Marina Industry October 2022

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Volume 10, Number 45 October 2022

Contact information

PUBLISHER

Paul Barrett

Hartswood Media

8 Lindsey Close, Brentwood, Essex CM14 4PN, United Kingdom

Tel: 44 (0)7778 357722 paulbarrett@hartswoodmedia.com

EDITOR AND ADVERTISEMENT SALES

David Young

Young Editorial Services

Tel: +44 (0)1737 551687 youngeditorial1@btinternet.com

PRODUCTION

Anthony Wiffen

Tel: +44 (0)1460 261011 Mob: 07851 612799 anton_print_1@mac.com

PRINTING

Brown Knight and Truscott

Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 3BW, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1892 511678 ISSN 2517-7478

EDITOR’S COMMENT

t is to the credit of MDL Marinas that the group reinvests millions of pounds every year, so that its 19 UK marinas and boatyards offer the best facilities and the ultimate customer experience both on and off the water.

This year has been no different despite rising costs, with MDL committing over £7 million to maintain its network of coastal and inland marinas to the level of excellence that its berth-holders, visitors and tenants have come to expect.

This commitment means safe and secure access to the water throughout the year, with MDL spending in excess of £1.5 million on the replacement and re-decking of pontoons, upkeep of quay walls and corrosion protection to continue to provide a modern, stable and anti-slip marina infrastructure.

In addition, all tides access at each of MDL’s marinas is guaranteed with an extensive, on-going dredging schedule. This year, over £500,000 of expenditure has been devoted to dredging, with a similar amount focused on the refurbishment of onsite toilet and shower facilities and £400,000 invested in new plant, including two state-of-the-art dry stack forklifts.

MDL has also invested in comprehensive training for its staff to ensure that each team member has

the skills to support the expected exemplary level of customer service, from both an operational, as well as a safety point of view. Training this year included bespoke water safety training led by the RNLI (see page 4) and HSE First Aid at Work courses in support of MDL Marinas’ safety and security culture.

From an environmental perspective and with a view to aiding boat-owners, who wish to make their boating environmentally-sustainable, MDL has continued to invest in green initiatives. This year has seen the production and display of informative signage on how to stop the spread of invasive species, the purchase of two new electric vehicles for marinas, an expansion of electric workboats, including a project to refit the exBrixham workboat, the fitting of multiple solar panels across the network and the installation of three Aqua superPower electric boat chargers.

To ensure that the group’s marinas continue to maintain their excellent standard of service and experience in the years to come MDL has already allocated over £30 million to be spent in the next five years.

This magazine is happy to commend their sterling efforts.

David Young

Front cover: Limassol Marina is operated and managed by Francoudi & Stephanou Marinas, combining the best of local expertise with excellent services and facilities. In addition to the marina, there are elegant residences with exclusive restaurants and shops, creating a truly Mediterranean lifestyle (see page 16).

TYHA Marina of the Year Awards

On21 September, winners of The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) Marina of the Year Awards 2022, sponsored by Towergate Insurance, were revealed on the Foredeck Stage at the Southampton International Boat Show.

Jon White, TYHA General Manager, and Colin Watts, Chair, were joined by representatives from many of the 160 plus Gold Anchor-accredited marinas from around the world hoping to clinch one of the coveted awards.

“These awards are voted for by berthholders and celebrate the very best marinas, both in the UK and overseas, and provide a perfect opportunity to recognise those marinas that go above and beyond, offering outstanding quality and service to their berthholders and visitors,” commented Jon White. “We are absolutely delighted

to see so many people here today, not only hoping to collect an award but to show support for their colleagues across the marina community.”

Six awards were presented at the show, with winners and runners-up welcomed up on stage to collect their award. They were as follows:

Towergate’s Coastal Marina of the Year 2022 – Under 250 Berths

Winner – Emsworth Yacht Harbour Runner-up – Poole Quay Boat Haven Towergate’s Coastal Marina of the Year 2022 – Over 250 Berths

Winner – Royal Quays Marina –boatfolk Runner-up – Troon Yacht Haven Towergate’s Inland Marina of the Year 2022

Winner – Shepperton Marina Runner-up – Campbell Wharf Towergate’s International Marina of the Year 2022

Winner – Marina de Vilamoura Runner-up – Karpaz Gate Marina Towergate’s Superyacht Marina of the Year 2022

Winner – Yalikavak Marina Runner-up – Porto Montenegro Towergate’s Marina Employee of the Year 2022

Winner – John Selman, Beaulieu Marina Runner-up – Suzana Grban, Porto Montenegro

New location for idealboat.com

MDL Marinas is delighted to welcome new boat and pre-owned dealership idealboat.com to its Hamble Point Marina.

Increasing the number of locations and expanding its business, idealboat. com is taking 1,500 sq ft of sales showroom at the bustling marina based at the entrance to the popular Hamble River. Offering a brokerage service, as well as new boat sales, idealboat.com will also have external boat sales space directly next to the new showroom to display new and used craft.

This new location for idealboat. com brings its number of sales locations to four, two along the South Coast and two in Wales – one in Pwllheli and one on The Warren, Abersoch’s beach resort.

Neville Williams, Managing Director, idealboat.com, commented: “MDL and its Hamble Point Marina is a great base for us. Not just the space available, but the location close to Southampton Water, giving us easy access to the Solent where we can showcase and demonstrate our exceptional and vast range of luxury boats.

range of power boating brands, including Saxdor, Chaparral, Robalo, Finnmaster, Husky and AMP amphibious RIBS, as well as being dealers for Kawasaki Jetskis.

“We’re very excited that idealboat. com has chosen our Hamble Point Marina to base its new sales showroom and offices,” said Tim Mayer, MDL’s Sales and Marketing Director.

Shepperton

the award for winning Towergate’s Inland Marina of the Year 2022. The marina was runner-up in this category last year.

“On behalf of The Yacht Harbour Association and Towergate Insurance, congratulations again to all of this year’s winners, runners-up and shortlisted marinas and thank you to everyone that voted,” Jon concluded.

“The fact that there are multiple boat sales offices and dealers based at the marina is a real bonus and we’re hoping to capitalise on Hamble Point’s growing reputation as the place to go along this stretch of the coast to buy a boat.” idealboat.com is the sole UK and Ireland importer for an extensive

“With such a fantastic range of new boats on offer, idealboat. com augments the number and diversity of craft available for sale on site at Hamble Point, further strengthening our position as the epicentre for boat sales along the South Coast.”

Besides its 230 first class pontoon berths for boats up to 30 metres and 137 dry stack berths for power boats up to ten metres, Hamble Point Marina offers an extensive range of shore-side facilities.

ATEX-rated pump-out unit for Newark Marina

Newark Marina , situated on the river Trent in Nottinghamshire, has just installed its first pump-out station.

The unit was specified, installed and commissioned by Warwickshire marine sanitation specialist LeeSan and has been specially designed to meet ATEX ratings due to the fact that it is sited next to a fuel pump. This means that it has features such as rubber-encased operations

buttons and a variety of other proofing systems.

