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The presence of Inland and Coastal Marina Systems (ICMS) at last year’s Southampton International Boat Show was notable for a special talk given by Jess Allen, a PhD student from Plymouth University, who discussed the ecological advantages of the awardwinning Living Seawalls.
These were developed by a Sydney-based company that designs modular panels that mimic foreshore and intertidal habitats and can be attached in a mosaic pattern, adding texture, shape and form to flat walls in marinas and harbours, which would otherwise lack the complexity necessary for a biodiverse marine environment. It has already earned the company a trove of awards for design, innovation and biodiversity, and was also named finalist for Prince William’s prestigious Earthshot Prize.
Living Seawalls represents a radical shift in coastal protection, actively reviving marine habitats by creating a haven for invertebrates, seaweeds, small fish and other marine fauna on the concrete infrastructures that form the foundations of marinas across the UK and Ireland.
In her presentation, Jess pointed out that ecological engineering is a way of encouraging biodiversity back on to our artificial coastlines. When used effectively, it can bridge the gap between human requirements of the coast for commercial fishing, sport and recreation, and the needs of local ecosystems.
Having signed an agreement with Living Seawalls in 2023, ICMS now manufactures the panels from its recycled marine-grade concrete, helping to create a symbiotic
relationship between the coastal infrastructure it creates and the natural environment. By repurposing waste into construction material for Living Seawalls, the company not only reduces its ecological footprint, but also demonstrates a commitment to circular economy principles. This eco-friendly approach is a testament to the company’s dedication to sustainability at every stage of the production cycle.
Managing Director Oliver Shortall said that ICMS was incredibly proud to support innovative projects like Living Seawalls that redefine how to interact with our coastlines. He explained that by combining cutting-edge ecological engineering with sustainable construction, his company was not just protecting marine environments, but actively helping to regenerate them. He added that this partnership reflected an ongoing commitment to create greener, more resilient coastal infrastructure for future generations.
To find out more about Living Seawalls and discuss potential solutions on offer, visit: www.inlandandcoastal.com
Another organisation that helps to mitigate humanity’s effects on the marine environment is Seabin, whose floating bins are used to capture microplastics and plastic pollution throughout the world. It then processes the data for monitoring and reporting purposes. To create revenue, Seabin sells the impact data to companies for sustainability reporting purposes or to help reach plastic net positive.
To learn more about the organisation’s aims, visit: www. seabin.io
David Young
The new Kobe Marina project has been awarded to a consortium known as Superyacht Base Kobe, which consists of seven principal investors. These are: Glion Group; Plan Do See; Horizon Yachts; Setouchi Brand Corporation; Creation Co Ltd; and the SYL Monaco and SYL Japan branches of the Super Yacht Logistics Group.
The Superyacht Base Kobe Marina will offer a full-service opening for yachts in 2026 and stage a second opening with surrounding infrastructure in 2027. The marina is part of Kobe’s harbour and waterfront regeneration programme, which includes a transformation of industrial downtown areas, including the Glion Arena Kobe, an indoor-sports complex adjacent to the marina.
The marina is a short walk from downtown Kobe, which features leading restaurants and highend boutiques and showrooms for brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Bentley, Bugatti and Ferrari. The city is also close to three major airports, two with international and private jet facilities.
Yukio Shintani, owner of Creation Marine in Japan for over 40 years, and one of the spearheads of Superyacht Base Kobe, said: “It’s a very exciting day. For over two years, we’ve been working very
hard planning this marina, with our consortium partners, and there have been many changes, especially with the fluctuating construction costs.
“However, we will soon have a superyacht marina in Japan that has the facilities of superyacht marinas in Monaco, France, Italy and South Florida, and can accommodate any size of yacht that has yet been built or even imagined. It’s a fantastic place for owners and guests, but also for crew that are based longterm at the marina. Kobe is a very vibrant city and the marina is right in the heart of it.”
Situated 30 km West of Osaka, Japan’s second-largest city, Kobe is also one of the country’s most populous cities and offers access to Osaka Bay and Seto Inland Sea, a protected 300 nm-long body of water with about 3,000 islands. Japan has over 14,000 islands, stretching 3,000 km from North to South.
Nigel Beatty, owner of SYL Monaco and Chairman of Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association (APSA), added: “The cruising potential in Japan is incredible. More and more international yachts are coming to
Japan every year. The country has 50% more coastline than the US, so there’s a massive area to explore, with many cruising destinations still undiscovered.
“With a Mediterranean climate in many parts of the country and sub-tropical in others, there’s great Winter cruising and while it might be a bit chilly to swim, there’s world-class skiing usually just a stone’s throw away from any yacht.”
Superyacht Base Kobe Marina will feature over 1.4 km of linear superyacht quays, which can accommodate any size of vessel. Two quays will be approximately 350 metres long, with three others of about 100 metres. A newly-built breakwater will provide an extra 200 metres plus of dockage, and a linear floating dock will provide 300 metres of dockage for yachts less than 60 metres in length.
