.

SMART SOLUTIONS FOR SMART MARINAS

Seijsener is Europe’s leading specialist in smart marina technology. From energy and water pedestals to EV- and boat charging, access control, and payment systems – we deliver integrated solutions that make every marina more efficient, sustainable and guest-friendly. Trusted for over 60 years, we help harbours meet today’s challenges and prepare for tomorrow.

Electric solutions

Despite cautious uptake, manufacturers have worked hard to ensure e-versions of many machines are available, and there have been notable deliveries, too.

An undoubted pioneer in the field is Boat Lift, which delivered a fully electric boat hoist to Port of La Rochelle in France in 2022. This paved the way for electric trailers for Spanish and Norwegian customers, electro-hydraulic boat hoists – again to France – and fully electric hoists to clients in France and Italy. A 50-tonne fully electric travel hoist is soon to be delivered to Haakonsvern naval base in Norway. According to Olivero, the electric range has been the company’s primary research and development focus for the past four years.

Kropf Industrial has also been active, delivering its first all-electric mobile hoist last year and offering all-electric power for its towed hydraulic trailers, and Roodberg offers electric versions of most of its diesel-powered machines.

“We also have the capability to build 100 percent electric hoists,” Dijkstra notes. “We’ve developed a hoist for industrial purposes in Norway which has provided valuable insights and experience…and we’ve recently completed the engineering of a very compact and highly manoeuvrable electric transporter, which we plan to start building in the coming months.”

Meanwhile, Cimolai has delivered a variety of electric machines, including boat hoists and straddle carriers, for both marine and industrial applications. Marine Travelift can equip any of its hoists with electric power but only officially announced its “Electric Series” less than a year ago after roughly two years of testing. “We currently have a 50BFM11 boat hoist with over 500 hours of testing, which has been used at local marinas for real-life feedback. We believe in testing new designs and options before we make them available to our customers,” Rubens says.

Multiple electric projects are currently being manufactured by GH Cranes, including a marine unit for St Malo, France, scheduled for handover in 2026.

MARINE TRAVELIFT

Looking forward

So, are we likely to see significant uptake in the next five to ten years?

Boat Lift (MariaLuisa Olivero): Yes. Tighter regulations on emissions and high-capacity grid connections, smart chargers and energy management systems will become standard. Boat hoist manufacturers will evolve into full-service solution providers – offering integrated electric systems, smart fleet management and long-term service models.

Cimolai (Carlotta Zanon): There will be steady growth driven by automation, stricter safety standards and the push for energy-efficient solutions. Market development will also be supported by potential government funding aimed at replacing diesel with electric, and advances in smart technologies will also play a key role in shaping the market.

GH Cranes (Ander Etxebarria): Battery systems will continue to improve and after-sales for battery packages will mature. Adoption might be driven by noise and emissions targets at marinas/ports, predictable energy costs and operator preference for simpler daily checks and reduced fluid handling.

Kropf Industrial (Jordan Kropf): We will see a slow increase. A significant majority of our deliveries will continue to be traditionally powered. The rate of adoption may depend on whether incentive programmes become available.

Marine Travelift (Brock Rubens): I think the market will really depend on how regulation bodies decide to move forward on the topic and incentives they provide to shift. As battery technology advances, and they get more efficient at mining the materials and producing the batteries, one would assume the cost will start to come down, which will obviously make the option more attractive as well. Overall, I believe there have to be more advances in the electric components themselves and a price tag that is closer to a diesel engine for the market to really pick up significant steam.

Roodberg (Stephan Dijkstra): We expect demand for electric machines to grow significantly in the coming years. One of the key reasons is that the cost gap between diesel and electric is likely to narrow, making electric solutions more accessible. Advances in battery technology will help address many of the current concerns related to charging times and range limitations, and stricter emissions standards will also influence this. As a result, we anticipate a growing number of enquiries for electric equipment, a trend we’re already seeing take shape here in the Netherlands.

Previous spread: A HYAK 1500-ton boat hoist.

Left: A 50BFM11 electric boat hoist.

Bottom: GH Cranes’ 50e electric boat hoists.

