2025 March April Marina World

Marina

www.marinaworld.com

World

March/April 2025

Issue 148

Essential reading for marina and waterfront developers, planners and operators

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W W W . S F M A R I N A . C O M

Marina

World

March/April 2025 Vol. 25, No. 4

13

31

47

CONTENTS

World News 7

Dry Storage 13

Building a future for UK drystack; Legendary Marina

Resort at Blue Water Cay, Bahamas; sustainability

benefits; servicing lift equipment

Market Focus: Saudi Arabia 26

Plans to boost tourism as part of Saudi Vision 2030

include marina developments at Neom, Jeddah Marina

and Amaala

Charter & Boat Share 31

As the subscription culture drives boat share prospects,

the future for this increasingly popular business model

looks bright. Charlotte Niemiec talks to key industry

professionals

Events 41

AMI Conference & Expo in Fort Lauderdale, Florida kick

started networking and educational opportunities for

2025

Certification 43

Shifting boating trends, technological advances and

increasing regulation are prompting revisions to marina

certification. Mel Symes reports

Buying & Selling Marinas 47

Products & Services 53

On the cover (CGI): Aiming to be

top tier in terms of destination

appeal, Amaala Triple Bay Marina

and Yacht Club is a regenerative

tourism project being undertaken

by Red Sea Global and Monaco

Marina Management M3. Along

with other developments, Amaala

will bring Saudi Vision 2030 to

life. Read more on p. 26

www.marinaworld.com – March/April 2025

3

Marina

World

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Mel Symes

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Firsts

and lasts

First and lasts can both be exciting prospects. In this issue, there are several

of note in the drystack, newbuild marina, and property markets.

As drystack builds in popularity in many parts of the world, there are increasing

opportunities for groundbreaking new facilities. Planning issues, educating boaters

on the benefits of out-of-water storage, and aesthetic impact have long been hurdles

but, as waterfront sites become more congested or unavailable for development, dry

storage will deliver the berths the industry needs.

Legendary’s Blue Water Cay Marina in Nassau is a key drystack first for the

Bahamas, described as the first ‘true’ dry storage facility, and the ‘most advanced’ in

the entire Caribbean. Legendary, working in collaboration with Mack David Buildings,

is delivering a drystack that is not only advanced in terms of build and docking

systems but is set to boost tourism in some of the most beautiful waters in the world

and provide a centralised hub for the Bahamian water transportation and adventure

infrastructure.

Building a new marina in an iconic harbour is guaranteed to garner attention as

these opportunities are always scarce and often non-existent. The new 168-slip

marina in Clipper Cove, Treasure Island will be the first marina in the San Francisco

Bay area in nearly quarter of a century.

Sonoma-based developer Kenwood Investments via Treasure Islands Enterprises

is leading the project to significantly upgrade an aging facility. The project should be

underway in 2026 and complete within two years, offering berthing to a wide range

of vessels including transient boats.

While Treasure Island Enterprises has a blueprint with the existing facility, buyers

of a tract of waterfront land in Sapam Bay, Thailand have a blank slate. Marketed as

among the last opportunities to develop a new marina in Phuket, the family-owned

site offers a wealth of development options and is suitable for hosting superyachts.

Licences and approvals have already been obtained, and endorsement received

from the Governor of Phuket for the marina and the boost it will bring to the country’s

nautical tourism credentials.

Investors should enjoy strong returns thanks to Phuket’s position as one of the

world’s most popular tourism destinations, with tourist numbers set to double by

2030. Tourism has long been the backbone of Phuket’s economy, with the island

welcoming around ten million visitors in 2024. This influx of high-net-worth tourists

and ex-pats has driven demand for luxury amenities and yachting facilities.

Perhaps the biggest talking point this quarter has been about ‘billions of dollars’.

The first billion dollar spend in the marina sector that most of us processed was

in April 2024 when Suntex Marinas and Centerbridge Partners announced a joint

venture to spend over $1.25 billion on new marina acquisitions. We now have a new

first for magnitude of spend; Blackstone Infrastructure buying Safe Harbor Marinas

from Sun Communities for $5.65 billion.

This staggering sum bought Blackstone 138 marinas in the USA and Puerto Rico,

emphasising that marinas are now a very serious asset class.

Carol Fulford

Editor


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WORLD NEWS

SF Group chairman Lars Gunnar

Odhe (inset) speaks to attendees at the

launch of the Port Nimara nautical

development.

Work begins

on Port Nimara

ANGUILLA: Marina excavation work has started for Port Nimara, a

comprehensive nautical development strategically located between the

prestigious Cap Juluca and Altamer estates. The project is set to redefine

Anguilla’s economic and tourism landscape.

To be developed by international

marina construction and development

company SF Group in joint venture

with TEI, Inc., a New York-based

development group owned by

Francis Greenburger, and Antillean

Development LLC, an Anguillan-based

developer under the lead of George A

Fraser, the project is designed to be a

catalyst for sustainable growth.

David Mizrahi, managing partner

of the development and CEO of SF

Investments, emphasises: “Our goal

is to create a world-class maritime

destination that not only respects

Anguilla’s natural beauty but also

propels the island into a new era of

economic opportunity.”

The project offers 118 berths for

vessels up to 260ft (79m), a 62-key fivestar

hotel under a renowned New

York luxury brand, 18 beachfront

villas, and 45 residences with

potential expansion to 18 upland

villas. Its prime location, just 11nm

from Sint Maarten International

Airport, ensures unparalleled

accessibility for international

travellers and yacht owners.

To be constructed by Consigli in

cooperation with SF Marina, Port

Nimara will feature a premium

yacht club, advanced customs and

immigration services, a waterfront

promenade, sophisticated security

systems and comprehensive

maintenance services. SF Marina has

integrated sustainable design principles

to ensure the project is in harmony

with Anguilla’s marine ecosystem,

incorporating advanced environmental

measures.

To complement the marina

development, Anguilla’s airport

will undergo significant expansion,

including a runway extension to 7,800ft

(2,380m) to allow for all size of private

jet, as well as commercial planes.

Port Nimara is predicted to generate

200 direct job opportunities and create

around 500 peripheral jobs across

hospitality, maritime, retail and support

sectors.

EOI for Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter

HONG KONG: The Development Bureau (DEVB) has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) for a marina development at

the expansion area of the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter. The project is envisaged as a public-private partnership that will

promote tourism and recreational developments.

A spokesman for the DEVB said

that the proposed marina would create

synergies with nearby developments

including Ocean Park and the in-park

hotels, connect to the rich blue-green

resources in the Southern District,

such as Repulse Bay and Deep

Water Bay, and increase the appeal

of the area to both local and overseas

visitors.

While the landside facilities of

the marina could be housed on

the Po Chong Wan waterfront, the

Government would consider how to

consolidate the current uses in the Po

Chong Wan waterfront area, revitalise

the area and bring environmental

improvements after completion of the

EOI exercise and local consultation.

“Through the EOI exercise, we hope

to collect market views and suggestions

on the marina development early

in order to formulate appropriate

development parameters and other

details for incorporation into the tender

conditions. Moreover, the Government

takes this opportunity to gauge the

industry’s views on developing the

yacht industry for reference by

relevant bureaux and departments to

facilitate the formulation of appropriate

policies and related measures,” the

spokesman added.

The invitation document for the EOI

is available on the Invigorating Island

South Office (IISO) website: www.iiso.

gv.uk/en/studies_projects/marina_

development.html

Email: iiso@devb.gov.hk

The deadline for receipt of EOI is

24 th April (noon).


7

Delivering the marinas

of tomorrow

Marina Santelena e Diporto Velico, Venezia - Italy

Hi-tech solutions to connect land and sea

Pontoons, breakwaters, superyacht piers, floating crossings and

constructions, off-the-shelf or customised, with robust and

reliable structures in steel, aluminium or concrete.

Blackstone buys

Safe Harbor in

multi-billion deal

USA: Blackstone Infrastructure, an active investor in the energy,

transportation, digital infrastructure and water and waste infrastructure

sectors, has bought Safe Harbor Marinas from Sun Communities, Inc., for

$5.65 billion.

Safe Harbor owns and operates 138

marinas across the USA and Puerto

Rico and is an industry leader in the

boat storage and servicing industry.

Heidi Boyd, senior managing

director for Blackstone Infrastructure,

commented: “Marinas benefit from

long-term thematic tailwinds including

the growth of travel and leisure as well

Further phase at

Port Takola

as population inflows into coastal cities.

We believe Safe Harbor is the best

positioned company in this sector, and

we look forward to working with their

terrific team to invest behind their existing

marinas and to expand their footprint.”

The transaction builds on

Blackstone’s diverse portfolio, which

now holds $55 billion of assets.

THAILAND: Port Takola Marina in Krabi is working on an additional phase of

expansion.

Further to opening in 2018 with 49 berths and a boatyard, the owners secured an

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval in 2022 for a 300-berth marina.

Pier G was soon introduced, providing 25 berths for vessels up to 35m (115ft) at the

T-head.

The upcoming phase will see the addition of Piers B and C, creating 80 berths

for boats of 10-25m (33-82ft). Pier L, a new public passenger pier, will support daily

ferry services to Krabi Town. This pontoon expansion

is expected to complete next month (April).

Enhancements to the marina facilities will include

the capitainerie, a single-storey administrative

building featuring a 15m (49ft) swimming pool, high

standard bathrooms, a marina office, meeting room

and a marine parts store. Construction commenced

in early March with a view to these services being

available by the end of this year.

Matthew na Nagara, general manager of Port

Takola Marina, says the driving force behind the

expansion is the growing demand for berths as the

region recovers from the impact of COVID-19. “Our

vision is to foster a welcoming yachting community.

Krabi’s reputation as a desirable berthing destination

for the Andaman Sea continues to rise, thanks

to its abundant stunning sailing scene, strategic

developments, such as Central’s mixed-use project

in Krabi Town, and the recently expanded Krabi

International Airport. These factors, combined

WORLD NEWS

Mooring Post

Highlights from

February/March:

• USA: Regeneration begins at St

Petersburg Yacht Club, Florida

• GLOBAL: ICOMIA, EBI and

NMMA announce plans for global

recreational marine lifecycle

assessment framework

• JAPAN: Superyacht Base Kobe

wins contract to develop Kobe

Marina

• AUSTRALIA: Government of WA

issues EOI for new private marina

at Rockingham, Perth

• AUSTRALIA: The Boat Works

opens innovative Watersheds

facility – covered mooring/repair

berths

• JORDAN: ADPG partners with

MAG Group Holding to progress

Marsa Zayed

Don’t miss the

Mooring Post

newsfeed and

early access to

Marina World

online:

www.marinaworld.com/signup

with the province’s unspoilt natural

beauty, make it an ideal destination

for both retirees and travellers seeking

tranquillity.”

Port Takola Marina was developed

by the na Nagara family and is situated

on a historic estate that was once a

coconut plantation.


9

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WORLD NEWS

New marina for

San Francisco Bay

USA: Sonoma-based developer Kenwood Investments has

secured approval from the Bay Conservation and Development

Commission (BCDC) in San Francisco, California to build a new

168-slip marina in Clipper Cove, Treasure Island. It will be the

first new marina in the Bay area in nearly 25 years.

The $25 million project will

be built by Treasure Islands

Enterprises, an entity related

to Kenwood Investments,

which is leasing the project

area from the Treasure Island

Development Authority, the San

Francisco agency that overseas

the economic development of

the island.

The marina will be

constructed in Clipper Cove,

which separates Treasure

Island from Yerba Buena Island

and abuts the road connecting

the two islands. It will entirely

replace an aging and decaying

facility with vastly improved

docks and gangways.

“We are excited to move

ahead on a project that we have

been planning for many years,

and that has undergone a

meticulous review and approval

process,” said Darius Anderson,

Kenwood Investments CEO.

“In all our efforts on Treasure

Island, we have brought

together the best and brightest

designers, builders and

community partners. This is just

the latest example.”

The project is expected to

begin construction by 2026

and take about two years

to complete, with all work in

the water itself planned to be

completed in a single season.

Hurricane

damage stalls

redevelopment

project

USA: Plans to transform the Seafood Shack in the

village of Cortez in Manatee County, Florida into

a modern community marina to be named Cortez

Marina suffered a set-back following damage by

hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Inspections conducted after the storms revealed

that the structures were beyond repair, with restoration

costs exceeding 50% of their pre-damage value.

