SF Marina has been building and installing oating breakwaters and pontoons for marinas worldwide since 1918. We are committed to nding the best solution for every site.
e beautiful Linton Bay Marina in Panama, with its SF Marina concrete pontoons and ngers, is one of our most recent success stories.
Photo: Aaron Jilall
Charlotte Niemiec looks back to 2015 to pinpoint some marina industry highlights
Eliza Salpisti interviews the Greek Alternate Tourism Minister, Elena Kountoura
The MYP at METSTRADE 2015 was a launch pad for WMC 2016 and the TYHA/MIA Gold Anchor Global scheme
Robert Wilkes gathers advice from US-based experts on marina renovation and expansion and Oscar Siches explores the ‘three’ kinds of marina development
Donatella Zucca invites Michele Azara, director of Porto Cervo Marina in Sardinia, to talk shop
Darren Vaux suggests the marina industry should think ahead of potential climate change legislation
Front cover: Porto Cervo Marina on the Costa Smeralda is a favourite superyacht destination. It has 700 berths arranged radially in the old port, which is part of Porto Cervo village, and in the new marina basin.
more on p.46
Marina World
HEAD OFFICE MAILING ADDRESS & SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES
Loud & Clear Publishing Ltd,
School Farm, School Road, Terrington St. John, Cambridgeshire PE14 7SJ, UK
Simon Ding Bridge International Holding, Rm. 401, Building A, No. 55 Jinyu Road, Minhang District. 201103 Shanghai, China
T: +86 21 33231328 F: +86 21 33231366
Email: simon@chcbiz.com
Marina World (ISSN 1471-5856) is published bi-monthly by Loud & Clear Publishing Ltd, School Farm, School Road, Terrington St. John, Cambridgeshire PE14 7SJ, United Kingdom.
The 2016 US annual subscription price is $160. Airfreight and mailing in the USA by agent named Air Business Ltd, c/o Worldnet Shipping Inc., 156-15 146th Avenue, 2nd Floor, Jamaica, NY 11434, USA. Periodicals postage paid in Jamaica NY 11431. US Postmaster: Please send address changes to MARINA WORLD, c/o Worldnet Shipping, Inc., 156-15, 146th Avenue, 2nd Floor, Jamaica, NY 11434, USA. Subscription records are maintained at Loud & Clear Publishing Ltd, School Farm, School Road, Terrington St. John, Cambridgeshire PE14 7SJ, United Kingdom. Air Business Ltd acts as Loud & Clear Publishing’s mailing agent.
Marina World is available on subscription at the following cost:
1 year (6 issues) - £80.00 Sterling ($160)
2 years (12 issues) - £140.00 Sterling ($280)
No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of Loud & Clear Publishing Ltd, the copyright owners. Upon application, permission may be freely granted to copy abstracts of articles on condition that a full reference to the source is given.
Views expressed by individual contributors in this issue are not necessarily those of Loud & Clear Publishing Ltd. Equally, the inclusion of advertisements in this magazine does not constitute endorsement of the companies, products and services concerned by Loud & Clear Publishing Ltd. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising.
Innovation and collaboration
There’s no question that 2015 was a good year for product innovation and industry collaboration, and a special year for certain companies. Martini Alfredo celebrated 70 years; Polyform of Norway marked 60 years; and Rolec reached its quarter century.
SF Marina launched a new tug and superyacht berthing system; Ingemar researched a radical new system of floating breakwater; Bellingham Marine initiated the patent process for its new FRP through-rod and nut system; and Poralu launched a range of concrete floats.
Dura Composites boosted its portfolio with composite timber pontoon fenders; Superior released a designer handrail system, the Edge II; and Perma Composites launched Rapid Deck, a low maintenance modular composite material that withstands high loads.
In the boatyard sector, Kleeco products were upgraded further to a company buy-out by Frisian Industries, and Italian company Boat Lift entered into a sales collaboration with US Hoists of Calverton, New York. Marine Travelift released the M2800, its largest lift capacity forklift in the Mariner series and Eden Technology introduced the Electrical Trollift.
US-based Scribble Software launched MarinaOffice 7.8 and a new company, Molo, launched a marina management platform on iPad and web to facilitate reservations and more at marinas of all sizes.
Candock launched the G2 Jetslide for jetski rental operators and HydroHoist released the HP Pro, a new PWC dock. New Spanish company, Click&Go, began international marketing of its in-berth boatlift system.
DualDocker expanded its range of specialist mooring options with Single Point Mooring Solutions and Telescopic Piles, and Monumental Plastics of New Zealand released PileRing; a one-piece moulded mooring ring for pile moorings.
Further innovations of note included the Greencube modular floating toilet block pontoon from Poralu company CEI; Beta Fueling System’s solar powered fuel dispenser cart; and the 7012HP Jetmaster Versi-Dredge from IMS, a three-in-one machine offering jet excavation, water injection and environmental dredging.
Dockside pedestal manufacturers are amongst the keenest R&D advocates year on year. Comsen of Australia released a new aluminium pedestal range called Extreme and Marcello Giampiccolo of Italy launched Leonardo, a pedestal offering multiple services – such as air conditioning – to earn the marina operator additional revenue.
Eaton added SMART notification to the ground fault safety in its Lighthouse pedestal range and Rolec launched a new aluminium pedestal range at the Dubai Boat Show in March and the Quantum at METSTRADE 2015 in November.
Many of these products will receive further profiling this year, more innovations are covered in the Products & Services section of this issue, and 2016 will doubtless bring other revelations.
An ideal way to kick start your annual quest for new equipment is to visit the 2016 International Marina & Boatyard Conference (IMBC) in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (27th-29th January). Visit the Marina World team on booth 410. We look forward to seeing you.
Happy New Year!
Carol Fulford Editor
TEI buys Altamer Resort
ANGUILLA: The luxury Altamer Resort on the western end of Shoal Bay has been sold to Time Equities, Inc, (TEI) of New York.
The sale includes 46 acres of undeveloped land, prime for the construction of a megayacht marina, 134 cottages and condominiums, a 30-room hotel, restaurants, shops and recreational amenities. The resort currently comprises three ocean-front super villas and a modern conference centre.
According to CBRE Group, which handled the sale in conjunction with Smiths Gore, the marina has received
full planning approval from the Anguilla Government and will include the conversion of an existing salt pond on the point that separates Altamer from the neighbouring Cap Juluca resort. The marina will serve as an official point of entry for Anguilla, with full customs and immigration services.
TEI will be looking for a joint venture partner to develop and operate the marina.
Viking withdraws from development role
USA: Viking Developers has withdrawn from its role as master developer of the Riviera Beach Marina, Florida.
The Riviera Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and Viking have spent ten years developing and readjusting the vision for a $375 million marina transformation. Around $35 million in public funds has so far been invested in the project.
“The CRA will continue to work with Viking as one of the landowners at the marina. We enjoy mutual respect and will cooperate with each other’s plans and timelines,” said Riviera Beach CRA executive director, Tony Brown. “Viking is an exceptional corporate citizen and
has done so much for our community in Riviera Beach.”
Work so far includes a two-storey marina events centre, due to open in the spring, and a redesigned park. The public investment is intended to spur private development in and around the marina, eventually spreading out to Broadway and beyond. Future plans include a waterfront row of restaurants, a public market, shops, offices and a hotel.
The City and CRA are soon to start discussions with potential new partners.
Clearwater updates waterfront plans
USA: Recommendations for the City of Clearwater’s Comprehensive Boating Plan received a public airing in mid-December last year. The goal of the project is to benefit the public and nearby businesses, and make Clearwater the boating capital on Florida’s west coast.
Moffatt & Nichol presented updated recommendations, based on public input gathered at a previous meeting, to enhance the city centre marina, Seminole boat launch and the Clearwater Beach Marina.
“Broad based public participation is essential to construct a plan to best activate our waterfront and its
connections with our downtown, adjacent neighbourhoods and nearby amenities,” said Bill Morris, the city’s marine and aviation director and harbourmaster. “The importance of public interaction helps focus our plans for future enhancements to the waterfront to maximise activity and increase its utilisation.”
The most important marina construction decision lays beneath the surface
You spend a lot of time researching options for your marina build or upgrade. Since the anchoring is what is going to hold your marina investment in place it is arguably the most crucial components you will decide on. Seaflex is an elastic mooring solution that expands and retracts with each tide and wave, taking on and dampening the forces year after year. It does this while being invisible from the surface, creating some of the most modern, sleek, state of the art marinas of the world.
With 45 years of research and development Seaflex is the most technologically advanced mooring option in the world, anchoring thousands of marinas, wave attenuators and buoys worldwide.
Research your options, give your marina the mooring solution it deserves!
Suntex invests in Portsmouth marina
USA: Suntex Marinas and Valiant Holdings LLC have joined forces to improve Ocean Marine Yacht Center in Portsmouth, Virginia.
Suntex Marina Investors LLC acquired the facility from Ocean Marine LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Valiant Holdings, in early November last year. Under the terms of the
transaction, Suntex Marinas has purchased all of the property, will enhance services and amenities, and will operate the newly named Ocean Yacht Marina. Jim Bento, principal
Forest City appoints contractors for The Yards
USA: Forest City Washington has contracted Bellingham Marine and Moffatt & Nichol to design and build The Yards Marina on Washington DC’s riverfront. The facility is an integral part of The Yards neighbourhood, which features a blend of retail, dining, residential and office spaces within walking distance of Capitol Hill.
Scheduled to open this spring, the marina will support a wide variety of user groups and includes: 50 slips ranging from 40 to 125ft (12 to 38m) with utility hook-ups; a water taxi dock; a paddler dock for kayaks and paddle boards; and an educational dock for boating classes etc. Half of the marina’s slips will be reserved for short-term stays of less than ten days.
Excavation of the upland
property commenced in October last year while production of the dock components was under way at Bellingham’s factory in York, PA. Bellingham started to install docks in December.
Improving public access to the water and promoting water-based recreation are key aims for the project.
“The development of the marina will put The Yards more in touch with one of
of Valiant Holdings, will continue to operate Ocean Marine Yacht Center via leaseback of the megayacht repair facilities.
The combined branding, marketing and operational proficiencies of both companies are expected to increase employment.
According to Suntex founder and CEO, Johnny Powers, the acquisition is part of a longer term expansion plan. “It is our vision to be the best steward of the marina experience globally with early emphasis on the US market. By acquiring Ocean Marine and collaborating with Jim Bento, we are confident that we are enabling the best possible marina experience for boaters, employees and communities alike,” he said.
Ocean Yacht Marina has 112 wet slips, a drystack for 275 boats and can cater for megayachts. It is located close to two other Suntex properties, Tidewater Yacht Marina and York River Yacht Haven, which are also up for renovation and expansion.
“Suntex Marinas is a natural partner for Ocean Marine Yacht Center,” Jim Bento confirmed. “Now with three Suntex facilities in close proximity and eight along the East Coast, we can realise economies of scale, maximising efficiencies, reducing costs and passing services and savings on to customers.”
its best assets – the river,” said Forest City Washington president, Deborah Ratner Salzberg. “We’re eagerly looking forward to adding the boating community to the
wonderful mix of residents, tenants and visitors at The Yards.”
An operator for The Yards Marina has not, as yet, been announced.