Maritime heritage in marinas

Marinas can do more to create a sense of place by celebrating their maritime heritage for residents and visitors, a simple but often-missed opportunity.

By Mel Symes

Fêtes

“The Tall Ships Races, which have taken place almost every year since 1956, can draw audiences of hundreds of thousands.”

- KRIS ROMAŃSKI

Marinas currently face a number of challenges, amongst them, and especially in the case of privately-owned facilities, establishing relevance within their wider localities. Success in this area includes the potential to attract more people to boating, further positive engagement with local authorities and future business tenants or investors, and extend the talent pool to include a broader and more diverse number of staff applicants. This can be done while also creating more visibility for job opportunities in the marine industry.

Spectacle and service

“People enjoying a walk around a harbour or marina will always be drawn to a historic vessel”, says Camille Gontier, Director of the Fêtes Maritimes in Douarnenez. The Tall Ships Races, which have taken place almost every year since 1956, can draw audiences of hundreds of thousands and have featured fleets of over a hundred vessels often spread across a city’s berthing facilities. Julien Lebas, harbour master of the marina in Le Havre, reported an additional 100 boating visitors during this summer’s event, beyond hosting some of the smaller race vessels. He found that the stopover strengthened their relationship with the local and port authorities, provided businesses in and around the marina with excellent footfall, and added that they benefitted from the resulting media coverage, developing the marina’s positioning as a venue for racing fleets.

The event organiser, Sail Training International, a charitable entity that works with national associations to deliver sail-training opportunities - particularly for disadvantaged youth - ensures that free sailing places are generated through the host city agreement. However, the appeal of the race extends across the board with enthusiastic public responses generating a shared sense of community history, with dramatic photos and news stories helping to boost the attraction of destinations.

Previous page:

Maritimes de Douarnenez.

Left, from top: Replica of the 17th-century Spanish galleon Andalucia at Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays; 2025 Le Havre Tall Ships Race.

STI

HENRY CLEARY - MARITIME HERITAGE TRUST

Connecting history and opportunity

Charlotte Hathaway took part in the race this year as Master of Excelsior, a traditional 23m Lowestoft fishing smack and the remaining vessel of a once thriving 350-strong fleet. On board, the sailing experience remains as authentic as possible. “While lots of traditional vessels have been modernised slightly to facilitate handling, everything here retains the same dimensions and techniques as in the 1920s such that a fisherman from that era would recognise everything - apart from the liferaft!

“It makes things perhaps a little harder, but essentially this means that we can hopefully sail the boat as well as she can be sailed in accordance with her design. That said, it’s incredible to think that four men and a boy handled this ship, when today we operate the rig with a crew of 17!”

Excelsior, a place marker and source of pride for the local Suffolk community, serves as a valuable resource for demonstrating how to sail a traditional vessel while fostering teamwork, resilience and reliance on others. Other positive outcomes include creating a supportive multigenerational community within the wider port and maintenance facilities, and fostering related job opportunities for young people with challenging personal circumstances.

Hathaway sees the chance to develop skills on board and develop a taste for life at sea as a pathway to future maritime careers, where the decline of the fishing industry has been replaced by offshore wind farms, requiring work boats and crew transfer vessels.

She values the opportunities that the Tall Ships Races offer young people: “For me it’s a perfect event; a massive youth gathering that does everything you want from sail training, from time at sea to international friendships made in port.” Port visits are not always straight-forward, however, with a lack of gangway limiting boarding options. Tying up to a wall requires continual line adjustment but, at 100 tonnes, berthing on a temporary pontoon isn’t an option. Fuelling can also be tricky for such a varied fleet, with some boats taking commercial diesel struggling with high minimal amounts and missing nozzle connections from truck deliveries, and others with depths and pontoon restrictions on fuel docks.

In general, berthing costs and benefits for heritage vessels vary widely, from museum marinas in the Netherlands offering a free heritage berth in exchange for visibility and possible public access, to being charged full whack - plus passenger tax – in other locations. Inevitably, boats return more willingly to destinations that value their visits.

“Other positive outcomes include creating a supportive multigenerational community within the wider port and maintenance facilities.”