These findings triggered federal regulations requiring

comprehensive redevelopment including provision

under the FEMA 50% rule.

Manatee County envisages transforming the site into

a vibrant, public-access marina featuring new facilities

(updated boat ramps, modern boat slips and a building

housing concessions and a shop) and enhanced safety

standards (redesigned structures will adhere to current

safety codes and be built to withstand future risks).

Design, Manufacture and Installation of Floating Pontoons, Marinas and Fishing Ports.

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11

DRY STORAGE

Bembridge Boat Storage, the only drystack

on the Isle of Wight, is increasingly popular

with boaters. The harbour owners are

awaiting planning approval to extend the

drystack facility.

Building a future

for UK drystack

Drystack is increasingly offering UK motorboaters a convenient and secure

alternative for boat storage. Various operators across the UK are expanding

their drystack provision and optimising customer services for an exciting and

growing market. Marina World checked in with Bembridge Yacht Storage and

multi-marina operators Yacht Havens, MDL Marinas and Premier Marinas for

the current management overview. Mel Symes reports

There are plenty of strong arguments

in favour of drystack, particularly given

today’s culture of immediacy where

multiple time pressures weigh on the

availability of leisure time. There are

also signs that the profile of boater who

may have benefited from acquiring and

honing maintenance and boat handling

skills over a lifetime of family boating is

fast diminishing.

Another consideration is that boats

are getting bigger overall, wider

and with more draught, creating

additional demands on marina space.

Drystack, however, needs to fit certain

parameters – it’s not the best fit for

every type of marina, location or

aesthetic. Whilst it can increase the

storage capacity of a marina if the

footprint is limited, it also needs to be

fully supported from a customer and

technical perspective.

Yacht Havens has one of the UK’s

first drystacks at Yacht Haven Quay

in Plymouth, and another popular

facility in Haven Quay, Lymington,

which benefits from the services

offered by the adjacent marina and

boatyard. With 200 spaces in each

location the company finds that a

sunny afternoon can generate up to

40-50 launches, attracting some 200

people to a single site. Group marketing

manager, Jonathan Cook, shared his

thoughts: “What’s really interesting

about drystack is the dynamic with

the customer. Lifting and launching

can generate far more interaction with

a boater than a wet berth where the

boater is more autonomous, and we

might only meet them on the pontoon.

This opportunity for engagement

implies that boatyard operatives need a

specific skill set including the capacity

to build rapport with customers and

enhance relationships. They need

to be able to recommend cruising

destinations and ensure that the boater

feels part of the community and that

their boating experience is positive and

memorable.

Hosting a drystack facility also allows

us to reassess the nature of the “marina

experience” for boaters. The archetypal

image is perhaps of a boat owner

enjoying the peace and quiet on deck;

MDL Marinas’ Hamble Point Marina is a

230-berth marina offering easy access to the

famous waters of the Solent. Its associated

drystack system has storage for 137 boats.


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DRY STORAGE

Left & below: Trafalgar Wharf, a Premier

Marinas facility, is the largest indoor

drystack in Europe, racking over 300

motorboats and RIBs of 4-13m (13-43ft).

The facility is in the heart of Portsmouth

Harbour on the south coast of England.

more recently perhaps spending a long

weekend on board, remote working and

then heading out on to the water with

friends and family. Here we’re looking at

a 40ft [12m] boat with accommodation.

A drystack boater has a different type of

relationship with their vessel; they enjoy

the convenience and comfort of a valet

service where they can quickly and

easily access their boat and get straight

out on the water.

At this end of the market, owners

are less invested in their vessel and

so their level of commitment might not

be comparable to a larger sailing boat.

Drystack invariably involves smaller

vessels - it’s up to us to make sure that

customers continue to perceive value in

their boats.”

Harbour owners, Malcolm and Fiona

Thorpe, own Bembridge Harbour, which

hosts Bembridge Boat Storage, the

Isle of Wight’s only drystack storage: a

20,000m² (215,300ft²) waterfront shed

and site converted from a previous

hovercraft manufacturing facility.

“Six months after purchasing the

marina in 2011, it became clear that

we needed more space for boats,”

explained Malcolm Thorpe. “We offer 70

indoor spaces with more in winter and

45 on outside racking. Currently 80% of

the boats in our drystack are new and

20% second hand. We only lift to 10m

[33ft] LOA weighing about 6.5 tonnes to

ground and two upper levels of racking.

Based on the success of the service

and predicted growth capacity, we are

currently waiting for planning approval

to extend our shed by about 20%.”

MDL’s first facility in Cobbs Quay

dates from 2000. The company

now offers a total of 547 drystack

spaces across its portfolio of marinas

for vessels up to 13m (43ft). MDL

Marinas sales and marketing director,

Tim Mayer, described some of the

efficiencies for drystack customers: “A

drystack boater will appreciate reduced

maintenance bills and less wear

and tear on their vessel. Dry storage

eliminates the need for antifouling

which provides an environmental

bonus. Less growth on the hull also

equates to less drag, so better fuel

economy.

Advances in digital technology mean

that a customer can lift, launch or order

their boat to be transferred to a work

rack with a couple of clicks. This helps

with planning, enabling a boater to

prebook and then turn up in time for

their boat to be waiting on the dock,

ready to go. Upon their return, they just

hand over the boat, which is washed

down thoroughly and put away.”

With marketing data dating back

five decades, MDL Marinas benefits

from sophisticated predictive analytics

for customer retention, working hard

to deliver value to boaters and make

sure that they feel included within the

boating culture. With high capacity, MDL

is able to assert that its occupancy

rates outperform industry averages.

Mayer describes an interesting

market outlook: “We’ve observed that

smaller powerboat ownership, including

drystack storage, attracts a broader age

demographic compared to wet berths.

While the 65+ and 55-64 age groups

dominate larger vessel ownership,

we’re seeing younger owners (under

54) gravitating toward vessels under 7m

[23ft]. The market experienced growth

from 2020 to 2022, followed by a brief


15

DRY STORAGE

Drystack boat storage is available at

Premier Marinas’ Swanwick Marina on

the River Hamble for motorboats and

RIBs up to 11m (36ft) in length.

decline, but is now showing steady

recovery as customers recognise the

value proposition of drystacking.”

Andrew Lewis, sales and marketing

director at Premier Marinas, where

drystack spaces represent over 10%

of total capacity, believes that drystack

storage is still underdeveloped, both

in the UK and across Europe. Premier

Marinas has invested considerably

in this area over the last five years,

including the acquisition of Trafalgar

Wharf, Europe’s largest indoor facility.

“Indoor storage contributes to

preservation of the boat as an asset,

protecting it from damaging UV

radiation in the summer and harsh

conditions in winter. Enjoying access

to the same services and benefits as

our wet-berth customers, the boater

can have their boat launched within

the hour using our app, offering the

means to make last minute decisions.

They also have unlimited launches

within their contract maximising the

opportunity to spend time on the water

and providing flexibility if plans need to

be changed. Simply put, we’re offering

on-demand boating.”

Environmental considerations are

also improving. Premier’s Noss on Dart

Marina has a closed circuit washdown

facility allowing for water to be

recycled, and yard machinery in each

Yacht Haven Quay Plymouth was one of the

first drystacks in the UK and racks around

200 vessels.

of Premier’s marinas runs on HVO.

Extensive solar power contributes to

their net zero target.

Everyone agrees, however, that

drystack is not necessarily a cheaper

option. Jon White, general manager

for The Yacht Harbour Association

comments: “On a basic level, building a

drystack facility doesn’t appear radically

different from building warehouse

racking. You’ve got the same basic

structural considerations—stresses,

strains, loads—but you need to be very

clear about how the facility will operate.

This means understanding boat types,

movement patterns, required response

times (how quickly boats need to be

retrieved), and the machinery you’ll

use (negative lift systems, hydraulic

platforms, etc.). A thorough analysis of

how the structure interacts with water is

also crucial.

Whether drystack corresponds

to the more affordable end of the

market is much debated. At first

look this should be the case, but

managing a drystack tends to be staff

and machinery intensive with a high

cost of purchasing and operating

industrial lifting equipment. A large tidal

coefficient makes further demands on

infrastructure, where launching into sea

water also implies potential saltwater

corrosion, requiring a frequent,

proactive and specialised maintenance

regime. Constant use also increases

wear and tear meaning that some

companies feel obliged to double up

on machinery to avoid downtime for

failures and maintenance.”

Malcom Thorpe adds some key

insights: “Lessons we’ve learned along

the way is that there is never enough

car parking should all our customers

want their boats launched on the same

day - as a result, we now make use of

one of our marina car parks and ferry

the owners to our drystack operation.

Equally, getting the business going was

pretty demanding, between obtaining

planning permission, offering a new

seven-day service and promoting

drystack to a customer base that wasn’t

familiar with the concept.”

Collectively, drystack operators

recognise a need to continue to raise

awareness amongst boaters about

the benefits of this style of boat

ownership, and reach out to brokers,

insurance agents and the wider boating

community to make sure that people

understand the advantages. Welcoming

drystack customers into boating culture

is paramount, and many have attractive

F&B facilities nearby where people can

gather and watch boats being launched.

The vote is in however: for smaller

motorboats and RIBs, drystack is the

future!


17

The future of dry stack marinas is poised for a

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impeccably crafted luxury residences, and really –

anything you can dream of – all seamlessly integrated

into the marina and boating lifestyle landscape.

ASAR (Automated Storage and Retrieval)

technologies are at the forefront, offering spaceefficient

and economically advantageous solutions

for storing boats and automobiles – maximizing

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DRY STORAGE

Drystack to create

centralised hub in the

Bahamas

In summer 2024, Mack David Buildings and Legendary Marina joined forces to

build Legendary Marina WaterWay Village in Gulf Shores Alabama, setting a

new benchmark for dry storage. Further to this success, they are once again

teaming up for another groundbreaking project—Legendary’s Blue Water

Cay Marina in the Bahamas. This marks another major step in their ongoing

collaboration, reinforcing their commitment to innovative and creative highquality

marina infrastructure.

Blue Water Cay Marina is set to

be the first true dry storage facility in

the Bahamas, capable of storing 55ft

(20m) boats weighing up to 55,000lbs

(25,000kg), an unprecedented

achievement in the industry. Upon its

completion this year, Blue Water Cay

Marina will stand as the largest and

most advanced dry storage facility in the

industry, not only in the Bahamas but

across the entire Caribbean—pioneering

a new era of marine storage and setting

the standard for future developments.

Rodney Chamberlain, Legendary

vice president, commented: “This

project has drawn international interest

from boat owners and marina owners

alike. Having a modern facility in some

of the most beautiful waters in the world

has been lacking for many years. This

category-5 hurricane rated boat storage

safe haven not only increases tourism

but provides a centralised hub for the

Bahamian water transportation and

adventure infrastructure.”

Mack David Buildings is known for

designing and building marina dry

storage and outdoor racks that are

robust, aesthetically thoughtful and

durable. In addition, owner David

Coyle will be incorporating innovative

CGI of Legendary Marina Resort at Blue

Water Cay in Nassau, set to be the first true

dry storage facility in the Bahamas.

new equipment he has developed

for improving day-to-day marina

operations. “We are thrilled to be a part

of this record-breaking marina build and

will be including our adjustable ground

stands for convenience and flexibility,”

said Coyle. “Another exciting feature

will be the inclusion of some of our

new Mack Daddy Bunks, a carbon fibre

enhanced bunk board that is a game

changer for the industry. These boards

are 25% stronger and 40% lighter than

traditional wood boards. Plus, they don’t

split, rot, or need regular replacing.”

A crucial aspect of this ambitious

project is the involvement of Wiggins

Lift, a leading manufacturer of marine

forklifts. Recognising the need for

specialised equipment capable of

handling vessels of this size, Wiggins

Lift designed and constructed an

entirely new forklift model specifically

for the Blue Water Cay Marina. This

cutting-edge forklift will be engineered

to safely and efficiently move 55ft (20m)

boats, ensuring smooth storage and

retrieval operations.

Beyond functionality, Blue Water Cay

Marina is expected to feature a host

of amenities catering to upscale boat

owners. Advanced docking systems,

state-of-the-art security measures

and premium customer service will

ensure that this facility sets a new

benchmark in marina excellence. The

project also aligns with the broader

vision of sustainable and forwardthinking

marina development, utilising

eco-friendly building practices and

innovative design solutions to minimise

environmental impact.

www.mackdavidbuildings.com

Marina dry storage and outdoor racks

from Mack David Buildings at Legendary

Marina’s WaterWay Village in Gulf Shores,

Alabama.