The unit is equipped with the reliable and well-proven Rheinstrom LS60W diaphragm pump and is controlled from the marina with the end-user simply operating the start/stop function.

It is fitted with a 15 metre suction hose and a LeeSan ISO Standard Probe Valve featuring a bronze nozzle with fitted ‘O’ ring, allowing clean, simple, hands-free

operation when used with an ISO standard deck fitting. It also has

a built-in sight glass to check flow and a positive on/off lever.

This connection was developed by LeeSan in association with the UK Waterways organisations over many years and is now recognised as the gold standard for this type of equipment.

The easy-to-clean, all-weather stainless steel housing is mounted on a small plinth to protect it from flooding.

Neville Williams (left) with Tim Mayer of MDL.

Lisa Harris, Manager of

Marina, received

Three ISO accreditations for MDL

MDL Marinas is delighted to announce that it has been accredited with three ISO standards following a series of rigorous assessments over the last 12 months by the British Assessment Bureau, setting the marina group apart in terms of quality assurance, customer service and environmental commitment.

The three standards received by MDL are: ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management; ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management; and ISO 45001:2018 Occupational Health and Safety, demonstrating MDL’s commitment to exceeding the expectations, not just of its berth-holders and tenants, but also its employees.

“The achievement of these three ISO standards is the result of a significant amount of work from the team, in particular Joe Walton, Head of Health, Safety and Environment, and Kerry Marriott, Head of Operations, and we’re

MDL

delighted that their dedication and commitment has been recognised,” said Michael Glanville, MDL’s Managing Director. “The feedback we’ve received following the accreditation process is that the quality of work and

the level of standards seen was incredibly high.”

Being awarded ISO 14001 Environmental Management further highlights MDL’s current and future commitment to the environment and supports the marina group’s

extensive environmental initiatives, from its zero waste to landfill policy to the installation of electric boat-charging facilities across its network.

The ISO 45001 accreditation confirms MDL’s commitment to continually provide a safe and healthy workplace for both its teams and customers by preventing work-related injury and ill health, while ISO 9001 demonstrates MDL’s ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer requirements and enhance customer satisfaction.

Michael continued: “We are the only marina operator in the UK to have received all three of these quality assurance standards, which drive excellence in business performance, commitment to the environment and customer experience, meaning our customers, staff, tenants, suppliers and other stakeholders can be even more confident that MDL is the right choice”.

First client for MB92’s new shiplift

MB92 La Ciotat , France’s leading superyacht refit shipyard, has announced that the new 4,300 tonne shiplift has successfully hauled out its first client, the 60 metre superyacht ‘Bella Vita’, built by Lürssen in 2010. She will be joined by a number of other large yachts over the coming weeks before the platform is formally inaugurated later this year.

The construction of the facility, which can accommodate six superyachts up to 115 metres in length simultaneously, represents a total investment of €47.6 million for the MB92 Group and was delivered on time despite multiple challenges from Covid-19 and supply chain issues.

The works, managed alongside La Ciotat Shipyards over the past 30 months, brought together 80 companies and involved the tenacity and professionalism of hundreds of people to create one of the industry’s most technologically

and environmentally innovative superyacht platforms.

In addition to standard amenities, the facility hosts a number of advanced features aimed at ensuring ultimate safety and

security for each yacht while significantly reducing the project’s ecological footprint.

Ben Mennem, CEO of MB92 La Ciotat, said: “The launch of the new shiplift is a historic event for

the shipyard and the beginning of a new era for our company, enabling us to develop our activity while providing an unbeatable refit experience to our clients and jobs for the local community”.

employees receive bespoke water safety training.

D-Marin awarded silver medal by Ecovadis…

The premium marina network, D-Marin, has received a silver medal rating by EcoVadis, the world’s most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings. The rating positions D-Marin in the top 30% of companies in the leisure industry.

The sustainability rating increased by 22 percentage points over 2021, a substantial increase, which clearly demonstrates D-Marin’s commitment to employing sustainable practices across the business and its advances in sustainability over the past year alone.

D-Marin was awarded the accolade following an assessment of its sustainability practices and commitments across 21 indicators in four themes: environment; labour and human rights; business ethics; and sustainable procurement. D-Marin has a robust Environmental Social Governance (ESG) strategy in place with a mission to create ‘Sustainable Marinas for today’s and future generations’, which encompasses the four areas in which it was assessed.

“We are extremely proud to secure

…and welcomes 16th marina

On 5 September, D-Marin hosted an exclusive press event at Punta Faro Marina to officially welcome the marina to its expanding network. D-Marin completed the acquisition of Punta Faro on 1 August, becoming its 16th marina to join the group and its first marina in Italy.

Attended by local dignitaries and media from across Europe, Oliver Dörschuck, CEO of D-Marin, highlighted the importance of the Punta Faro Marina acquisition to the D-Marin network providing an additional cruising destination for D-Marin customers. He announced the company’s willingness to devote a seven-digit investment in Punta Faro Marina, which includes the introduction of high-speed wireless network and smart pedestals using innovative, eco-friendly technology and plans to completely revamp the marina’s sanitary units along with improvements to the existing piers.

a silver medal rating by EcoVadis. Aligning our focus to make our operations more sustainable is not only the right thing to do, but at the heart of our DNA as a business. Improving every day and caring about the environment and our

communities are two of the key behaviours we would like to see in each and every employee at D-Marin. We are constantly working toward achieving a gold rating and we endeavour to be the best in the industry for sustainability,” stated

Konrad Tyrajski, Chief Operations Officer of D-Marin. The group is a leading operator of leisure yachting facilities, with 16 marinas across Croatia, Greece, Italy, Montenegro, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates.

project at Royal Solent Yacht Club

Interconnecting decking tiles made by Dura Composites Ltd were installed at the Royal Solent Yacht Club, located on the seafront next to Yarmouth Pier on the Isle of Wight, enjoying unrivalled views of the Western Solent.

In addition to running a comprehensive Summer sailing programme for members, the Club also hosts a number of regattas and championships, the best-known being the Taittinger Regatta, which takes place each July.

First established in 1878, the club has been extensively renovated and extended throughout its history and in Spring, 2019, the main bar on the first floor of the clubhouse was rebuilt to provide a light, contemporary space from which to enjoy panoramic views of the Solent.

In Summer, 2022, the Royal Solent Yacht Club chose Dura Composites to provide its Dura Deck Tiles in stunning Pebble Grey colour to enhance the facilities of its

balcony and terrace area, providing a wood-look anti-slip composite timber flooring that’s suitable for all footwear and weather conditions.

The interlocking tiles are extremely simple and quick to lay and don’t need expensive bearers or joist systems to sit on. They can be added on top of any existing firm and flat surface such as the concrete clubhouse terrace at the Yacht

Club, where they helped achieve an instant transformation that has the look and feel of traditional timber decking, but with none of the installation challenges. In addition to Pebble Grey, the product is also available in Weathered Cedar and Mahogany.