- Zero maintenance effort
- Zero impact on underwater world
- No lines, all forces absorbed by DualDocker arms
- Jerk-free
- One step on board
- Worry-free during storms and in big swells
For 25 years our passion, commitment and professionalism has enabled us to build and maintain an unmatched global reputation for quality, reliability and innovation through our provision of marina services and support to customers in countries throughout the world.
Koolewong designer awards turnkey contract
AUSTRALIA: A new world-class marina is to be built at Koolewong on the central coast of New South Wales. The 50-berth facility (positioned above) will be developed adjacent to the existing Boathouse Restaurant, a popular spot for locals and tourists.
Superior Jetties has been selected to engineer and build the marina to a design created by Les Binkin and Symantha Suprain. Binkin, co-director at Marmong Point and designer of the Trinity Point Marina on Lake Macquarie, says the project has been at least six years in the planning and will be a destination in itself, boutique, but open to the public.
“It will be a sophisticated, friendly marina, aiming to attract berth holders, passing cruisers and locals for a bite to eat and enjoyment of the beautiful landscape,” he notes. Incorporated in the design are ten catamaran berths and ten visitor berths but there is space to double the size of the marina in five years if permissions are secured.
Superior Jetties was appointed to the project following a competitive tender process and will handle all aspects of the engineering and design detail, marina construction, architectural gangways and the main entrance way.
“Superior has the expertise, the
runs on the board and the team to do the job,” Binkin asserts. “They are a very personal company. CEO, John Hogan ensures staff are available to us at all stages along the way, sharing information and progress, which is important to me as the designer.”
Koolewong will be the first marina Superior creates using a combination of its Elite system, with a concrete deck, and the SuperElite system. This also has concrete walls in the higher impact areas. Aluminium walers and elastomeric hinges provide flexibility and are low maintenance. The company’s inhouse engineering department will supply a custom-designed gangway to suit the site and complement the nautical theme of the owner’s vision for the entrance way.
Hogan believes the marina has a great future. “Judging by the numbers of boats and moorings already using this portion of Brisbane Waters, it’s a superb anchorage, naturally protected and expansive. It is an ideal location for a marina,” he says.
WORLD NEWS
Plans progress for Victoria waterfront
UK: Developers of the new Victoria Marina waterfront in East Cowes, Isle of Wight, are preparing to progress the project now that Cowes Harbour Commission has completed the new outer breakwater.
Development partners Camper & Nicholsons Marinas (C&NM) and Westcourt Real Estate are working with architects Conran & Partners on drawing up plans for various renovation, conversion and newbuild works. This will see the creation of new residential and hospitality properties alongside the regeneration of the Columbine Building and Victoria Barracks, arranged around the new marina and within an extensively landscaped setting.
Under the plans for the Victoria Quay development, the Columbine Building –famous for sporting the world’s largest Union Jack – will undergo a phased refurbishment and will house a variety of marine-based operations under the overall tenancy of Camper & Nicholsons Marinas. It will also provide office space for a number of other local and international businesses.
C&NM chairman, Sir Christopher Lewinton, said: “East Cowes has a long tradition as host to the Royal Family with their deep passion for the Island, and more latterly to the many tourists and business people who pass through this busy island gateway. Our plans for Victoria Quay will build upon that distinguished past while bringing new impetus to the area as a centre of employment in the marine and associated service sectors.”
“We will create new public amenities and an attractive place to visit and for the people who live there. And we are delighted to be re-establishing a long awaited operational presence in the UK for Camper & Nicholsons,” he added.
David Margason, managing director of Westcourt, states: “Our aim is to deliver a comprehensive regeneration to fulfil the long-held plans for East Cowes, transforming the area for the benefit of local residents, businesses, visitors and the town as a whole. The plans for Victoria Quay will allow for a new, landscaped square centred on the Victoria Barracks, with new family and visitor amenities set against the backdrop of the 400 berth marina. The project will also deliver a range of open market and affordable homes.”
Hatteras Light
Hatteras Light
This compact power pedestal is perfect for providing shore power connections to residential boaters, private docks, and docks with limited space.
This compact power pedestal is perfect for providing shore power connections to residential boaters, private docks, and docks with limited space.
Newport Harbor Mate
Newport Harbor Mate
This shore power option has multiple modular mounting options to fit your personal dock needs. This economical, small device can easily be installed on a dock box or piling providing a minipower source to your marina.
This shore power option has multiple modular mounting options to fit your personal dock needs. This economical, small device can easily be installed on a dock box or piling providing a minipower source to your marina.
Lighthouse & Lighthouse SS
Lighthouse & Lighthouse SS
Our most popular power pedestal, the Lighthouse offers a wide range of options and features meeting the needs of almost any boater. The Lighthouse SS offers additional capabilities and is made with high quality stainless steel for superior durability and performance.
Our most popular power pedestal, the Lighthouse offers a wide range of options and features meeting the needs of almost any boater. The Lighthouse SS offers additional capabilities and is made with high quality stainless steel for superior durability and performance.
Admiral SS
Admiral SS
Truly the flagship of our unitized pedestal line, the Admiral SS possesses amperage capabilities and receptacles to serve nearly any size
Truly the flagship of our unitized pedestal line, the Admiral SS possesses amperage capabilities and receptacles to serve nearly any size
Mega Yacht.
Mega Yacht.
– Operational handover
– Brand a liation
– Tari structuring
– Global marketing reach
– World-class marketing platform
– Yachting industry partnerships
–
and
Port Louis Marina, Grenada.
Rebuild under way at Kornati
CROATIA: Marinetek NCP is undertaking a full turnkey project to reconfigure and rebuild Marina Kornati in Biograd na Moru, one of the biggest and busiest marinas in Croatia. The contract involves removal of old fixed jetties and installation of a new floating pontoon system while the marina remains fully occupied. The footprint is tight, and the off season timeframe gives the company just four months to complete the €2.15 million first phase of the plan.
Poralu buys design company
FRANCE: EDDS Design, an agency specialising in industrial design and product innovation, has joined forces with Poralu Marine. Laurent Gasiglia, managing director of the Poralu Marine Group, and Eric Denis, manager of EDDS, will co-manage the company in which Poralu has become the majority shareholder.
EDDS Design was founded in Lyon over 25 years ago and Poralu has been calling on its services for nearly a decade. The company played a major part in creating Poralu’s Premium pontoon range.
The partnership will enable EDDS to work more easily alongside Poralu Marine Group companies Nautiscaphe, CEI and Rotax. “This acquisition is strategic to the Group’s development because it allows us to incorporate new skills in terms of industrial design,” Gasiglia noted. “The team at EDDS will add value to our activities through innovation and product development. It will also help us identify and become involved in new activities as we look to diversify.”
Marina Kornati is a highly popular nautical tourism centre located on the Adriatic Sea near the Kornati islands and Telašcica Bay. In its existing format it berths 780 yachts, 270 of which are for charter, and operates at 100% occupancy.
After 30 years of constant use, the concrete pile and beam fixed jetties at the marina were more than ready to be replaced. The new floating pontoon system will not only transform the quality of the berths but has also provided an opportunity to rethink the layout, make better use of space and install berths for bigger boats.
Marinetek is installing 400m (1,312ft) of its new Heavy Duty 2700 and 3300 pontoons, along with mooring systems and equipment. The pontoons are being installed as each old jetty is removed and boats must be transferred from old to new as efficiently as possible. The pontoons are anchored by chains and configured for a Mediterranean mooring arrangement, are equipped with a fire fighting system and have power and water.
In the next stage of the contract Marinetek will replace five jetties in the west of the marina with 525m (1,722ft) of Heavy Duty 4300 and 3300 pontoons.
Second phase starts in Manama
BAHRAIN: Amlak has initiated the second phase of the Bahrain Marina Development Project, a world-class coastal facility in Manama that is poised to become the kingdom’s prime lifestyle and leisure destination.
Pleased with progress made to date, Amlak CEO, Mohamed Abdulelah Al Kooheji, confirmed the appointment of Benoy as the lead designer for the project. Benoy has vast experience in working alongside large scale projects in the region, including Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World in Dubai and The Beach in Dubai.
The global construction group, Bruce Shaw, has been awarded the role of project manager and AECOM will act as marine consultants.
“The second phase of the project focuses on two main
aspects; clearing the existing site and finalising the detailed master plan in order to move forward into the development phase. The team will also be conducting a number of on-site studies including extensive marine studies,” Al Kooheji confirmed.
Scheduled to complete in 2020, the mix-use project will include recreational waterfront space, a large yacht club with a substantial marina, a luxury hotel and serviced apartments, a shopping mall, and freehold apartments and waterfront villas.
Floating piers Surfaces and solutions for all needs
Made in Italy
Pontoons, breakwaters, piers for super yachts, floating bridges and constructions: the best solutions for connecting sea and land by means of strong and reliable structures, in aluminium, concrete or steel, standard or tailor made.
Genoa - Italy: 9 m wide piers and 650 sqm platforms for the Genoa Boat Show
COSTA RICA: The marina at the Golfito Marina Village & Resort in the Pacific coast town of Golfito is to be built by Crane Materials International (CMI) company GatorDock.
WORLD NEWS
The marine grade aluminium FullFloat system with concrete decking will be installed to moor megayachts up to and exceeding 350 feet (106m) in length. With its signature E channel frame construction for high strength and stability, GatorDock Full-Float will also be used on the fuel dock, which is 265 feet (81m) long with high volume, filtered fuel pumps (150 gpm/570 lpm).
According to CMI international sales director, Matt Hasseler, the company’s Poly Float docks with composite decking will be custom engineered to construct the main marina. This includes a sport fishing tournament weighing station and a water taxi landing. The marina’s unique design also includes a 6,500ft² (603.8m²) floating island and floating planter boxes along the main dock.
Golfito (which means ‘little gulf’) is surrounded by year-round calm waters. It is the only authorised pick-up and drop-off zone for yacht transport ships on the west coast of both Central and South America.
Ingemar expands to meet Middle East demands
ITALY: Growing demand for floating pontoons and breakwaters in reinforced concrete and the tight schedules imposed by customers has led Ingemar to enlarge its production facilities at its Casale sul Sile factory.
Production units, owned by Ingemar T&S, now cover an area of 7,000m² (75,347ft²). A new prefabricated building has been added to house the large modular castings for the production of breakwaters up to 20m x 4m x 2.4m (65.6ft x 13ft x 7.8ft). A fixed crane covers the outside service area.
Ingemar president, Lorenzo Isalberti, sees the investment as essential. “I am convinced that only within an area dedicated specifically to their construction, using our own specialist personnel under the supervision of our own technicians can we ensure the consistent quality which is indispensible for the production of these very complex elements,” he says.
naval vessels and also nears completion of the second marina in the La’ala Al-Kuwait Sabah Al-Ahmad Sea City project.
Production of pontoons and breakwater units fulfils Ingemar contracts in many countries but for 2015 the Arabian Peninsula took centre stage. Ingemar secured and is progressing a substantial ongoing contract to build coastal ports for berthing Saudi
The second Al-Ahmad marina (above) will accommodate 633 vessels and should be in operation early this year to complement the 406-berth first basin, which Ingemar completed for inauguration in April 2015.