19

DRY STORAGE

Sustainable storage

In today’s world, sustainability has become a crucial aspect of every industry,

including marine storage. The word “sustainability,” however, is often

misunderstood and misused. ASAR, a leader in sustainable marine storage

and automation, is committed to sustainable practices that benefit both the

environment and the boating community, while also greatly increasing the

financial feasibility of dry storage development. Oscar Siches discusses.

Sustainability goes beyond just

being “green,” instead involving a

complex interplay of factors that

allow us to maintain our quality of life

without compromising the future. In

marine storage terms it means creating

solutions that minimise environmental

impact while maximising efficiency and

safety. It involves reducing pollution,

conserving resources, and ensuring the

longevity of both the storage systems

and the boats they house.

The ASAR approach to sustainability

is comprehensive, addressing various

aspects of the marine storage process

from building creation to facility

operation. In the context of marine

storage, sustainability is crucial—it

helps protect marine ecosystems,

reduces the carbon footprint of

boating activities, and ensures that

future generations can enjoy the

benefits of recreational boating without

compromising the environment.

Traditional boat storage methods

often have significant environmental

impacts. Boats stored outdoors are

exposed to the elements, leading

to faster degradation and increased

maintenance needs. Think about

it: using the same boat for a longer

time is much more eco-friendly than

constantly building new ones. This is

the same concept we see with cars and

buildings. By focusing on environmental

preservation, we can extend the

lifespan of boats and reduce the need

for new ones, thereby reducing waste.

An automated storage and retrieval

system helps extend the lifespan of

boats by protecting them from the

elements. By extending the usable

lifecycle of boats, we can significantly

reduce the environmental impact

associated with their production and

disposal.

Optimising space and

resources

ASAR’s technology significantly

reduces the marina’s physical footprint,

preserving valuable waterfront property,

and enabling more sustainable

development. By stacking boats both

vertically and multiple rows deep, the

system maximises

storage capacity

without expanding

the physical footprint.

This is particularly

important in areas

where space is limited

and environmental

regulations restrict the

development of new

marinas.

The system

is also 100%

electric, ensuring

silent and energy-

Gulf Star Marina in Fort Myers Beach,

Florida is a pioneering example of ASAR’s

Smart Marina drystack concept. It is fully

automated and offers a captain’s club and

concierge service.

efficient operation. The low electrical

consumption and the potential for solar

power integration further enhance

its sustainability. ASAR makes a

100% solar-powered project possible

and is currently pioneering one in

Texas, showcasing its commitment to

innovative and eco-friendly solutions.

Safety and longevity

The commitment to safety shown by

ASAR is evident in its design and

available features. The system features

fire-resistant concrete and eliminates

the launch area where boats are

traditionally hoisted by unstable forklifts

operated by humans, often in close

proximity to pedestrian and vehicular

traffic. This significantly reduces safety

risks to humans and minimises the risk

and liability of vessel damage.

As the system is 100% electric, there

is no diesel soot inside the storage area

damaging vessels and making them

dirty when not used. The solid concrete

decks between levels eliminate residual

oil leakage, prevent migration of rust

and metal shavings, and protect

from water and fluid drippage from

the vessels stored above. The ASAR

system has a usable lifecycle of

over 50 years, significantly reducing

the frequency of new builds and

contributing to long-term sustainability.

Drystacks play a vital role in the

sustainability of the leisure boating

industry. As access to water becomes

more restricted due to environmental

legislation, they provide a practical

solution for boat storage allowing more

people to enjoy recreational boating

without the need for extensive coastal

development. By optimising space and


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DRY STORAGE

Automation maximises the use

of storage space, reducing the

industry’s overall footprint.

reducing environmental

impact, drystacks help

balance the growing

demand for boating with the

need to protect our natural

resources.

The marine industry is

facing increasing pressure

to adopt sustainable

practices due to growing

environmental concerns

and stricter regulations.

Coastal areas are under

significant stress from

development, pollution and

climate change. As a result,

there is a heightened focus on finding

innovative solutions that can mitigate

these impacts while supporting the

industry’s growth.

An automated storage and retrieval

system is a prime example of how

technology can address these

challenges. By providing a more

efficient and environmentally friendly

way to store boats, ASAR helps reduce

the industry’s overall footprint. This

aligns with global efforts to promote

sustainability and protect marine

ecosystems.

The adoption of sustainable practices

in the marine industry can have a

ripple effect, encouraging other sectors

to follow suit. As more companies

recognise the benefits

of sustainability, from

cost savings to improved

brand reputation, the

push for greener solutions

will continue to gain

momentum.

ASAR’s innovative

approach to marine

storage demonstrates

its commitment to

sustainability. By

maximising capacity,

safety and revenue

while minimising

environmental impact,

the system benefits both

marina owners and the

broader marine industry.

The use of advanced

automation technology

ensures efficient operation, while the

integration of sustainable practices

sets a new standard for marine storage

solutions. This approach not only

supports environmental preservation

but also supports broader corporate

sustainability objectives in the marine

space.

www.asarautomation.com


23

DRY STORAGE

Service agreements protect investments

The backbone of any dry storage marina operation lies in the equipment used to deliver essential services, says the

team at Forklift Exchange.

Maintaining critical machines

like marina forklifts, boat hoists

and hydraulic trailers is vital to

ensuring smooth operations and

protecting long-term investments.

A well-structured preventative

maintenance service agreement

offers numerous benefits,

including high-quality service,

cost savings and improved

resale value. The company gives

the following pointers:

• Marina equipment requires

specialist care to perform

optimally. Factory trained

technicians bring expertise

and tools to maintain peak

performance, using OEMrecommended

fluids, filters and strict

service intervals.

• Delaying maintenance or attempting

DIY repairs may seem cost-effective

but these shortcuts often lead to

expensive issues. Preventative

maintenance provides fixed costs

that simplify financial planning and

reduce the risk of costly breakdowns

or emergency repairs.

• Marina equipment represents

a significant investment. Proper

maintenance not only protects

functionality and aesthetics but also

protects resale value.

Equipment that receives

routine service retains

its appeal, ensuring a

smoother transition when

it’s time to upgrade or sell.

This maximises return on

investment and minimises

financial strain.

The bottom line is that

opting out of a service

agreement is most

likely going to be a false

economy from many

viewpoints, but this doesn’t

mean that operators have

to be tied into agreements

that are one-size-fits-all.

Companies like Forklift Exchange,

which service all brands of machinery,

customise all contracts to ensure

equipment is maintained at peak

performance levels.

www.forkliftexchange.com

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24 www.marinaworld.com – March/April 2025

MARKET FOCUS: SAUDI ARABIA

Superyachts moored up at Sindalah, the

first marina to open in the Neom project.

Eco-friendly plans to

boost nautical tourism

Saudi Arabia is launching futuristic cities and marinas on the Red Sea,

aimed at developing top-tier yachting locations in line with its goals of global

leadership in eco-sustainability, renewable energies and independence from

oil. Donatella Zucca reports

In September 2019, the Kingdom

of Saudi Arabia opened its doors to

international tourists, offering tourist

visas for the first time and launching

an online visa system for citizens of 49

countries. It has since made significant

efforts to promote its tourist attractions.

Boosting nautical tourism opportunities

is part of the overall plan.

Key players include the Saudi Red

Sea Authority (SRSA) and BWA

Yachting. The SRSA provides technical,

administrative and advisory support to

local and international investors, small

and medium-sized enterprises. BWA

Yachting has launched new operations

in Saudi Arabia and, in partnership with

Faisal M Higgi & Associates Co Ltd.,

offers its services in the country’s most

important yachting destinations. Its new

offices are in Yanbu (the headquarters),

Jeddah, Jizan, Rabigh, Duba,

Dammam and Sindalah.

Since the unveiling of the massive

reform plan Saudi Vision 2030,

launched by the Saudi leadership

and, in particular, Crown Prince

Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, the

share of tourism in the kingdom’s

GDP has increased from 3% to 7%.

This performance is supported by

developers such as Red Sea Global

(RSG), owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public

Investment Fund (PIF) and chaired by

the Crown Prince.

Within this larger context, the Red

Sea and opportunities for yachting are

the fulcrums for a mega project aimed

at giving maximum consideration to

the natural ecosystem. Challenging

policies are being developed to achieve

100% carbon neutrality that focus

heavily on solar and wind energy. In the

future, energy supplied by the NGHC-

NEOM Green Hydrogen Company and

renewable energy pioneer EWA will

contribute.

The PIF programme, as the primary

economic catalyst in Saudi Arabia,

embodies a vision of diversifying the

economy by investing locally and

internationally. This will continue

to establish partnerships across

borders, marking decisive steps in the

development of Vision 2030, helping to

grow non-oil GDP, investing in diversified

sectors and playing key roles in the

economic transformation of the country.

The UAE city of Masdar in Abu

Dhabi is also supporting Saudi Arabia

in its challenge to achieve net zero

emissions and the renewable energy

goals of Vision 2030, and a $3 billion

Green Bond offering was launched on

the London Stock Exchange in 2024

to unlock investments in renewable

energy worldwide.

The plan to move away from oil

dependency was advised by McKinsey

& Co, Boston Consulting Group and

Oliver Wyman and includes the $1.5

trillion Neom development and its ten

projects, which include the superyacht

island Sindalah and The Line. The Line

is a stunning housing project, which

could ultimately extend for 170km

(110mi). It is 500m (1,640ft) high, with

two underground levels, and stretches

from the Red Sea to the mountains,

The Corallium Marine Life Institute is the

centrepiece of Amaala.



CGI looking down on the iconic three-tier yacht club at Amaala Triple Bay Yacht Club.

Below: Swimming pool and golf clubhouse at Sindalah Island.

blending into the desert and offering a

seemingly endless strip of green areas

on its top.

The Line will be powered by

renewable energy, traversed by

driverless vehicles and equipped with

vertical farms, and is being designed

to be completely self-sufficient. A major

feature of its development is Hidden

Marina. Incorporated at the lowest level

and accessible from the sea, it the

largest of the ongoing marina projects.

Located along an inland canal that

serves ships as well as yachts, Hidden

Marina will take a share of 5,000 berths

amid various marinas located at points

along the full length of the development.

The Line will host the 2029 Asian

Winter Games near the foot of the

mountains.

Sindalah – the first step

Sindalah is an eco-friendly artificial

island covering an area of 84ha (207.6

acres) that includes space dedicated to

the protection of coral reefs. Designed

by Italian architect Luca Dini, it aims to

harmonise architectural aesthetics with

natural structures, often using special

materials developed in a dedicated

research facility.

A luxurious superyacht hub that

combines luxury and sustainability,

Sindalah is the first marina in Saudi

Arabia to receive TYHA 5 Gold Anchor

status. Its location on the Red Sea,

facing a future city that is also to be

called Neom, will give it easy access to

the Mediterranean via the nearby Suez

Canal. With 86 moorings and berths

for yachts up to 180m (590ft) in length,

exclusive beach clubs and yacht clubs,

the marina promotes navigation with

minimal environmental impact. Special

dams, in place to protect the marine

ecosystem, are eco-sustainable and

powered by renewable energy.

The Village and Promenade at the

heart of the island have 38 dining

options offered by top chefs, including

the 3 Michelin Star Norbert Niederkofler

with his Zhavor restaurant. There are

bistros, nightclubs and 36 luxury brand

boutiques, and hotels such as the

Four Seasons Resort, the first Marriott

Autograph Collection and Luxury

Collection in Saudi Arabia.

The yacht club has been designed

by Stefano Ricci (Made In Italy

excellence) with fine materials and

fabrics from Antico Setificio Fiorentino,

and the golf club by architect Robert

Trent Jones Jr. The nine-hole course

features undulating fairways and, as it

has been developed using eco-friendly

construction materials and to an ecofriendly

design, it will be GEO certified.

A refit and maintenance service for

yachts sailing in the Red Sea is offered

nearby by IGY Marinas.

Designing Norlana

The Norlana project, now underway,

is the new eco-sustainable city of

Neom, tailored for yachts mooring in

the Gulf of Aqaba. It has ultra modern

architecture from 10 Design and a

focus on landscape and sport. Leonard

Milford Alexey and Golbraykh are

responsible for the design and Chris

Jones and Gwilym Wyn Jones for

the project. All are supported by an

international team of architects.