Multiple 400 volt three-phase 150 amp power pedestals will be installed as standard, while larger, custom shore-power electrical installations will be available to lease purchasers. Stern-to berthing will be available for all yachts up to about 80 metres.
The Kobe Yacht Club, marine offices, boutiques, cafes and restaurants are among the on-land attractions expected to be ready in 2026 and 2027.
Hamble Point Marina, one of MDL Marinas’ premier locations, is enhancing its facilities with the construction of state-of-the-art toilets and showers, which will be opened at the start of the 2025 boating season. Part of a £500,000 development project, this upgrade is designed to provide berthholders and visitors with a modern, comfortable and customer-friendly experience.
The enhanced toilets and showers will feature contemporary individual cubicles, family-friendly spaces and dedicated accessible facilities. Passive infrared-operated lighting and ventilation systems will be installed to improve energy efficiency and sustainability, creating a more environmentallyfriendly and pleasant user experience.
This project marks a significant step forward in ensuring Hamble Point Marina remains one of the most attractive and customercentric locations on the River Hamble.
“We’re excited to begin work on this important upgrade,” said Debbie Burns, Manager of Hamble Point Marina. “Our customers deserve the very best and this investment emphasises our ongoing dedication to improving their
At METS 2024, LeeSan, the Warwickshire-based marine sanitation specialist, was presented with a ‘Long Term Partner Award’ by Dometic, a global leader in mobile living.
The company’s relationship with Chris Coburn, the founder of LeeSan, goes back over 50 years to pre-Dometic and even pre-Sealand days. This was when Mansfield Plumbing Products, near Cleveland, Ohio, were the manufacturer and supplier to Chris, who had introduced the ‘Mansfield dump through Toilet’ to UK inland boating in about 1975.
In the early days of the Dometic Vacuflush vacuum toilet system,
Chris and LeeSan were also involved in its introduction and development for both the inland and coastal markets in the UK, and the company is now the leading Dometic marine toilet distributor in the UK.
Karl commented: “This longstanding partnership really has stood the test of time and, as the UK’s leading distributor, we know that our input has been instrumental in making Dometic the brand leader that it is today. We look forward to working closely with them for many years to come”.
The motivation of the award was: “LeeSan has enabled Dometic
experience. The new facilities will not only be more accessible, but also set a new standard in comfort and convenience for all boaters visiting Hamble Point Marina.”
This project is a key element of a wider £1.2 million investment across Hamble Point Marina, which
includes upgrades to roadways, waste management facilities and parking. The marina’s prime location at the mouth of the River Hamble and proximity to the Solent make it a favoured destination for both competitive sailors and leisure cruisers.
to develop exactly the right products for their market and the partnership in the UK with this depth of expertise for so long
has been crucial to our business. Dometic trusts the relationship will continue to benefit UK boatowners in the future”.
In 2024, D-Marin went beyond growth, connecting yacht owners to remarkable experiences spanning the Mediterranean and beyond. A strong dedication to customer satisfaction propelled D-Marin’s Net Promoter Score from 51 to an impressive 54, a testament to an unwavering focus, not just fulfilling, but surpassing the expectations of its growing clientele.
Oliver Dörschuck, CEO, stated: “2024 was another transformative year, reinforcing our position as a leader in the marina industry. Everything we do is dedicated to making our customers’ journeys smoother, more enjoyable and deeply connected. Each year, we take significant strides toward our ambition of setting the standard in customer experience. Reflecting on the measurable successes of 2024 inspires us to keep building an exceptional company – one that serves our people, our customers and generations to come with pride and purpose”.
To encourage customers to explore the growing selection of premium marinas, the ‘Happy Berthday’ initiative allows prepaid annual contract-holders to enjoy up to seven days free at any other D-Marin marina until 31 December, 2025. Serving over 50,000 customers annually and delivering 2,500 world-class boatyard services per year, D-Marin continues to expand sailing options and accessibility for its clientele.
The year saw D-Marin welcome seven new marinas, expanding its presence across the Mediterranean, creating a valuable cluster of marinas across the French and Italian Rivieras. In France, Camille Rayon, a protected jewel in GolfeJuan Bay, joined the portfolio, providing a gateway to the Côte d’Azur. Expansion in Italy included Aregai, San Lorenzo and Porto Mirabello, located near the stunning Riviera dei Fiori and Cinque Terre. In Dubai, Port De La Mer further enhanced D-Marin’s selection of destinations.
This expansion added 3,204
berths and three new boatyards to D-Marin’s portfolio, bringing its total to 14,000 berths, including over 1,000 dedicated to superyachts.
D-Marin is also proud to announce that its three Turkish marinas have
been honoured with five prestigious awards at the Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards, which recognise excellence in marinas across the Middle East and Turkey. Within the ‘Outstanding Marina’ category, D-Marin Turgutreis secured the gold award for the
second consecutive year, while D-Marin Göcek received silver and D-Marin Didim earned the bronze award.
The year ahead will see many exciting developments in Livorno, Dubai, Pylos and Vlora.