Lindley consolidates South American operations
BRAZIL: Portuguese company Lindley has opened Lindley BR, a subsidiary in Rio de Janeiro. The new company will focus on the design, manufacture, installation and maintenance of floating equipment, aids to navigation and port equipment.
Grupo Lindley’s activities in Brazil began in 2012 with a partnership with BR Marinas for the design and construction of floating pontoons for BR Marinas facilities. It has subsequently completed several projects including a redevelopment of Marina da Gloria in Rio and installation of floating pontoons at Marina Bracuhy and in Ribeira.
15�16�17 NOVEMBER 2016
RAI AMSTERDAM THE NETHERLANDS
MEET THE WORLD IN AMSTERDAM
The Marina & Yard Pavilion (MYP) welcomes marina owners, operators, developers and suppliers from around the world.
The MYP will host the biennial ICOMIA World Marinas Conference (WMC), which will start on the final day of METSTRADE 2016. This unique combination offers an exceptional opportunity for marina professionals to meet their peers, see lots of innovations and new products, and be inspired by the very latest industry news.
The Marina & Yard Pavilion is an event of METSTRADE, the world’s leading platform for professionals in the marine equipment industry and organiser of the ICOMIA World Marinas Conference.
GLOBAL REVIEW 2015
Consolidation and expansion
Buzzwords: super, multi, investment. Last year saw proposals for new marinas on an ever grander scale, from One°15 Brooklyn Marina in New York to Kuwait’s massive Sea City or Royal Phuket Marina’s five billion Baht water facility and marina expansion in Thailand. Marina World special correspondent, Charlotte Niemiec, highlights some developments from 2015, starting with the Americas and the Caribbean
Aiming to be the calmest marina basin in New York Harbor, One°15 Brooklyn Marina is the latest offering on the New York City scene. Set to open this spring, it is located within the heart of Brooklyn’s resurgent waterfront between Piers 4 and 5. It will be part of the award-winning Brooklyn Bridge Park, an expanse of lush green community space. The project includes 125 slips ranging from 40ft (12.19m) to 100ft (30.48m) and alongside mooring for superyachts up to 250ft (76.2m). When complete, the marina will increase the number of slips available in the city by 25% and all will have water, electricity and Wi-Fi, gated access docks and 24-hour security.
Over on Staten Island, Great Kills Marina in the Gateway National Park finished rebuilding work following its complete destruction by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The new marina system offers 350 slips from 25-60ft (7.62-
Charter operators at marinas in Palma, Mallorca, enjoyed a busy summer season.
18.28m) and a long outer dock for mooring large boats.
Santa Cruz Harbor in California was also substantially rebuilt with upgraded facilities and is now in full operation. Following a series of bids
Denarau Marina is Fiji’s top superyacht destination.
Charlotte Niemiec
with a final price tag close to $12 million, 20 docks were replaced and approximately 470 slips.
In Florida, a new megayacht dockominium in Fort Lauderdale – Harbour Twenty-Six – was scheduled to break ground in May, with an expected build time of 12 months. It is being constructed on a site formerly known as Pier 17 and will be the first new marina project of its kind in the area. It will offer 26 fully-covered, hurricane-rated slips ranging from 24m (78.7ft) to 52m (170.6ft).
Meanwhile, Barrington Yacht Club in Rhode Island – one of the oldest yacht clubs in the US northeast –underwent extensive expansion. The project included 100 new slips to accommodate boats up to 60ft (18.28m), and a 170ft (51.8m) fuel dock with pumps and utilities.
Off the East Coast of the US, plans were approved for the South Basin Marina at Bermuda’s Naval Dockyard. The new facility will play a major role in the 2017 America’s Cup event. Plans include the reclamation of ten acres of land inside the southeastern corner of the existing breakwater to create an island. A boatyard with multiple drystacks and a 68 berth marina will be built.
GLOBAL REVIEW 2015
Further south, in Costa Rica, plans were developed for the first branded residential resort and marina. The first phase of the project, The Sanctuary at Osa Peninsula, will cost around US$85 million to build and is designed to be one of the most environmentally sensitive full-service marinas in Central America. The marina will have meeting facilities, private storage and a boat launching area complete with 20 ton yacht crane.
In the Caribbean, the Prime Minister of St Kitts & Nevis stressed the importance of marinas to the development of the country at a ceremony welcoming the first boat to Christophe Harbour Marina. An exclusive residential resort community covering more than 2,500 acres, phase one of construction began in late 2014 and includes 24 slips ranging from 150ft (45.72m) to 220ft (67m), with the capacity to berth vessels up to 300ft (91.4m) at the outer docks.
Proposals to improve the Isle Grande Dry Dock in the city of San Juan, Puerto Rico resulted in a project to develop a superyacht marina complex while, in the Virgin Islands, a major permit application was approved for St John Marina in Coral Bay. The project includes plans to build a 145-slip marina with a mix of slip sizes up to superyacht capacity. A related upland development could follow in a second phase.
The huge extent of the Sabah Al Ahmad Sea City marina project in Kuwait is particularly striking when seen from the air. The first large marina basin was completed last year.
Just a year after the successful reconstruction of Blue Haven Marina in the Turks & Caicos Islands, initial discussions began to build additional berths for vessels up to 220ft (67m).
And, not to be outdone by the north, Colombia is helping to bring South America into the international marina scene. Plans for up to 22 new marinas are proposed, including 1,000 berths in the capital of Cartagena. One new project is Marina de San Andres, which will comprise 151 berths for boats from 25ft (7.62m) to 164ft (50m). The Marina of Providencia aims to have 50 berths up to 160ft (48.66m) and the Marina of Riohache will have 180 berths.
Spotlight on the UK
Developments in the UK dominated much of the news in Europe. Camper & Nicholsons Marinas was selected to lead a project to build the 400 berth
Vessels up to 300 feet (91.4m) moored up at Pier 66 Marina on the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Victoria Marina in East Cowes, Isle of Wight, as part of a significant waterfront regeneration project (see World News).
Specialist consultancy Marina Projects led the extension of Windermere Quays Marina at Bowness, which now offers berthing for up to 180 boats, and also led the £2.6 million Prince Philip Yacht Haven project on the River Hamble in the south of the country.
In London, plans were announced to redevelop Albert Island, a slab of land owned by the Greater London Authority in the Royal Docks. The improvement works focused on visitor berths and holding pontoons.
Swanwick Marina, a Premier Marinas facility on the south coast, opened a new drystack and boatyard in a £5.8 million project. The drystack stores 80 boats up to 11m (36ft) in length. A new drystack was also opened at Premier’s facility in Falmouth, Cornwall, catering for up to 48 boats. Later in the year, Premier – owned by BlackRock UK Property Fund – was sold to the Wellcome Trust for an undisclosed sum. Aberystwyth Marina, on the west coast of Wales, was also sold - to the Cardiff Marine Group. The new owner is preparing to make a number of phased investments to upgrade facilities. Planned works include dredging the marina basin and devising a new pontoon configuration.
MDL Marina Consultancy was also at work on plans mooted for Edinburgh Marina, a new 400 berth
GLOBAL REVIEW 2015
marina, residential, retail and spa hotel project that aims to be the focal point of an area regeneration scheme. MDL Marinas, meanwhile, added a further 20 marinas to its Freedom Berthing Network, which offers complimentary stays at other MDL marinas in the UK, Spain, Italy and France, bringing the total to over 90.
Off the coast of the UK, work completed on a £3 million project to regenerate St Helier Harbour in Jersey. The improvement works focused on visitor berths and holding pontoons.
In France, Paris-based marina consultancy MDL France was appointed to undertake a new design
study as part of a project to install moorings close to the Plage de Pampelonne near Saint-Tropez, a world famous destination for luxury superyachts. The second phase in a project to install pontoons at Port Pierre Canto in Cannes, South of France, was also completed.
Several significant marina and berthing projects were completed in the Benelux region of Belgium in the first half of the year. Mechelse Waterski Klub finished a major refurbishment project that included the construction of a new clubhouse and berthing facilities for over 100 speedboats up to 12m (39.3ft) in length. In the Netherlands, Jachthaven de Molenwaard in Hasselt installed a pier with ten finger pontoons and completed the refurbishment of two adjacent piers with hammerheads. At Roompot Marina in Kamperland,
Blue Haven Marina is an idyllic destination marina with access to high-end resort amenities.
the 218m (715ft) Pier 2 was rebuilt, complete with a new walkway and 16 finger pontoons. A subsidiary walkway with 15 finger pontoons was also added.
In Sweden, Pontech AB signed an agreement late in the year to buy German business Marina Systeme from Saferoad A/S. The company is Germany’s largest producer and distributor of concrete pontoons and accessories for marinas. Marina Systeme is now trading as Pontech Marina Systeme GmbH.
The year also proved exciting for Spain, as it benefited from 2014 legislation allowing all charter yachts operating in the country to claim exemption from the infamous matriculation tax. In 2014, non-EUflagged superyachts were also allowed to charter within Balearic waters. Totals leapt from zero to 33 licences recorded over the year. As 2016 crept closer, an expansion project to add seven new superyacht berths at Port Andratx in Mallorca began.
Marinetek Finland was commissioned to build a 700 berth marina in Gibraltar for small local boats of up to 10m (32.8ft) in length. Gibraltar’s Development and Planning Commission was also granted approval to build superyacht berths at the existing Ocean Village. The Marina Bay master plan outlines ten superyacht berths with secure access and all modern hospitality facilities.
Below right: CGI of Harbour TwentySix, a megayacht dockominium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Below left: The long established Club de Pesca de Cartagena in Colombia promotes berths for large vessels.
GLOBAL REVIEW 2015
After years of waiting, Egyptian company Orascom said it would invest €220 million in the construction of Makronisos Marina at Ayia Napa in Famagusta, Cyprus. The overall plan includes a marina for up to 713 boats of 10m (32.8ft) and above and accommodation for 150 smaller boats in a vertical drystack. A threeyear timeline from groundbreaking to completion is now anticipated.
Finally, ACI Marina Cres, located in the centre of the island of Cres in the northern Adriatic, was refurbished by Croatia-based Marinetek NCP. The external fixed pier was renovated to provide five additional outside berths for yachts up to 50m (164ft) in length. The marina now offers 476 berths for a variety of vessel sizes.
New offerings in the Middle East
Developments also geared up in the Middle East. Kuwait property developer La’ala al Kuwait opened its first marina at the massive 4,700ha Sabah Al Almad Sea City project in the south of the country. The 408 berth marina was 18 months in the making and is the first of four marinas – either under construction or at advanced planning stage – offering new berths to the Kuwait market. The marina is the largest in the country and will receive boats up to 10m (32.8ft) in length. Facilities include water and power to every berth.
Plans were announced for the development of Meydan One, a new 3,671,000m² leisure, residential and hospitality destination in the heart of Dubai. It will be home to more than 78,000 residents and feature the 711m
(2,332ft) high Dubai One tower, the Meydan One Mall, a civic plaza, 4km (2.48 mile) canal and 100 berth marina. It is scheduled to complete before 2020.
ART Marine Marinas was appointed supervisor for the management of Ayla Marina in Aqaba. The Ayla project is a 430ha tourism development strategically located on the pristine Red Sea shores close to Saudi Arabia and Egypt. It comprises recreational and residential communities around a series of man-made lagoons. These will have 294 berths in the final phase and accommodate vessels up to 40m (131ft) in a mix of permanent berths for residents and temporary berths for visitors.