Right, from top: Dunkirk Little Ships Rally at St Katharines Docks London; 2025 Le Havre Tall Ships Race; An archaeological dig at Buckler’s Hard.

Navigating heritage

Celebrating maritime or nautical heritage in marinas can take a wide variety of forms, since shoehorning a Class A square rigger through a narrow entrance into a tight and shallow berth may not always be advisable. Camille Gontier explains that context is important and it can be valuable to understand where and why promoting maritime heritage can be effective.

He highlights two driving elements behind the organisation of maritime festivals: a community motivation from associations and boat owners to preserve and celebrate the local maritime heritage, and interest from local authorities to use these events to address institutional, social and identity-related issues of the host territory.

What works in one country or region may not function as well in another. He notes that in France, with a significant proportion of the population actively participating in boating, the on-board heritage experience in festivals is paramount, which is why in the Fêtes Maritimes in Douarnenez they prize taking paying passengers out for boat trips. He also recognises that whilst summer events may well attract visiting tourists, the greater majority of attendees tends to comprise local or regional residents.

Significantly, the Fêtes mobilise hundreds of volunteers, reinforcing community spirit, providing an opportunity for people to learn traditional skills and creating a deeper appreciation for the locality’s maritime history and culture.

Gontier recounts that in France, from 1983 – 1992, there was a move to reconstruct traditional vessels from original plans or wrecks, with work mostly carried out by associations and supported by regional financing. This replica model differs from many of the known heritage vessels in the Netherlands and the UK where preservation has been favoured. The UK is known for a vast fleet of over a thousand historic vessels, whilst some of the world’s largest heritage vessels are based in the Netherlands. Sail Training International CEO Alan James adds that several South American navies use their tall ships for sail training, which includes a year of learning traditional nautical skills.

HENRY CLEARY - MARITIME HERITAGE TRUST

STI - KRIS ROMAŃSKI

BUCKLER’S HARD SHIPYARD TRUST

Vessel spotlights

Local commercial successes in Brittany include the bisquine replicas La Cancalaise and La Granvillaise, traditional three-masted luggers, formerly dedicated to oyster dredging and trawling. The boats offer sailing trips to the public, participate in festivals and maintain the tradition of the original bisquines.

Within Douarnenez, the Telenn Mor is a famous sardine lugger replica built in 1983 and a notable example of a living heritage vessel. The boat serves as an educational tool, made available to the local sailing school and berthed on the Port-musée pontoons. Over the past 40 years, it's estimated that almost every child in Douarnenez has sailed on the boat via school or club classes. Priority is given to places for females, aiming to give them more sailing opportunities. The Telenn Mor serves as a great example of how a heritage boat can be preserved as a working vessel that contributes to the community and passes on traditional skills to new generations.

The Douarnenez Fêtes Maritimes incorporate a large and popular area dedicated to traditional skills, such as sailmaking, forging, carpentry, canvas work and rope work. These skills are kept alive by associations and taught in schools such as Les Ateliers de l’Enfer, founded in 1979. What is clear is that skills retention will be needed to repair and maintain national fleets, as well as the infrastructure required to take them out of the water, particularly when vessels are limited by financial restraints.

Top: Fêtes Maritimes de Douarnenez.

Left: Wooden Boat Stage at 2025 Southampton International Boat Show.

BELINDA JOSLIN

Interactive history

From “Underwater Malta” and Sweden’s “Vrak” museum in the preservation-rich conditions of the Baltic Sea offering virtual tours to shipwrecks in inaccessible dive sites, to the use of TikTok by the National Maritime Museum of Cornwall to drive engagement with sea shanties, innovative approaches are being used to bring maritime history to life.

Solène de Jacquelot, based in Lorient, uses a fully sensorial and physical method to make the learning experience as inclusive and memorable as possible. She encourages visitors to count, collect and weigh imitation sardines using traditional methods, and offers clothing to try on, demonstrating how interior buttons, pockets and blunted clogs were designed to avoid snagging nets.