The coastal city will be part of a

group of four other projects in the Gulf,

which will offer 3,000 houses, 700

apartments, two hotels and a 120-

berth marina. International boat owners

will have access to a nautical centre

offering a club with dining options

and exceptional services. The luxury

offering is completed with an 18-hole

golf course in the mountains and a

nearby equestrian and polo centre.

Luxury and originality

The Jeddah Marina and Yacht Club

located close to the centre of the

World Heritage listed historic city of

Jeddah is already open. Situated at

the entry point to Saudi Arabia and

thus offering customs and immigration

services, Jeddah Marina can host 100

yachts, including megayachts of over

100m (330ft). As in the best tourist

ports, there are exceptional reception

and visitor services for owners and

crew. Among the special membership

features is exclusive access to the

Riva Privée Lounge on the top floor of

the yacht club and the opportunity to

rent a Rivamare 38 in order to explore

the coast. A restaurant, luxury fitness

and spa facilities, private boardrooms

with concierge services and access to

and exclusive benefits from the JYC

Academy are also offered.


27

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In terms of originality,

the Platform Rig takes

some beating. Situated

in the Persian Gulf, about

40km (25mi) from the

coast, it is the world’s first

offshore adventure/tourism

destination and is inspired

by the country’s oil and gas

heritage. Covering over 30ha

(74 acres), the amusement

park has 70 attractions and

is served by three hotels,

11 restaurants, a helipad,

dive centre and marina. It

is being developed by Oil

Park Development Company,

owned by the PIF.

The highlight of

regenerative tourism

Aiming to be top tier in terms of

destination appeal, Amaala Triple

Bay Marina and Yacht Club is

a regenerative tourism project

undertaken by Red Sea Global (RSG)

in partnership with Monaco Marina

Management M3. Designed from

the outset to earn La Belle Classe

Destinations certification from Yacht

The promenade at the heart of Sindalah Island.

Club de Monaco, it is a three-phase

project.

The master plan for phase one of

the marina has LEED pre-certification

and is much enhanced by natural

landscaping and ecosystems, and

the Corallium Marine Life Institute,

an on-site research centre for the

conservation of marine habitat. The

institute, housed in a stunning building

designed by HKS in the shape of a

rock formation, sits as the centrepiece

of a 120-berth marina,

which has its own sailing

academy. In 2027, it will

host the finish line of The

Ocean Race.

Top tier resorts,

residences, recreational

and wellness facilities and

even a private aviation

terminal managed

by the international

airport, position Amaala

as a high-end tourist

facility – and one with

high standards for

sustainability. Features

include: a 250MW

photovoltaic solar park; a 700MW/

hr battery energy storage system;

advanced transmission and distribution

lines; and a 37 million litre/8.14

million gallon desalination plant

that uses 100% renewable energy.

The objective is to achieve a zero

carbon footprint that goes beyond

environmental sustainability and

focuses on a regenerative impact on

the environment. By 2040, it is hoped

that 30% of local ecosystems will be

under conservation.


29

INNOVATION

QUALITY

COMMITMENT

• Full line of hydraulic boat handling equipment

• Yard, self-propelled, and highway models

• Open frame design to maximize flexibility and efficiency

Kropf Industrial also supplies mobile

boat lifts, as well as steel or HDPE

pipe floating docks, and steel floating

breakwaters.

www.kropfindustrial.com info@kropfindustrial.com 888.480.3777

CHARTER & BOAT SHARE

Freedom Boat Club’s

location at Altea

Marina in Alicante,

Spain.

Subscription

culture drives boat

share prospects

The boat share industry is proving popular and fast-moving, with both new

ventures and long-established clubs enjoying success. Companies are

optimistic for a future where ‘subscription culture’ continues to help transition

boating from an expensive luxury to a mainstream, family activity. Charlotte

Niemiec reports

The market for boat share is growing

at an annual rate of 6.7%, according

to statistics from The Business

Research Company, having expanded

from $17.75 billion in 2023 to $18.94

billion in 2024. The boost stems from

shifting travel and leisure trends, a

growing love for water-based activities

post-COVID, consumer demand for

eco-friendly, sustainable experiences

over material possessions, the rise of

convenient peer-to-peer boat rental

platforms, savvier marketing directed at

a younger generation via social media,

and new technology to manage it all.

Consequently, the market is predicted

to keep thriving and reach $24.46

billion by 2028.

For boaters

looking to get out on

the water without the

commitment of boat

ownership, there

are plenty of options

available, from yacht

charter to boat clubs,

booking via apps or

taking out multi-year

memberships.

The world’s first

boat club was USbased

Freedom Boat

Club, established

in Florida in 1989.

Today, it is also

the world’s largest,

having seen its membership grow from

20,000 to 60,000 in the last five years.

“Our location count has increased

from 170 to more than 400 locations

worldwide since 2019,” says president

Cecil Cohn. Another US-based

company founded in 2002, Carefree

Boat Club, has expanded out to more

than 150 locations, primarily in the US.

In the UK, Beyonder launched in 2021

under the wider company boatfolk,

which owns 11 marinas in the country.

Last year, Beyonder added two new

locations to its network – Portland

Marina in Dorset and Conwy Marina in

North Wales – in addition to its location

on the Solent in Hampshire.

Boat share offers flexibility

to fit different lifestyles

(Image: Freedom’s location in Greater Toronto).


31


Freedom’s location at

Bates Wharf Marina,

Chertsey, UK.

Sharing trends

holding strong

Commenting on boat sharing’s

surge in popularity, Beyonder’s

group commercial director, Dominic

Zammit, believes it is likely part of a

wider cultural take-up of ‘subscription

services’. He anticipates the market will

only increase, because it provides a

low-risk way to explore boating for the

first time while offering flexibility that

fits into different lifestyles. However,

it’s proving attractive not just for the

young or inexperienced, he adds, but

as an option that “has also proven

popular with older boaters as a way to

‘keep their feet wet’ once owning and

maintaining their own boat becomes

too cumbersome.”

Freedom’s Cohn believes boat

share will continue to grow as a

complementary model to ownership.

It is a natural solution to the growing

demand for more sustainable, costeffective

ways to enjoy recreational

activities, he says, and is likely to

attract the next generation of younger,

more diverse boaters. “As technology

continues to evolve – both on and

off the water – we believe there is

incredible opportunity to deliver

solutions catered around enhancing

the member experience and optimising

their time on the water.”

Croatia-based Booking Manager

provides management software for

companies worldwide, helping them

manage their fleets and ensure boats

are always available. Its founder and

CEO, Marko Gnjidić, agrees that

“generally, over the past ten years,

charter has become less niche.

Catamarans took over, crewed or

skippered charter became more

common and in demand, and the

public perception of what cruising is

has changed,” he says. “What we’ve

witnessed in the past five years is a

democratisation of charter. A boat

holiday is no longer reserved for

passionate sailors only, but also families,

groups of friends, or even single people

wanting to meet others and generally

people who used to book an all-inclusive

resort stay in the past. This brings new

challenges to the industry, from boat

equipment and sustainability to marina

services. All these questions will ignite

new trends that we will start to see more

of in the future.”

The biggest boost to the industry was

COVID-19, where travel restrictions

and the relative safety boating provided

in terms of isolation made it very

attractive, and this trend has held up.

Cohn says: “The boating boom that

we saw during and after COVID has

absolutely held strong. While the initial

surge in interest was unprecedented,

we continue to grow our overall

membership with consistent demand

from both members and franchise

partners as awareness continues to

build around the benefits of the boat

share model.”

Why choose to share a boat over

owning one? Freedom’s Cohn says

people are beginning to realise the

flexibility and convenience of boat

sharing over ownership. Factors like

the increasing costs of boat ownership,

maintenance and storage, and the

appeal of accessing a wide variety of

boats and locations

have all contributed

to this growth.

Younger generations

are embracing the

boat share model,

which offers key

advantages such

as eliminating the

financial commitment

of buying a new

or pre-owned

boat, including the

maintenance and

repairs, storage and

insurance. It also

avoids many of the

time commitments, such as trailering,

cleaning and even fuelling the boats.

Beyonder’s Zammit adds: “It’s no

secret that the costs of having a

boat can really add up. With a boat

subscription you get access to new

vessels at a cheaper rate than buying

a boat with all the associated costs

such as berthing, routine maintenance

and repairs included in the price.

Additionally, we find that for some

customers it’s a great way of testing out

whether boat ownership is worthwhile

for them, it gives you the chance to try

it out for a couple of years before you

commit fully.”

Win-win

The advantages are not just for

boaters, but present many opportunities

for marinas, too. Beyonder chose to

incorporate integration with marinas

into its business plan from the start. “As

part of the boatfolk family, integrating

with marinas was always going to

be core to how we operate,” explains

Zammit. The company’s berthing

team looks after boaters and its boat

care crew services the vessels. The

goal is to give customers a seamless

experience, with all the privileges of

other berth holders. “We find that this

connection with the marina team makes

it even easier for customers to ask

for advice or recommendations from

our expert crew when needed, which

is particularly valuable for boating

newbies or those not local to the area

they’re boating in.”

Cohn highlights how having a boat

club operate out of a marina can add

substantially to the bottom line. “As


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a boat club operator, we can provide

marinas stable and consistent slip

rental revenuefrom a single corporate

tenant, typically across several slips

and with longer term leases,” Cohn

says. Boat clubs can also add to

marina’s upland rent roll with sales

offices, clubhouses and floating

offices. The higher volume of use of

the boats in Freedom’s fleet translates

to significantly higher per-slip fuel

sales, with boats often filling-up daily

or twice-per-day. Lastly, on average,

Freedom boats are used at least ten

times more than a traditionally owned

boat, resulting in more marina traffic

and increased ancillary revenue

from amenities such as restaurants,

equipment rentals, bait and tackle, and

ice.

Membership models

Freedom’s membership model requires

members to pay a one-time initiation

fee and monthly membership dues,

in exchange for a varied selection

of boats across their home club’s

locations and access to all locations

worldwide. Members have unlimited

access to book boats and select the

make and model that suits them that

day. Beyonder’s membership model is

similar, with a subscription lasting a

year and granting members access to

boats at all its UK locations. Its online

booking system allows members

to secure boats up to six months in

advance, but the company also offers

unlimited spontaneous (within 48

hours) bookings if boats are available

– ideal for the unpredictable English

weather!

Even for smaller companies,

managing a fleet of boats and ensuring

there is always a boat available when

a member needs one is a complex

operation, and technology has been

a key driver behind their ability to do

so. “Technology plays a key role in

our business to enhance the member

experience and support operational

efficiencies across our business,”

says Freedom. The company uses a

proprietary mobile app that makes it

easy for members to reserve boats,

manage their memberships and

find helpful information about their

club locations. Internally, it uses

software to track fleet maintenance,

streamline scheduling and automate

communication between its teams and

members.

Vital technology

Croatia-based Booking Manager

provides management software for

companies worldwide, including the

US, Caribbean and Asia, although

most of its clients are in the busy

Mediterranean region. “In a nutshell,

it is a complete back-office software

solution for fleet operators to manage

the boat availability, contracts, invoicing,

CRM and much more,” Gnjidić says.

“On the other side, it is a B2B platform

connecting fleet operators with brokers

that can log-in online and search or

book available yachts in real-time

for their clients, choosing from a

database of over 10,000 boats available

worldwide.”

For fleet operators, the company

provides both a local and a cloud

solution, depending on their needs,

and for brokers it has an online access

where they can easily search and

book yachts. It also provides both with

websites, search engine widgets or API

connection to present the boats and

availability online.

Booking Manager has chosen not

to provide its management software

to marinas as well. “We made the

decision several years ago to focus on

charter specifically,” Gnjidić explains.

“This allows us to concentrate all our

development efforts on one sector and

provide innovative, up-to-date solutions

to our clients.” For example, it recently

launched the first real-time solution for

booking a skipper, addressing another

hurdle its clients needed to solve.


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Carefree Boat Club of Hampton’s Landing,

part of the Carefree Boat Club of DMV

locations.

Sharing the benefits:

welcoming boat clubs

Boat share offers maximum convenience for boaters, but it offers plenty of

benefits for marinas, too. Inviting boat clubs into a marina can be a low-cost

way to boost revenue and make the area a more vibrant, attractive place

for visitors and locals. Charlotte Niemiec talks to marina owner Nicolas A.