Asia goes world class
A five-year, five billion Baht (US$150 million) investment plan was announced by Royal Phuket Marina in Thailand.
CGI showing The Marina at Christophe Harbour, a luxury Caribbean megayacht marina in St. Kitts.
Called Destination RPM, it will include a first-of-its-kind water facility and marina expansion, with a 250 boat drystack system.
Australia’s Superior signed an MoU with South Korean company Scotra, an established components manufacturer that has successfully diversified into the pontoon and marina sector. Superior said it anticipated working with Scotra on several new marinas in the Busan region in the next two or three years.
In China, Poralu Marine replaced an old marina at Fisherman’s Wharf in Macau as part of an ongoing project spearheaded by Macau Legend Development. The marina complements a 5-star hotel, convention centre and international recreational area.
Towards the end of the year, plans were announced for two marinas at Mandwa and Belapur, on the Maharashtra coast of India. The facilities are intended to help ease congestion and minimise potential security threats at the over-subscribed anchorage near the Gateway to India in central Mumbai. Additional marina sites were also discussed.
In the Seychelles, Eden Marina commenced work on an additional 45 berths at the Eden Island development while, in the Maldives, SilverCent Private signed an MoU with Dubaibased ART Marine Marinas to develop a world class marina. The facility will
Artist’s impression of the marina basin at One°15 Brooklyn Marina in New York City.
GLOBAL REVIEW 2015
be designed by famous Italian architect Giancarlo Zema, who intends to create a marina that is totally integrated with Maldivian culture and the sea.
A vibrant outlook down under
Construction began on 30 new 20m (65.6ft) and 30m (98.4ft) marina berths at The Reef Marina in Port Douglas, Queensland. At a cost of nearly AU$3 million, the investment is the first phase of a longer term expansion plan that now exceeds AU$5 million. At Sydney Harbour Boat Storage in Belmain, Sydney, two stages of a project to install additional in-water staging and storage areas were complete. These include a vessel queuing area and a marina arm, which was completed in May.
Tourism Minister Kim Hames announced a marina development project for Rottnest Island, off the coast of Perth, that includes a resort and marina expected to provide around 250 berths in the Thompson Bay South precinct.
In New Zealand, Tauranga City Council and the Bay of Plenty Regional
Council signed an agreement for a $5 million regional infrastructure fund investment in the Tauranga Marine Precinct Project. It will cost a total of $10 million to create a purpose-built marine servicing facility and related infrastructure at Sulphur Point.
Work began on the second stage of a multi-million dollar expansion of Opua Marina in the coastal area of the
Kawakawa River. The marina will boast 149 berths with enhanced infrastructure for larger vessels.
Finally, in Fiji, Denarau Marina is doubling the number of superyacht berths it offers in a bid to become a major superyacht facility. It already claims to receive more superyachts per year than Australia and New Zealand combined.
Great Kills Marina on Staten Island, New York, was completely rebuilt following hurricane damage.
INDUSTRY UPDATE: GREECE
Greek Minister outlines marine tourism policy
Marina World correspondent, Eliza Salpisti, interviews the Greek Alternate Tourism Minister, Elena Kountoura, to determine government policies to boost future marina development.
Salpisti: Over the last decade, efforts to increase berthing facilities in Greece have been supported by EU funding programmes and the State. Nonetheless, Greece still has a long way to go to create a satisfactory number of berths, modern facilities and quality services. Given your significant interest in alternate forms of tourism and in promoting Greece both as a tourist and investment destination, please share with us any investment incentives the Ministry provides for turning the Greek marina industry into an attractive investment opportunity.
Kountoura: Marinas constitute a significant chapter in the investment sector. They also constitute the basis for further development of marine tourism, a leading type of international tourism that presents high levels of growth. The Ministry unfortunately does not have an autonomous financing programme for berthing infrastructure but in the context of the Regional Operational Programmes (ROP) of the Partnership Agreement (new HSRF) for 2014-2020, regions are given the opportunity to create focused projects, which can be marina projects. Furthermore, marina project development can be supported by Public & Private Partnerships and
Greece is blessed with stunning natural scenery and has a wealth of scope to develop well thought out marinas such as Poros Island Marina (facing page).
the Sectoral Operational Programmes (SOP) of other ministries that can finance marinas.
Salpisti: Investment opportunities in Greece are hampered by two major challenges – restoration of economic stability and bureaucracy. Despite the intensive efforts of the Directorate of Tourist Ports over the past 20 years to speed up the permitting process, the relevant legislation needs to be amended. How does the Ministry intend to deal effectively with reducing investment approval time as it is the decisive factor in attracting investment and the number one question posed by investors who insist on knowing in advance the exact permitting time schedule?
Kountoura: We need to clarify that marina operation permit is granted after project completion. Investors need to submit all supporting documents regarding the progress of the investment and if these deviate from the specifications there will be delay. The State is not responsible for such delay; it is down to the body responsible for realising the investment. I wish to emphasise that any interested party is obliged to follow specifications and abide by the terms and conditions in the relevant legislation. Subsequent delays will thus be avoided. Investor procedures can possibly be further facilitated by the coding of the legislation for tourism which the Ministry is now prioritising.
Salpisti: How would you outline a tourism policy for turning Greece into a strongly competitive yachting destination supported by regional networks, a popular practice already in Croatia, Italy and Turkey?
Kountoura: Our policy emphasises all types of tourism and, of course, we could not leave out marine tourism. Greece is moving towards development and will soon show high performance in this sector. Our marine environment has already been divided into marine subsystems, and tourist port networks - including marinas, yacht shelters and anchorages - constitute a complex of harbour infrastructure that will soon allow us to advance in this sector as well. I believe that our country can play a decisive role in marine tourism because of its Polynesian character and excellent microclimate. Greece can be developed as a leading destination presenting qualitative and quantitative characteristics of excellence based on its strategic position on the global tourist map, a timely procedure demanding systematic effort.
Salpisti: Greece presents a unique combination of assets in the marine industry but our country still lacks a focused marketing strategy for marine
Eliza Salpisti (left) poised to interview the Greek Alternate Tourism Minister, Elena Kountoura.
tourism. Do you personally intend to participate in leading boat shows during 2016 in an effort to strengthen Greece’s networking and promote Greece as a yachting destination?
Kountoura: We have been present and will continue to be present anywhere necessary to strengthen awareness of our country and to make deals and develop partnerships. We are interested in the marine tourism sector and its representatives, and through close and productive cooperation we will give the sector the necessary dynamics and bring about the desired outcome.
Salpisti: Given the increased need for mooring berths for superyachts, is Greece ready to respond to such demand? If not, please share with us how you intend to claim profitable market share.
Kountoura: This question relates to heavy harbour infrastructure and thus is the responsibility of other ministries. Greece has possibilities but initiatives need to be developed at a local level. Efforts are already resulting in development but we surely need to consider that, as the new standards are extremely competitive, both greater concentration and persistence are required. Our Ministry is in cooperation with other competent ministries, assisting any initiative that targets the proper development of the Greek marine tourism sector.
Salpisti: Floating solutions (e.g. floating marina utility buildings, activity platforms, homes and restaurants) constitute the latest highlight in the global marina and waterfront development industry, creating significant additional revenue sources for investors, marina owners and local economies. Does the Ministry intend to research ways for adopting this global
INDUSTRY UPDATE: GREECE
trend via an updated legislation regime that includes floating solutions?
Kountoura: The Ministry focuses on development which has to follow up to date international trends but must also respect the environment and the legislative framework. We are interested in progress that complies with our rules and legislation. There is no such thing as a magical solution, nor are there procedures that automatically result in growth. Everything is associated with a structural and operational role. Floating solutions are a development and we might potentially research this after we have completed the cycle of infrastructure and legislative regulations based on scale, environmental protection and heritage.
Salpisti: Successful marina operation is directly related to yacht club operation, with yacht clubs being a major source of industry growth. How do you perceive this co-existence? Does the Ministry
intend to further strengthen such coexistence bearing in mind that this leads to the creation of at least 40 types of marine related professions and thus creates new job opportunities?
Kountoura: Permitted activities are covered in the current ‘Creation of Tourist Ports’ legislation, which foresees yacht club and nautical athletic activities. The creation of any type of tourist harbour infrastructure contributes to the local economy and creates new job opportunities.
Salpisti: What is your message for Greece to the global marina industry?
Kountoura: Marine tourism –international cruising, yachting and leisure boats – is a main pillar of Greek tourism. We are all aware of its prospects and dynamics and are ready to move on by developing the proper competitive development framework step by step, with vision and strategic planning.
info@moffattnichol.com www.moffattnichol.com
MARINA & YARD PAVILION
Global marina focus at METSTRADE 2015
The 2015 METSTRADE show in Amsterdam, 17th-19th November, once again set new records in terms of attendance, welcoming 21,953 visitors from all over the world. The RAI Amsterdam halls were buzzing, with 1,385 exhibitors including 200 first-timers.
The attendance was the highest recorded to date with a 4% rise in international profile. Particular growth was observed in the number of visitors from Australia, Greece, Italy, Turkey, the UK and the USA.
METSTRADE opened its doors early on 17th November for exhibitors and VIP guests to attend the annual Breakfast Briefing, which featured a keynote presentation on 3D Printing by Peter Sander of Airbus Industries. This was followed by a special 25th anniversary DAME Design Award presentation and – for the first time – announcement of joint overall winners: the Lume On LED light from Spinlock and the electric stabilising fin and interceptor system from Humphree. There were eight category winners and nine Special Mentions.
Just for marina professionals
The Marina & Yard Pavilion (MYP) attracted a core of nearly 40 exhibitors marketing a broad range of marina and boatyard products and services, including pontoons and floats, dockside pedestals and pump-out
Exhibitors and guests gathered at the Waterfront Café on 18th for the official launch of the ICOMIA World Marinas Conference (WMC) 2016. Sporting the theme ‘The future of marinas in a changing world’, WMC 2016 will dovetail with METSTRADE 2016 and incorporate the MYP exhibitors on day one of its three-day programme.
The audience was brought up to date on this year’s bumper event via presentations given by Roberto Perocchio, chairman of the ICOMIA Marinas Group, Geert Dijks of HISWA and Sarah Westdijk of RAI Amsterdam. “By joining us in Amsterdam for the ICOMIA World Marinas Conference, people will learn from the leading experts in the field,” Perocchio said. “Listening to and leveraging on their
Roberto Perocchio and Geert Dijks bring the MYP audience up to date on WMC 2016.
lifetime of experience will offer all you need to know about the marina business and its international trends in the space of just a couple of days.”
Going global
The WMC 2016 presentation was followed by the official launch of the new Gold Anchor Global Marina Accreditation scheme, the joint venture between The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) and the Australia-based Marina Industries Association (MIA) that was announced in November 2014.
The scheme will be progressively phased in as Gold Anchor marinas from 26 countries are reaudited as part of the three-year rolling accreditation cycle. New entrants to the scheme will be audited automatically under the new scheme, which comes into effect on 1st April.
Speaking at the launch, TYHA chairman, Sarah Hanna, said: “The work of combining the schemes is a classic example of the synergy that can be achieved by two willing parties working closely together. The resulting new scheme will provide an excellent and contemporary Global Marina Accreditation, with a clear focus on marina end users and their needs with regards to facilities, standards and services.”