Speaking about the project, Claire Hallett, CEO/Club Secretary for the Royal Solent Yacht Club, said: “We

are delighted with the premium look that has been achieved by using Dura Deck Tiles on the Club’s terrace, which perfectly complement the clean lines and contemporary design of our bar area.

“The tiles were quick and easy for us to lay ourselves, but instantly transformed the terrace into a more appealing and accessible space during the day and evening.”

Due to the increasing demand for premium berthing facilities to cater for 15-25 metre recreational vessels, Mulpha Sanctuary Cove Marina will expand its berthing capacity within the well-protected Northern marina basin. Once approved, the Sanctuary Cove Marina will add an additional 66 berths, thus increasing the capacity from the existing 230 berths, which cater to vessels up to 35 metres. Fabricated in a floating concrete construction, the new berths will accommodate vessels from 18 metres to 50 metres and provide yacht owners with the unique benefit of covered roof protection, the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

Italian job by Walcon

A project undertaken by Walcon Marine this year took place on the famous Lake Maggiore in Northern Italy. A private marina, Nautica Ferrari e Tabacchini is located in Sesto Calende (Varese), on the lake’s Southern banks not far from Milan. A small but historic marina, it is fully equipped with Walcon pontoons and Sara Lanzoni and her team delivered an additional System 21 unit measuring 11.5 x 2 metres.

The pontoon module was manufactured at Walcon’s UK factory while the GRP service bollards were reconditioned Sistema Walcon units sourced in Italy.

IGY Marinas to be acquired by MarineMax

MarineMax Inc, the world’s largest recreational boat and yacht retailer, has announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Island Global Yachting LLC (IGY Marinas), which owns and operates a collection of iconic marina assets and a yacht management platform in key global yachting destinations. MarineMax will purchase IGY Marinas for $480 million in cash, with an additional potential earn-out of up to $100 million two years after closing, subject to the achievement of defined performance metrics.

Subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, MarineMax expects the acquisition to close in the first half of fiscal 2023 and to be accretive within the first 12 months of closing.

IGY Marinas will maintain its luxury branding, with CEO Tom Mukamal and the existing management team continuing to lead the growth and operations of the business.

Floating concrete dock for Greek marina

South-West of Athens, Greece, the Saronic Gulf islands in the Aegean Sea are steeped in ancient history and among the world’s most beautiful yachting destinations. Marina Porto Heli was designed to be thoroughly modern and innovative, including the use of a state-of-the-art 300 metre floating concrete dock system from SF Marina.

Two hurdles had to be overcome by the marine construction firm overseeing the project, the Floating Pontoon Department of TOMI SA, part of Ellaktor Group. These were the shallow water near the East and West walkways and the extensive utility ductwork needed within the docks to service yachts up to 55 metres. The depth issue was easily overcome with SF Marina’s expansive selection of floating concrete pontoons.

The dock layout consists of two arms. Both begin in the shallow areas with SF Marina type SF1240 pontoons. With a height of only 1.2 metres and a freeboard of less than 0.6 metres, they provide ample space beneath the docks for secure mooring. After angling inwards, SF400 pontoons are used. On the East side, the arm continues with SF1260 pontoons and SF1240 models used for storage. Each of the two arrays has a pair of interior docks comprised of SF STD 2,4 units.

Engineered for commercial use, SF Marina floating docks provide unprecedented stability – enough to drive golf carts on – and superior strength. Virtually unsinkable, the pontoons are moored using chains and blocks, so no visuallydistracting piles are seen.

The greater challenge was the extensive network of 30 utility ducts. SF Marina engineers designed large EM boxes 2 metres wide x 1 metre long and a unique channel at the ends of each pontoon with the ability to cross the network around the centre connectors. Currently, the ductwork system contains 16A-125A electricity, potable water and communication cables, as well as black water pump-out, with plans being finalised to include a fuel supply.

“Once our interior marine department offloaded the pontoon sections with a floating crane, they were easy to install,” said Nikolas Aslanidis, Manager of the Floating Pontoon Department. “The marina owner is very satisfied with the results and we are already in discussion on a second nearby project at Ermioni Port.”

Built within a naturally-sheltered bay, Marina Porto Heli can accommodate up to 149 vessels. Catering to an upscale yachting audience, its services include maritime pilots, dock transport

via electric vehicles, 24/7 CCTV security and a full array of rental equipment. Stunning views of the picturesque Greek landscape greet visitors, with restaurants, hotels and world-

class beaches a short walk away.

SF Marina info@sfmarina.com www.sfmarina.com

The METSTRADE Show is the happening meeting place in Amsterdam where the international leisure marine community gathers. In a hospitable and safe environment, we make you feel at home to meet and mingle with the entire industry. Feel connected and charge yourself to optimise your business.

Registration opens July 25th on METSTRADE.COM

Global marine leisure industry comes together

The 34th edition of METSTRADE will be take place at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre from15-17 November. Many thousands of marine industry professionals are making their preparations for three days of vital networking, research and sales discussions.

“We’re counting down the days until METSTRADE opens its doors again in its full glory,” said METSTRADE director Niels Klarenbeek. “Over 1,400 exhibitors from 50 countries will exhibit the latest ground-breaking innovations the leisure marine industry has to offer – in no less than ten halls at the RAI Convention Centre. Our whole team has been working

Aero-Docker LLC (USA)

Alto Services Italia (Italy)

tirelessly to ensure the experience will be even better than before. All signs are set that the industry is just as excited as we are, as we witness a strong intake of boat builders, wholesalers, naval architects, marina developers and other marine professionals from all over the world. We can’t wait to welcome you in just a few weeks!”

Strong programme

METSTRADE this year will be at the forefront of tackling the big issues of the day.

Electric aircraft visionary, Cory Combs, will set a challenge in his Breakfast Briefing keynote speech on 15 November, arguing that the marine industry, like aviation, needs to act on sustainability now by

taking iterative steps using current technology rather than waiting for silver bullet solutions. The Breakfast Briefing is open to all exhibitors, press and VIP badge-holders. The Breakfast Briefing will also feature the unveiling of the winners for the prestigious DAME Design Awards 2022 – this year with over 100+ applications. Nominated and winning products represent the pinnacle of the design effort needed to improve user experiences and manufacturing efficiency. They will all be on display at the Elicium Ballroom (hall 13), right in the heart of METSTRADE. There’s a welcome influx of younger talent behind many of the award winners. METSTRADE

Marinas in MYP 2022

GH Cranes & Components (Spain)

Gigieffe Srl (Italy)

Aqua SuperPower Ltd (United Kingdom)

Arabel NV – i-marina (Belgium)

ASAR – Marine (USA)

ASCOM (Italy)

Astilleros Amilibia Untziolak SL (Spain)

Boat Lift Srl (Italy)

Capria (Argentina)

Cimolai Technology SpA (Italy)

Decksafe Solutions Ltd (United Kingdom)

Den Hartog Industries Inc (USA)

Dockpro (Australia)