At Buckler's Hard, a perfectly preserved 18th-century shipbuilding village with an award-winning marina, an archaeological dig carried out this summer uncovered a well-preserved 18th-century shipyard slipway. The excavation was conducted by maritime archaeologists and involved the efforts of over 50 volunteers.

The dig revealed a massive timber structure, including large tree trunks that formed the base of the slipway and shed light on how large wooden warships, including Lord Nelson's ship, HMS Agamemnon, were built and launched.

“The Douarnenez Fetes Maritimes incorporate a large and popular area dedicated to traditional skills, such as sailmaking, forging, carpentry, canvas work and rope work.”

NEDJMA BERDER

Heritage Harbours

Mary Montagu-Scott, a keen sailor, is Chair of the Buckler's Hard Shipyard Trust and director of the Buckler's Hard Maritime Museum. Between giving talks and lectures and fulfilling various heritage-based commitments, she has an active role in the recently formed Heritage Harbours, a joint initiative between local groups and Maritime Heritage Trust, National Historic Ships and Historic England. One of their aims focuses on making local maritime history a visible and active part of the community's identity.

Wider intentions include trying to counter “sea blindness”, a term that refers to a general lack of awareness or understanding of the importance of the sea or ocean. By making history tangible and accessible through the preservation of historic vessels, maritime museums and community events, Heritage Harbours are looking to connect people not only with their local maritime roots but also with the sea.

At the recent Southampton International Boat Show, the first ever Wooden Boat Stage, organised by Women in Boat Building (WIBB), hosted a constant hub of enthusiasts enjoying the interactive opportunities offered by the stand, together with engaging talks from designers and craftspeople on the past, present and sustainable future of wooden boatbuilding.

WIBB founder Belinda Joslin was delighted with the stand's success: "The Wooden Boat Stage was a community collaboration with the Boat Building Academy and the Wooden Boatbuilders Trade Association.”

“The stage showcased a tiny fragment of skills, people and projects, but the show visitors were incredibly engaged. People are passionate about wooden boats and the hands-on skills used – being achievable and relatable – manifesting in an organic, tactile sculpture. Visitors crowded round for carving demos, had a go at riveting and splicing, helped to make rope and were enthralled by steam bending. They then went off and stroked the wooden boats on the stand, with a deeper understanding of the craft that had created them. The skills and stories that are usually hidden away in yards came to life, and the love of the art of boatbuilding was palpable. We’re really proud of what we created and hope to have inspired more people to consider owning a wooden boat.”

Harbours and marinas can leverage maritime heritage to play a key role in transforming their berthing facilities into dynamic cultural assets, firmly integrated within the wider community. From a sustainability perspective, this can be achieved by representing key historical events or insights through exhibitions, art or performance, promoting traditional green cargo projects, facilitating ocean literacy activities on board traditional vessels, supporting community heritage fleets and activities, while also helping to make these opportunities as inclusive and accessible as possible.

Perhaps it is time for a more collaborative international effort to share and develop maritime heritage resources, securing a more sustainable future for marinas and the boating industry.

Left: 2025 Le Havre Tall Ships Race.

STI - KRIS ROMAŃSKI

Bahrain’s push to expand its marina sector

Across the Gulf region, countries such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia have drawn attention with large-scale, high-profile marina developments. Yet while these projects dominate headlines, Bahrain has been steadily advancing its own yachting infrastructure, with developments such as Bahrain Marina signalling a strategic and deliberate effort to position the country as a more appealing destination for yacht tourism.

By Enrico Chhibber

BAHRAIN MARINA

“The latest marina under development, Bahrain Marina, is expected to become operational in the first quarter of 2026 and will expand the country’s infrastructure capacity to host larger yachts.”

Bahrain is an archipelago located in the Arabian Gulf, to the east of Saudi Arabia. Known in Arabic as “the two seas”, its name refers to the unique environment where freshwater springs emerge within saline seabeds. The country comprises approximately 84 islands, including 33 natural and 51 artificial islands.

In this feature, Marina World explores Bahrain’s existing marina infrastructure, the developments currently under way, and how the country is positioning itself to attract more visiting yachts while supporting the broader growth of marine tourism.