Marina World is the official media partner for the MYP at METS and for WMC 2016.
Launching the Gold Anchor Global scheme, l to r: Stefan Borzecki (MIA); John Spragg (MIA); Sarah Hanna (TYHA); John Hogan (MIA); and Jon White (TYHA).
Yacht
EUROPA
MANUFACTURER OF PONTOONS AND MARINA EQUIPMENT
MANUFACTURER OF PONTOONS AND MARINA EQUIPMENT
"Everything here is designed for the comfort of the boat owners"
This prestigious marina, originally created in 1952 by a group of pioneer sailors, was completely renovated in 2008 by Poralu Marine.
A comprehensive study was undertaken for the new development incorporating innovative high-level design and engineering.
A seamless process from the initial dismantling of the old structures to the installation of new floating structures saw minimal disruption to the Club and its members.
Aesthetics, the design of the gangways and the versatility of the Poralu system have all been put to use to create a marina offering exceptional services with particular attention to detail and the needs and wants of berth holders.
The design of the marina allows Members to use golf buggies to supply equipment and provision to their boats with ease. In addition, as essential part of the design incorporated access for the Club’s Sailing program for people with disabilities.
With wonderful views, each Pen has access to wireless internet and comes complete with a serviced terminal that includes electrical outlets and freshwater.
Stewart
Walton General Manager Royal Perth Yacht Club www.poralu.com
PLANNING & DESIGN
Expert views on renovation and expansion
The world’s marina infrastructure is ageing and new sites for marinas are difficult to acquire and permit. At the same time, the market for marina slips has evolved toward larger boats, a high-quality living environment inside the marina, signature architectural style and more services and amenities. Operators of older marinas will inevitably face an inflection point, the moment when the marina is outdated or the docks are in disrepair and the potential revenue opportunity from a renovation or expansion is more compelling than staying the course.
New marinas are being built, but the trend in established markets is toward renovation and expansion of existing marinas. On behalf of Marina World, Robert Wilkes convened a virtual round table of USA-based experts to give their top-of-mind ideas to help others contemplating a renovation.
Robert Wilkes (RW): You’ve all renovated an existing marina, or provided professional services to projects. What advice do you have to those about to do the same?
Jim Bronstien, owner of consulting firm Marine Business Advisors and developer and operator of major marinas and shipyards around the world:
We’ve just taken over an operating agreement for a large marina that’s out of date. First, I’d say you have to learn the market in your area. Are you a destination and do you have special attractions? Do you have ease of access? Are you limited by bridges or depth? What are the trends in your specific area, what is the competition, what is recent demand like? If you’re thinking about attracting large yachts,
do you understand the costs of building slips for them? In the end, it’s a bit of math, a bit of science and a bit of gut instinct.
RW: What advice do you have about design and engineering?
Jim Bronstien: Make sure that all the people involved in designing a marina know how to operate a marina. You could have very competent engineers and builders, but it’s not enough. You need people familiar with marinas. I’ve seen marinas with the wrong power at some slips, with slips positioned incorrectly for the current and winds, with fender piles and pump-outs in the wrong places, with power pedestals and dock boxes blocking access for carts, especially golf carts, to negotiate corners, and with poorly thought out slip mixes. It’s a lot of little things and sadly, some big ones. They might be excellent engineers and builders, but they often lose sight of what it takes to run a marina.
Chris Dolan, manager and marina designer at Marina Electrical Equipment, Williamsburg, VA: Boats today use twice the power
Alamitos Bay Marina in southern California is about 80% of the way through a seven-year rebuild.
compared to 15 years ago. So, when renovating or expanding, work with the local utility companies to ensure they can provide enough power for the marina you intend to build. Also, be very careful about what codes you’re operating under. States and localities are adopting different codes at different times. One locality may be using an older code while the locality next to them has changed to an updated code. Be sure you know what version governs your site. Other than the robustness of power needed for your renovated marina, the next decision is how much ground fault interruption (leakage) protection to install and how distributed it will be. The more distributed the devices, the safer the marina, but the more costly it is to install. Unfortunately, small or family owned marinas on fresh water need the most protection but are often less able to absorb the cost.
Bob Christoph, founder and chairman of Miami Beach based RCI Group, developer, owner and operator of marinas in Michigan, Indiana, Florida, Massachusetts and Connecticut.
I agree with Jim Bronstien about planning for the future. We like to design a renovation or expansion for the market 20 to 25 years from now. In that much time we’ve seen boat lengths increase 200% and beams increase
Jim Bronstien: “Make sure that all the people involved in designing a marina know how to operate a marina. You could have competent engineers and builders, but it’s not enough.”
30% to 50%. Anticipate what the neighbourhood in your location will look like in 25 years and how that will affect your market potential. How will higher real estate values change the demand for slips? What will be the demand for electrical power?
Deliver a user-friendly product. Look at the site and don’t fight nature. Position boats fore and aft to wind and current, not side to side. Provide protection from the elements and a smooth ride in the berths.
Eric Noegel, manager of project development for Bellingham Marine
PLANNING & DESIGN
and director of the Marina Recreation Association. Noegel has been involved with dozens of large-scale marina projects in the USA:
The first thing that comes to mind is to plan well in advance. It takes a lot longer than people realise to go from the decision to undertake the project to starting construction. Get moving
Eric Noegel: “Build a marina that has a 40 to 50 year life or longer to get the lowest lifecycle cost and the highest asset value.”
on permitting, lease negotiations, financing, politics and engineering well ahead of time in order to have a smooth running project - even if you think you have a ‘simple renovation’. You’re better off to proactively initiate a project than wait until dock components wear out, utility systems are getting outdated and you have to contend with emergency repairs. Secondly, build it to last. Buy a well-reputed, long lasting product. Build a marina that has a 40 to 50 year life or longer to get the lowest lifecycle cost and the highest asset value.
RW: What advice do you have about the organisation of the project team?
Eric Noegel: I can’t stress enough the value of hiring a design-build contractor who can coordinate and control all aspects of the project rather than doing business piecemeal with a lot of different companies. Everything goes more smoothly, schedules are easier to keep and it usually costs a lot less.
Mark Sanders, owner of Westpoint Harbor, a big-boat facility in Redwood City, CA, on San Francisco Bay.
Sanders is vice president and director of the Marina Recreation Association, a member of the Marine Legislative Council in Sacramento, is on the Bay Planning Coalition and is a past director of the Marine Science Institute: It’s time for marina operators to build welcoming and inviting harbours that encourage people to get into boating. Share the waterfront with the community you serve. Pay attention to basics. If the marina isn’t clean, safe and attractive, people will not want to be there. Women especially ‘kick the tyres’ on a marina by looking at restrooms and showers, so make them first class. Develop a sense of community by providing areas for boaters to congregate on the docksareas with shade, chairs and open to all. The best ‘marina resorts’ are half land and half water so, when designing a new facility, plan for extensive shoreside facilities—boardwalks, areas for water sports, play areas for children and so on. Restaurants and coffee shops should be inviting to nonboaters. They may become boaters, too.
The world has changed and we are all connected. No new tech firm would dream of not having fast,
Chris Dolan: “Work with the local utility companies to ensure they can provide enough power for the marina you intend to build. Also, be very careful about what codes you’re operating under.”
reliable Wi-Fi and a marina shouldn’t either. Consider having cameras which boaters can steer remotely from their
The Rybovich superyacht marina and refit facility, once owned by Jim Bronstien, has undergone a massive renovation on land and water.
smart phones to view their boat when away. Networked security systems are not only a deterrent but a comfort to boaters. Have common areas with a big-screen TV so boaters can relax and watch sports events. It’s a great amenity for a marina.
We also created ‘party barges’ made up from spare floats with a Bimini top, Adirondack chairs and tables. We ended up making four of them and they now include a barbeque and tiki torches. They move around the harbour and we often see two or more grouped together for larger parties.
Bob Christoph: “Anticipate what the neighbourhood in your location will look like in 25 years and how that will affect your market potential.”
RW: Do you do anything special for liveaboards?
Mark Sanders: Most marinas have more liveaboard applications than they can handle. Liveaboards bring security and life on the docks, but be selective. Seek out boaters who choose the water
Mark Sanders: “It’s time for marina operators to build welcoming and inviting harbours that encourage people to get into boating. Share the waterfront with the community you serve.”
as a lifestyle and who represent the kind of neighbourhood you want.
There was a period in the 70s when it was common to have a dedicated liveaboard area. Marinas were experimenting with permanent sewer hook-ups and it was easier if the liveaboards were all in one place. This tended to form closed communities in the marina and minimised the security benefits. It’s a good practice to distribute liveaboards throughout the marina. This also encourages liveaboard owners to keep their gear stowed and their slip neat like the others around them. At Westpoint this means seven or eight per dock and none in adjacent slips.
Spare floats used as party barges at Westpoint Harbor are popular with slip holders.
Randy Mason, principal engineer, Anchor QEA. Mason is a consulting engineer for marina and site development, sea walls and upland civil engineering:
It’s important to know the planned landside uses now so that in the future the waterspace can accommodate those facilities efficiently. Get a good hydrographic and topographic survey so you can design for the most efficient utilisation of your waterspace. Know
Randy Mason: “It’s important to know the planned landside uses now so that in the future the waterspace can accommodate those facilities efficiently.”
your property, bulkhead, pierhead and project lines, since these may limit the extent to which a marina can be built adjacent to navigable channels, and
PLANNING & DESIGN
check to see if these lines have been recently amended by a local jurisdiction. With some ingenuity, you may find you have more space in the marina and can build more slips than you thought.
RW: There is a great deal of focus on larger slips for ever bigger vessels but marinas still need to accommodate small boats. What’s the best way to approach this?
Randy Mason: Some states have guidelines to preserve slips for small boats, generally 30 feet and under. One way to mitigate that is to build dry storage to achieve a wet-slip mix with larger boats. To be viable on its own, dry storage needs to accommodate approximately 250 boats.
Robert Wilkes writes about the marina industry from Bellevue, WA, USA.
The grass roots approach to creating marinas
by Oscar Siches
The Book of Genesis tells us that on the third day of creation, God made the land rise above the water, and it was called the earth, and the waters were called the sea, and He filled the earth with plants bearing seeds and trees bearing fruits. On the sixth day, God created the living creatures of the earth and man in his own image, and He gave man dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over everything that happens.
That includes marinas. This is not part of any revelation, ecstasy or catharsis recently experienced. On the contrary, designing, evaluating or operating
marinas means going back to grass roots and taking a totally Socratic approach to understanding the complexity of factors that make a marina successful today.
Pride of place within a waterfront regeneration project, Combarro Marina in Galicia, Spain, was designed to suit a broad variety of customers and sit well within its urban and natural surroundings.
When a future marina owner starts a new project he does so with a seemingly invincible creative streak, when dealing with the earth and the seas and the birds and the plants and men. But times have changed, and other men have a huge influence on our developer.
The basics Marinas, as such, emerged in the 1960s.
Before then, you could only berth a yacht at a memberonly yacht club. There is dispute as to which was the first and, hence, is the oldest - either the Neva Club in St. Petersburg, Russia (1718) or the Royal
Oscar Siches
PLANNING & DESIGN
Cork Yacht Club in Ireland (1720). Moore’s Law (1965) states that the number of transistors in a computer chip doubles every two years. The marina world has experienced similar development regarding the complications of catching up with the fast developing nautical industry, changes in people’s habits, growing environmental concerns and involvement of government administration at all levels.
