Marina Industry December 2023

December 2023

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2 INDUSTRY NEWS

7 GUIDE

Issue 52

19 ON THE WATERFRONT

22 SHOWTIME

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SUPERDOCKS

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PUSHING LIMITS

M E ET US A T M ET ST RA D E . STA N D MYP 0 5 . 618 SF Marina is a world-renowned expert on developing new or existing premium marinas. We provide state-of-the-art floating breakwaters and concrete pontoons to anyone anywhere who plans on building a marina with superyacht berths. And who wants it to still be there after the storm.

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

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2023

1 EDITOR’S COMMENT

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Volume 11, Number 52 December 2023

Contact information PUBLISHER Paul Barrett Hartswood Media 8 Lindsey Close, Brentwood, Essex CM14 4PN, United Kingdom Tel: 44 (0)1277 211691 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

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’m indebted to TransEurope Marinas for the following words on the Smart Marina Guide, which was unveiled at the recent ICOMIA World Marinas Conference: “Designed by marina associations and marina industry leaders from ICOMIA’s IMG group, spearheaded

by Idan Cohen on behalf of the Marine Innovation Association, the vision outlines a new harmonised, datadriven and interoperable marina culture. The Guide’s intention is to set the path for a wide-reaching collective effort to meet customer demands, improve efficiency and sustainability goals in marinas, and produce useful data on the sector’s activity.

“Various years of holding discussions with TransEurope members as they develop the Pick a Pier platform for marinas and boaters has shown that individual marinas, corresponding to the majority of members within TransEurope Marinas, lack the funding to purchase off-the-shelf digital solutions.

“Whilst incorporating digital services is less a trend and more a necessity, marinas need solutions that are flexible and tailor-made, and that work to improve their existing services. They may not seek to go to the lengths of replacing marina management software, but can employ new tools to improve communication, reduce reservation frictions and offer boaters more autonomy in terms of how they use their berth and make decisions about their next cruising destination.

“Marinas also need more online visibility in an increasingly crowded webspace and by using Pick a Pier’s platform, TransEurope members benefit from a more prominent web presence and have the opportunity to develop a greater understanding of their own supply and demand through greater connectivity with visitors and residents.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Kent, TN2 3BW,

GUIDE

ISSN 2517-7478

©2023 Hartswood Media

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NOTICEBOARD Superyacht docks replaced in Costa Rica

Tel: +44 (0)1892 511678

David Young

ICMS to build marine habitats

Tunbridge Wells, United Kingdom

“One of TransEurope’s values is preserving the idiosyncratic characteristics of individual marina destinations, where a number of members are intergenerational family-run marinas with an intimate connection with their surrounding area and the local population. They represent the enormous diversity within the sector, where geographical, cultural, behavioural and managerial differences create a rich tapestry. No-one wants a completely homogeneous experience, where each marina is a replica of the other; the charm of representing the locality and its cultural peculiarities can be one of the best aspects of visiting a marina.

“This is where Pick a Pier has learnt how best to make a difference without the marina incurring a major upfront investment, preserving the marina’s individuality and use of existing tools whilst seeking to harmonise basic services and processes.

“Learning alongside marinas and helping them to streamline their own practices, whilst collaboratively developing better operational processes, Pick a Pier has been able to generate important returns. This is where being an early adopter can reap significant benefits, helping marinas navigate their way in digitalisation and develop skills and know-how. Pick a Pier’s workflow consolidation offers instant communication with boaters and, by their own calculation, can save marina staff over 250 hours of work during the season. An efficient berth inventory management can increase reservation completion by nearly 20%, whilst their workflow system optimises marina operations and the bottom line, with cancellations decreasing by 57%.”

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The 2024 Guide to Suppliers features a number of our regular advertisers, as well as profiles of other market leaders in the marina industry

DIRECTORY OF SUPPLIERS

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Names and websites of suppliers from ‘Boat Lifting and Moving’ to ‘Yacht Transport’

NATCHEZ ON THE WATERFRONT

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at the Abu Dhabi Awards. This award recognises marinas

Boosting the bottom line

SHOWTIME Partnerships and pavilions for Seawork 2024

Front cover: Turgutreis has been named ‘Best Overall Marina’ demonstrating exemplary leadership by creating visionary

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goals, mission and values with well-defined strategies based on internal, external analysis and benchmarking (see page 5).

DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY

2 INDUSTRY NEWS

ICMS to build marine habitats

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n agreement has been signed by Inland and Coastal Marina Systems (ICMS) with Living Seawalls to be its production partner and supplier in the UK and Ireland. A flagship programme of the Sydney Institute of Marine Science in collaboration with Reef Design Lab, Living Seawalls has designed innovative modular panels, which mimic foreshore and inter-tidal habitats to revive the increasingly ‘urbanised’ oceans as construction ventures ever further into the sea.

The three-dimensional tile-like concrete panels attach in a mosaic pattern, adding texture, shape and form to flat seawalls and other oceanfacing structures, which otherwise would lack the complexity required for a biodiverse marine environment.

ICMS will be manufacturing the Living Seawalls’ concrete habitat

A range of habitat panel designs (picture courtesy of Alex Goad Sawmillers). panels at its facility in Banagher, Ireland, using waste material from the production of its floating concrete breakwaters and pontoons.

Oliver Shortall, Managing Director

at ICMS, stated: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Living Seawalls and support its aim of increasing the ecological value of breakwaters, pontoons and other artificial

structures in the marine environment.

“As part of our sustainability initiative, we’re looking at ways to minimise the impact of our business and the products we produce on the environment, and the partnership with Living Seawalls provides us with a dual-purpose solution. We’re now able to reduce our manufacturing waste while helping to breathe life back into the oceans – it’s win win, and we couldn’t be happier to be involved.”

With projects spanning three continents, Living Seawalls currently has ten habitat panel designs, each targeting different features of natural shorelines, which benefit diverse groups of marine organisms. The modular design allows the panels to be tailored to each site and as sea levels rise in coming years, they can provide habitats for species to migrate vertically.

Sustainability solutions for Spanish marinas The award-winning Environmental Social Governance (ESG) of experience will be used by D-Marin to prioritise sustainability in its three newly-acquired marinas (Marina Estepona, Marina Duquesa and Marina del Este) in Andalucia, Spain.

In line with the commitment to sustainability and marine life enhancement, D-Marin has outlined comprehensive plans to improve the sustainability in the Costa del Sol region by investing in solar panels, pump-out stations to safely collect and manage waste, used oil collection tanks, recycling initiatives, treatment systems to remove suspended particles and heavy metals from the water, alongside monthly water quality testing.

Beyond environmental initiatives, D-Marin will integrate each marina closely with the local community, by considering the local needs of boaters, fishermen, businesses and restaurants, expanding employment opportunities and playing an active role in important regional discussions and conferences.

Marina Estepona in Andalucia, Spain.