DRYSTA (Spain)

DualDocker (Austria)

Dura Composites Ltd (United Kingdom)

Falco (France)

FGM Technology Srl (Italy)

Geveka Roosters (The Netherlands)

IADYS (France)

Ingemar Srl (Italy)

Inland and Coastal Marina Systems (Ireland)

Inmare Srl (Italy)

Inter Boat Marinas BV (The Netherlands)

Intermarine Ltd (United Kingdom)

Ital Development (Italy)

LeeStrom GmbH (Germany)

Lindley Marinas (Portugal)

M2B (Croatia)

Mack David Buildings LLC (USA)

Marex Elektrostroj doo (Croatia)

Marina Master IRM Ltd (Slovenia)

Marine Travelift Inc (USA)

Marinetek Adriatic LLC (Croatia)

Martini Alfredo SpA (Italy)

Mecanorem (France)

uniquely supports and encourages all marine professionals aged under 35 through its onsite Young Professionals Club. It’s free to access, offers invaluable networking opportunities, tours and a chance to meet Cory Combs.

Marina Yard Pavilion

These days, the boat building industry is one of the most advanced. As it strives to grow, the role marinas and boatyards play continues to become more significant. Marinas offer docks, moorings, fuel, supplies and other facilities to vessels ranging from small boats to large yachts. Boatyards are taking marine architecture to a next level, building and repairing yachts, doing

Nautipark (France)

Naval Tecno Sud Boat Stand (Italy) Navigo (Italy)

NVequipment (France)

Plus International Srl (Italy)

Poralu Marine – Rotax (France)

Rolec – Marina Services (United Kingdom)

Ronautica Quality Marinas SLU (Spain)

Roodberg/Frisian Industries BV (The Netherlands)

Seaflex AB (Sweden)

Seisjener Marina Services (The Netherlands)

SF Marina (Sweden)

STM-Shandong Santong Rope Co Ltd (China)

Uludag Amac Egitim Hizm Tekstil San Ve Tic Ltd (Turkey)

Versadock (United Kingdom)

Walcon Marine Ltd (United Kingdom)

yacht conversions and refits. Inspiring information about developments and trends in marinas and yacht building can be found in the Marina Yard Pavilion, ranging from mooring and docking solutions for (sustainable) marinas to vessel maintenance facilities.

Marina symposium

This year, the tenth edition of the HISWA Marina Symposium, a successful collaboration between the METSTRADE Show and HISWARECRON, will take place on 17 November. The symposium focuses on market developments for marinas in The Netherlands, with two central themes of Undermining and Insurability.

The symposium will begin with a number of updates that are important for the sector. Then the two themes will be discussed. How criminal is your marina? Do you know what is happening at your marina? How can you ensure that your marina remains properly insured? To ensure insurability,

a checklist for water sports companies has been drawn up by HISWA-RECRON, together with Kuiper Verzekeringen. What does

this checklist look like and how do you apply it in practice? Employees of HISWA-RECRON and Kuiper Verzekeringen will answer these

and more questions. METSTRADE metstrade@rai.nl www.metstrade.com

Since 1963 Walcon has proven itself to be a worldwide leader in the design, construction and installation of marinas and berthing facilities, with renowned quality and first class service.

Shepperton Marina

Inland and Coastal Marina Systems will be showcasing its floating concrete breakwaters at METSTRADE. This strong and durable installation is in Geelong, Australia.

Lessons learned and being learnt from the pandemic

By Dan Natchez*

Imustadmit that when we settled on this topic, I thought it would be such an easy article to write. When it comes to the pandemic, especially now that we are more than 2.5 years in, there are so many lessons out there that people point to, relate to or talk about – and they cover the spectrum from relatively small matters to very significant, from things that apply for the world to those that are extremely personal. How do you choose? What do you

focus on? In some ways, I think the disorientation we have all experienced to one degree or another appeared front and centre.

So, with that as a disclaimer, here goes my list of sorts – keeping in mind that it is all rather subjective, with lines that get a bit blurred at times and I very much welcome your thoughts.

What’s really important? It’s a question that has always been worth asking, but one that most

of us have probably been asking a lot more than we used to, whether relating to our personal or professional lives – and so often involving the blending of both. On the business side, a fundamental answer has long been the happiness of our customers – and this, of course, is as or more true than ever.

The pandemic has also compelled us to take a closer look at the health and happiness of our co-workers, employees and ourselves. At

first, that emphasis had to be on health, but then as the boating boom unfurled, marinas soon were scrambling to bring back and in many if not most cases add staff – and those that did not retain their employees or have good working environments found themselves particularly scrambling to find people to hire – not that the tight labour market has not been challenging at times for most of us. You cannot have happy customers

Letting the good times roll at Oakdale Yacht Marina in New York State.

if you do not have happy employees and more attention has been needed to keep employees happy.

Communication, trust, transparency

The three really do go together, and communication is key. The pandemic started out with major shutdowns and a sort of slow motion panic. Almost every day there was another rule, requirement or rumour coming from government or other mostly well-meaning sources. Forgetting the technically specific requirements, it was, for most of us in our lifetime, an unprecedented shutdown and we were all being bombarded with information from the media and there was the never-ending stream of hearsay. Many marinas stayed in touch with their employees

and customers, trying to provide meaningful information. Most employees and customers were appreciative, although they may not have always liked what they heard, but it was coming from a trusted source who was reaching out to them. As things started to open up, that line of communication continued to strengthen the connection between the marina and those it contacted.

Those marinas that provided and have continued such communication have strengthened customer appreciation and loyalty. The other day,I was on the docks at a marina catering to boats under 36 ft and met a young couple who had just come in. I asked them why they picked this marina as there were multiple choices in the area. They told me that the marina was always keeping them

did not take long after the initial shutdown for boating to become one of the outlets for people to escape from the confinements of isolation. Suddenly, boating was booming, not only with the return of existing customers, but also with new customers, including many who had never been in a boat.

informed, both when things were shut down and more recently about activities, such as an upcoming fishing contest they had entered, boating safety tips or how to get a boating license (required in that state).

Communication has always been important, but the pandemic upped the ante. It also emphasised the need for transparency in that communication and in most every aspect of one’s operation.

Communication without honesty does not build trust, and without trust you don’t get loyalty, whether from your customers or your employees.

As I have often emphasised, do not promise what you cannot deliver. This is true for just about everything, but particularly for those offering service. Being upfront with customers, communicating with them when things go wrong and there are delays or, better still, when things go well is a major part of keeping customers. Many times customers will try to force a desired answer, but explaining the reality in a proactive manner and assuring the customer that you are really making the effort to get things accomplished for them is very important, especially for customer retention.