Mastroianni III, CEO and principal of US-based Carefree Boat Club and JetRide

Holdings.

boat costs and insurance.” Many

marinas can even successfully operate

with existing staff until membership

grows to around 150 members, at

which point additional resources may

be needed, he added.

A positive trend

Boat-sharing is trending in a positive

direction (see Market Update,

p.31). Over the past five years, the

industry has seen significant growth

and evolution, driven by shifting

consumer preferences, more advanced

technologies and societal trends. A key

driver has been the broader consumer

shift towards prioritising experiences

over material possessions, Mastroianni

explains.

There’s no doubt COVID-19 helped

the industry, too, as there was an

upsurge of interest in boating as

a safe, outdoors activity. Carefree

saw significant membership growth

from 2020 to 2022, reflecting this

wave of enthusiasm and, while boat

sales declined sharply after the

initial pandemic boom, Carefree’s

membership growth remained steady.

“Additionally, we’re seeing an

interesting post-pandemic trend: many

individuals who purchased boats during

the pandemic are now choosing to

Approaching its twenty-fifth

anniversary, Carefree Boat Club

was founded in Virginia in 2002

and has grown to become one

of the premier boat clubs in the

US, with more than 150 locations.

Mastroianni is not just its CEO, but

is also a marina owner uniquely

placed to appreciate the symbiotic

relationship between boat club and

marina.

“As the owner of three marinas,

I’m constantly looking for turnkey

solutions to grow my bottom line,”

he says, and welcoming a boat

club is one way to boost revenue.

There is a growing trend among

marinas choosing this route as

part of their operations, according

to Mastroianni, and for several

good reasons. It increases revenue

per slip, because membership

dues from a single slip can

generate eight to ten times the

revenue compared to a traditional

lease to an individual boat

owner. It reduces slip waiting

lists because boat clubs can

provide immediate access to a

fleet of boats. It also diversifies

revenue streams because

the increased foot traffic that

comes with a boat club – often

ten times higher – drives

additional sales across the

marina, from fuel and food and

beverages, to apparel, fishing

equipment and even boating

lessons.

For example, “the upfront

investment required to

introduce a Carefree Boat

Club in a marina is relatively

low (as low as US$200k),

which primarily covers

marketing, staff, some upfront

Staff prepping boats at Carefree

Boat Club of Charlotte located on

Lake Norman.



Carefree Boat Club of Nautilus Point, part

of the Carefree Boat Club of DMV locations.

sell them and join a boat club instead,”

says Mastroianni. “Often, this decision

stems from the realisation that boat

ownership requires more time and

financial investment than anticipated.

However, their love for boating has

endured, leading them to embrace the

convenience, flexibility and stress-free

experience a boat club offers.”

“By taking care of the ‘headaches’

associated with boat ownership, such

as insurance, maintenance, cleaning,

winterisation and dock fees, boat club

members are able to enjoy all the

benefits without the drawbacks,” he

adds.

Membership model

While boating has historically been an

exclusive hobby, Carefree recognises

that many more people wish to boat

than have been able to and it has

developed its membership model to

cater to this demand.

Unlike boat rental clubs whose

revenue is ad hoc, in order to enjoy

Carefree’s fleet users must join as

members by signing a three- to fiveyear

contract, paying a one-time

initiation fee and monthly dues for the

duration of their contract. This benefits

Carefree in that it is sustainable,

recurring revenue and, in return, it

maintains a strict 10:1 member-tovessel

ratio to ensure availability for its

members. “What this means is that our

members are able to boat when they

Father and son enjoy a day of fishing with

Carefree Boat Club of Jacksonville.

want and do not need to plan weeks

in advance, as is the case with many

other member-based boat clubs.”

The arrangement suits boaters, too.

“While the boat club model lends itself

to new boaters who are interested

in taking up the pastime but without

committing to the considerable financial

investment of a boat, we are also

seeing a lot of seasoned boaters joining

our clubs,” says Mastroianni. Many

of these members have first-hand

experience with the challenges of boat

ownership and find the convenience of

a boat club extremely appealing. “The

ability to simply book a boat online,

arrive to find it fuelled and ready, enjoy

a concierge-level dock and on-water

experience, and then walk away at the

end of the day without any hassle is a

game-changer,” he explains.

The company targets three different

demographic groups with distinct

preferences and lifestyles. The first

includes affluent individuals who are

well-educated, health-conscious and

passionate about travel. They enjoy

luxury experiences such as cruises

and watersports, making them ideal

candidates for high-end boating

products and exclusive waterfront

experiences.

The second group comprises young

families who prioritise community

engagement and outdoor recreation.

For them, pontoon boats are a popular

choice, offering a balance of comfort,

space and family-friendly fun on the

water.

Lastly – and unusually, in this

industry – the company caters to

dedicated fishermen, many of whom

have owned boats before. Unlike the

other segments, they tend to travel less

and are more focused on the practical

aspects of boating, seeking reliable,

well-equipped vessels that enhance

their fishing experiences.

A Carefree membership means users

are not limited to a select few brands

and have a diverse selection of boats

to choose from, including almost all

premium brands available in the marine

space today. This includes centre

consoles, RIBs, cruisers, pontoons and

tritoons. Boats generally range in size


37


Cruising at Carefree Boat Club at The

Wharf, part of the Carefree Boat Club

DMV locations.

from 19-27ft (6-8m), with some clubs

offering boats exceeding 30ft (9m)

in their fleets. Carefree partners with

leading manufacturers, including Sea

Fox, Bennington, Godfrey, Hurricane,

Smoker Craft, Sailfish, Chaparral,

Robalo, Highfield and Vision Marine,

to ensure its members have access to

high-quality, reliable vessels tailored to

their needs.

On-site training

To Mastroianni, ensuring members are

thoroughly versed in the waterways

of his marinas is an important

consideration. “The perception that

members are reckless or dangerous

does not ring true; in fact, I have found

my legacy boaters are sometimes

less conscientious/careful when at

the helm! Properly trained and armed

with a float plan for each time they go

out, members are generally slower

and safer when navigating around my

marinas.”

Carefree therefore offers classes and

training for less experienced boaters.

All members must complete a robust

course of close-quarters/open-water

training before taking a boat out, and

members can take refresher lessons

any time for free. Carefree is also the

only club recognised by the National

Safe Boating Council, with trainers

certified by the National Safe Boating

Carefree members from Carefree Boat Club

of South Florida enjoy a boat day

Council as on-water instructors.

Mastroianni has also found the

presence of a boat club encourages

marinas to adopt a higher standard for

their slip renters. Disrespectful, unclean

or late-paying tenants are no longer

tolerated, as each slip has the potential

to generate far greater revenue when

dedicated to a boat club, he says.

“This shift has not only improved the

marina’s profitability but also its overall

environment and reputation.”

Company operation

In October 2023, JetRide Holdings,

whose subsidiary, JetRide, is known

for its boat club technology, acquired

Carefree Boat Club, bringing its

top-tier reservation and fleet

management systems into

Carefree’s operations. The

company used this tailor-made

system until the end of February,

when it implemented a custombuilt

CRM platform to manage

the end-to-end marketing, sales

and operations for its clubs. The

platform is specifically designed

for the boat-sharing industry, to

improve operational efficiency,

grow revenue and save on

expenses.

Since its acquisition, Carefree

Boat Club has further expanded,

acquiring six locations in the

Greater Washington, DC area

and two in Jacksonville, Florida

in August 2024. Meanwhile,

JetRide has continued growing,

opening its seventeenth location

in Englewood, Florida in September

2024 and its eighteenth in Marco Island

this January.

While most of its boat clubs are

located in the US, Carefree has a

global presence, with locations in the

British Virgin Islands, Panama and

the Philippines. Its growth strategy

is focused on expanding within

the US and it is open to exploring

opportunities wherever there is a

thriving boating community, be it

coastal or inland. It is particularly

interested in connecting with

independent boat clubs that may

wish to convert to a Carefree model,

independent marinas and marina

groups looking to introduce a boat club

and entrepreneurs.

Mastroianni predicts: “As society

continues to embrace the principles of

the sharing economy, the boat-sharing

model is poised to become increasingly

mainstream. Its affordability, access

to a variety of boats, and convenience

appeal particularly to younger

generations, including those who may

not have previously considered boat

ownership. Adoption is expected to

be especially strong among clubs

that integrate technology into their

operations, offering features like

streamlined booking, captained rides,

and advanced navigation assistance.

It’s projected that 50% of the marinas in

America will have a boat club within five

years. These innovations align with the

expectations of a tech-savvy audience,

making boating more accessible and

enjoyable than ever before.”


EVENTS

AMI Expo –

energising and inspiring

Over 1,200 people gathered in the Broward County Convention Center in Fort

Lauderdale, Florida at the tail end of January to attend the annual Association

of Marina Industries (AMI) Conference & Expo, an attendee increase of around

10% on the 2024 event.

Now in its twenty-third year

(although formerly branded as the

International Marina & Boatyard

Conference), AMI Conference &

Expo kick starts every calendar year

with marina-specific networking and

educational opportunities. The event

offers different types of learning

experiences complemented by

the opportunity to talk to wideranging

providers of equipment

and services in the exhibition

hall. Nearly 120 exhibiting

companies took part for 2025.

“This year’s conference had

some of the best content yet,”

AMI chairman Rick Chapman

CMM told Marina World. “I

always leave the previous year

wondering how we will outdo

ourselves and somehow we

always do. Chad Foster inspired

us, Dr Rebecca Heiss energised

us, and all the breakout sessions

educated us.”

“The breakouts provided information

on coping with extreme weather,

advancements in environmentallyfriendly

shrink wrap solutions, preparing

industry leaders for corporate change,

and an energising women’s leadership

panel.”

“We set the bar high in 2025, so we

have our work cut out for us as we head

to Daytona Beach next year. We are

excited to be back in Daytona Beach

where we had some excellent events

in 2022 and 2023. The Ocean Center

is really the perfect fit for our annual

conference.”

The keynote presentations are

always talking points for the duration

of the conference, and delegates were

truly inspired this year. Chad Foster’s

‘Blind Ambition’, a moving example

of how to overcome adversity and

actually turn adversity into advantage,

drew on Foster’s personal experience

of losing his sight in his early twenties.

He discussed his time of despair and

self-pity, and the excuses he made

for not being able to do things, before

becoming the first blind person to

ever attend Harvard Business School,

becoming a double black diamond

snow skier, a sports enthusiast, avid

reader, and progressing a brilliant

career in software.

His message to the audience

was to reach beyond the immediate

circumstances and choose your

response to adversity, breaking free

from self-pity and deciding to opt for

happiness. Foster provided suggestions

for turning disability or adversity into

strength. These included not accepting

your own excuses for not being able

to do things and rejecting others who

reinforce that atmosphere and attitude.

Courage is doing something despite the

presence of fear.

His presentation was rewarded with a

standing ovation.

Dr Rebecca Heiss took the floor for

the keynote address on the second

day with a talk entitled ‘Navigating

the Rising Waters of Change’. As

a stress physiologist, evolutionary

biologist, entrepreneur and author,

Heiss delivered a very interactive

and dynamic session based upon not

ignoring stress but instead facing it,

taming it, and changing it.

Her message is that failure happens;

but letting it control you is no good

for the mind or the body. Having the

courage and the wherewithal to keep

pushing on and turning things

around by positive thinking and

positive actions not only gives you

a more pleasant approach to life

but a healthier one.

Heiss challenged everyone to

do something amazing, fulfilling

and scary. Being in control of

yourself is the key to enjoyment

and being in a good space, but

failure to dare allows complacency

and stress to overcome.

In addition to the much lauded

keynotes, further highlights were

the second annual Women’s

Leadership panel, moderated by

Michele Goldsmith of Soundings Trade

Only, the marina and yard tour (visiting

Pier 66, Las Olas Marina and Harbour

Towne Marina), two pre-conference

sessions and 25 break-out sessions.

The latter were divided into five tracks:

leadership; operations; design and

engineering; people management; and

future trends.


41

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Untitled-3 1 19/06/2024 20:18

MARINA CERTIFICATION

Revising standards for

a changing industry

by Mel Symes

The past decade’s growing societal challenges and shifting boating trends

have prompted a significant evolution in marina certification. Criteria are

being revised across the board to contend with climate resilience, increased

regulation, technological advances, new boating markets and the need for

better ocean stewardship.