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2023

Konrad Tyrajski, COO at D-Marin, said: “Through our scale, we have the means to innovate and create premium marinas with the

highest standards of ESG and customer experience across the Mediterranean and beyond. Within our new Spanish marinas for

example, we have investment plans in place to provide solar panels, which will cover 100% of our energy consumption”.

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01945 898151

DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY

4 INDUSTRY NEWS

Development plans for Madeira marina

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n March, 2013, Marina Quinta do Lorde was featured on the front cover of the first issue of Marina Industry. Now, an exciting project is underway to revamp and improve this attractive marina in Madeira.

Whilst visitors to Marina Quinta do Lorde often comprise boaters making a technical stop following an Atlantic circuit, many are attracted by the unique beauty of the marina’s location and Manager Max Mallol has witnessed a growth in demand from catamarans and an increase in clients interested in sport fishing. There is also a number of larger vessels, for which there is currently a limited supply of moorings on the island of Madeira.

He confirmed, “In terms of our services, we aim to provide our users with an authentic and complete experience. On the one hand, we strive to provide everything they need to enjoy a comfortable and safe stay, including new electrical and water connection points, renovated and safe facilities, as well

as facilities for carrying out repairs, among other services. On the other hand, we provide our visitors with all the information and facilities necessary to connect with the local culture in a comprehensive manner, facilitating the search for places of interest, car rental and access to interesting services within the

marina, among other amenities.

“Having carried out a thorough preliminary study of maritime climate and wave conditions, plans are in place to ensure more comfortable and secure berthing services, with ample spaces for multihulls. New services are set to include significant improvements

in the security of the marina with 24-hour surveillance, as well as reinforced access controls to both the site and the pontoons. This endeavour will run parallel to the refurbishment of the resort hotel, which itself is subject to a comprehensive investment strategy.”

Swedish breakwater protects US marina Part of greater Massachusetts Bay, Quincy Bay is just seven miles South of Boston and home to Safe Harbor Marina Bay. This full-service American marina offers a unique, vibrant waterfront, access to world-class boating and, with its new state-of-the-art SF Marina floating concrete breakwater, safe and peaceful moorings. It can accommodate vessels up to 45 metres in length, with a draft of 3.6 metres.

Marina Bay’s West basin had a long history of recurring damage from the local storm conditions. The SF Marina floating concrete breakwater array installed is engineered to overcome extreme weather events.

It not only protects Marina Bay’s floating timber pontoons and finger piers from the area’s numerous seasonal storms, but also reduces costly repairs.

Steel-reinforced and virtually MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2023

unsinkable, each of the 14 Type 400 floating pontoons used in the project has a buoyancy rating of approximately 500kg/m2, yet because of their exceptional mass, the structures are exceptionally stable. An exclusive coupling system absorbs and distributes stress loads. They are anchored on 76 cm steel piles.

The Marina Bay project consists of an L-shaped 220 metres long x 4 metres wide SF Marina breakwater on the West basin. Doubling as docking space for transient megayachts, it has electric and water supplies routed through integrated utility ducts. A second smaller section extends from the marina’s rubble mound breakwater to overlap the larger portion and protect the harbour mouth.

Each of the 14 pontoons is secured with a pair of 76 cm steel piles.

INDUSTRY NEWS 5

High power charging at YCM

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enowned for its leadership in the transition to a greener yachting industry and its application of marine e-mobility, Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM), is making waves once again with the installation of Aqua superPower’s high power marine charging system.

To meet the ever-evolving demands of the electric boat market, YCM has become the first marina to install two Aqua 200 HPC marine chargers, transforming the charging experience for high-performance electric leisure and commercial boats.

In 2019, YCM was the first marina in the world to equip its dock with Aqua’s DC marine fast chargers, paving the way for the adoption of electric boating, an initiative that included adding electric tenders to reinforce its Sports Section’s fleet. As host of the prestigious annual Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, YCM took its commitment to electric boating a step further

by collaborating with Aqua superPower as a technical partner for the event in 2023.

The collaboration resulted in the creation of the biggest installation globally dedicated to public marine fast charging on a single pontoon with Aqua’s state-of-the-art AC and DC charging solutions. YCM’s status as a premium location on Aqua superPower’s marine fast charge network, boasting the highest usage and daily charging sessions, makes it a vital showcase for the company’s innovative technology in the pursuit of clean electric boating.

In a strategic move, Aqua superPower has entered a partnership with Kempower, a world-leading developer of scalable EV charging solutions.

This partnership aims to assist high usage site operators like Yacht Club de Monaco in managing their evolving demand for electric boat charging, enhance revenue and support the marine industry’s transition to electric propulsion.

Aqua 200 HPC satellites and Aqua 75 DC marine superchargers at Yacht Club de Monaco (picture courtesy of Aqua superPower Ltd).

Top award for Turgutreis Marina D-Marin has announced that Turgutreis, its marina located on the Bodrum peninsula, and its UAE region marinas, have been recognised and awarded at the Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards.

The ‘Best Overall Marina’ award recognises marinas demonstrating exemplary leadership by creating visionary goals, mission and values with well-defined strategies based on internal, external analysis and benchmarking.

A panel of seven industry experts from distinguished organisations and regulatory bodies recognised that Turgutreis manages processes, operations and resources efficiently, and has established clear Key Performance Indicators for financial and operational performance to exceed expectations of stakeholders.

Judges were looking for marinas that show strong understanding of the importance of the maritime community in their region and the pivotal role they play. D-Marin was awarded the top prize demonstrating how Turgutreis

goes above and beyond to deliver an outstanding experience and quality service to residents and visiting boat-owners.

The marina was judged among numerous others and was selected due to its range of outstanding marina facilities, which elevate the experience of its customers. These include the striking Blue Point Beach Club and state-of-the-art tennis and pool facilities, alongside ‘D-SPA Turgutreis’, with two massage rooms, relaxation room, sauna and a Turkish hammam.

D-Marin UAE, which comprises four marinas, was also a runnerup for two awards: ‘Best in service’; and ‘Best in practice’.

Pontoon from ICMS supports regeneration Working closely with multiple stakeholders, Inland and Coastal Marinas Systems (ICMS) has manufactured and installed a multi-purpose water access system on the banks of the River Tawe in Swansea, South Wales.

Fabricated from high quality steel and linked to the quayside by a bespoke bridgehead platform and footbridge, the mixed-use floating pontoon and gangway have been developed to help deliver a range of economic benefits to regenerate the area and encourage tourism, as well as create jobs locally.

Fitted to the historic quay wall with specialist fixings to retain the character and features of

the quay, the dual-level pontoon features ICMS’ unique solid glassreinforced concrete (GRC) and glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) watersports decking options.

Coupled with energy-efficient LED lighting, these offer year-round, non-slip access to the water.

The low freeboard section of the installation brings the deck to within just 150 mm of the river level. This watersports specific pontoon comes with high residual buoyancy, enabling easy access to the water for racing rowing boats, kayaks and paddleboards, while maintaining a stable platform for participants waiting to get out on the water.

DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY

6 NOTICEBOARD NOTICEBOARD

Superyacht docks replaced in Costa Rica

As part of an ambitious enhancement of its entire property, Enjoy Group complemented an aluminium dock array at Marina Bahia Golfito on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica with a floating concrete pontoon solution from SF Marina. The addition doubles the facility’s superyacht capacity.

The new array runs perpendicular to the unique 11 metre walkway and consists of three piers: 90 metres long x 6 metres wide, 60 metres long x 5 metres wide and 45 metres long x 5 metres wide. This allows Marina Bahia Golfito to host two 90 metre superyachts, two 60 metre vessels and two 45 metre yachts.

While Marina Bahia Golfito is nested within sheltered Pavón Bay, SF Marina floating concrete pontoons are built to withstand hard commercial use and extreme weather conditions. By virtue of their incredible mass, they are inherently stable and can be used by vehicles.

Maintenance-free and virtually unsinkable, the docks are equipped with 400A/400V electricity, water and other utilities in concealed ducts.

GCWA celebrates ten years

The Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) recently celebrated its Tenth Anniversary. The event was an important opportunity to reflect on the history of the Gold Coast’s waterways, key milestones and its future direction.

GCWA has proudly managed the Gold Coast waterways for the last ten years, delivering a comprehensive program centred around boating and marine infrastructure, dredging of navigation channels and operation of the Sand Bypass System.

Strategic alliance for boat transport

It has been announced that Peters & May is now collaborating with Hugo Stinnes Schiffahrt GmbH, a prominent player in the maritime industry. This alliance will see Peters & May manage the Stinnes SanMex liner service to facilitate monthly sailings from Northern Europe to the Caribbean and Florida during the peak months of November, December and January.

The inaugural crossing by MV Stinnes Mistral in November transported 32 boats from Antwerp and La Rochelle to Tortola and Fort Lauderdale.

New North American rep for Capria

Expanding the scope of its North American footprint, Capria SA has signed Simone Structures (www.simonestructures.com) as its latest sales and technical service rep. Simone Structures recently completed the installation of the eight-ton Capria Top-Running Stacker Crane at Aqua Waterfront Village, an upscale Mission Group lakeside community in Kelowna, British Columbia.

Covering the Canadian Pacific NorthWest, Simone Structures has extensive experience with cranes and heavy industrial equipment. The company is comprised of a team of highly qualified engineers, technicians, operations and sales personnel.

Albanian marina joins D-Marin The announcement of a partnership agreement between D-Marin and Vlora Marina – Albania’s first world-class marina – marks an important step in the future of nautical tourism in the country.

Vlora Marina joins D-Marin’s existing portfolio of 23 marinas across the Mediterranean and Gulf regions and expands the company’s presence into another new country, the ninth to date.

Vlora Marina, currently under construction, is set to revolutionise yachting tourism in Albania and catalyse the expansion of the nautical sector there.

It will offer 438 berths for year-round mooring for yachts and superyachts up to 50 metres in length overall, providing much-anticipated premium marina facilities to the country’s 426 km coastline.

Editorial Features in February 2024 Floating breakwaters and pontoons l Piling and anchoring options Decking: wood, composite and metal l Marina visit to Malta

Deadline: Monday, 19 February MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2023

GUIDE 7

Guide to Suppliers 2024 www.marinaindustry.net

Volume 11, Number 52 December 2023

This Guide features a number of our advertisers and includes a more comprehensive directory of suppliers on pages 16-17, together with their websites, under sections relevant to operators

seeking to improve their marinas and introduce or enhance the services they offer to berth-holders, visiting yachts and the general public of the area in which they are located.

The Guide is designed as a pull-out section, occupying the centre 12 pages of the issue, so that readers can remove these pages and retain them as a reference throughout the year.

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

©2023 Hartswood Media

DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY

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WORLD LEADERS IN WATERWAY CLEANUP

Water Witch provide Marinas, Harbour Authorities, Waterway management and waterfront resort operations with cost-effective, efficient solutions for the management and cleanup of the marine environment by employing the firm’s tried and tested range of customisable craft.

The multi-purpose range of workboats and trash-skimmers can perform many functions, including debris collection, aquatic weed harvesting, trash removal, mobile pump-out, oil spill response and marina maintenance roles.

These craft are supported by a worldwide network of experienced distributors and technical representatives.

More information from: www.waterwitch.com E-mail: info@waterwitch.com Tel: +44 (0)151 207 4874 MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2023

GUIDE 9

Dura Composites Ltd

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leading supplier of GRP products for the marina industry, Dura Composites, has introduced a new 30 mm Mini Mesh product to its d2 GRP grating range, which will be available to purchase in early 2024.

Produced in popular and efficient panel sizes of 3007x1027 and 4027x1267 mm, the 30 mm Mini Mesh range comes in Green, Grey, Dark Grey and Sand to suit a wide range of environments. As with the entire Mini Mesh range, the 13 mm open hole size meets requirements of the European Ball Fall tests and it still maintains a 900 mm span on 1.5Kn point load at L/100.

The d2 Dura Grating is a patented GRP grating series designed, developed and available exclusively from Dura Composites and is known for its safer, stronger, faster

and proven attributes. The marketleading design has advanced antislip properties and is anti-corrosive,

making it ideally suited to the harsh conditions of marinas, harbours, piers and promenades. State-

of-the-art composition ensures maximum safety tested to over one million footfalls.

As well as its small hole size, safety features and excellent strength-to-weight ratio, d2 30 mm Mini Mesh uses 17.33% less embodied carbon than the 30 mm grating available elsewhere in the industry, making it a sustainable choice.

The d2 GRP Mini Mesh range was previously available in sizes of 23, 35, 45 and 55 mm. A 30 mm Mini Mesh product was available as part of the previous grating range several years ago, but has now been design-engineered for maximum performance and efficiency as part of the exclusive d2 product range.

Dura Composites Ltd info@duracomposites.com www.duracomposites.com

Inland and Coastal Marina Systems This Irish manufacturer has gained a deserved reputation for designing, building, installing and maintaining water access solutions.

From marina pontoons to concrete breakwaters, ICMS systems are designed to enable boats of all shapes and sizes to moor safely and securely. The company drives constant improvement in its products, people and processes through ISO9001 certification The company’s standard leisure pontoon system is manufactured from galvanised steel with polystyrene flotation blocks encased in a skin of reinforced glassfibre.

This provides an extremely robust structure, which offers strength and stability even in the most onerous of conditions.

Pontoon decking options available include glassfibre reinforced concrete panels, timber, timber composite or glassfibre reinforced plastic mesh and the pontoons can be protected with hardwood, softwood, plastic or

rubber fenders.

Heavy duty pontoons are designed to accommodate the berthing of larger vessels such as superyachts

in marinas and ports. When using a double fender, freeboard heights from 500 mm to 1200 mm can be accommodated.