The design of a new marina today starts (or should start) way before the first sketches are traced. The developer first needs to understand that in every project there are three marinas: the local government ideal marina; the operator/developer ideal marina; and the user ideal marina.
The local government marina No project, no matter how tiny or how grand, will see the light if the local authorities do not approve and support it. Politicians and local groups will not only look at convenience for nautical fans, but also at convenience for the whole town, city or area. This is when a very good integration strategy must be presented. Not only do we need this for the approval, but the locals deserve it and it will bring people closer to nautical activities, creating a positive cause-effect circle.
At this point, you might be thinking that you want to read about pontoons and piers and service pedestals and boatyards and drystacks... And you are. That is what is being
described here by outlining the necessary steps prior to creating drawings or appointing suppliers. Having a child is a good analogy. First the couple like each other, then the families meet, the couple starts to live together and only then are more decisive steps taken. Nothing is guaranteed by following this method but the chances of success increase exponentially.
Planning is the most important and decisive stage when designing a new marina today. For many years in the short history of marinas, projects were decided after evaluating size, business plan and sometimes government grants (usually the build of the breakwater and road access). Today, most governments will limit themselves to giving permissions and establishing the legal frame in which the marina will operate (freehold, limited time concessions, public and private partnership) and the full cost will be borne by the investor/ promoter.
Once this is clear, the long, sometime tedious, very sensitive part of the
Limassol Marina is the first redeveloped marina to complete in Cyprus. It has 650 berths and facilities for megayachts up to 115m in length.
planning starts: to interact with the local authorities.
When the marina is located in an area with a yachting tradition, the interaction with local authorities and councils can be reasonably easy and straightforward. In places without a nautical tradition, the local council and the authorities have to be informed and coached in a general understanding of what a marina is and how it can become a positive part of the surroundings, the multiplication effect on general values of the area and the different destination it offers for a specific type of valuable tourist.
The social impact of future marinas will be on the table: integration with the local area, public services within the marina (bars, restaurants, bicycle or small water craft rentals, shops), public transport (locals to have easy access to the marina to enjoy themselves). These are just a few subjects; the list is long and the intention of this article is to analyse the whole, not specifics.
Public transport, for example, may seem to be a municipality problem, but councils can ask marina developers to build a public transport stop close to the marina entrance. This is no big deal, but if you add ten of these little details (launching ramp, sailing school, extra vehicle parking places) your costs start to soar.
Rules and regulations will also have to be followed regarding environmental control. But it is more important to create the right mindset among users and visitors than to show ISO certificates and a rainbow collection of waste bins.
Itämeren Portti is always full because it enjoys a prime position in the upmarket holiday town of Hanko, Finland.
SETTING THE STANDARD FOR BOAT HANDLING EQUIPMENT
Versatile hydraulic trailers
Hydraulically expanding width frame
Full frame lift for easy lift and set
Complete suite of options available
Factory pricing on all equipment sales
PLANNING & DESIGN
More and more regulations are issued every year, mostly in order to control things but also often as a result of political correctness. The latter are often the costly ones. Noise control - from gates screeching through to air conditioning equipment humming - and control of light pollution, were non-existent issues in the 1980s but are part of environmental control compliance today. All this, of course, varies depending on country, area and local yachting tradition. Many authorities see new marinas as a King Midas residence and impose burdens in fees, leases and, sometimes what are euphemistically called personal incentives, that are too heavy. Others are afraid to loose control and shy away from involving outside consultants for advice, and a few think they can do the job alone and make all the profit. You do not have to be a genius to build a breakwater and drop in a few pontoons, do you? Well, answer this after your first three seasons...
The developer marina
We have dealt with legal/social/ political preparations. The next step is the boat mix. Small or big? How many of each? The easy years when a marina would be built and wait to achieve maximum occupancy (which not necessarily means full capacity) in a reasonable period of time are gone. Again, subjects such as place, demographics, weather, geography, history and access, to name a few, play an important role in creating the character of a marina, for which the facility will be judged by future clients. Is it a destination people want to visit
(transient clients)? Is it a spot where clients want to leave boats during the low season (winterising clients)? Is it a fancy marina where people want to see and be seen?
Lately, the tendency is to build or refurbish marinas for bigger yachts (20m and longer). While a 15m yacht was a custom made craft in the '60s, 40m yachts are built today in production series. It is tempting to have bigger berths occupied by yachts that deliver more money than small ones, but it is not only berth size that makes a captain choose a marina. Nor is it available power.
Big berths are good, but when one of these is unoccupied, the percentage of the marina occupancy falls drastically. When you have smaller berths, fluctuations are easier to deal with. The cost of extra manoeuvring space, power supply, rubbish collection and car park space for bigger yachts must be well assessed before deciding on the boat mix. The ratio for investment/ maintenance/income could be very disappointing.
Award-winning Marina di Rodi Garganico on the Adriatic is a bustling communityfocused destination with a wide variety of berths and a marina village favoured by locals and visitors.
The user’s marina
A lack of security - including access control - car parking close to the yacht, available parking for suppliers, and internet quality are pet hates and will make any captain or yacht user look elsewhere for a berth.
Personnel are also vitally important. A successful marina runs a constant training programme. Such training is not only about maritime issues but also about the business of hospitality. Dockhands are the first people a boater meets upon arrival. A friendly attitude is necessary but this is far from being enough. Guests must feel welcomed, pampered, safe and comfortable. A dockhand should be able to read the client’s mind and react to minimal indications, like offering to take rubbish to the collection point if he sees the client stepping ashore with it. All marina personnel must master the art of saying “no” by giving it a positive twist: “I will find out, and if we do not have it I will look for an alternative”. These are attitudes that will set the marina apart from others and secure customer loyalty. He won’t want to be anywhere else.
All this creates a community, a group of people enjoying the water, the same sport and the great treatment the marina gives them. And these subjective issues must be backed up by a marina design based on operational needs and customer comfort.
A successful marina by coincidence is something of the past.
Oscar Siches CMM is a marina consultant and partner/manager of two marinas in Mallorca, Spain. He can be contacted on email: oscar@siches.com
TALKING SHOP
Success continues for Sardinia superyacht hub
Porto Cervo Marina in Sardinia, Italy, is a key destination for maxi-yachts. Donatella Zucca invited Michele Azara, who has headed up the marina for the past eleven years, to talk shop.
Porto Cervo is not a new generation marina and has no need of renowned architectural features to ensure its success. It was an instant hit when it first opened and, since then, there has been no downward slide. Such excellent turnover is enjoyed during the summer months that the marina has been basically resting on its laurels for the rest of the year.
For Porto Cervo, location is everything. It sits in an area of outstanding beauty – both in terms of landscape and local architecture –faces wonderful seas and is close to fabulous hotels such as the Pitrizza, Romazzino, Cala di Volpe and the five star Pevero Golf Club; 18 holes in a unique natural environment. In the 1960s, Aga Khan Karim conquered this corner of Sardinia and made it famous and Emir Hamad bin Kalifa of Thani is now following suit via the Qatar Holding fund. With such wealthy advocates, it is no surprise that the region attracts superyachts.
Michele Azara is a hands-on marina director, born and raised on the Costa Smeralda. “I’m not young but I try to keep in shape doing my job,” he says.
“My life has always been linked to boats and the sea. I started work with the Marinasarda rental company and then moved to Porto Cervo Marina as deputy director, and since 2005 as director,” he explains. Porto Cervo has thrived despite economic pressures and it is now looking to further secure a bright future.
Q: Despite the crisis of 2006 - the impact of regional taxes that caused customers to leave Sardinian marinas - and the national crisis of 2012 that severely affected all Italian marinas, Porto Cervo has remained steady, not so much in terms of numbers but because of the presence of larger yachts. Why?
A: Our luck lies in having an international clientele. English is the most spoken language in the marina and the people who have suffered most during the crisis are Italian. Taxes and wild controls have put stoppers on the domestic market but only slightly affected
Michele Azara, director of the marina since 2005, is a hands-on manager who takes pleasure in personally welcoming customers.
Porto Cervo Marina on the Costa Smeralda is an essential summer destination for the international jet set.
foreigners. Around 80% of our regular customers have continued to visit, perhaps shortening their length of stay a little.
Q: As owners of very large boats are generally unapproachable and probably not even European, your contact is most likely with captains?
A: Mostly, yes. Russian and Arab owners have dominated, especially in the difficult years as the crisis didn’t touch them. The vessels got larger and now we no longer speak of yachts but of pleasure ships. In these cases, our direct contact is with the captain, who is in charge of reservations and payments or management of these. Some vessels are like companies, with an incredible following of employees. But quite often, with regular clients, we also end up becoming acquainted with the owners.
Q: As you have fewer annual berth holders and rely on visitors, what special attention do you give to captains and crew?
A: The captain is the reference point. You create a friendship with him, paying attention to even the smallest details. For example when the yachts arrive, I am always on the pier to welcome them. This is a sign of respect that they value because it emphasises the importance of their role and puts them in a favourable light with the ship owner. We also offer them access to the tennis club, with gym and swimming pool. Our pub is much loved by the crews and one year we also set up a gym for them in the Harrod’s village.
Q: What is the Harrod’s village?
A: For the third year in a row, we have set up the Harrod’s village in the Old Port as an attraction for everyone. We are very satisfied with this as there was little attraction in the square before and, now, with super-luxury boutiques, it is much better. Customers love to sit with a drink at the stern of their boats to see and be seen. The more people there are, the happier everyone is.
Q: Would you say that Porto Cervo is a bit like Venice in that boats arrive regardless of certifications, infrastructure etc?
A: Not quite. For example, we were the first in the Mediterranean and among the first in the world to apply the international directive issued after September 11th for an IPS security plan for commercial megayachts. This refers to vessels that can stretch to 120m (393.7ft) in length; a size that few Mediterranean marinas, unlike us, can accommodate. We also have a dedicated bunkering station and, in terms of safety, the Consorzio Costa Smeralda can provide body guards upon request. But our location is mostly a great strength. Our only weakness is being on an island quite far from the mainland and where transportation is limited. We are, however, talking about people who arrive by boat and who are
Aside from being one of the most beautiful and exclusive locations in the central Mediterranean, Porto Cervo Marina is renowned for its fabulous sunsets.
not subject to standard airport checks. If they fly, they use a private plane. This clientele bypasses all sorts of problems common to other people.
Q: Aside from the obvious financial benefits, what advantages do you see as a result of Qatar Holding’s investment in Smeralda Holding? The realisation of the Qatar Holding project, now awaiting the Regional Landscape Plan 2016, should also lengthen the season at the marina?