Boom…but

It did not take long after the initial shutdown for boating to become one of the outlets for people to escape from the confinements of isolation. Suddenly, boating was booming, not only with the return of existing customers, but also with new

customers, including many who had never been in a boat. Boating moved from a buyer’s market to a seller’s market and marinas, dealers and manufacturers turned into ordertakers. New and used boats were selling like hotcakes, berths, whether wet or dry, were sold out and rates and prices rose. Fortunately, these trends have largely continued as the world has continued moving to more open activities with fewer restrictions. Unfortunately, along with the boom have come a number of problems, including overcrowding, delays for repairs, supply chain issues and, as noted above, many new boaters with little if any experience owning or operating one. I will never forget when my mother (a true landlubber) decided one day to come out with me on my outboard boat. I still have no idea what made her want to come, but I was not going to discourage her. Once in the boat and we left the dock, she was eyeing all of the controls and my maneuvering, and she suddenly screamed, “WHERE IS THE BRAKE!” I. of course, found this very amusing at the time and I am sure there are many current stories of newbies making mistakes that are generating some laughs, but this moment of so many new boaters out on their own without any real training or experience is problematic and can be outright dangerous. I became particularly alarmed when I read in the US Coast Guard’s ‘Joint-Annual Report on Recreational Boating Statistics’ that while fatalities had only increased 3.2% from 2018 to 2019, they grew an unprecedented 25% from 2019 to 2020. I’m sure there are many components that factor into this number, but it’s clear the industry cannot simply be order-takers.

Some marinas spend time helping a new boater understand the basics of how to operate the boat that they just bought. Many have partnered with Coast Guard Auxiliary and other educational organisations offering courses and training for boaters, as well as obtaining operating licenses, which are becoming required in more and more states. Some have provided information to new boaters of experienced boaters that would be

It

willing to assist the new boater with hands-on lessons. Bottom line, the takeaways for the marine industry is to be proactive to customers in a meaningful helping manner that can be appreciated by boaters –many of whom are shy in asking for guidance.

There has to be enough followthroughs beyond the sales and providing berthing space by providing education and instruction – granted providing such in-person guidance was often not feasible in our ‘keep to your own bubble’ days. If not remedied, drastic numbers like these are likely to result in increased regulation that will end up stifling boating. In addition, increased bad experiences of a less drastic nature will not bode well for those new boaters or even experienced mariners, who wish to continue boating.

Not too long ago I came across an article by Janet Balis in the Harvard Business Review ‘10 Truths About Marketing After the Pandemic’, where she outlined the ‘old’ truths versus the ‘new’. While the article is geared to fairly hard-core marketing folk, one of the ten happens to be:

‘Old truth’: You are competing with your competitors. ‘New truth’: You are competing with the last best experience your customer had”.

Or, conversely, if your customers are having bad experiences, they may not be your customers much longer and we have to keep in mind it’s not just the best boating

Welcome in two languages to Mossholmens Marina in Sweden.

experiences we are ultimately competing with, but all those other recreational pursuits trying to grab our attention.

Easy and hassle-free

A sure way to help prevent or minimise bad experiences is by making boating easier and keeping it hassle-free. While boat and equipment manufacturers, as well as electronic providers have come a long way in quality control, the industry is far behind the automobile industry that provides bumper-to-bumper warranties. The boating industry has a long way to go before it could provide gunnel-to-gunnel warranties. The new breed of boaters has little to no tolerance for things going wrong, particularly when they want to use their boat. Boats are expensive and, on average, much more costly than cars. Yet the issues continue to pile up. In more cases than not, the issues are relatively simple to correct or at least to be able to make the boat usable quickly. That is one reason we continue to strongly urge marinas to have a mechanic on duty on weekends and holidays, which are the heaviest times boats are used. Changing a spark plug, charging a dead battery or re-attaching a loose wire can save the day and turn the bad experience of a last- minute cancellation due to a mechanical issue into an enjoyable experience

and wanting to stay in boating.

Sometimes it is hard when you’re so busy that you simply become an order-taker to worry about potential future slow-ups in demand. However, the truth be told, boating has always had its ups and downs and there are some pretty good odds that the pandemic boom will be slowing down, particularly with financing costs increasing as they are. This is not meant to be a ‘doom and gloom’ message. It is simply a reminder to marinas, dealers and manufacturers to be thinking longer term for the future to not only attract new customers but, more importantly, to keep both new and old boaters boating. The latter is key to the long-term health of the industry!

One thing the pandemic has certainly taught us is to never take anything for granted.

*Dan Natchez is President of Daniel S. Natchez and Associates Inc, a leading international environmental waterfront design consulting company specialising in the design of marinas and marina resorts throughout the world. Your comments and enquiries are invited on Tel: +1 914 698 5678, by Fax: +1 914 698 7321, by E-mail: dan.n@dsnainc.com or on his Website: www.dsnainc.com

Anniversary party at The Bay Club, Westshore Yacht Club in Florida.

Limassol Marina, Cyprus

Amodern luxury facility, Limassol Marina is the most exciting new destination in the region, offering a lifestyle uniquely shaped by ‘living on the sea’. It offers 650 berths for yachts up to 110 metres, 162 luxury apartments and 74 exclusive villas, with private berths or direct access to the beach. It also benefits from its own dining and shopping establishments, spa, fitness and cultural facilities. Located in the heart of a vibrant city, it is

surrounded by a rich history and a diverse, international community.

Limassol Marina is operated and managed by Francoudi & Stephanou Marinas, combining the best of local expertise with excellent services and facilities. In addition to the marina, there are elegant residences with exclusive restaurants and shops, creating a truly Mediterranean lifestyle.

With direct air connections to most European and Middle Eastern countries, Cyprus is one of the

few easily-accessible islands to have kept pace with the times, whilst also preserving its charm and natural beauty. The island offers numerous picturesque bays and popular coastal resorts to visit – all just a few hours’ sail from Limassol Marina. With so many breath-taking places within reach, Limassol provides the perfect base to explore the beauty of the island and the secluded beaches and peaceful coves, with endless opportunities for watersports of all descriptions.

Limassol Marina offers every modern convenience and comfort to yacht-owners and operators, whether as a home port or cruising destination. The marina’s dedicated team is available at all times and provides a full range of concierge services to accommodate the needs of its clients.

It is an official port of entry, with marina staff on call 24/7. Standard amenities include: monitoring VHF Channel 12; 24-hour security, including CCTV; berthing assistance; crew facilities and changing rooms; showers and washrooms; dedicated

parking; WI-FI access; high speed fibre optic internet, telephone and IPTV; fuel station; single and threephase electricity; fresh water; grey and black water discharge; waste oil disposal; bilge pump-out; and a buggy service.

Limassol Marina has a boatyard for minor boat repairs and maintenance, served by a 100 ton boat hoist, a 40 ton trailer and a slipway.

It also offers a well-stocked chandlery for all yachting and marine needs, with equipment and hardware to facilitate a variety of maintenance and safety jobs.

Limassol Marina info@limassolmarina.com www.limassolmarina.com

LED marine lantern

The FA 249 LED Marine Lantern from Pharos Marine Automatic Power is a rugged, compact and lightweight signal lantern, with a range from 1-10 nautical miles depending on application. It is particularly suitable for buoys, piers, jetties and marinas.