Inland and Coastal Marina Systems sales@inlandandcoastal.com www.inlandandcoastal.com DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY

10 GUIDE

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ince 1991, Lee Sanitation (LeeSan) has specialised in the design, installation and maintenance of sewage pump-out stations at both coastal and inland locations. During this time, it has acquired vast experience in supplying quayside pump-out systems for any size of marina and harbour, including workboat landing stages.

Now a member of the Pump Technology Group, LeeSan is capable of specifying, supplying and supporting clients with all manner of sanitation equipment, including toilets, tanks, pipework, water and waste pumps, valves and all ancillary equipment for any type of leisure craft or workboat and if advice is needed, support and help is readily available on the telephone from skilled staff at the company’s office in Warwickshire, which is close to major transport

Lee Sanitation Ltd

links in the English Midlands.

LeeSan stocks an extensive range of products at its 6,500 sq ft warehouse and can provide spare parts for most marine toilets and pumps – new models as well as

those dating back many years.

Its ‘One stop pump shop’ includes manufacturers such as Whale, Jabsco, Raritan, Rheinstrom, Blakes, Microphor, Sanimarin, Dometic/Sealand, Rule, Lowara,

Tru-design, Gobius, LeeStrom, Grundfos, DAB, Mono and many more.

Lee Sanitation Ltd sales@leesan.com www.leesan.com

Creating berthing people want to come home to

“The majority of yachtsmen say that it is one of the best pontoons they’ve ever moored on. Stable, non-slip and a high freeboard so they do not have to jump from their yachts on to the pontoon.”

Scott Ferguson, Harbour Master, Berwick

Call for a free GRC decking demonstration +44 239 400 2797 | sales@inlandandcoastal.com | www.inlandandcoastal.com MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER dada2447 Inland & Coastal 186x130 ad 2023 Apr23 AW.indd 1

04/04/2023 10:31

GUIDE 11

Marina Projects Ltd

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ounded in 2002, Marina Projects has grown to become one of the world’s leading marina consultancies. With offices in the UK, Cyprus and Hong Kong, the company is able to provide its expertise across the globe as shown by its successful projects worldwide such as the Lantau Yacht Club in Hong Kong (illustrated).

It works with a wide range of clients, including government bodies, commercial organisations, private developers and investment groups, and collaborates with worldrenowned architects, engineers and other professionals to deliver a client’s vision for any marina or integrated waterfront project.

Marina Projects is certified to the ISO 9001:2015 standard.

By maintaining a robust and effective Quality Management System, it is able to demonstrate its continued commitment to providing the highest quality of service to clients by continually improving processes and procedures to ensure any marina project meets its ultimate goals.

It has also adapted to overcome the challenges posed by Covid-19.

The Directors and senior management have over 200 years’ combined experience in the marina and marine leisure field, and are fully committed to continually develop the company and invest in its employees.

Marina Projects Ltd enquiries@marinaprojects.com www.marinaprojects.com

Marine Travelift Inc

With over 60 years of innovation in boat moving techniques and an established reputation for manufacturing world-class boat handling equipment, the team at Marine Travelift, aided by its global network of dealers, understands that it takes hard work to achieve satisfied clients.

From in-house engineers to its knowledgeable CustomerCare team, the company works with marina-owners and boatyard operators to build the machines that keep them in motion for years to come. However, support doesn’t end when a hoist is delivered. Marine Travelift provides operation and service training in the field before the equipment begins

service and, once in use, highlytrained technicians are ready for immediate attendance.

If a repair becomes necessary, only genuine Marine Travelift replacement parts are supplied to match the original specifications of specific machines. An extensive in-house inventory of parts reduces lead times, with global shipping and online parts for same-day order processing.

Marine Travelift implements a quality system, certified by QAS according to Standard ISO 9001:2015, which allows it to offer customers a higher level of consistency with its products and services.

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

DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY

12 GUIDE

Pacsoft International Ltd

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upporting all the needs of a marine business to maximise growth, PacsoftNG marina management software is a one-stop marine management software solution catering for marinas, harbours and yacht clubs, providing small and large operations with a comprehensive set of rich features to run all aspects of the business.

This software allows both time and money to be saved through automating and integrating daily tasks, serving customers more effectively while maintaining tight control over business processes and performance.

The system provides enhanced management insight and control as its ‘Visual Marina’ provides a simple and easy audit for management to ensure the invoicing system is up-to-date

and accurate. Staff can make fast, informed decisions based on accurate, current and future data, with information at the user’s fingertips. Integrated accounts receivable allows

quick and efficient resolution of customer queries online, visibility of outstanding balances and easy overdue debt chasing.

It also has the ability to interface with ‘Utility Metering Systems’ and

can turn meter on, allocate to a boat, record meter readings, take final reading and turn meter off.

Pacsoft International Ltd sales@pacsoft.com www.pacsoft.com

RMCS Marina and Holiday Park Solutions Marina and Holiday Park Solutions Ltd (t/a RMCS) are one of the UK’s premier suppliers, manufacturers and designers of services associated with busy marinas, harbours and ports.

All products are British-made, with the emphasis on quality and reliability. The last 12 months have seen the portfolio of products increase, with a new range of metering solutions for every budget, from simple readonly solutions to app-based systems. Unlike many providers, all RMCS products are supplied without contracts or other ongoing costs.

Marina and Holiday Park Solutions offers electrical designs, water systems, pumpout facilities, lighting and security systems. Introduced for the first time this year to counter soaring energy costs are photovoltaic (solar) systems.

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2023

Martin Georgeson, a wellknown name in the industry with 30 years’ experience, joined

the company in October to strengthen the team and has been welcomed aboard.

RMCS Marina & Holiday Park Solutions sales@rmcs.co.uk www.rmcs.co.uk

GUIDE 13

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Roodberg/Frisian Industries BV

ince it was established in 1936, Roodberg (a trade name of Frisian Industries BV) has developed, produced and supplied top-of-theline boat hoists and trailers for use on slipways and to transport craft for yacht builders, boatyards and marinas. The company employs innovative technologies based on over 70 years’ of experience in designing and building both hydraulic and electric hoisting and transportation systems.

Roodberg has concentrated its development, engineering, production, assembly and service operations under one roof, which makes it possible to reduce the time taken to manufacture and deliver orders to a minimum. This makes the production lines and delivery times short and allows the company to respond quickly as new developments and technologies emerge. It also enables customised equipment to be built for customers

without delay.

Its wide range of hoisting and moving systems are developed and

manufactured both in standard series and according to clients’ specifications.

Roodberg info@roodberg.com www.roodberg.com

+44 (0)1255 440297 info@duracomposites.com www.duracomposites.com

DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY

14 GUIDE

SF Marina

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othenburg-based SF Marina, with its main production facility located at Walllhamn on the West Coast of Sweden, celebrated its centenary last year. The company’s heritage began with the construction of Brandholmens shipyard in 1918 to specialise in concrete structures for use on water and it was not long

before floating concrete pontoons became the main product manufactured by the enterprise.