Operational marina facilities in Bahrain

Bahrain is home to several marina facilities, although definitions vary depending on size and range of services offered. United Marine Trading (UMT), a Bahrain-based company and long-standing partner of Poralu Marine, has played a central role in delivering marina infrastructure, contributing to the majority of recent developments across the country.

According to Bassam Hajj, General Manager at UMT, “Bahrain currently hosts a number of marinas catering to a diverse range of recreational vessels, from small leisure craft to luxury yachts. The main operational marinas offer berthing facilities for vessels typically ranging from 10-50 metres in length. Many provide full services, including refuelling, maintenance and shore-side amenities, while catering to both local boat owners and visiting regional yachts.”

Hajj noted that most operational marinas in Bahrain are not designed to accommodate large superyachts. “It would be inaccurate to say that Bahrain currently caters to large superyachts. The majority of operational marinas are designed for vessels up to 30 metres in length. At present, only one marina has the capacity to accommodate a limited number of yachts up to 50 metres,” he said.

The latest marina under development, Bahrain Marina, is expected to become operational in the first quarter of 2026 and will expand the country’s infrastructure capacity to host larger yachts.

The table on the next pages outlines Bahrain’s operational marinas, including the number of berths and the typical size range they accommodate.

BAHRAIN MARINA

Left: A rendering of the new Bahrain Marina in Manama.

Below: Bahrain Marina Development Company appointed UMT to develop the marina within the Bahrain Marina project. Far right is Bassam Hajj, General Manager of UMT.

Inside the development of Bahrain Marina

Set along the eastern shoreline of Manama and developed by the Bahrain Marina Development Company (BMDC), Bahrain Marina spans more than 250,000 square metres. The project is envisioned as a new focal point for coastal and urban development in the capital, combining luxury residential units, retail, leisure and marine infrastructure.

UMT has been appointed as the main contractor for the marina infrastructure, overseeing the design and installation of Poralu Marine floating docks and Rolec service pedestals. Outlining UMT’s role, Hajj stated: “We have been actively involved in the Bahrain Marina project from its early planning stages. Our scope includes design and build of the pontoons, MEP systems, anchoring and CCTV, in addition to providing project management support throughout the marina build-up.”

The facility will accommodate up to 167 yachts and vessels of up to 50 metres in length, along with 42 jet ski berths and a fuel station. These works form part of the first phase of the project, which also includes the Marina Club, a waterfront venue for sports, leisure and social activities.

Hajj explained that the marina contract was awarded in January 2025, with final design approvals and pontoon fabrication following shortly thereafter. The first pontoons were delivered to the site in August 2025. “Based on the current schedule and progress, it is correct to anticipate that the marina will be operational in Q1 2026,” he emphasised. “By this time, the key berthing, infrastructure and amenity components are expected to be fully functional, allowing the marina to welcome both local and international yacht visitors.”

Hisham Almoayyed, Acting CEO of Bahrain Marina, noted: “This project is close to our hearts and I’m proud to see it taking shape as a new standard for marina developments in the region. We’re not only building berths and facilities, we’re creating a lifestyle destination for yacht owners and visitors. With its location on Manama’s shoreline, Bahrain Marina offers direct access to nearby islands and regional waters, making it a natural hub for marine travel. Just as importantly, the marina is part of a larger community with residential, retail and hospitality spaces, which means it will be alive and active all year round.”

Cedric Le Rest, Marina Management and Consulting (MM&C) Director at Wearth Group, which is supporting the project operationally, described Bahrain Marina as a “destination marina” currently under development.

“It will offer a full mix of amenities including a yacht club, a beach and mixed-use commercial and retail space, with real estate positioned directly behind the waterfront. The aim is to create a lifestyle-driven environment tailored to modern yachting needs,” he said.

Le Rest noted that Wearth Group is supporting the project through its pre-opening and operational planning phases. “Our mission is to guide Bahrain Marina through the leadup to opening. At the moment, we are working on several key areas,” he said.