Adapted from the original FA 249 marine lantern due to its widespread use and excellent reputation as a buoy lantern, this state-of-the art LED system is constructed to withstand the

mechanical stresses of service on buoys and includes a number of features designed to endure harsh marine elements while maintaining structural integrity and reducing the need for maintenance.

It features extremely high flux LEDs mounted on a Stabrite LED array system, driven by specially designed electronics. The array is available in 1x4, 1x6, 1x8 and 3x4 configurations. The three-piece lens mounting system of moulded Lexan with stainless steel thumb

screws fully compress the lens gasket and provide strong, positive closure of the lantern.

The FA-249 has the ability to accommodate an external photocell, solar array cable and battery cable. The factorypreset flash characteristics can be changed to meet the user’s specifications and optional remote monitoring is also available.

Pharos Marine Automatic Power Ltd sales@pharosmarine.com www.automaticpower.com

Stainless steel mooring cleats

A ll SS 316 mooring cleats/ bollards from Hong Kong-based Goodocks Marine are cast from stainless steel, which is a highgrade product with a mirror finish.

Hybrid system of sustainable sheet piling

Prolock is a hybrid system of sheet piling combining a short recycled plastic screen with longer wooden piles. The screens retain the soil while the piles provide strength to the entire structure. The lightweight screens use a unique interlocking method, which means that they can be slid into each other from the top. Installing Prolock is thus easy and quick.

The Prolock screens are located below, on and on top of the

waterline and remain unaffected by rot or corrosion in any position.

The right type and length of the screen and the correct type and dimensions of the piles depend on various factors, including the soil type, the retaining height, the water level, the top load, etc. Advice on employing Prolock for specific projects is therefore offered by the manufacturer.

Profextru Productie BV info@profextru.nl www.profextru.com

They have good anti-corrosion and rust resistance, and the fittings provide a long service life and can adapt to a harsh marine environment. These high quality cleats can be used for mooring yachts/motorboats ranging from ten metres to 100 metres and

with a displacement of less than 2,000 tons.

Their specifications and patterns can be customised to suit customers’ individual requirements and the name or location of a marina can be moulded into the cleats/ bollards’ surface to enhance brand identity.

Goodocks Marine (Hong Kong) Co Ltd goodocks@yahoo.com www.goodocks.com

Mobile boat hoist transforms marine services

Therecent delivery of a Marine Travelift 820CII (820 metric ton capacity) mobile boat hoist to the shipyard of Stevens Towing Company Inc located on Yonges Island in South Carolina will transform marine services by alleviating overwhelmed dry dock schedules in the region.

Founded in the late 1800s as Stevens Brothers with a single boat, Joseph Stanyarne Stevens and William Yates Stevens transported produce and supplies from Edisto Island to Charleston and many points in between. The company has remained in the Stevens family and has continuously grown to meet market demands.

Today, third generation Susan (Groves) Stevens and fourth generation Robert and Johnson Stevens oversee several locations: the Yonges Island Shipyard; Pierside in North Charleston complete with crane support for topside repairs; and Riverbulk Terminal near Edenton, North Carolina. The company also boasts a fleet of 13 towboats, a US flag Jones Act ship, several 500 ton floating cranes, and more than 50 barges of various sizes. This new 820CII joins a 1980 150 ton Marine Travelift mobile boat hoist already on site at the

company’s

All-wheel electronic steering is a standard feature on the 820CII, allowing maximum manoeuvrability and making it incredibly nimble for such a large machine. This model is also customised with hydraulic sling adjustment for maximum versatility. The additional sling adjust option will allow crews at Stevens Towing to haul vessels with a wide range of hull designs and configurations,

including the barges and tugs in their own fleet.

In addition, the engine

compartment and operator’s station were relocated to the top of the lower side beam in order to allow crews to drive a forklift underneath for easier blocking and to protect the machine’s vital components from storm tidal surges.

An LED light package was installed for operator safety in low light conditions or inclement weather. A cold start package and automatic variable throttle fuel saver were also included on this machine for longevity and to provide cost savings on maintenance and fuel consumption.

Stevens Towing representatives expect that the addition of this 820CII to their shipyard facility will create better availability for customers in need of services and repairs on their vessels by utilising space on the hard standing.

Marine Travelift Inc sales@marinetravelift.com www.marinetravelift.com

Pneumatic obital sander from USA

The LD30 from Rupes USA is a powerful and compact mini air sander designed specifically for spot repairs and will denib and spot sand freshly painted panels in a boatyard’s repair shop.

The 1.5 mm orbit makes quick work of dirt nibs and the doublesilenced motor and die- cast

construction provide stable, quiet operation.

The LD30 comes as standard with an extended inlet hose, air regulator, vinyl and Velcro backing pads.

Rupes USA info@rupesusa.com www.rupesusa.com

Yonges Island shipyard.

SUPERYACHT INTERIORS

The 36 metre Sanlorenzo SD118 superyacht balances a classic exterior design with a number of options to customise the interior. Its large interior volumes, high quality choice of interior designers and capacity for individual personalisation have made it a big market success, which is enjoying particular traction in the Asian market. A new specialised training academy has been established at the Gold Coast City Marina and Shipyard to fill labour shortages across the superyacht industry. Among the lavishly-appointed arrivals was 68 metre superyacht Lady Christine, worth $82 million (pictured at the yard as dusk falls), which arrived at the Gold Coast for a multi-milliondollar, six-month facelift.

Asymmetric design gives interior options

The 36 metre Sanlorenzo SD118 superyacht balances a classic exterior design with a number of options to customise the interior. The GRP vessel has a beam of almost eight

metres and a volume of 290 gross tonnage due to an innovative design solution that features an innovative skylounge

Bernardo Zuccon, son of Gianni and Paola Zuccon, who founded

the Italian design studio Zuccon International Project, created the yacht’s exterior. She has three decks plus a sun deck that’s wellintegrated. The cockpit has a fixed couch that faces the saloon through

sliding glass doors that open wide, but from there the possibilities to personalise the yacht are down to the buyer as Sanlorenzo’s customisation process foresees five stages through which the builder

The ‘skylounge’ on the upper deck has open doors to the portside walkway

Staircases are key to the yacht’s interior design.

There are separate toilet and shower compartments in the bathroom.

develops a personalised space plan that identifies the customer’s ideal number, size and type of cabins, while also delineating special-purpose areas for sport, entertainment or relaxation needs.

Owners can opt for interiors by a wide range of designers including Bernardo and Martina Zuccon, Daniel and Michel Bismut, Guillaume Rolland from Liaigre and Patricia Urquiola, who has already collaborated with Sanlorenzo on the interiors of their SD96 model.

The owner’s suite has a fullbeam cabin with a walk-around bed placed slightly to port, leaving plenty of room for seating to starboard and an office area overlooking the water to port. The suite’s bathroom has separate toilet and shower compartments divided by a sliding glass door, while a central corridor leads to a private staircase that runs directly from the cabin to the forepeak.