A continuous programme of development and innovation honed though experience shaped by installations in Sweden, where harsh Winter conditions are a good test of marina infrastructure, enabled the company to design pontoons and breakwaters that

provided the strength and durability to perform well under a wide range of difficult conditions from Tropical heat to Arctic ice, as well as challenges presented by storms, tides and constant exposure to salt water and ultraviolet light.

In 1972, SF Marina was chosen as a supplier to the Summer Olympics and delivered pontoons used by six sailing classes at the event. This was followed by

another ‘first’ in 1983, when it installed its first marina in the USA at Boston Yacht Club.

Two years later, the company moved to its new factory in Wallhamn from where pontoons weighing up to 250 tons can be loaded directly on to ships moored at a deep-water quay for delivery anywhere in the world.

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

Walcon Marine Ltd

Founded in 1963, Walcon Marine is a market leader in the design, construction and installation of marinas, yacht harbours and berthing facilities around the world. As probably the longestestablished and most experienced company in its field, Walcon Marine is a global organisation with manufacturing facilities in the UK and Australia.

Its range of walkway and finger pontoons caters for every need, from low freeboard versions for dinghies and paddleboards to its tubular steel Docking Solutions pontoons for workboats, fishing boats and superyachts, as well as other specialist units for exposed locations.

Today, its pontoons and associated infrastructure can be found in over 30 different countries on five continents. Notable projects in 2021 have included the complete removal and replacement of the

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2023

Noss on Dart Marina in the UK’s West Country, resulting in a brandnew, 232-berth facility.

A full list of recent projects and services can be viewed on the company’s website.

Walcon Marine Ltd sales@walconmarine.com www.walconmarine.com

GUIDE 15

T

Water Witch Workboats

his family-owned business aims to provide costeffective, efficient solutions to help clean up the marine

environment and is estimated to have cleared more than two million tonnes of plastic trash from the ocean.

Over 200 of the company’s debris collection and trash retrieval workboats operate around the world, including Hong Kong, New

York, Cape Town, Kuwait and London. Its range of workboats has been developed to offer users a versatile, multi-purpose craft or pontoon boat that can perform a wide variety of duties in addition to efficient aquatic trash and debris removal.

The Versi-Cat workboat is extremely adaptable for applications such as providing a fast-response to marine pollution, supplying a mobile pump-out service, lifting moorings (with removable lifting frame), diving and maintenance support.

The design incorporates various ‘pods’ that sit between the twin hulls, enabling many tasks to be undertaken. The pod system allows heavy items to be loaded directly on to the quayside and lifted aboard the vessel via a crane with no need to manhandle the equipment to the water.

Water Witch Workboats info@waterwitch.com www.waterwitch.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.

DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY 186x130mm_Walcon_Anniversary_Marina Industry.indd 1

27/06/2023 08:05

16 DIRECTORY OF SUPPLIERS BOAT LIFTING AND MOVING Alto Service Italia Srl www.altoservice.it Ascom SpA www.ascom-italy.it Boat Lift Srl www.boatlift.it Cimolai Technology SpA www.cimolaitechnology.com FGM. Tecnology Srl www.fgmtecnology.com GH Cranes & Components www.ghcranes.com Golden Manufacturing Inc www.goldenboatlifts.com Hostar Marine Transport Systems Inc www.hostarmarine.com Kropf Industrial Inc www.kropfindustrial.com Marine Travelift Inc www.marinetravelift.com Roodberg/Frisian Industries BV www.roodberg.com Wiggins Lift Co Inc www.wigginslift.com Wise Handling Ltd www.wiseboathoists.co.uk

BOATYARD EQUIPMENT Accon Marine www.acconmarine.com Brownell Boat Stands www.boatstands.com Falch GmbH www.falch.com Gisatex GmbH & Co KG www.gisatex.de International NDT Ltd www.int-ndt.com International Yacht Paint www.international-yachtpaint.com Larius Srl www.larius.com Nautipark www.nautipark.com Naval Tecno Sud Srl www.navaltecnosud.it

Nitty-Gritty Srl www.nitty-gritty.it

Naval Tecno Sud www.navaltecnosud.it

Sailing Technologies www.sailingtechnologies.com

Port-Safety www.port-safety.com

Rasor Elettromeccanica Srl www.rasor-cutters.com

Potona Marine Co Ltd www.potona.com

Sea-Fire Europe Ltd www.sea-fire.co.uk

Reid Lifting Ltd www.reidlifting.com

Seajet www.seajetpaint.com

Sidermarine Sl www.sidermarine.com

Smart Antifouling www.smart-antifouling.com

Xunzel www.xumzel.com

Solbian Energie Alternative Srl www.solbian.eu

DRY STACK STORAGE

CONSULTANCIES Arrol Consultancy www.arrol.com Camper & Nicholsons Marinas Ltd www.cnmarinas.com Daniel S. Natchez and Associates Inc www.dsnainc.com International Waterfront Consultants www.iwclic.com Marina Management Services Inc www.marinamanagement.com Marina Projects Ltd www.marinaprojects.com Marina Solutions International www.marinasolutionsintl.com MDL Marina Consultancy www.mdlconsultancy.com Salt Technologies www.lindley.pt

DECKING Captrad Composites www.captrad.com DeckSafe Solutions Ltd www.decksafe.co.uk Dura Composites Ltd www.duracomposites.com Pro Composites www.procomposites.co.uk

Dan-Fender www.danfender.com Den Hartog Industries Inc www.denhartogindustries.com E.V.A. Bumper di SL www.evabumper.com Ibericamar SL www.ibericamar.es Inmare Srl www.inmare.net Polytec Thelen GmbH www.polytec-industrial.com Portmere Rubber Ltd www.portmererubber.co.uk SeaEQ GmbH www.seaeq.com Walcon Marine Ltd www.walconmarine.com

MARINA MANAGEMENT

Atlantic Aluminium & Marine Products www.atlanticaluminiummarine.com Goodocks Marine (Hong Kong) Co Ltd www.goodocks.com

MATERIALS

Ibericamar SL www.ibericamar.es

Eurodesign www.eurodesign.se

ThruFlow Inc www.thruflow.comTitanDeck

DOCK FIXTURES Aister www.aister.com

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2023

FENDERS

Harbour Assist www.harbourassist.com Havenstar www.havenstar.com Marina Master www.marina-master.com Marinacloud www.marinacloud.net Nauticspot www.nauticspot.fr Pacsoft International www.pacsoftmms.com

Voyager Industries www.titandeck.net

GPA Seabot waste collection marine drone.

Capria SA www.domingocapria.com Drystack Australia Pty Ltd www.drystackaustralia.com.au Nautipark www.nautipark.com Wickens Engineering Ltd www.wickens.co.uk

DIRECTORY OF SUPPLIERS 17 Italvipla Srl www.italvipla.com CBG Composites GmbH www.cbg-composites.de

Ingemar Srl www.ingemar.it Inland and Coastal Marina Systems Ltd www.inlandandcoastal.com

MODULAR DOCK SYSTEMS

Marina Pods www.marinapods.com

Airfloat Ltd www.airfloatmps.com

Marinetek Finland Oy www.marinetek.fi

Buldock Ltd www.buldock.com

Martini Alfredo SpA www.martinialfredo.it

Jetfloat www.jetfloat.com

Metalu Marinas www.metalu.com

Magic-Float www.magicfloat.ru

Poralu Marine www.poralu.com

Marine IP Ltd www.versadock.com

Dan-Fender multi-purpose dock fender.