Wearth Group is currently focused on laying the operational groundwork ahead of the marina’s opening. This includes finalising HR policies, preparing recruitment plans and drafting all necessary procedures. “We are developing the sales and marketing strategy, covering pricing, release timelines and positioning,” he stated. “At the same time, we are drafting the operations manual and all related procedures to ensure the marina is ready to operate efficiently from day one.”

Once the infrastructure is delivered by UMT and the first vessel arrives, Le Rest added, the team will shift to the post-opening phase. “That is when we move from planning to execution, implementing everything we have designed and starting to engage directly with clients on the dock.”

AMWAJ MARINA

Establishing Bahrain as a more attractive yachting destination

In relation to Bahrain’s marina developments, Hajj acknowledged that they align broadly with the country’s long-term strategic goals. “It is, in a way, part of Bahrain’s Vision 2030,” he noted, referring to the government’s economic diversification plan, which places tourism at its core. He went on to highlight Bahrain’s longstanding connection with neighbouring Gulf countries: “Bahrain has always been a hub for people from across the GCC. Many have homes here and visit regularly,” he said. “For GCC people, Bahrain is like their second house.”

Almoayyed added: “Bahrain Marina is designed to open a new chapter for water tourism in the Kingdom. With firstclass facilities and carefully curated activities, we want to set a fresh standard for sea-based leisure and attract visitors from across the Gulf and further afield. The project directly supports Bahrain’s Vision 2030 and reflects our ambition to place the Kingdom at the forefront of marine tourism in the region. Thanks to our partnerships with UMT and MM&C, we are confident that Bahrain Marina will meet the highest international standards and deliver a memorable experience for every guest.”

Le Rest expanded on this point, observing that there is a wider effort to promote Bahrain as a tourist destination. “It is already well known among regional travellers, especially from Saudi Arabia, which is just an hour’s drive away via the causeway,” he added. “Qatar is about an hour away by boat, and Kuwait is also not far. Their marinas are already at full capacity, which shows a clear demand for additional berthing. While Bahrain benefits from a strong base of regional tourism, maritime tourism is an area the authorities are now actively looking to develop.”

Le Rest also pointed to recent regulatory reforms as part of Bahrain’s broader ambition to become a more attractive yachting destination. Under Ministerial Edict (9) of 2025, the process for obtaining navigation permits has been simplified for visiting non-commercial, foreign-flagged leisure vessels. These yachts can now apply directly to the Ports and Maritime Affairs Directorate, removing the previous requirement to engage a local shipping agent.

Outlook for Bahrain’s marina sector over the next decade

Both Bassam Hajj and Le Rest expressed optimism about the future of marina development in Bahrain. Hajj indicated that a new marina project is expected to be announced soon, with additional developments already in the pipeline.

Le Rest suggested that Bahrain has the potential to follow a similar path to other Gulf countries. “If you look at what some of the other countries in the region have achieved since the early 2000s, they’ve developed a significant number of marinas,” he said. “Bahrain has the capacity and the coastal space to do the same. Looking ahead, I believe we will see more marinas being developed across the country.”

Previous page: Amwaj Marina in northeastern Bahrain.

Right, from top: CEO Eng Hisham Al Moayyed BMDC; A rendering of the waterfront at the new Bahrain Marina in Manama.

Hisham Almoayyed

BAHRAIN MARINA

B E C OM E A LIN D LE Y D I S T RIBU T O R !

IF IT ’S ON WATER WE HAVE A SOLUTION

ww w.lindl e y. p t VISIT USAT METS! BOOTH 05.755

ww w . lindl e y . p t

Products & Services

Marina Master powers digital rental pool at Mackay Marina in Queensland

Mackay Marina in Queensland, Australia, has introduced a digital rental pool system supported by Marina Master, giving berth owners a simplified way to generate income while improving berth utilisation.

The rental pool groups berths from multiple owners into a shared pool overseen by the marina. Marketing, maintenance and bookings are managed directly by the marina, while rental proceeds are distributed among owners according to berth size and availability. A portion of revenue is retained by the marina as management fees and levies.