Whether accreditation, certification

or an international eco-label, obtaining

these distinctions can demonstrate

commitment to high standards and

provide quality assurance to boaters

and visitors. Beyond serving as a

promotional and brand recognition tool

for marinas, the collective process of

striving for continuous improvement

can also strengthen company culture,

assist with building more productive

community relationships and contribute

towards cost savings and reduced

environmental impact.

TYHA’s Code of Practice and

the Gold Anchor

Marina design consultancy firm Marina

Projects is currently working with The

Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) on

a major revision of its influential Code

of Practice (CoP), due to be published

in time for the ICOMIA World Marinas

Conference in Venice this October. This

document, which originally formed the

basis of the Gold Anchor accreditation

scheme, is being updated to reflect the

modern international marina landscape

and provide guidance for the future.

“The increased international use of

the Code, coupled with its applicability

to a broad spectrum of jurisdictions

and operational factors (e.g. tidal

differences, boating behaviour) is

fundamental to the update and also

renders it more appropriately structured

as a Code of Practice, offering

guidance and resource orientation, than

as a standard with stricter parameters,”

says Marina Projects managing director

Mike Ward.

“Reaching across the industry,

a stakeholder-led process already

includes various working groups,

discussions with infrastructure suppliers

to incorporate structural design details,

extensive stakeholder engagement, and

benchmarking against existing codes

and standards,” adds Simon Goodhead.

Ward describes the complexity of

preparing a document that aims to be

fit for purpose for the next couple of

decades: “The current rate of change

within the industry is unprecedented,

compared with an industry that has

been, up to now, fairly slow-paced. If

we consider the uncertainty involved in

changes coming to vessel propulsion

as an example, we’re looking at

what amounts to a space race for

the best solution. Marina designers

consequently face a significant

dilemma in the early planning stages,

catering for potential infrastructure

developments (hydrogen, biofuels,

electricity, etc.) with future needs still

unknown.

In terms of future-proofing, we

need to acknowledge changes in

attitudes, with modern leisure boaters

demanding a better quality of services.

Beyond this, society’s increasing

awareness of our environmental impact

is also generating a requirement to

adapt infrastructure and operations.

Regarding the need to accommodate

diverse and evolving fleet needs, we’re

seeing that marinas might wish to

explore adaptable pontoon solutions.

If we analyse emerging markets,

where the focus is on attracting more

newcomers to boating, promoting a

positive experience with wider fairways

and more robust pontoons becomes an

important consideration.”

Ward explains the relationship

between marina design, the Code of

Practice and Gold Anchor accreditation:

“If the marina’s design and

infrastructure provide the foundation

for sustained operational excellence,

the CoP comprises the methodology

and then ongoing accreditation is the

validation.”

Once the new CoP is published,

the Gold Anchor Award scheme will

undergo some revision in response

to the new criteria. Directly involved

in the task to update the CoP, TYHA’s

general manager, Jon White, describes

additional advantages for marina

operators.

“One of the major benefits of

accreditation relates to one of the most

positive features of the boating industry.

As a collaborative and relatively open

community, the role of our assessors,

who operate across 37 countries, is not

merely to tick off boxes, but to transmit

good practices, offer recommendations,

and provide opportunities for applicants

to make improvements before the final

evaluation,” he says.

“Beyond this, we find that marina


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operators value an external

and experienced perspective

to check that they are steering

the right course. Particularly

in the case of individually

owned marinas, where time

is taken up with the everyday

challenges of running a

marina, it can be tremendously

helpful to hear about how the

industry is evolving and what

is going on around you. In a

broader context, the extensive

international research and

reflection involved in bringing

the CoP up to date will

help support the long-term

sustainability of marinas

across the industry.”

Blue Flag International

With over 35 years’ experience

supporting marinas in their sustainable

development efforts, Blue Flag, a

programme of the Foundation for

Environmental Education (FEE), is

undertaking a revision of its global

criteria within the framework of the FEE

“GAIA 20:30” strategy. This initiative

aims to enhance the programme’s

focus on critical areas such as climate

action, biodiversity preservation and

pollution mitigation, incorporating

insights from UN Tourism initiatives,

WHO guidelines, and stakeholder input.

The revised criteria will also elevate

education, services, accessibility and

safety, while striving to develop even

more community engagement and

responsiveness to local needs.

Furthermore, Blue Flag is adapting to

operate in accordance with upcoming

EU requirements and directives. This

counts on an evolution of existing

processes, which currently leverage

a network of primarily non-profit civil

society organisations, expert juries,

together with on-site assessments.

A cost-effective model for applicants

up to now, the move to more of a

certification dynamic may require

the engagement of external auditors,

potentially impacting costs – which

the organisation is keen to keep to

a minimum. Cost accessibility for

marinas, regardless of their size, is also

an important consideration to ensure

continuity.

Another key strategic challenge lies

in balancing the benefits of international

harmonisation with the need for

flexibility to accommodate diverse local

contexts (conservation of Posidonia

oceanica beds in the Mediterranean

is one good example). As Blue Flag

international director, Johann Durand,

notes, “ensuring the relevance and

capacity of global standards to retain

an impact at local level is paramount.”

In terms of accessibility for new

programme participants, Blue Flag

provides comprehensive support,

including a global repository of best

practices, a network of national NGOs

providing resources and methodological

support, and workshops for knowledge

dissemination. Involvement in initiatives

such as the UN Tourism Glasgow

Declaration for the Decarbonisation of

the Tourism Sector, steers Blue Flag

towards empowering local communities

and stakeholders to develop climate

adaptation strategies in destinations.

Blue Flag anticipates maintaining

existing criteria for the near term,

followed by a phased transition to the

new framework. The organisation is

actively collaborating with certification

bodies, national accreditation bodies,

and its network of national member

organisations to manage this change.

Clean Harbours

(Ports Propres)

“Ports Propres” (Clean Harbours)

distinguishes itself from other

international marina conformity

assessment systems by being based

on a formal, global standard—ISO

18725:2024, Requirements for clean

harbours and active biodiversity

harbours, coastal or inland marinas,

mixed purpose harbours and dry

stacks. This standard is objectively and

independently verified by an official ISO

certification body and revised every five

years. Developed by UPACA (France)

with representatives from 68 countries,

ISO 18725:2024 is currently unique

as the world’s only environmental ISO

standard for marinas.

“Ports Propres” (Clean Harbours)

certification was developed in

2008 and later extended to include

Active Diversity Harbours (Actifs en

biodiversité), a secondary tier that

goes beyond general environmental

management and pollution control and

focuses on biodiversity preservation and

enhancement. The ISO was published

late last year, however nearly 50 French

Marin Managemen

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45


The FEE programme Blue Flag has been

supporting marinas in their quest for

sustainability for over 35 years.

marinas have already embraced the new

standard and achieved certification. The

certification is given for a period of three

years, with an inspection every year.

Non-compliancy results in the ISO being

withdrawn.

Véronique Tourrel-Clément,

managing director of UPACA, sets

out some of the attractions: “Marinas

welcome the programme as it is valued

by both boaters and local authorities

as demonstrating a commitment to

environmental stewardship. Moreover,

and this was an unexpected benefit,

it provides a unifying framework—the

environment—for team management

across all marina activities. It’s also

been gratifying to see that marinas are

increasingly opting to attain the full

ISO and adopting both elements of the

standard.

The ISO standard establishes a

baseline for environmental performance,

balancing the needs of all the

stakeholders. To inspire even greater

achievement, I’ve added an annex

of optional Good Practices. These

encourage marinas to go above and

beyond, implementing measures such

as wastewater recycling (exceeding the

mandatory requirements for water and

energy conservation), transitioning to

green energy, and installing habitats like

artificial reefs or nurseries, insect hotels,

or planting native species in gardens to

promote biodiversity.

For newcomers, the standard

provides a comprehensive overview

with guidance on environmentally

sound marina management, enabling

them to understand the full scope

of pertinent marina operations and

identify areas for action. The standard’s

first requirement is a thorough

environmental study

of the port. This study

includes analysing

marina activities

and their associated

pollution (treated

and untreated),

proposing solutions,

and assessing external

pollution sources – which might include

industrial or agricultural runoff from

a river, or runoff from a nearby busy

road, containing heavy metals or

hydrocarbons. The study culminates

in an environmental status report,

generating an action plan for future

improvements.

A core goal of “Ports Propres”

(Clean Harbours) is to create more

accessible and inclusive marinas,

acting as centres for environmental

awareness, communication, and

biodiversity initiatives. Meeting the

standard’s criteria requires marinas

to actively seek the expertise of

universities, research institutions,

and conservation associations, and

communicate effectively with all

stakeholders. Undertaking this work

and establishing local solutions helps

reduce the environmental impact of

marinas, protect natural resources and

increase environmental awareness in

local communities.

Blue Star Marina

The Blue Star Marina programme

is owned by Belgium non-profit

association, the International Marine

Certification Institute (IMCI). Like Gold

Anchor accreditation, opportunities for

marinas start with a basic entry-level

option and extend to 5 Blue Stars or

certification with various levels of the

ISO 13687.

IMCI is also currently revising its

criteria having recently introduced

separate awards for winter storage

and yacht services. The association is

also progressing towards finalising a

new environmental award that can also

be obtained retrospectively for those

marinas that already fly the Blue Stars

flag.

IMCI’s marina certification manager,

Falk Morgenstern, himself an

experienced marina manager who

secured 5 Blue Stars for his marina,

explains: “Our certification serves as

both a mark of quality for customers

and a powerful tool for marina owners

and managers seeking operational

improvements. While particularly

relevant for larger superyacht marinas

and groups, the benefits extend to all

marinas.”

He recognises, however, the amount

of work involved in earning certification:

“Although implementing the programme

requires a fair amount of initial effort,

the long-term gains are substantial:

improved marina profile and reputation,

streamlined internal processes,

simplified daily work for staff, and a

strong external framework.”

Morgenstern also believes that future

boaters will wield their consumer power

like supermarket shoppers, demanding

environmentally responsible and

high-quality marinas. In that scenario,

“a marina needs to be authentically

certified to validate their claims of

management and environmental

responsibility and build trust with their

customers.”

A part of the revision, IMCI is also

responding to interest from other

countries to set up the award on a

more international basis and he invites

marina groups to get in touch.


BUYING & SELLING MARINAS

Megayacht marina opportunity in Phuket

The Na-Ranong family, well known for having played an instrumental role in the development of the thriving tourism

industry in Phuket, Thailand, is looking for investors for a world-class marina development on the east coast of Phuket at

Sapam Bay.

This tract of land at Sapam Bay has been

approved for developing one of the last

marinas in Phuket and is available for sale

or long-term lease.

The land, which is being offered at

a time when the Thai Government is

prioritising marina and cruise liner port

projects to enhance the country’s role

as a regional marine tourism hub, has

an existing Marine Operating Licence in

place and comes with a pre-approved

Environmental Impact Assessment and

construction permits.

Stategically located just 20-30

minutes away from Phuket Old Town

and in a scenic position, the marina will

be able to host yachts up to 50m (164ft)

in sheltered waters, and large vessels

of 50-80m (164-262ft) outside the

basin. A total of 50-60 yachts owned by

both private and commercial clients will

be accommodated.

The marina plot of 6.08ha (15 acres)

offers ample space for top-tier facilities

and an adjacent 6.92ha (17 acres) is

available for dry dock facilities, a luxury

clubhouse or bespoke amenities for

yacht owners. A further 7.9ha (19.5

acres) is offered as an additional

opportunity, if required, for the

development of luxurious residences

with stunning views of Phang Nga Bay

and the Andaman Sea.

Krystal Prakaikaew Na-Ranong

says the family is flexible in terms of

either offering the site as a long-term

lease project or for sale to the right

buyer. There has already been interest

amongst investors in Thailand and

Europe.

Phuket Governor, Sophon

Suwannarat, endorses the opportunity:

“Phuket is fast becoming the boating

capital of Asia, and we welcome

the development of this marina site,

which will not only attract more high-

spending international tourists, but

will considerably enhance Phuket’s

economic growth. There is a real need

for marina capacity in Phuket to grow

and we applaud this development

opportunity, which will significantly

enhance Thailand’s nautical tourism

credentials.”

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Andaman

Sea’, Phuket is famous for its yearround

marine tourism and boasts a

vibrant yachting scene, along with a

thriving scuba and snorkelling industry,

attracting millions of tourists each year.