Potona Marine Co Ltd www.potona.com

Marine Floor Europe SAS www.marinefloor.fr

Sureline Electrical Modules Ltd www.sureline-em.co.uk

Otto SAS www.gmiotto.it

PILING AND ANCHORING

PMS Dockmarine www.pmsdockmarine.com

DualDocker GmbH www.dualdocker.com

TAFF Modular Floating System www.taf-f.com

Hazelett Marine www.hazelettmarine.com

PEDESTALS

Profextru Products BV www.profextru.com

Aqua superPower www.aqua-superpower.com

Seaflex www.seaflex.net

Depagne www.depagne.fr

Shoreline Plastics www.shorelineplastics.com

Eaton Marina Power & Lighting www.marinapower.com

POLLUTION CONTROL

Gigieffe Srl www.gigieffe.com

GPA Seabots www.gpaseabots.com

Hubbell Marine www.hubbell-marine.com

IADYS www.iadys.com

Jo Bird www.jobird.co.uk

Wave International www.waveintrnational.co.uk

KEHA3 www.keha3.ee

PONTOONS

Maricer www.maricer.com

Aister www.aister.com

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

AquaBanas www.aquabanas.com

Microcustom International Ltd www.microcustom.co.uk

ATIC www.atic.fr

M-Tech Marine Technologies www.m-tech.com.au

Bellingham Marine Industries www.bellingham-marine.com

New VMR Srl www.vmrsrl.com

Bluet Oy Ltd www.bluet.fi

Plus Marine Srl www.plusmarine.com

Bluewater Marine & Dock Specialities Inc www.bluewaterdocks.com

Rolec Services Ltd www.rolecserv.com

Clement Germany GmbH www.clement-germany.de

Ruban Bleu www.rubanbleu.com

Dock Marine Systems www.dockmarinesystems.com

Seijsener Marina Services www.seijsener.com

Gael Force www.gaelforcemarinas.com

Ronautica Marinas www.ronauticamarinas.com SF Marina www.sfmarina.com Solent Marine Ltd www.solentmarina.com System Group Marine Division www.systemgroupmarine.com Walcon Marine Ltd www.walconmarine.com Yacht Port Marinas SL www.ypmarinas.com

PUMP-OUT SYSTEMS Edson International www.edsonpumps.com Keco Pump & Equipment www.pumpahead.com Lee Sanitation Ltd www.leesan.com Sanitrade Srl www.sanitrade.it

SIGNAGE AND BEACONS Almarin SL www.almarin.es Pharos Marine Automatic Power Ltd www.automaticpower.com

WORKBOATS EcoTank www.ecotank-worldwide.com Efinor Sea Cleaner www.seacleaner.efinor.com Water Witch Workboats www.waterwitch.com

YACHT TRANSPORT DYT Yacht Transport www.yacht-transport.com Peters & May Ltd www.petersandmay.com Sevenstar Yacht Transport BV www.sevenstar-yacht-transport.com DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY

18

Naval Tecno Sud Boat Stand Naval Tecno Sud Boat Stand specialises in the design, production and supply of equipment for use in boatyards and to store and transport leisure craft in marinas.

It offers a high quality range of cradles, boat stands, safety steps, work platforms dry stack storage racks and fixed and mobile booths for painting and other maintenance tasks.

Versatile boat trailers, both self-propelled and towable, are also available.

Naval Tecno Sud Boat Stand, Via Pino Pascali 28, 70010 Valenzano BA, Italy.

Tel: +39 393 5493586 E-mail: navaltecnosudboatstand@gmail.com

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2023

www.navaltecnosud.it

NATCHEZ ON THE WATERFRONT 19

Boosting the bottom line

By Dan Natchez, CMP*

I

n conversations and discussion we often hear the phrase, ‘that’s the bottom line,’ but it is more than a phrase, it is essentially the final result and, in accounting, whether your bottom line is black or red is often the difference between making a go of it or financially failing. It’s no wonder, then, that we are often looking for ways to give the bottom line a boost.

I have worked on/in multiple industries and while I love, respect and am intrigued with the recreational marina industry, the one thing that stands out across the various continents is that the industry continually underprices the true costs of the services that are provided.

While I was at the World

Marinas Conference in Portugal, I commented on this fact and in response a well-respected marina leader from a non-Western continent made the remark, “Wow, I can get larger financing and am worth more”. While it might have been a somewhat facetious remark, it can be very true. The better the financial picture, the easier it is to get financing, as well as more desirable rates, for improvements to the facility.

Perceived value More often than not I am told by marina owners and operators such things as, “We cannot charge more or our customers will leave,” or “The market cannot support higher pricing,” and similar remarks. That may be

partially true, but I am a firm believer that boaters, particularly newer ones to boat ownership, are willing to pay the full price if they perceive value in what they are paying for.

The new demographics suggest that boaters are more demanding, have higher expectations, have little to no tolerance for things not working and want to be treated as if they are special. In return, they are willing to pay the right price, but they need to perceive they are getting value for their money.

The other day, I had a planning discussion with a marina operator, who has recently come from another industry. His comment was, “I have to continually pay a lot more to our mechanics and key strategic employees in order

to keep them, but our labour rates to customers are well below what it is costing us”. I asked him what his labour rates were compared to nearby automotive business or his plumber’s or electrician’s rates. He knew it was below the automotive posted labour rates, but was unsure about the others. I suggested he might want to check them out, because I could guarantee they were all much higher than the marina’s posted labour rates. When he thought about it, his comment was, “Well, if I raise them, then the customers will go to others”. This is a fair vantage point, but only if one looks at just part of the picture.

Sometimes the customer that would leave due to fair price increases may not be the customer

Party in progress at Westshore Yacht Club, Florida.

DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY

20 NATCHEZ ON THE WATERFRONT that you want. However, to be clear, we do not suggest making abrupt, staggering price increases, but to routinely adjusting pricing up to keep rates at desirable levels. The longer one waits to raise prices, the harder it is to catch up to where they should be.

I am reminded of a chain that was the most profitable in the U.S, and during previous economicallydepressed times when most marinas were 10-50% occupied, his marinas were between 90-100% full, with rates between 20-25% higher than the others. I would walk his docks and talk with customers seeking to find out why they stayed at the marina when they could literally go next door with cheaper pricing. Their answers were all relatively uniform, “The marina cares about me” or “They do it right and guarantee their work” and “I can call and they will take care of what I’m asking for…I don’t have to worry about downtime or excuses, they do it right”.