Lea Griffiths, Business Manager at North Harbour, said the concept has been part of Mackay Marina since its early years: “Since the conception of Mackay Marina some 25 years ago, we have offered our berth owners a return-on-investment opportunity through our rental pool, renting pooled berths and paying owners quarterly on a metered night rate formula. Berth owners can participate for days, weeks, years or move in and out of the pool for complete flexibility.”

Griffiths explained that the move to Marina Master replaced a manual process previously managed through spreadsheets, an outdated CRM and separate accounting software: “Recently, we decided to take this long-standing process into the digital age. With the move to Marina Master, we were excited to move to one seamless programme to calculate and manage rental pool calculations and disbursements.”

The updated system allows berth owners to join or exit the pool online, with automatic rental listings, pooled income calculations, tax considerations and quarterly disbursements all managed within a single programme. Griffiths added: “This tailored solution gives berth owners an easy-to-use digital form to join or exit the pool on their preferred timeline… We couldn’t be happier with the outcome and are grateful for the partnership with Marina Master.”

Marina Master is a family-owned business with more than 33 years of experience and develops cloud-based marina management software used worldwide by marina owners, staff and boaters.

Aqua superPower installs DC charger at Marina Genova

Marina Genova in northern Italy has added a DC 75 kW Aqua superPower marine fast charger, supporting the electrification of boats along the Ligurian coast. Introduced during the Genoa Boat Show 2025, the charger enables electric vessels to navigate efficiently between Genoa and Saint-Tropez.

Marina Genova is located near Genoa city centre and offers 400 berths, including 100 for superyachts up to 130 metres. The marina also provides shipyard facilities, fuel docks and hospitality services.

“This collaboration with Aqua superPower is a game-changer for sustainable boating in Liguria. The new charging station not only supports cleaner navigation but also positions Genoa as a leader in the global transition to electric maritime transport,” said Giuseppe Salamanca, Chief of Operations at Marina Genova.

Dario Sirtori, Deployment Manager Italy for Aqua superPower, added: “The installation of Aqua superPower’s fast charger at Marina Genova is a pivotal step in electrifying Liguria’s coastline. This project not only enhances sustainable boating in the Cinque Terre National Park and Portofino but also strengthens the region’s role as a pioneer in eco-friendly maritime innovation.”

The Marina Genova charger complements the existing infrastructure at nearby Marina di Loano, which hosts both a DC 75 kW and AC 22 kW station. Together, these installations form a corridor that supports longer electric boating routes along the Ligurian coast.

Aqua superPower provides AC and DC charging solutions specifically designed for marine environments. Its cloud-based platform and support services enable vessels to recharge quickly while lowering environmental impact.

Marinapy launched as global platform for marina management

A new digital platform has been launched to simplify marina management. Marinapy, a cloud-based system, includes more than 20,000 marinas and over three million berths already mapped.

The platform enables each harbour to claim its location directly on an interactive world map, customise details and begin operating online within minutes. It covers berth allocation, invoicing, customer records, payments and yard services.

Olivier Dufour, founder of Marinapy, said: “At Marinapy, our mission is to make marina management simple, efficient and accessible. Ports can move to full digital operations instantly, without heavy deployment or training.”

Marinapy is offered under a freemium model, allowing marinas to use core functions at no cost up to a set invoicing threshold. More advanced features, such as online payment processing, are available in paid plans.

The system allows users to create automated workflows and generate reporting tools that track occupancy and revenue. Boaters gain access to a mobile app on iOS and Android where they can book berths, pay invoices and manage reservations.

Other tools include yard and operations management, where staff can assign and track maintenance jobs digitally. The platform is designed for marinas with fewer than 1,000 berths but can also be adapted for larger facilities.

Svendsen’s Bay Marine expands with new 100-tonne Travelift

Svendsen’s Bay Marine has increased its lifting capacity by adding a second Marine Travelift 100BFMII, a mobile hoist capable of handling vessels up to 100 metric tonnes. The addition follows the yard’s recent expansion and is intended to reduce scheduling constraints as demand for haul-out and repair services continues to grow.

The facility now operates with two hoists, which help to accommodate more vessel movements each day, including short haul-and-hang work, block spot painting and quicker transitions between lifts.