On most yachts, the main-deck saloon is the largest space for social gatherings, but the SD118 has a ‘skylounge’ that becomes the place to meet. Zuccon’s design for the upper deck has an innovative asymmetrical layout where a portside passage leads fore to aft, but to starboard the interiors are built out to the side of the yacht.

An additional exterior foredeck lounge area in front of the bridge and an aft dining area shaded by the sun-deck overhang make the upper deck a space that invites all aboard to mingle all day and enjoy the owner’s hospitality well into the evening.

Further guest accommodation on the lower deck includes two spacious VIP cabins and two doubles, all of which are en-suite. These spaces can be set up as something other than cabins such as a massage room or a gym.

The crew area, also on the lower deck, has cabins for up to five staff, enabling a two-to-one guest-tocrew ratio.

The Sanlorenzo SD118’s large interior volumes, high quality choice of interior designers and capacity for individual personalisation have made it a big market success, which is enjoying particular traction in the Asian market.

Gold Coast training academy for superyachts

Anew

specialised training academy has been established at the epicentre of the booming superyacht industry on the Gold Coast of Australia to support record growth and demand for workers as local and international buyers continue to splash out on luxury marine craft.

With a flood of new boats of all sizes being delivered to buyers in Australia, arriving for refits or just visiting the Gold Coast, the training academy will be the first in Australia to be established at a shipyard.

The academy at the Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard (GCCM) will begin turning out an in-demand pipeline of skilled marine trades workers to fill labour shortages across the $80-billion industry, from marine labourers, to trade assistants, trimmers, fabricators, painters, electricians, carpenters, shipwrights and plumbers.

Trenton Gay, CEO of GCCM, said the marine sector had grown at an unprecedented rate, offering a massive spread of sophisticated and innovative job opportunities. “The marine industry is fast-paced, multi-layered and ever-evolving, so for those seeking out new career paths, the academy is an ideal way to get the right advice and appropriate training.

Australia is being recognised internationally now for the quality of marine trades we offer, so it is important that we enhance the flow of job opportunities and talent within the industry.”

Close to 40 superyachts have been brought into Australia in the past year, compared to around ten superyachts in a ‘normal’ year, and the key gateway for the influx is the Gold Coast and Queensland.

Among the lavishly-appointed arrivals was 68 metre superyacht Lady Christine, worth $82 million, which arrived at the Gold Coast for a multimillion-dollar, six-month facelift.

Owned by British billionaire, Lord Irvine Laidlaw, who is a former member of the House of Lords and founder of the Institute for

International Research, the craft was also used by George Clooney and Julia Roberts for their latest blockbuster, Ticket to Paradise, being filmed on the Gold Coast and around Queensland.

The GCCM is part of the 250 hectare Gold Coast Marine Precinct, the largest refit and repair yard in the Southern Hemisphere. More than 90 businesses operate from the precinct, covering all aspects of marine refit, maintenance and construction for vessels.

Local employment and training specialists, DGT Employment and Training, will head the GCCM Marine Trades Academy program to deliver tailored support for the on-site businesses and deliver skilled marine trades workers to fill labour shortages globally.

The GCCM Marine Trades Academy will operate alongside a new TAFE Queensland Marine Centre of Excellence, also due to open in the Coomera marine precinct in early 2023.

Kris McCue, CEO of DGT Employment and Training, said demand was currently outstripping supply for qualified marine trades, making the new academy a much-needed conduit between businesses requiring a skilled workforce and trainees or workers wishing to enter or advance within the industry. He added, “The pathways created will enable people seeking traineeships and apprenticeships in particular to complete work experience with leading marine businesses located in the shipyard to get the start they are wanting in the industry.

“We’ll be ideally located to connect

the right candidates with the right opportunities to service an expanding market and furthermore, create a workforce with appropriate education and/or safety and other skills required by GCCM businesses.”

According to the Australian Institute of Marine Science, Australia’s marine industry contributes more than $80 billion annually to Australia’s national economy. In 2021, the industry directly employed more than 27,000 people.

On the back of rising wealth, the global market for luxury craft has continued to surge and is projected to jump to US$84.7 by 2027. This has risen from US$64.1 billion in 2020 when the Covid crisis began, according to the latest Yacht Industry Global Market Trajectory and Analytics report.

Gay confirmed that the Gold Coast continued to develop as a marine industry centre of excellence to support the booming billion-dollar global superyacht trend, pointing out that GCCM was currently working to deliver infrastructure, including a 20 hectare Stage 2 facility that would offer the capability of lifting vessels up to 1,400 tonnes.

In conclusion, he stated: “GCCM’s ongoing success is highly dependent on the skills and experience of our trades. It’s vital that we continue to maintain the workforce of strong and competent trades that we have been globally recognised for since we first opened the gates over 22 years ago”. Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard info@gccm.com.au www.gccm.com.au

The working day begins at Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard.

Portugal to host World Marinas Conference

TheAssociação Portuguesa de Portos de Recreio (APPR) will host the prestigious International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) World Marinas Conference at the Tivoli Vilamoura Conference Center on 9-11 October, 2023, bringing this international event to Portugal for the very first time.

The bidding took place during an ICOMIA Marinas Group meeting in November, 2020, with a good set-up from other applying candidates from Europe and the US. Vilamoura Marina at the heart of the Algarve in Portugal was selected as the next location for IWMC 2023. With more than 300 sunny days a year, 1 794 km of coastline and 50 marinas, as well as being voted the World’s Leading Destination for the third consecutive year in 2019’s World Travel Awards, Portugal won the bidding process.

Founded in 1991, APPR unites and represents the marinas and the recreational port facilities of Portugal, maintaining a constant relationship between them, addressing any challenges they face and representing them in government circles.

Isolete Coreia, President of APPR, said: “IWMC is the largest gathering of the marine industry and we are very pleased to have been selected to host this prestigious event in 2023. It will be a great honour to welcome

the world’s leaders in the boating industry in Portugal – a country that has strong nautical traditions, a pioneer in sailing unfamiliar seas and therefore the perfect place to host this conference. This will give APPR the opportunity to welcome and show to all the participants our country in general and the Algarve region (South Coast) in particular. Introducing the amenities, which allow recreational boating all year round, with excellent climate, friendly people, formidable hospitality and wines, stunning beaches, rich history and monuments.

We are absolutely delighted to bring together the greatest experts in the nautical industry, contributing to a process of exchange of information, ideas and collective learning”.

Udo Kleinitz, Secretary-General of ICOMIA, added: “Amidst the challenging economic situation, it was good to see a host of strong bids for the 2023 edition of ICOMIA World Marinas Conference for which APPR was finally chosen by our members. The ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2023 will focus on what we have learned from the

pandemic crisis, how to thrive in particularly volatile and uncertain conditions to continue our offering to boaters, visitors and the surrounding community. Also, WMC is the place to discuss parameters that shape future conditions, from the regulatory landscape and expectations towards more sustainable operations to looking ahead at market conditions to come”.