In short, they perceived value for what they were paying for. The managers knew the customers by their first names. They specialised in providing personal service. They would have the manager or service mechanic call the customer and keep him/her posted as to what they were doing and whether they had run into problems or anything else that needed or should have attention. Always remember that the personal touch can make all the difference in the world.

There are many different business models that can boost the bottom line and there is no ‘one shoe fits all’.

One has to know one’s customers – not just from the marina’s vantage point, but, more importantly, from that of the customers.

What we find is that the perception of ‘nickel and diming’ customers is a trigger for disenchantment. Giving customers the option of buying a number of services together as a bundle at a lower price than they would pay to buy them all individually and explaining goes a long way to relieving the pain of higher costs.

Customer loyalty Going above and beyond is a great way to build customer loyalty and

The aesthetically pleasing entrance to Marina de Lagos, Portugal

The new demographics suggest that boaters are more demanding, have higher expectations, have little to no tolerance for things not working and want to be treated as if they are special. In return, they are willing to pay the right price, but they need to perceive they are getting value for their money acceptance of higher pricing. For example, when a customer comes in for some engine, hull or other work – whether it’s minor or major – if you can do a quick clean-up of the boat, maybe including polishing the topsides or some chrome, it

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2023

creates a good impression when the customer comes to pick up the boat.

No matter where in the world this is done, customers tell me that it makes a major, lasting impression on them.

The perception is that the customer is being treated as special and not paying extra for that extra service, although in fact it is already built into the rate the marina is charging – a win-win for all.

A key element is communication to the customer, visual, verbal and in writing. Presenting an aesthetically pleasing entrance and facility is one main visual approach.

Having you and your staff taking the opportunity when engaging with customers to let them know what improvements have been undertaken, are under way and being contemplated are key to keeping the customer informed, engaged and appreciative of what is taking place.

As marinas are trying to

upgrade the facility, whether by dredging or undertaking other significant financial investments, communicating that to customers is important. This is particularly important when the projects involve things that customers may not easily see, like dredging or utility upgrades. Be sure to include why the project matters and how it will improve the customer experience.

In this way, customers will be able to relate to the improvements being undertaken and better understand that they have to be paid for. It eases the pain of increasing pricing.

Seeking customer input as to what they want and then providing it in some meaningful way, shape or form, is always a great way to try to get them to ‘buy into’ the program.

Improving the aesthetics of the facility with plantings and a thorough clean-up goes a long way to making people feel comfortable and wanting to be at the facility –

NATCHEZ ON THE WATERFRONT 21 and more willing to pay for being there.

Keep in mind that many customers are also willing to pay more for green/organic and more environmentally-friendly approaches. The chances are the greener you can make the facility the more you will be able to charge for its use – and in many cases the more you can reduce long-term costs, particularly when it comes to things such as energy use.

10% to as much as 50% or more to the total of the original work order and it is money that would not otherwise be on the table. More importantly, the customer feels that you have gone out of your way to be helpful and meaningful.

Of course, one of the most customer appreciated approaches is for the marina to have an event, such as a customer appreciation day, a holiday party (if it is that time of year) or whatever. It is a great way for customers to socialise with other boaters, as well as for them to have time to talk with your staff and, most importantly, with you.

Budget choices Another way to boost the bottom line is to review one’s operating and capital budgets together and look at how much one is constantly paying for the same repairs versus what it would cost for replacement, and what would be the payback. As part of that analysis, also factor in the fact that the replacement/improvement option may well allow you more opportunity to recoup the costs through higher rates than the ongoing maintenance.

Involving staff in these discussions can be very meaningful. Many staff

Plants used to screen fuel pumps and waste bins. members are aware of potential cost-saving activities, but are not necessarily comfortable in being forthcoming unless brought into the process and encouraged.

One of the best ways to boost the bottom line is when customers bring their boats in for work. Most boaters are working or otherwise busy during the day. Calling the customer when the boat is being worked on and

inviting them to meet in the evening or at a particular time or day to review what is being done usually turns into a friendly conversation, and then the, “Oh, by the way…” there is this noise or rattle or lever or something else that needs adjustment or attention and the customer has been meaning to have you look at it. These add-ons can easily supplement anywhere from

*Dan Natchez, CMP, is President of Daniel S. Natchez and Associates Inc, an international environmental waterfront design consulting company specialising in the design of marinas and marina resorts throughout the world. He can be contacted on Tel: +1 914 698 5678,

by WhatsApp at +1 914 381 1234, by E-mail: dan.n@dsnainc.com or on his Website: www.dsnainc.com

DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY

22 SHOWTIME

Partnerships and pavilions for Seawork 2024

T

he 25th edition of Seawork will be held in Mayflower Park, Southampton, from 11-13 June, with Speed@ Seawork taking place on Monday, 10 June 2024. The event will be sharing its silver anniversary edition with many long-standing strategic partnerships, including the Workboat Association, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024.

Seawork has forged partnerships with relevant industry Associations to offer support to their members at the exhibition through hosting association hubs, members’ meetings, conference sessions and networking events.

The Commercial Marine Network comprising of Seawork, Maritime Journal and Maritime Contracts Journal works with its partners to offer a series of webinars and live conference sessions.

Get set for Workboat 2050 – Series 4 – has been launched with session 1 taking place at The Workboat Association AGM on 20 November. The live session is open to WA Association members.

Anyone can sign up to listen to the individual speakers online after the event. In this new format, delegates can watch the session on demand in four bitesize episodes, available on both Seawork and Maritime Journal websites.

Series 4 continues to dive into the latest developments in innovation and technology in the workboat sector to assist vessel operators and commercial marine businesses

to decarbonise. Identifying technologies that can be adopted now to help support with decisionmaking to increase efficiency, reduce operating expenditure and progress in taking steps to achieve net zero.

Seawork 2024 will also see the introduction of the Underwater Intervention pavilion that will feature alongside the existing Divework pavilion and trail. This offers exhibitors specialising in

autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) or remotely-operated vehicles (ROVs) the opportunity to be gathered in a mutually beneficial location.

The highly respected conference programme offers well-attended sessions, chaired by industry experts, on trending topics in the commercial marine industry.

The UK Government will again offer opportunities and support at the exhibition for the workboat &

RHIB sector with representatives from the National Shipbuilding Office, Department of Business & Trade, Ministry of Defence Boat Team and Crown Commercial Services. Business briefings are will be held in the conference rooms with representatives from the above departments that also cover UK Defence and Security Exports and UK Export Finance. This provides delegates the opportunity to have discussions with panel members about all aspects of UK Government support in the workboat sector.

Association Hubs confirmed for 2024 are: Workboat Association Pavilion; Society of Maritime Industries (SMI) Hub; and Association of Diving Contractors (UK & Ireland).

Featured Sector Pavilions and Trails at Seawork 2024 are: l Underwater Intervention Pavilion featuring Divework Trail. l Marine Civils Pavilion and Trail. l Maritime Training and Careers Hub & Trail. l Marine Renewables Trail. l RIBwork Trail. l Superyacht Trail.