Investors will be able to capitalise

on strong returns thanks to Phuket’s

position as one of the world’s most

popular destinations, with tourist

numbers set to double by 2030. Marina

developments deliver strong economic

benefits to the local community by

attracting high-net-worth individuals

and megayacht owners from across

the globe, positioning the project for

success. This will be one of the last

marina opportunities in Phuket and

thus an extremely attractive investment,

especially as marinas with megayacht

capacity are rare.

With access to the full parcel,

investors will be able to develop the site

in a phased manner as required.

Enquiries: pr@theslatephuket.com

WHY WORK WITH CHRISTIE & CO?

The Leading Leisure Business & Property Advisors

Considering your options

in 2025?

Speak to the experts:

We provide a full range

of brokerage, valuation,

and consultancy

services across the UK’s

marina sector

Our dedicated teams

have unrivalled

local, regional, and

national knowledge

and contacts

We conduct a thorough

marketing process

in co-ordination with

our in-house team to

achieve the best results

for our clients

Our partner companies,

Christie Finance &

Christie Insurance, can

arrange funding and

insurance for buyers

and owners

leisure@christie.com

+44 (0) 333 034 1756


47


Rick Roughen

Beware of ‘bypass’ buyers

Seeking professional help when you consider selling your marina is not an

unnecessary expense but a measure that will help you achieve a smoother

sale process and optimise your sale value. US-based Rick Roughen, a

commercial maritime broker with National Marina Sales (NMS), gives guidance.

Over the past ten years the marina

sales and acquisitions market has

grown – slowly at first, then steadily as

most investment returns from acquired

facilities began to exceed expectations.

Buyers were cautiously bullish as

they realised that the industry was

significantly trailing in technology and

sophistication, and many still wondered

if this market really could hold its own.

Eventually it became apparent that

opportunities for adding value were

clearly abundant in most marinas

operating across the country. And at

some point, it became crystal clear that

the marina market could indeed render

lucrative returns for investors, and as

a result, the recent and now current

prognosis is that the marina acquisition

market is a highly regarded “space”

for investment. With that, buyers

have confirmed their positive opinion

of the marina industry and are now

aggressively pursuing opportunities

and bolstering their approach to locking

up deals… and the race is on.

This has been positive news in many

respects. Sellers are cashing out and

retiring, some are moving on to acquire

another marina in a different location,

some have transitioned to the idea of

holding on to what they have and are

purchasing additional marinas to bolster

their own portfolios, and others are

wondering what to do next in a ravenous

market that could yield a pile of cash

for their marina asset. But there are

issues and concerns with every positive

shift that inevitably emerge when the

competition heats up and when the

“space” has proven its worth.

Now, more than ever, sellers who

are successful marina operators face

a daunting task as they consider the

idea of whether to sell, how to sell,

when to sell, and to whom? Visions of

being retired occupy the minds of many

who end up walking into a transaction

with their pride and joy, their livelihood

and their nest egg being at risk for a

hungry buyer to take. Many have not

properly prepared themselves or their

operations prior to making that move,

and by chance they suppose it will all

work out with a buyer group that seems

to have everything in order and a “great

reputation.” Again, all of that may be

true, and there may be logic for moving

forward with those folks to get a deal

done. But one should consider the

process, how to prepare, and all that

stands ready to imperil a buyer as he

or she forges ahead into the world of

mergers and acquisitions.

Most marina owners do not have

the experience to prepare, protect and

manage their interests in a high stakes

deal if they elect to engage directly

with buyers in this process. The big

“consolidators” and other sophisticated

investment groups are increasingly

aggressive with acquisition strategies

to subtly achieve buyer advantage and

control in the transaction. By doing so,

they are relegated to checking all the

boxes that will satisfy their investors

and show that they have eliminated

any potential risk they may otherwise

potentially incur in the acquisition. But

that strategy most often translates to a

diminished position for the seller who

may be left with the responsibility to

Above: Taylor Creek Marina in Fort Pierce,

Florida was sold for the second time in less

than three years by NMS and is now in the

hands of a highly regarded consolidator.

Right: Sanibel Island Marina and

Grandma Dot’s Café in southeast Florida

achieved a top of the market sale as the

elderly owner was advised by NMS on all

aspects of the transaction.



The NMS team advised in transactions

to sell Rivertowne Marina in Cincinnati,

Ohio (twice in three years). The second

transaction was to a major acquisition

group which is aggressively expanding the

facility.

pick up the slack or in the worst-case

scenario, have to recognise or accept a

lower value.

The seller could be subject to an

endless chain of diligence requests,

relationship coddling to gain the

seller’s false confidence in a buyer,

escrow holdbacks where sellers sink

their “hooks” into large chunks of the

seller’s cash after closing, and many

other strategies that put them in a

better position to control the deal. It is

not unusual for sellers to realise after

the fact that the “simple contract” their

buyers referred to is really 90 pages

long, that the “quick push” through the

due diligence period they were sold on

really ends up taking many months with

delays and extensions, and assurances

given that “they could close quick with

cash” actually go way beyond what was

expected while the sellers’ facility is

restrained from being available to and

considered by other buyers.

Buyers and their reps are going

directly to marina owners now and

attempting to bypass legitimate advisors

and knowledgeable marina brokers with

the intent to quietly lock up deals and

get paid by the buyer for doing so. The

effort to encourage sellers to sign an

NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement) and/

or an LOI (Letter of Intent) document

can be tempting, but the seller should

be well-advised what he or she is

committing to by doing that.

Many sellers are proud to have

the attention and happy to sign that

document thinking they have skirted

the limelight, the headaches, and the

costs of hiring a professional to look

out for their best interests. After hearing

that their marina is “unique” (and every

marina is) and that there is nothing to

lose (when there most certainly is), it

is tempting to just go ahead and sign.

Unfortunately, in some cases the intent

is to simply tie up the property so they

can have a look, get information and

keep it off the market while they peel

back the layers of issues they will face.

Sellers have been falling for it and the

resulting loss of control of the deal

often leads to gobs of sellers’ money

being left on the table.

We don’t expect the buying activity

to diminish any time soon (or at least

for the next four years) but it’s high time

that sellers pay attention and get some

help. If you are a marina owner and you

Grafton Harbor, Grafton, Illinois is currently on the market with

NMS after the seller lost time and money engaging with an institutional buyer.

are pondering the thought, you should

realise that there is much to know about

how that process really works and

what you can do to protect yourself if

you want to come out ahead. Here are

a handful of those things summarised

into clear terms:

Find a solid marina broker (who

only sells marinas, boatyards and

shipyards). Talk with the broker and

ask as many questions as you can.

Hear your broker’s thoughts and realise

that he or she is there to help you

and to guide you through the process.

Ask up front for an explanation of the

sequence, how they will determine

value (Brokers Opinion of Value), how

they will build your package and how

they will advertise your opportunity.

Be convinced that they are focused on

working for your best interests and that

they can be trusted to keep you out of

unnecessary problems. Be sure they

are well-versed in marina operations

and financial statements. If they have

operational experience, all the better.

Find a good real estate attorney.

Meet with that person and let them

know what you are planning to do. If

you like what you see, then ask your

broker to call that person so they can

begin to work together. Don’t engage

your attorney too soon, but have the

broker do the work for you up front.

Before anything is signed, get it in front

of your attorney to review.

Get an appraisal with an MAI

appraiser and consider doing a Phase

I to understand up front how your

property fares on the environmental

side. Your professionals will advise you

on all the rest.

Do not do it alone.

www.nationalmarinasales.com


49

To be seen in the world of marinas,

you need to be seen in Marina World …

Contact Julia Hallam +44 (0)1621 855 890

juliahallam@marinaworld.co.uk


First time sale for inland marina

Farndon Marina, located on the UK’s River Trent near Newark in

Nottinghamshire, comes to the market for the first time since being

established nigh on 60 years ago.

Originally purchased and developed

by local businessman and boating

enthusiast Mark Ainsworth, Farndon

has subsequently been owned and

managed by Mark’s son Paul and his

wife Janet.

The marina comprises over 300

private berths and

moorings, with berthing

fees and chandlery

sales forming the

backbone of the

business, together

with boat brokerage

and marine services

which incorporate

repair, maintenance

and boat lifting. Recent

investments have been

made in technology

to improve day-to-day

operations and site

security, and to enhance

customer experience.

Amenity buildings including

workshops, visitor facilities and office

space have been developed.

Farndon Marina is a well-established

business with several opportunities

for a new owner, including the

development of holiday park, motor

home and touring caravan facilities,


extension of the boat brokerage

business, and the potential to introduce

floating lodges (subject to the

necessary planning permissions).

“Since my father passed away

over 16 years ago, Janet and I have

continued as custodians of this

incredible business,” Paul Ainsworth

explains. “We have consistently

invested in improving the facilities

and customer experience, and have

a fantastic team, who are and will

continue to be great assets to the

marina. We are at that time in our

lives where it makes sense to

pass the reigns to new owners.

I’ve been contacted many times

over the years asking if we would

sell, and so this tremendous

opportunity now becomes a

reality.”

Farndon Marina is being

marketed by specialist leisure

property advisor Christie & Co.

Jon Patrick, head of leisure and

development, who is overseeing

the sale process, anticipates that

interest will come from a diverse

range of parties.

Enquiries: leisure@christie.com

FOR SALE: UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO ACQUIRE A THRIVING LEISURE HARBOUR

ON THE UK SOUTH COAST: BEMBRIDGE HARBOUR, ISLE OF WIGHT

Bembridge Harbour was Winner of the Marina of the Year

category in the British Yachting Awards 2024

• Unspoiled 150 acre harbour

• Well-invested asset backed and

profitable business

• Resilient and defensible income

streams with growth opportunities

• Strong visitor rally business

• Pontoon mooring for up to 300

vessels and 250 mid-harbour buoyed

moorings

• Dry-stack with large boatshed,

capacity 60+ boats internally and 45+

boats externally

• New harbour office and berth holder

facilities constructed in 2024

• Planning consent for 13 new cottages

on land overlooking the harbour

Bembridge Harbour, Isle of Wight, is a privately owned harbour with

direct access to the popular sailing waters of the Solent. The current

owners have grown the business and secured planning permission for

further development but now wish to retire. Offers are invited for the

freehold harbour and business as a going concern.

For further information please contact Ian Froome (ifroome@vailwilliams.com) or

Ben Duly (bduly@vailwilliams.com).


51

SMART MARINA

MANAGEMENT

MADE EASY!

Run your marina effortlessly while giving guests the best

experience. With the AanUit app, they can activate and pay

for their mooring, electricity, and water themselves, giving

you more time to focus on what truly matters: providing the

best service for your guests.

Interested? Get in touch with our experts today!

seijsener.com

The choice of professionals

www.roodberg.com

The Original

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Game-changing

remote for boat lifts

After three years of development and testing, BH-USA

has released its all-new Elite boat lift remote control. The

product was introduced at AMI Conference & Expo in Fort

Lauderdale at the end of January.

Development of the remote

control began in 2022 with

the goal of creating a userfriendly

remote that would

simplify installation for boat lift

companies and installers. BH-

USA engineers collaborated

with leading circuit board

manufacturers to develop a

high-performance remote

capable of handling the

demanding conditions of the

boat lift industry.

Following extensive testing

in select markets during the

spring of 2024, the Elite is

now available industry-wide.

Manufactured at BH-USA’s

Longview, Texas facility, each

remote undergoes rigorous

testing to ensure top-tier

quality control. Remotes are

FCC registered, Intertek (ETL)

certified and conform to UL

standards, ensuring they meet

the highest quality control

requirements.

Remotes are available

in single and dual motor

configurations with autostop

functionality, and are

designed for use with Elite

Boat Lift motors and Leeson

Boat Lift motors. They are also

compatible with any singlephase

boat lift motor.

Key features include:

• pre-wired 14-gauge, 5-wire

whip for easy installation

and colour-to-colour wiring

with most Elite motors

• built-in GFCI for added

safety

• reverse compatibility with

GEM remote transmitters

and limit switches, making

replacements simple

• IP-rated, watertight,

lockable cabinet with userfriendly

controls

• Watertight floating key fob

transmitter and extra key

fobs that can easily be

programmed to the remote

• Compatibility with the Lift-

Mate control app

BH-USA is the operating

name of Lift-Tex, Inc and owns

the Elite Electrical brand,

as well as Ultimate Dock

Products and Coastal Series

Boat Lifts.

www.bh-usa.com

Rugged RIB

multi-tasks in

marinas

Estonian company XW Production has introduced the

XW Modular RIB series, a high-performance, versatile,

low-maintenance workboat aimed at marina owners and

operators. Engineered with a modular deck system, the

vessel enables users to adapt quickly to different tasks,

making it ideal for a wide range of harbour operations.