Associação Portuguesa de Portos de Recreio appr.direcao@gmail.com www.worldmarinasconference.com

Green Tech Boat Show moves to Southampton

MDL Marinas has announced that its Green Tech Boat Show is moving to Southampton.

The first boat show dedicated to shining a spotlight on the marine industry’s green products and technologies, next year’s event will play centre stage at the South Coast Boat Show when it’s held at MDL’s Ocean Village Marina in Southampton from 21-23 April, 2023. Eco-friendly and innovative products designed to make boating more sustainable will now be showcased alongside global power and sail brands.

“We’ve taken the decision to

make the Green Tech Boat Show a feature of our popular South Coast Boat Show as boat purchase and sustainable boating are no longer a separate conversation with the boat buying public,” explained Tim Mayer, Sales and Marketing Director, MDL Marinas.

“By bringing the Green Tech Boat Show to Southampton, the epicentre of boat sales along the South Coast, we’re able to give green marine technology and the companies producing it greater visibility.

“The South Coast Boat Show is for serious buyers and these buyers

will be considering sustainability in their purchase decisions – whether they’re buying now or in 18 months’ time. We’re just creating the ultimate boat-buying platform, where an extensive range of cuttingedge technology supporting greener boating is showcased alongside the world’s leading boating brands.”

Now in its third year, from its new Southampton setting as part of the South Coast Boat Show, MDL’s Green Tech Boat Show will continue to help boat-owners and prospective buyers understand the greener options available to them.

Tim continued: “If you’re designing,

manufacturing, distributing or launching an eco-friendly boating product or service, the Green Tech Boat Show is now, more than ever, the ideal platform to present them to a large, receptive and fully engaged audience. We’re hoping that this positive move to Southampton, with its central location and great connections, will enable more companies to show their innovative and environmentally- sound solutions”.

MDL Marinas

t.mayer@mdlmarinas.co.uk www.mdlmarinas.co.uk/boatshows

New dates for MDL’s South Coast Boat Show

MDL Marinas has announced new dates for the South Coast Boat Show next year. Hosted at MDL’s flagship Ocean Village Marina, the popular boat show will now be held on 21-23 April, 2023. The change is due to the news that King Charles’ coronation is to be held on the 6 May, which falls during the original show dates.

“Following consultation with our exhibitors, we’ve decided it’s in everyone’s best interests to move the dates of the show,” said Tim Mayer, Sales and Marketing Director, MDL Marinas. “The coronation of the King is a major event, which quite rightly will see many people watching in London or on the television from the comfort of their homes.

“The South Coast Boat Show is focused on showcasing power and sail brands to serious buyers, and to generate strong leads and direct sales for the boat dealers, so we need

to ensure that as many people can attend as possible.

“We feel that running the show alongside an event of national and historical significance could impact on visitor numbers and the overall success of the show.”

Now in its fifth year, the South Coast Boat Show features the marine industry’s most exciting and innovative boating brands, as well as an extensive range of ancillary services such as associated gear, finance and insurance.

Exhibitors confirmed so far include: Arcona, Aquilla, Axopar London, Beneteau, Cheetah Marine Catamarans, Dehler,

Delta Powerboats, Dragonfly Trimarans, Dream Yacht Charter, Dufour, Elite Teak, ePropulsion, Excess Catamarans, Fountaine Pajot, Freedom Boat Club, Galeon Yachts, General Yachting and Leisure Finance, GT Yachts, Hanse, Jeanneau, JK Marine, Key Yachting, Lagoon, Moody, Ocean Youth Trust, Optima Electric Boats, Pantaenius Insurance, Parker Adams Boat Sales, Parker Boats, Raymarine, RS Electric, Sealine, Ship Shape Bedding, Sunseeker Poole, Vanclaes Boat Trailers, Vita Yachts and Vulkan United Kingdom.

Set in its premium location in the heart of Southampton, Ocean Village Marina, with its state-of-the-art facilities, excellent transport links and numerous restaurants and bars, is the ideal venue for a boat show. MDL Marinas

t.mayer@mdlmarinas.co.uk www.mdlmarinas.co.uk/boatshows

SCIBS brings in over $470 million

Research conducted by Griffith Business School at Griffith University in Australia has found that the estimated direct economic impact of the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) to the Gold Coast last year was almost half a billion dollars. Dr Douglas Hunt and his research team found the sum of total money that came into the Gold Coast as a direct result of SCIBS 2021 was $471.46 million, up from $336.27 million in 2019. They also revealed that 92% of this was the commercial impact of

orders placed with exhibitors at the show.

It is expected the economic impact of the sold-out SCIBS 2022 event, which saw 334 exhibitors, with 607 boats on show and over 1000 marine products, will eclipse these figures again.

These figures represent a tangible return on the significant investment Sanctuary Cove owner Mulpha has made in the precinct, the event and the marine industry. Since taking ownership in 2002, Mulpha has invested in the development

Index to Advertisers

Daniel S. Natchez and Associates Inc 14 www.dsnainc.com

DeckSafe Solutions Ltd 15 www.decksafe.co.uk

Dura Composites 6 www.duracomposites.com

ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 23 www.icomia.org

Inland and Coastal Marina Systems Ltd 7 www.inlandandcoastal.com

LeeSan 5 www.leesan.com

Diary of events

Please check websites for up-to-date information before booking hotels or confirming travel plans.

METSTRADE

Amsterdam, The Netherlands 15-17 November, 2022 www.metstrade.com

Abu Dhabi International Boat Show

Abu Dhabi, UAE 24-27 November, 2022 www.adibs.ae

boot Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf, Germany 21-29 January, 2023 www.boot.de

Miami International Boat Show

Miami, USA 15-19 February, 2023 www.miamiboatshow.com

Auckland Boat Show

Auckland, New Zealand 9-12 March, 2023 www.auckland-boatshow.com

China (Shanghai)

International Boat Show Shanghai, China 27-29 March, 2023 www.boatshowchina.com

of the Sanctuary Cove precinct, the redevelopment of the hotel and the expansion of the marina, including state-of-the-art undercover superyacht berthing, which offers, among other things, room service through the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort. Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show contactus@ sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au www.sanctuarycoveboatshow. com.au

Marina & Holiday Park Solutions Ltd 3 www.rmcs.co.uk

Marine Travelift Inc OBC www.marinetravelift.com

METSTRADE 9 www.metstrade.com Seawork 24 www.seawork.com

SF Marina IFC www.sfmarina.com

Walcon Marine Ltd 11 www.walconmarine.com

Palma International Boat Show

Palma de Mallorca 27-30 April, 2023 www.palmainternationalboatshow. com

Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show

Queensland, Australia 25-28 May, 2023 www.sanctuarycoveboatshow. com.au

Seawork

Southampton, England 13-15 June, 2023 www.seawork.com

Sydney International Boat Show

Sydney, Australia 3-7 August, 2023 www.sydneyboatshow.com.au

ICOMIA World Marinas Conference

Vilamoura, Portugal 11-13 October, 2023 www.icomia.org