A: The Harrod’s village, as mentioned, has brought a big benefit but we wait to see what will happen when the plan is fully implemented. During the year, we have around 20,000 boats, over half of which are in transit. Most of our traffic is from June to September, with peaks in July and August. From October to April,
TALKING SHOP
Small and medium size boats are berthed in an elegant corner with good facilities and plenty of space.
we drop significantly but in winter we have a reasonable number of permanent boats especially from Milan owners who come for the weekend. The realisation of the Qatar Holding project could help to extend the season to seven months but, of course this process will take time and there will be plenty to do. This aside, we have good revenue that has enabled us to survive even at the most difficult times. Our prices are calculated in square metres and we are talking about vessels of 80m (262.4ft), 90m (295.2ft) and 100m (328ft). Over the years, we have been compelled to adapt to this new size by providing electricity up to 400A and by streamlining our best feature of giving assistance on land and at sea. When a vessel arrives, irrespective of whether it is 20m (65.6ft) or 100m (328ft), it is received quickly by our rafts that help in the stern-to mooring arrangement. This is much appreciated, especially by Americans who are accustomed to alongside mooring.
Q: By extending this level of service to all boats you are not just focusing on superyachts but welcoming a range of vessels – both power and sail?
A: Absolutely. The presence of megayachts and celebrities should not deceive people into thinking we are not interested in small boats. We have space for these and they are always welcome. And, although motorboats
TALKING SHOP
Porto Cervo Marina is 90% occupied by motor yachts but in May and June is a rendezvous point for spectacular sailing regattas.
dominate at 90%, during the regattas in May and September we have spectacular sailboats in the marina. Some of these have a draft of over 5m (16.4ft) and we have moorings for them in Marina Nuova and in the transit area of Marina Vecchia. We also offer maintenance services for yachts up to 50m (164ft) in our shipyard, which has three sheds totalling 7,000m² (75,347ft²).
Q: Given your location and our changing world, you must be strongly engaged in protecting the environment and ensuring security. What measures are you taking?
A: The environment is also a source of income. Our natural surroundings are a patrimony that must be protected. We take utmost care in the harbour, and during bunkering we are equipped to face whatever could happen –even if it never happens. Our quality management system, environmental
TOTAL CONTROL OF MARINA
and security policies are certified by RINA. The ISPS plan has different levels. Usually we are at level 1, which means no alarm but when this changes we are able to draw up the appropriate response. It is also important to always keep up to date on things as we have a lot of competition in Sardinia and throughout this part of
the Mediterranean from marinas such as Porto Rotondo, Poltu Quatu and Portisco Marina who have much to offer. We improved our energy provision and we will continue to optimise our infrastructure. We are currently replacing the chain and block anchors for the larger moorings and we will then do the same for smaller berths.
Exciting line-up of world class marina industry speakers
Latest updates on the worldwide status of the marina market
Networking opportunities with an exceptional global audience of marina professionals
Tours of famous Dutch marinas
Held during METSTRADE 2016 hand-in-hand with the Marina & Yard Pavilion
Fantastic location: Visit Amsterdam, the city never ceases to amaze
Climate change and the marina industry
The politicisation of the ‘environment’ has created a climate of widespread scepticism and issue fatigue that has impeded sensible discussion of the risks of climate change and its implications for our industry. The immediate threat is not necessarily from climate change itself but from the potential for ‘broad brush’ government regulation to be implemented without proper consideration. Australia-based Darren Vaux shares his views.
The marina industry has a symbiotic relationship with the environment. We live on the shoreline and rely on access to the water and ‘good’ weather for our future fortune. As an industry, we have demonstrated best practice when it comes to protection
of our micro-environment through the active prevention of land, air and water pollution. The success of the Australian MIA’s Clean Marinas and Fish Friendly Marinas programmes is testimony to this. Our challenge moving forward is the macro-environment, and the
contribution of our industry and our customers to carbon emissions and the impact of climate change. Do you believe?
It is hard to know what to believe when ‘facts’ are manipulated for political end. However, there are some fundamental truths worth considering. The two most obvious impacts of climate change on our industry are sea level rise and the increased frequency of extreme weather events. Tide data has been comprehensively recorded around the globe since the late 1800s. The CSIRO (Australian Government research organisation) reports that, based on global tide gauges, from 1870 to 2000 average global sea level has risen at least 200mm. Since 1993, global sea levels have been monitored with satellite telemetry and show a current average increase per annum of 3.18mm with an increasing trend (source: NASA). Interestingly, the major contributor to the sea level rise is not melting glaciers and polar ice caps but the thermal expansion of the oceans associated with global temperature rise. From an Australian perspective, the
Data source: NASA
Darren Vaux
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
mean surface air temperature and sea surface temperature (on the Australian land mass and surrounding seas) have both increased by 0.9°C since 1900 and the rate of change is increasing (source: CSIRO). This sounds minimal but on a national and global scale even the slightest changes make a huge difference in the amount of water vapour that can be absorbed by the atmosphere and its implication for weather patterns.
These trends are indisputable. The majority of the discussion about climate change centres on the cause and the modelling of projected implications. Scientifically, the role of carbon dioxide in what is known as the greenhouse effect is proven. The levels of CO² in the atmosphere are also measurable. So, the big challenge is how to model the implications of this for global temperatures over the next 50-100 years.
If we take a step back and consider the issue from a risk management perspective, a new approach comes to light. The major contributor to increased levels of CO² in the atmosphere is the combustion of fossil fuels (i.e. coal, oil and gas). Changing land use, for example, is another. Logic says that if you take carbon that was buried in the earth 300 million years ago and burn it in the presence of oxygen you are going to get more CO² in the atmosphere that you have now. To put this in context, in 2013 it is estimated that approximately 40 billion tonnes of CO² from the combustion of fossil fuels was injected into the atmosphere. It would be difficult to argue that such a dramatic input into the atmosphere could occur without implication, be that minor or catastrophic. As there is no chance of us ceasing to put CO² from
fossil fuels in the atmosphere anytime soon, we can expect atmospheric CO² to continue to rise and consequential warming to continue. The only issues of debate and complexity become the long term consequences, and the weight of scientific opinion indicates that they will be significant and detrimental.
So, why is there so much debate? Fundamentally, this stems from the distance between cause and effect. Individual actions today have consequence in the decades to follow. Political policy makers today need to address the needs of a future beyond their tenure; quite a challenge in our global political framework. It is much easier to adopt the convenience of denial. An interesting analogy is the health implication of smoking. Once again there is a large time difference between action and consequence and,
in the face of the risks of personal consequence, many people still choose to prioritise the immediate pleasure of smoking over the potential consequence of premature death. Interestingly, it is arguable statistically that there is a greater chance that human activities are causing climate change than that a smoker will die from lung cancer, not that this is a good reason to take up smoking. The point is that the challenge humankind faces, and more specifically the marina industry faces, is that our actions today have implications for the future and our industry is very vulnerable to these implications.
On the one hand, we need to plan for sea level rise and increased frequency of extreme weather and, on the other hand, we need to show initiative and do our bit to reduce our contribution to the problem.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
What does it mean for the industry?
The rate of change in sea level is slow and I suspect will be ‘absorbed’ into development and redevelopment programmes over the coming decades, much like the increases have to date. Increased extreme weather events will ultimately have impacts on building standards for marinas and vessels alike, as well as boater behaviour and insurance premiums. These represent challenges for industry but, as they are progressive, the industry should be able to iterate its way through them. In other words, it is my view that we will be able to adapt to these two implications because they are gradual and we don’t have any choice. The global political and social implications of climate change are another issue altogether and beyond consideration here.
The biggest challenge in my view is broad ranging government policy that imposes dramatic carbon reduction requirements on businesses and individuals alike to seek to arrest more dramatic change. This could have far more significant and immediate implications for the industry than climate change itself as we are heavily reliant on energy in the form of electricity and fuel, both of which are predominantly fossil carbon based.
(Think dramatic increases in the cost of electricity and levies on fossil fuels for recreational use for example).
The concept of embodied energy and embodied carbon is also influencing government policy (i.e. the energy and carbon that goes into making things as against just using them). This is likely to have implications for marina and boat manufacturers alike in coming years. It is not a question of if, but when.
What can we do?
Simply, as an industry, we need to take the initiative to develop and implement programmes that demonstrate leadership proactively so that government does not impose upon us heavy handed regulatory compliance. Industry has certainly shown this leadership in the areas of work, health and safety, and protection of the environment with great success and collaboration with government. It is now incumbent on us to develop commensurate programmes to
demonstrate systemic and meaningful lifecycle carbon reduced strategies (i.e. meaningful reductions in both embodied and operating energy from fossil carbon sources) – not dissimilar to those achieved in the automotive and building sectors, for example. We need programmes and innovations which engage all stakeholders in capital and operating behavioural change, and which build a business case for financial and environmental sustainability.
Our future depends on it.
Darren Vaux is chairman of the Boating Industries Alliance Australia, vice president of the Marina Industries Association, Australia, director of the award winning Empire Marina Bobbin Head and director of the Footprint Company, developer of industry leading environmental footprinting technologies. The above article is based on a paper he jointly presented with Dr Caroline Noller at Marine15 in Australia, May 2015. He can be contacted on email: darren@empiremarinas.com.au
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
Floating dock for cost-effective maintenance
A new generation Boat Service Lift (BSL) has recently been released by Italia Marine to complement its proven Marine Service Lift (MSL).
A floating dock system, the BSL gives the yard operator the opportunity to work on a vessel hull or its propulsion system without using up valuable land space, paying expensive diving contractors, risking water pollution or relying on cranes, hoists or trolley supports.
Ideal as an alternative to a boat hoist for small and medium sized boats (up to 20 tonnes), especially when quick jobs (20 minutes) are required, the BSL can be moved from place to place as it requires no permanent quayside installation. This means the operator will likely avoid the permissions processes usually required for hauling and landing vessels for maintenance.
Further savings in both time and money are considerable. Key benefits include: fast lift out; immediate ease of use; very low running costs as less than 0.8kWh of power is required per lift; and lower purchase and installation costs in comparison to other traditional lifting systems.
The BSL platform is manufactured from extremely high quality materials. All floating parts are made from high density polyethylene and the structure from hot dip galvanised steel. It can be used to haul out a wide variety of motor vessels and is moored according to the requirements and characteristics of the site.
The system can be equipped with various optional accessories: a pressurised water distribution system for a power washer; a compressed air system for pneumatic tools; an underwater lighting system for 24-hour platform operation; and a collection system for production waste with containment and aspiration tank.
The BSL enables the boat yard or marina operator to offer customers an attractive additional service that reduces boat downtime.
Contact Italia Marine in Italy on email: team@italiamarine.it
Alu finish for industry’s ‘first’ pedestal
Australia-based M-Tech is supplying 77 XL marina service pedestals, with outlets ranging from 15 amp single phase to 63 amp three-phase, for a major marina extension at Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron, Blairgowrie, Victoria.
The order was placed while Bellingham Marine installs 110 additional wet berths and upgrades 35 visitor berths.
M-Tech is also providing 20 of its bespoke fire stations (right) in epoxy and powder coated flame red marine grade aluminium.
The customer selected the all-new ‘alu panel’ high gloss finish for its XL pedestals. This latest offering comes with a minimum of 10 years guarantee and is designed to withstand temperatures from -50 to +80°.
“The XL pedestal is the longest serving marina pedestal in the world today,” says M-Tech general manager, Darren Wilkinson. “The first XL was manufactured in 1979, over 36 years ago, and it is still in service today. It’s amazing that we still have people call up our sales department and ask for spare parts for a 30 year old unit, which of course we’re happy to supply. And we are constantly asked to replace glass fibre, weak plastic and foamed PVC boarded units that have simply fallen apart in the heat.”