Seawork 2024 will offer a unique combination of undercover exhibition space, open air demonstrations and floating displays, with more than 70 vessels and floating exhibits available for demonstrations on the water.

Seawork info@seawork.com www.seawork.com

DIBS marks 30 years of growth Marking its 30th anniversary in 2024, the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS), will be held for the third year in succession at Dubai Harbour from 28 February-3 March.

Established as a focal point for the maritime industry, DIBS has MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2023

grown in tandem with the city, showcasing Dubai’s ambition and foresight in the global arena. The event’s growth over three decades not only highlights its significance in the maritime sector, but also illustrates its role in shaping

Dubai’s international identity.

Through its journey, DIBS has become a symbol of the city’s dynamic growth, aligning closely with Dubai’s aspirations and achievements on the world stage.

The Show’s long-term organiser, Dubai World Trade Centre, records

that the 2023 edition attracted more than 28,000 visitors, 1,000 brands and companies, and featured over 200 boats, including 44 global and regional debuts.

Dubai International Boat Show dubai.boatshow@dwtc.com www.boat showdubai.com

SHOWTIME 23 BOOK Y OUR STAND AT EAR LY BIRD R ATES BEFOR E 1 MARC H!

FIRST PORT OF CALL FOR MARINA PROFESSIONALS 19 - 20 - 21 NOVEMBER 2024 RAI AMSTERDAM The Marina & Yard Pavilion is a specialised pavilion at the METSTRADE Show; the world’s largest marine equipment trade show. The MYP has been showcasing marina specific equipment for over a decade, ranging from pontoon and boat mooring systems to safety equipment and dock fenders. As the marina industry hot spot at the METSTRADE Show, this is where you meet marina professionals from around the world. https://www.metstrade.com/exhibiting METSTRADE FEATURES

ORGANISED BY

POWERED BY

MEMBER OF

OFFICIAL CATALOGUE PARTNER

DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY

24

SIGN UP TODAY

Seawork celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2024!

The 25th edition of Europe’s largest commercial marine and workboat exhibition, is a proven platform to build business networks.

Seawork delivers an international audience of visitors supported by our trusted partners.

Seawork is the meeting place for the commercial marine and workboat sector.

12,000m2 of undercover halls feature 400 exhibitors with over 70 vessels, floating plant and equipment on the quayside and pontoons.

11 JUNE Southampton 13 2024 United Kingdom TO

For more information visit: seawork.com contact: +44 1329 825 335 or email: info@seawork.com #Seawork Media partner

MARITIMEJOURNAL COMMERCIAL MARINE BUSINESS

MARINA INDUSTRY • DECEMBER 2023

Speed@Seawork on Monday 10 June in Cowes offers a sector specific event for fast vessels operating at high speed for security interventions and Search & Rescue.

Speed@Seawork Sea Trials & Conference The European Commercial Marine Awards (ECMAs) ceremony celebrates individuals and innovative companies on Tuesday 11 June.

The Conference programme, chaired by industry experts, helps visitors to keep up to date with the latest challenges and emerging opportunities.

The Careers & Training Day on Thursday 13 June 2024 delivers a programme focused on careers in the commercial marine industry.

SHOWTIME 25

World Marinas Conference hailed as a success

T

he ICOMIA World Marinas Conference (WMC), which took place at the Tivoli Conference Centre in Vilamoura, Portugal, from 9-11 October, was hailed as a huge success.

Hosted by the Portuguese Association of Ports and Marinas (APPR), the three-day event was attended by over 350 delegates from the international marina community and featured speakers, meetings, discussions and forums related to best practice in the marina industry.

Speakers covered wide-ranging topics from culture, economy and marketing to specific business interest advice on topics such as financing, communications, regulations and taxation. A key focus throughout was the technology available to make the operations of marinas more efficient, whilst at the same

time providing a better customer experience. The concept of Smart Marinas was discussed at length, with the conclusion that whilst technology is a great enabler, it is no substitute for smart people providing exceptional customer experiences.

The second area of focus was about how innovations in technology and sustainability are helping to drive growth and preserve the industry. The final presentation at the conference from NEOM’s Richard Bush was an insightful view of the developments within the Red Sea and in particular the ambitious plans of NEOM, to build a marina ecosystem of the future, completely sustainable and without any hinderance of legacy infrastructure or ways of working.

Darren Vaux, President of ICOMIA, was then given the challenge of summing up the conference – a

Diary of events

small matter of condensing 72 presentations and discussion groups, three marina visits and an engaging social scene into one tenminute conclusion.

He concluded that the importance of technology is essential to improve the customer experience and adaptability being a key facet as the industry moves into the future, as well as the importance of sustainability and sustainable goals.

In closing, conference organisers Isolete Correia of APPR and Martinho Fortunato of Marina de Lagos thanked the delegates, who had come from over 40 different nations, for their attendance at the event. It only remained for them to hand the baton for the next World Marinas Conference to Venice in 2025.

World Marinas Conference info@ventodivenezia.it www.worldmarinasconference. com

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

Boot Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf, Germany 20-28 January, 2024 www.boot.de

Miami International Boat Show

Miami, Florida, USA 14-18 February, 2024 www.miamiboatshow.com

Palma International Boat Show

Palma de Mallorca, Spain 25-28 April, 2024 www.palmainternationalboatshow.com

Korea International Boat Show

Gimpo Ara Marina, South Korea 8-10 March, 2024 www.kibs.com

China (Shanghai) International Boat Show Shanghai, China 26-29 March, 2024 www.boatshowchina.com

Auckland Boat Show

Auckland, New Zealand 14-17 March, 2024 www.auckland-boatshow.com

Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show Queensland, Australia 23-26 May, 2024 www.sanctuarycoveboatshow. com.au

Seawork Delgates to WMC walking and talking during the facility visit to Marina de Lagos.

Index to Advertisers Daniel S. Natchez and Associates Inc

21

www.dsnainc.com

Dura Composites

13 10 7

www.marinetravelift.com

Seawork

24

SF Marina

IFC

www.sfmarina.com

3

www.rmcs.co.uk

Marine Travelift Inc

18

www.seawork.com

www.leesan.com

Marina & Holiday Park Solutions Ltd

Naval Tecno Sud Boat Stand Srl www.navaltecnosud.it

www.inlandandcoastal.com

LeeSan

23

www.metstrade.com

www.duracomposites.com

Inland and Coastal Marina Systems Ltd

METSTRADE

Walcon Marine Ltd

15

www.walconmarine.com

11

Water Witch www.waterwitch.com

8

Southampton, England 11-13 June, 2024 www.seawork.com

Sydney International Boat Show

Darling Harbour, Australia 1 August-4 September, 2024 www.sydneyboatshow.com.au

Southampton International Boat Show

Southampton, England 13-22 September, 2024 www.southamptonboatshow.com

METSTRADE

Amsterdam, The Netherlands 19-21 November, 2024 www.metstrade.com DECEMBER 2023 • MARINA INDUSTRY

26

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