Bill Elliott, President of Svendsen’s Bay Marine, said: “The addition of the new Marine Travelift provides flexibility in the daily haul and launch schedule, providing the versatility for additional lifts in any given day.”

The new unit includes a wireless remote control and a top beam extension. Elliott noted that these features were selected to improve efficiency. “Our previous lift had the wireless remote, and with the operational efficiencies it provides our operators don’t want to be without it. And the top beam extension was a musthave to save time by avoiding the need to remove the headstay on large sailboats.”

The investment follows the yard’s expansion, which doubled available space. According to Elliott, the additional hoist was necessary to fully utilise the larger site.

Gwilen, BetterSea, Metarina and Docker win in Monaco

Four startups and scaleups were recognised at the fifth Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marinas Rendezvous in September for their innovative new solutions and technologies that help protect the environment in marinas.

Gwilen, based in Brest, France, won the startup award for their circular solution that transforms marine sediments into locally produced, low-carbon building materials, instead of discarding them. Their partner and founder, Yann Santerre, accepted the award in Monaco.

Italy’s BetterSea Power won the M3 Monaco personal favourite award for their docking stations that combine solar and wind energy generation with a waste collection system for marinas, offering both sustainability and cleaner marine environments. In a post on LinkedIn, BetterSea Power said that winning the startup award “made [the event] even more special, turning a unique moment into an unforgettable milestone”. CEO Thomas Fabio Borrelli accepted the award.

Metarina, a German-Spanish collaboration, won the first of two awards in the scaleup category by demonstrating real, worldwide use of their app that simplifies and streamlines daily management operations for both marinas and yachts. CEO and co-founder, Henry Hooper, said that it was an “honour” to have been recognised at the Rendezvous for their “thought leadership” in transforming the digital yachting experience. Hooper also accepted the award in Monaco.

The Croatian company Docker Marine Systems won the scaleup M3 Monaco personal favourite award for their innovative docking station technology that enables boaters to discharge waste, refill fresh water, recharge batteries and access essential services. Writing on LinkedIn, the company said that the award “is not just a trophy, but a strong tailwind pushing us to aim even higher and work even harder”. Founder and CEO Bruno Sokač accepted the award.

MONACO SMART & SUSTAINABLE MARINAS RENDEZVOUS (2)

IGY Málaga Marina upgrades with Flovac wastewater system

Spain’s IGY Málaga Marina has completed the installation of a new vacuum wastewater collection system supplied by Flovac, marking a key development in the marina’s service infrastructure.

The project was awarded in March 2022 and is now fully operational on Piers 1 and 2. Flovac describes the system as designed to provide an efficient and clean method for wastewater disposal directly from vessels moored at the marina.

The installation includes 635 metres of vacuum pipeline, a single vacuum station and 18 connection points positioned along the piers. These features allow vessels to discharge wastewater from their berths without the need for mobile tankers.

By placing pipelines above the water table, the project avoids complex underground work and reduces infiltration risks. The design also contributes to lower maintenance and operational costs.

The marina accommodates 33 superyachts ranging from 20-180 metres and offers services including blackwater pump-out, waste collection, recycling and vessel concierge support.

IGY Málaga Marina forms part of the Island Global Yachting (IGY) network, which operates 24 marinas in 14 countries. IGY’s portfolio spans the Americas, Europe and the Middle East.

THE SMART GREEN FUTURE OF SEWAGE COLLECTION

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

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

No electrical power required at dockside

Discreet, small diameter pipework

No risk of water contamination

Validates MARPOL certification

Eco-sustainable system

Ease of installation

No odour, no spills

CONCEPT DESIGN & MARINA MASTER PLANNING

MARINA FEASIBILTY STUDIES & MARKET RESEARCH

MARINA BUSINESS PLANNING

WATERFRONT & MARINA DESIGN

MARINA PROCUREMENT & PROJECT MANAGEMENT

OPERATIONAL & MANAGEMENT SERVICES

ENVIRONMENTAL & LEGISLATIVE ADVICE

PROPERTY CONSULTANCY SERVICES

GLOBAL WATERFRONT & MARINA

CONSULTANCY AT ITS BEST