Cowes of the North - Isle of Man Government

2.2.2 Port St Mary
Port St. Mary provides a real opportunity to create a self-contained world-class marina. It not
only combines the positive selling point of 24 hour access in an attractive bay, but it has the
ability to berth a large number of boats that can support individual marine services.
As such this site has the potential to lease the management and operation to a private
marina operator to provide commercial facilities that will demand premium berthing rates.
The proposition is particularly attractive should Phase 2 be achieved as the management
and operating costs are not scaleable, and the project becomes a more desirable opportunity
for all concerned.
Port St. Mary represents a large increase in available berths, which might become difficult to
fill from residents only. So it is important that excellent facilities in an attractive environment
are provided in order to attract non-residents to use their yachts as holiday cottages (this is
common practice in other areas in the UK).
If the marina is to be developed in two stages, then many specific items need to be
developed in a manner that could accommodate a cost effective further expansion later.
Parking for Phase 1 would require 298 spaces, plus 151 spaces for Phase 2.
Providing adequate development space is available, this site should also provide a boatyard
(including a boat moving / lifting hoist), with a chandlery / shop and brokerage / new boat
sales area. Also the location would ideally suit a charter fleet providing sailing holidays and
Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training courses.
Additionally the social amenities should be bolstered as the small town has limited resources
and is off site for visitors. This could provide the opportunity to relocate the Yacht Club and or
provide a café / bistro on site space permitting.
Port St Mary
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