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The superyacht industry has experienced a boom in business in recent years, with the number of sales for new builds over 30 metres (98 feet) at an all-time high.
Earlier this year it was announced that sales had increased by 25% in 2017 compared to 2016 – and that trend looks set to continue when, during the early months of 2019, the world’s leading shipyards announce the number of sales they have recorded this year.
The increased number of superyachts – coupled with the desire of yacht owners, guests and crew to experience new places – has brought about a need for exciting, modern marinas to burst on the scene offering the salubrious experience the industry has come to expect.
Here at Yachting Pages we have compiled detailed lists of the most established marinas you simply have to visit while on your travels and the best up-and-coming facilities that are jostling for a place at the top table. However, these lists aren’t exhaustive; when it comes to choosing the perfect place to berth your superyacht the possibilities are endless.
To make planning your 2019 globetrotting itinerary as easy as possible, we have compiled a selection of some developing marina destinations you should make the point of stopping at in the next 12 months.
1. Port of Amsterdam, Netherlands
Port of Amsterdam has only been offering superyacht berths in the last couple of years, but it has ramped up its efforts to accommodate larger vessels during 2018.
It only has five berths suitable for large superyachts, but all of them have the draw of being located in the city centre. Its big appeal is that it’s unlike any marinas located around the Mediterranean; in contrast, it offers an urban environment with all the allure one would expect of a large European city. This type of marina is becoming increasingly popular as it is so far removed from the typical marina set-up – particularly if it boasts renowned museums and a UNESCO World Heritage city centre as Amsterdam does.
The Amsterdam port area also has outstanding refit and maintenance facilities, which is a big attraction for owners. Alma Prins, commercial manager for superyachts in the Port of Amsterdam, said earlier this year that the port intends to establish a superyacht service area too, to further enhance its credentials.
It’s sure to prove a popular stop-off for visitors in the year ahead.
2. Creek Marina, Dubai
Due to open in December 2018, Dubai Creek Harbour’s city-harbour getaway Creek Marina is being earmarked as an elite superyacht marina of the future. A six-kilometre “mega-development”, Creek Marina will offer a wide range of yachting facilities, including more than 80 berths.
Located in the heart of Creek Island Dubai, the marina will be suitably lavish – in keeping with the taste of superyacht owners and guests – providing high-end retail outlets, gourmet restaurants and a plethora of leisure and entertainment venues.
Unique to the location, Creek Marina will also deliver spectacular views of the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. It will also play host to the 928-metre Dubai Creek Tower, which will become the next tallest tower in the world when completed in 2020.
Supplying the glitz and the glamour commonly associated with the superyacht industry, this marina is likely to prove a major hit in 2019.
3. Marina d'Arechi, Italy
Billed as “one of the most important tourist facilities ever built in the south of Italy”, Marina d’Arechi is situated at the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts 1,000 berths, including 80 specifically designed for superyachts up to 100m.
The marina prides itself on providing luxury and comfort in a naturally serene environment. It offers a state-of-the-art yacht maintenance and repair facility equipped with a 220-ton capacity travel lift, as well as a competitive bunker station.
The beauty of southern Italy is the standout feature of Marina d’Arechi, but it also has the attraction of being one of the most environmentally friendly marinas in the Med. Thanks to the use of natural materials, it boasts 1.2 kilometres of breakwater, all in mosaic-fitted natural rocks, as well as pier flooring made of recycled wood, eco-sustainable furnishings and modern water and waste recycling systems.
The Marina d’Arechi is a modern project that was devised by Agostino Gallozzi, chairman of Gallozzi Group, who invested €120 million to create a facility “where everyone would want to be”. 2019 is sure to be a good indicator of its popularity among superyachts cruising the Med.
4. Port Takola, Thailand
Unveiled in 2017, Port Takola Yacht Marina is a new marina that utilises the site’s “excellent geographical location” and its “perfect shelter”.
Developed by retired Surgeon Admiral of the Royal Thai Navy Dr Suriya na Nagara and Matthew na Nagara, the 110-acre site offers 48 berths for superyachts up to 40m.
Port Takola is a rare marina that enjoys both stunning seclusion and easy access to modern conveniences, which makes it an obvious choice for superyachts visiting the region. Set in a peaceful, green environment, it’s the ideal place to explore for anyone looking to be at one with nature.
Thailand has been making a concerted effort to establish itself as a superyacht hub in recent years. With destinations like Port Takola now available to visit, 2019 could be a key year in the country’s continued push towards its goal of attracting the industry’s superyacht elite.
5. Marina Miraggio, Greece
Marina Miraggio was opened alongside Miraggio Thermal Spa Resort’s luxury five-star hotel in 2017, and its innovative construction, environmentally friendly operation and top-class service makes it the perfect Med marina.
Situated on the east coast of Kassandra, Halkidiki, Marina Miraggio can accommodate superyachts up to 40m and offers the wide range of services one would expect of a modern marina.
With Marina Miraggio so highly regarded and Miraggio Thermal Spa Resort hotel on course to become one of the must-visit luxury spas in the Mediterranean, this destination is a win-win for superyacht personnel who want to indulge in luxury and total relaxation.
Who wouldn’t want to experience a facility like that in 2019?
With these five marinas on your radar, that’s your new year sorted.
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