The XL has undergone many changes over the years including recently complying with all UL approvals for sale within the USA and regaining its 357U and 3025N2 yellow card status. All M-Tech pedestals hold the same UL ratings and are licensed for sale in any country.
Contact M-Tech in Australia on email: sales@m-tech.com.au
‘World News World Readership’
Innovative platform is DAME category winner
Nautibuoy Marine’s multifunctional inflatable marine platforms won the hotly contested DAME design award in the deck equipment, sails and rigging category at METSTRADE 2015.
Launched in April last year, the platforms feature a patented modular air-toggle system and can be used for wide-ranging purposes from swim and sunbathing platforms to jetski docks and sturdy maintenance rafts.
Nina Anderson and Clay Builder developed the platform to fill a gap they saw in the market during their time working as superyacht crew and spent four years working on the design.
The platforms are currently available in four sizes, which can be linked in endless configurations using the
air-toggle connector. The smallest (375) offers space for three adult sunbathers or two deckhands carrying out a wash down and the largest (Pacific 800) can accommodate eight guests or a maintenance team of six.
All platforms are constructed from Orca CR/ CR dropstitch and Orca CSM hypalon, known for its outstanding strength and durability, and the UV resistant teak look surface is soft and comfortable underfoot and non-skid. All seams are double taped and
glued to ensure long term airtight integrity, and platforms can be deflated and rolled into a protective zipless bag. They are quick and easy to inflate and deflate to 3.6psi/250mb and inflation/deflation times range from 1min 30secs to 3mins 30secs depending on size.
Commenting on the win, Builder said: “We are thrilled to win a DAME Award and to be recognised by some of the most influential people in the marine industry.
The idea for the Nautibuoy platform stemmed from our frustrations whilst working as crew and we feel our product solves a lot of issues. We are pleased the judges agree!” Contact Nautibuoy Marine in the UK on email: info@nautibuoymarine.com
YMCA Jetty, UK
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
Cheaper, swifter dewatering
Recognising that dewatering is a major obstacle encountered by dredging contractors all around the world, Wisconsin-based company IMS has purchased patent pending GeoPool dredge dewatering technology.
Claimed to be inexpensive, reusable and scalable, the technology, in most cases, does not require polymers. It was invented by an IMS Versi-Dredge customer and underwent successful trials in the USA and Europe. Several GeoPools have since been sold.
The GeoPool system operates continuously in a two pool configuration. One pool is cleaned out while the other is actively filled. A single Y-fitting, with two knife gate valves, controls flow to each pool.
The system comprises a series of 10ft (3m) wide x 6ft (1.8m) high dismountable hot dip galvanised steel frames.
These are linked together to form a circular pool-like structure that is lined with IMS’s unique GeoFabric, a different material to geotextile tube fabric.
A hydraulic dredge pumps the slurry directly into the GeoPool, the water from the slurry permeates through the filter fabric and the solids are retained in the pool. When a pool is full, it is ready for dry down, which takes three to four days depending on material. Materials, such as ultra fine clays, may take longer and might need a polymer to improve effluent clarity.
When the pool is dry, ‘collapsible cleanout gates’
Below: Celebrating the ISO certification, l to r: Neil Kagan, John Kohlhauff, Tom Gettins and Bill Golden.
Golden retains ISO certificate
are dropped, and tracked earth movers can enter the pool and remove the dry and stackable solids. During dry down, the dredge discharge is diverted to a second pool to allow for continuous operation.
In addition to standard dewatering through the filter fabric, ‘dump doors’ allow for rapid bulk dewatering of clear surface water to speed up the entire process.
IMS GeoPools are reusable and thus less expensive than geotextile tubes for medium to large projects (a small GeoPool configuration costs approximately the same as ten large non-reusable tubes). GeoPools can also handle a much larger volume of material; it would take between 10 and 40 geotextile tubes to equal the dewatering capacity of one GeoPool.
IMS has financing available for the purchase of one or more GeoPools and is seeking dealers around the world for the system.
Contact Ryan Horton at IMS, WI, USA on email: rhorton@ imsdredge.com
Golden Boat Lifts has passed its ISO 9001:2008 annual audit. The company has maintained ISO certification since first receiving it in 2013 and claims to be the only traditional aluminium frame boat lift manufacturer to hold such accreditation.
“Our continuous ISO certification reaffirms our position as an industry leader in providing superior products and customer service,” says Golden Boat Lift president and CEO, Bill Golden. “It also opens up the municipal and government markets that often require ISO credentials from companies they do business with.”
Contact Golden Boat Lifts in FL, USA on email: sales@ goldenboatlifts.com
CORRECTION
In the November/ December 2015 issue, we incorrectly printed Brownell Boat Stands’ website as www. boatstand.com. The correct address is www.boatstands.com. We apologise for any confusion caused.
Guiding light
A unique system that highlights and marks the position of a traditional harbour entrance light has found favour at commercial ports in Spain. It is now being actively promoted to marinas.
Archbeacon is manufactured in GRP or polyethylene in the shape of a half moon arch. It is positioned near the harbour entrance light to provide a valuable Aid to Navigation (ATON), offering dynamic signalling illumination by means of six sequentially programmed high intensity LED lights that illuminate the arch.
In June 2011, internationally patented Archbeacon was recommended in guidelines issued by the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities (IALA). The IALA recognises that ‘with the
proliferation of built up shorelines and consequent increase in light pollution, the mariner often has difficulty in detecting and identifying ATON lights against a background scene of general lighting and individual bright light sources.’
Irrespective of background light, the Archbeacon LED light sequence is unmistakable and it offers a higher intensity light with just two points of support. It also gives navigators an elliptical view enabling them
Archbeacon has been installed in commercial ports such as Barcelona, Algeciras, Coruna and – most recently – Castellon
to orientate position relative to the harbour entrance.
Archbeacons are manufactured in green and red. The ATON can be fitted on top of the structure if required and 24 volt, solar panel and AC power options are also available. Beacons
can be tailor made to suit any requirements and come with a no quibble two year warranty.
Archbeacon is available from Tecmarine SL, Mallorca, Spain. Email: commercial@ tecmarinegroup.es
Quantum launches at METS
As reported in the November/December issue, Rolec marked the anniversary of its 25th year in the marina services industry with the launch of Quantum, a new marina service pedestal range, at METS, Amsterdam.
Described as an evolution of the company’s incredibly popular Classic range, Quantum (right) offers a combination of style and affordability. “We are very proud of this achievement in creating an innovative yet economical pedestal that provides a powerful blend of versatility and design,” said Rolec managing director Kieron Alsop. “The Quantum’s extruded anodised aluminium frame also makes it extremely strong, further emphasising its perfect combination of qualities.”
The Quantum, a 25 micron marine grade pedestal, is manufactured to the IP65 category 1 weather proof rating (BS EN 60529). It is UV stabilised, CE certified, corrosion resistant, flame retardant to UL94 flame rating at V2 and is manufactured in compliance with BS7671 wiring regulations. It has full utility segregation.
Contact Rolec in the UK on email: rolec@rolecserv.co.uk
Your FREE digital issue
Ensure you and your colleagues are amongst the first to read every issue of Marina World by completing a free of charge registration online at www.marinaworld.com. You will receive automatic notification when every new issue is ‘live’.
Visit Inside Track on our website for regularly updated news on marina projects, events, awards, campaigns, partnerships – and more.
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
Index to Advertisers
Accmar, USA 40
All Nautica, France 59
BASF, USA 29
Bellingham Marine, USA 6, 7
Best Marine Solutions, USA 67
Boat Lift, Italy 37
Camper & Nicholsons
Marinas, UK 16
Conolift by
Kropf Industrial, Canada 44
Den Hartog, USA 62
DualDocker, Austria 10 & 11
Dura Composites, UK 50
Eaton Marina Power & Lighting, USA 14 & 15
Eden Technology, Italy 38
Edgewater Resources, USA 40
Formex, USA 64
Gigieffe, Italy 28
Golden Boat Lifts, USA 64
Helix Mooring Systems, USA 40
HydroHoist, USA 50
IMBC 2016, USA 58
IMCI, Belgium 31
Ingemar, Italy 18
JLD International, Netherlands 52
M-Tech, Australia 44
MDL Marina Consultancy, UK 27
METS 2016, Netherlands 20
MWS&S, UK 56
Marcello Giampiccolo, Italy 38
Maricer, UK 58
Marina Manual, UK 48
Marina Master/IRM, Slovenia 48
Marine Travelift, USA 68
Marinetek, Finland 4
Martini Alfredo, Italy 24
Moffatt & Nichol, USA 32
Mourjan Marinas, UAE 43
Orsta Breakwater, Netherlands 60
Pacsoft, New Zealand 52
Pile Ring, New Zealand 60 Plus Marine, Italy 22
Poralu Marine, France 34 & 35
Ravens Marine, USA 55
Rolec Services, UK 12
Roodberg - a brand of Frisian Industries, Netherlands 63
SF Marina System, Sweden 2
Scribble Software, USA 60
Seaflex, Sweden 8
Seijsener, Netherlands 62
SmithGroupJJR, USA 52
Star Marina Solutions, UK 32
Strongwell, USA 38
Swede Ship Sublift, Sweden 65
Transas Marine, Germany 24
Walcon Marine, UK 22
World Marina
Conference 2016, Netherlands 49
Make your plans for EV charge points
As the popularity of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs) increases, it is likely that marinas will need to invest in charging points for their staff and customers. Rolec Services, a recognised designer, manufacturer and supplier of EV charging points and accessories, has outlined just how rapidly demand is rising.
Rolec experienced dramatic increase in global sales throughout 2014 and 2015 for EV points, during which time it manufactured and supplied over 30,000 charging points for the UK market alone.
“As a company, we’ve been actively involved in the EV industry for over five years but it’s only really in the last two years that we’ve see a huge increase in sales,” explains Rolec PR and marketing manager Nathan Black. He believes sales will further accelerate due to the types of vehicles available and the range they have before needing to be charged. “Even the sporting world has experienced the high levels of performance on offer via Formula E,” he adds.
Armed with the statistics that UK Government has invested over £500 million in the EV industry and that there will be over 7.5 million EVs on the road all over the world within the next five years, Rolec has stepped up its offerings.
“We manufacture and supply Europe’s largest and most comprehensive range of EV charging
points and accessories, and have ideal solutions for all types of marinas – with both free to charge and pay to charge options,” says Rolec international marina sales manager Kate Broom. “ Our EV charging points are approved and used by many of the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers, including Nissan, Renault, Vauxhall, BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, Mitsubishi, Volvo and Tesla.”
With customers that include McDonalds, Tesco, Ryanair, Hilton Hotels, Holiday Inn, DFS and Next, Rolec is a government approved manufacturer and claims to offer Europe’s most competitively priced charging points. “Marina owners and managers may think that installing an EV charging pedestal will be complicated and very costly and will cause lots of disruption to a site. Our EV charging units are low cost, simple to operate, easy to install and are not disruptive to a site’s operation,” Broom confirms. “We also manufacture EV charging units that are future-proof and can be upgraded if and when required to keep pace with the fast moving EV industry around the world.”
Charging points can be purchased for under £290. Contact Rolec Services in the UK on email: rolec@ rolecserv.co.uk