Marina operators

face an ever-changing

set of challenges, from

maintenance and logistics

to emergency response

and personnel transport.

Traditionally, these tasks

require multiple boats,

each built for a specific

role. The XW Modular RIB

eliminates this limitation by

offering a fully customisable

deck layout that can

be reconfigured within

minutes for towing, cargo

or passenger transport,

dive support, patrolling, and

more.

Designed and built in

accordance with strict EU

safety standards, the RIB is

constructed from durable,

marine-grade aluminium for

longevity and reliability. It

also features excellent sea

keeping capability and 1.5

times buoyancy relative to

full load, making it one of the

safest workboats in its class.

“We understand the

evolving needs of marina

operators, and we’ve

designed the XW Modular

RIB to be the most efficient

and cost-effective solution,”

says XW Production board

member Jürgen Visnapuu.

“Instead of investing

in multiple specialised

boats, operators can now

have a single vessel that

transforms to meet any

requirement.”

www.xwmodular.com


53

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Marine Structures

appointed dealer

for Seaflex

Marine Structures has been appointed exclusive Australasian dealer for Seaflex,

the globally renowned supplier of mooring systems for floating structures.

The partnership marks a significant step forward in delivering advanced and

sustainable mooring solutions to the region.

Seaflex is widely recognised for its

innovative elastic mooring systems,

which provide secure, environmentally

friendly and durable solutions for

floating docks, wave attenuators and

other marine applications. With a

reputation built over decades, Seaflex

products have been installed in marine

environments worldwide, offering

unparalleled performance and longevity.

“This partnership is a testament to

our commitment to bringing world-class

marine solutions to the Australasian

market,” said John Hogan, director of

Marine Structures. “Seaflex’s proven

technology aligns perfectly with our

mission to provide sustainable and

reliable mooring systems. We’re excited

to introduce these innovative solutions

to our clients and contribute to the

Boat stands for

all vessel sizes

French company Nautipark is actively promoting a full range of boat stands

suitable for vessels up to 1,000 tonnes. Under the umbrella of ‘Le Ber Français’, the

stands are available throughout Europe, the USA, Asia and Australia.

Customers can choose from Parkup

and Workup, ranges that offer many

configurations for vessels of all sizes. The

company gives every customer advice on

which stand will be able to support the

weight of each boat in a secure and stable

manner.

Stands are CE certified for solid and

secure construction and all have handling

systems such as wheels, forklift truck

passages and pallet truck passages.

All equipment is stored in France and a

technical, commercial and logistical team

is available to give full customer support.

Company director, Thomas Durand,

emphasises: “Our team of professionals

future of marine infrastructure.”

Robin Wilhelmsson, sales leader of

Seaflex, also shared his enthusiasm

for the collaboration: “We’re delighted

to welcome Marine Structures to

the Seaflex family. Their extensive

expertise and strong reputation in the

region make them the ideal partner to

represent our products. Together, we

aim to support the growing demand

for environmentally conscious mooring

solutions in Australasia.”

The appointment underscores Marine

Structures’ commitment to delivering

innovative products. This technology is

especially relevant for large superyacht

and wave attenuation projects as well

as deep water and rock applications.

www.marinestructures.com.au

www.seaflex.com

is passionate about the sea and

understands the specific needs of boat

owners. We are convinced that our

boat stands are the best on the market

and we are proud to offer them to our

customers.”

www.nautipark.com

Adjusting

bunks without

a drill

Golden Boat Lifts has

introduced a patent-pending

aluminium drill-less multidirectional

adjustable bunk

system, an innovative

development aimed at improving

efficiency and reliability for

marinas, marine contractors and

boat trailer manufacturers.

Bill Golden, owner and CEO

of Golden Boat Lifts & Marine

Systems, describes the system as

“the most innovative improvement to

the boating industry in many years.”

The new system addresses a

common challenge in the marine

and trailer industries: the timeconsuming

and often damaging

process of drilling holes to install

and adjust bunks. By eliminating

the need for drilling, the system

streamlines installation and

reconfiguration, saving time and

preserving the structural integrity

of materials. Its slotted aluminium

design, secured with carriage

bolts, enables precise adjustments

to accommodate a wide variety

of vessels without permanent

alterations.

The system has broad

applications for marinas managing

diverse fleets and for boat trailer

manufacturers seeking adaptable

and durable bunk systems.

Aluminium construction ensures

longevity while preventing material

degradation common with

traditional methods. The drill-free

design not only reduces installation

time but also provides a clean,

professional appearance, free of

unnecessary holes or damage.

www.goldenboatlifts.com


formerly The Jetty Specialist & Superior Jetties

INDUSTRY

GAMECHANGER

WATERSHEDS AT THE BOAT WORKS

INWATER REFIT SOLUTIONS

+61 7 5594 8200 | info@marinestructures.com.au | www.marinestructures.com.au

There’s a whole new

global audience out there

Composite decking

outperforms for strength

US composites specialist Strongwell has launched Strongdek, a patented

ultra-high performance structural composite decking system. The system

comprises a pultruded fibre reinforced polymer plank and an extruded

vinyl hybrid thermoplastic composite top cap.

When installed, the

deck boards look much

like traditional composite

boards but are claimed to

far outperform in strength,

rigidity and durability. They

are thus especially useful

for high-traffic commercial

and custom-engineered

projects.

Due to its material

make-up, Strongdek

cannot rust or rot, which

makes it ideal for harsh waterside

environments. It comes with a lifetime

Vacuum sewer station

to become urban asset

A new vacuum station

has been constructed

by Flovac at the Port

of Aiguadolç in Sitges,

Spain. The installation is

part of a programme to

modernise infrastructure

in the region, with a clear

focus on sustainability and

environmental protection.

Initially, the system will serve

as part of the marina, with plans

to extend it to the rest of the port

facilities in the short term to ensure

that all vessels and port facilities

can benefit from an efficient and

eco-friendly system.

Further to this, the vacuum sewer

system will be extended into the

local urban area. This measure

will not only improve wastewater

management in the port but will

also positively impact the local

community, providing a more

efficient and environmentally friendly

sanitation service.

Unlike traditional systems,

Flovac’s cutting-edge solution offers

the following advantages:

residential warranty and a 25-year

commercial warranty.

www.strongdek.com

• Total sealing: vacuum pipe

networks are completely sealed,

meaning there are no leaks into the

environment or infiltrations from the

ground. This is especially important

in coastal areas where water

conditions can vary drastically due to

tides and rainfall.

• Reduction in energy costs: by

requiring only a single electrical

connection point at the vacuum

station, the system significantly

reduces the energy costs associated

with wastewater pumping.

• Flexibility and adaptation: this type

of sanitation is ideal for areas with

challenging geographical conditions,

as is the case for marinas and ports.

www.flovac.es

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Sixth

hoist for

North Yard

A sixth boat lift has been delivered

to the North Yard at The Boat Works to

further boost its dedicated superyacht

maintenance offerings.

The new, efficient, variable-width Marine

Travelift has four-wheel steering and a

beam capacity of up to 9.6m (32ft) and

can lift vessels up to 100 tonnes, including

wide-beam multihulls.

Arrival of the hoist coincided with

completion of the Watersheds facility (see

Mooring Post February/March), a first-ofkind

series of covered in-water chutes,

ideal for refits and commissioning.

Tony Longhurst, owner of The Boat

Works, outlined the focus that propelled

expansion last year. “We significantly grew

The Boat Works’ footprint, opening over

50 new in-water and out-of-water work

bays, accommodating more tenants, and

enhancing yacht sales across our two

adjacent yards. As the largest marine

facility in the southern hemisphere,

we continue to set the standard in the

industry, with over 100 boat movements

each week,” he said.


57

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Index to Advertisers

ASAR, USA 18

BH-USA, 44

Bellingham Marine, USA 29

Bembridge Harbour/

Vail Williams, UK 51

Boat Lift, Italy 40

CJ Plast, France 42

Capria, Argentina 16

Carefree Boat Club, USA 12

Christie & Co, UK 47

Conolift by Kropf Industrial,

Canada 30

D-Marin, Greece 25

Eagle Floats by

Hendren Plastics, USA 55

Flovac, Spain 59

Golden Manufacturing, USA 14

IWMC, Italy 28

Ingemar, Italy 8

Inmare, Italy 42

Lindley, Portugal 30

MPP Engineering, UK 56

Marex, Croatia 44

Marina & Holiday

Park Solutions, UK 44

Marina Master by IRM, Slovenia 56

Marina Projects, UK 60

MARINAGo by

Scribble Software, USA 39

Marine Structures, Australia 56

Marine Travelift, USA 35

Marinetek, Finland 4

Martini Marinas, Italy 40

Metstrade 2025, Netherlands 22

Molo Marina Management/

Stellar Systems, USA 42

Nautipark, France 20

Pacsoft, New Zealand 45

Plus Marine, Italy 10

Rolec, UK 24

Ronautica, Spain 11

Roodberg - a brand of Frisian

Industries, Netherlands 52

SF Marina System, Sweden 2

Seaflex, Sweden 6

Seijsener, Netherlands 52

Twinwood by CJ Plast, Portugal 20

Walcon Marine, UK 33

XW Production, Estonia 23

Utility management

for the waterfront

A cutting-edge, streamlined utility management system was launched this

month (March) by Rolec, a globally renowned manufacturer of outdoor

electrical equipment, and Metpow, a pioneer in wireless utility management

software.

With sustainability at its core, the

partnership aims to optimise resource

management, reduce operational costs

and support eco-friendly practices.

By combining Rolec’s market-leading

LoRaWAN hardware with Metpow’s

innovative software, the development

team has created an advanced system

designed to simplify guest management

and enable automated utility solutions,

revolutionising how energy and water

are tracked and consumed.

The system provides marina

operators with a powerful, all-in-one

platform that offers:

Automated metering and billing –

Guests pay only for what they use via

the Metpow app, reducing admin for

operators. The system is fully MIDcompliant,

ensuring accurate, legally

approved energy metering.

Remote monitoring and realtime

alerts – Operators can track

consumption and receive instant

notifications about unusual usage,

including 24/7 health monitoring for

breaker trips and system faults.

Usage limits and efficiency controls

– Operators can set thresholds to

encourage responsible resource use,

helping reduce overall consumption and

optimise operations.

Wireless connectivity without Wi-Fi

or 4G – Constant, reliable performance

in remote or challenging environments.

Simple installation and scalability

– The system is designed for easy

installation. Scalable from single

marinas to multi-site operations, it

grows with the business.

Revenue recovery through service

charges – The solution allows

operators to incorporate a service

charge for CAPEX recovery, ensuring

compliance with OFGEM regulations.

For guests and residents, the Metpow

app makes tracking power and water

consumption easy:

Real-time usage tracking and secure

payments – Users can effortlessly

monitor their consumption, make

informed decisions, and complete

transactions securely with seamless

payment options.

Ease of Use – Users can manage

their utilities through the app, ensuring

full transparency, convenience,

and complete oversight of their

consumption.

Pilot installations and operator

training is underway and a

comprehensive range of product

options is available to suit different site

needs, ensuring flexible and futureproofed

solutions.

www.rolecserv.com


THE SMART

GREEN

FUTURE OF

SEWAGE

COLLECTION

Vacuum sewerage systems are ideal for use

in marinas and ports of any size.

The Flovac system can capture sewage and

bilge water from boats and all facilities

around the marina complex.

No electrical power required at dockside

Discreet, small diameter pipework

No risk of water contamination

Validates MARPOL certification

Eco-sustainable system

Ease of installation

No odour, no spills

www.flovac.es

S E T T I N G T H E W O R L D S T A N D A R D

IN MARINA DESIGN

CONCEPT DESIGN & MARINA MASTER PLANNING

MARINA FEASIBILTY STUDIES & MARKET RESEARCH

MARINA BUSINESS PLANNING

WATERFRONT & MARINA DESIGN

MARINA PROCUREMENT & PROJECT MANAGEMENT

OPERATIONAL & MANAGEMENT SERVICES

ENVIRONMENTAL & LEGISLATIVE ADVICE

PROPERTY CONSULTANCY SERVICES

GLOBAL WATERFRONT & MARINA

CONSULTANCY AT ITS BEST

www.marinaprojects.com

2025 March April Marina World

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