Inland and Coastal Marina Systems has been officially awarded with ISO 14001 certification, an internationally recognised standard for organisations that meet the strict requirements for its Environmental Management Systems (EMS).
After deciding to go through the internal processes and works necessary for compliance in early 2024, Inland and Coastal’s team at its Banagher headquarters in Ireland worked tirelessly to achieve certification within a year, highlighting the effectiveness of its management system already in place.
The ISO 14001 standard provides a framework for organisations to design and implement an effective EMS and continually improve their environmental performance, taking proactive measures to minimise their environmental impact, comply with legal requirements and achieve their environmental objectives.
The framework encompasses various aspects, from resource usage and waste management to monitoring environmental performance and involving stake-holders in environmental commitments.
This addition to the ISO certifications
represents a major achievement for the company in its accreditations. Inland and Coastal has been certified for its Quality Management (ISO 9001) since 2014 and for its Health & Safety (ISO 45001) since 2019, spearheaded by Shannon McDermott, Inland and Coastal’s Quality and Health and Safety Manager, whose knowledge, dedication and support has proved invaluable throughout.
The latest achievement on recently being awarded the ISO 14001 completes the company’s enduring
commitment to quality, environmental management and occupational Health & Safety.
Floriane Catillon, Sustainability Manager at Inland and Coastal, commented: “The ISO 14001 didn’t require us to make tremendous changes as many of our current practices already align with international standards. That said, any management system comes with its challenges and the biggest one, I believe, is to get everyone engaged, which requires every department to be involved.
A strategic partnership has been formed between Rolec and Metpow to provide the next generation of berth services management. By integrating Rolec’s pedestals with Metpow’s innovative LoRaWANenabled software, they’ve created an advanced system designed to simplify berth management and enable automated utility solutions, redefining how marinas are managed and optimised.
Rolec powered by Metpow gives marina managers full control over electricity and water usage, reducing costs and improving efficiency. Berthholders and visiting yachts can easily track and pay for their consumption via the Metpow app, ensuring transparency and convenience for all.
This streamlined management not only enhances business operations, but also supports environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals. Metpow offers live visibility into electricity and water usage, which enables boat-owners to make more informed choices, leading to tangible reductions in consumption. Early adopters have already demonstrated a significant decrease in energy usage simply through increased awareness. While each individual actions may seem small, collectively, these behavioural shifts contribute to a meaningful reduction in overall resource demand, helping businesses operate more seamlessly, while minimising their environmental impact.
Speaking about the partnership, Ed Jones, CEO & Co-Founder of Metpow, commented: “This partnership represents an exciting opportunity to bring cutting-edge wireless utility management to the marine leisure industry. By integrating Metpow’s LoRaWAN-enabled metering technology with Rolec’s trusted infrastructure, we’re empowering operators with the control and insights they need to streamline operations, enhance customer satisfaction and future-proof their sites”.
Holly Brown, Commercial Director at Rolec, added: “Sustainability drives our approach, providing intelligent solutions that help operators to reduce waste, optimise
“This accomplishment is the result of the dedication and hard work done over the last year,” he added. “It demonstrates that our processes are aligned with internationallyrecognised best practices for managing environmental impacts, reducing waste and promoting ustainability. This achievement is a significant milestone for us and it highlights the continuous efforts of every team member to integrate environmental practices into our daily tasks.”
Ollie Shortall, Managing Director at Inland and Coastal, declared: Securing ISO 14001 certification is a fantastic achievement that enhances our reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking company. This certification not only provides peace of mind to our clients, but also demonstrates our commitment to upholding the highest environmental standards.
“I’m incredibly proud of our team for their dedication and hard work in making this possible. Their efforts ensure we continue to lead by example in sustainable practices and this milestone is a testament to their passion and perseverance.”
resource management and support responsible consumption. By combining Rolec’s trusted hardware with Metpow’s formidable software solution, this advanced system gives marina managers greater control over their utilities and services, improving efficiency and curbing operational costs, which is essential for the future of the industry”.
The integrated Rolec-Metpow solution is set to launch in March, 2025, with pilot installations and operator training happening now. Further developments this year will include platform enhancements and additional sustainabilityfocused features, such as carbon offset tracking, scheduled for future releases.
The renewal of its management agreement at the prestigious Porto Cervo Marina (PCM) and shipyard owned by Smeralda Holding has been announced by IGY Marinas, which will continue to provide expertise in operations, marketing, branding and customer service for PCM as an IGY Destination. This renewed partnership reflects IGY’s commitment to advancing the reputation of this iconic Mediterranean yachting destination into the future.
PCM is a 700-berth facility capable of accommodating yachts up to 160 metres. As a cornerstone of IGY’s global marina portfolio, it continues to set a high standard for luxury yachting experiences.
Industry-wide programme launched by MDL Marinas and Pick a Pier NOTICEBOARD
MDL Marinas, one of Europe’s largest marina groups, has joined forces with Pick a Pier to develop an innovative pilot programme designed to unite the marina industry, create new opportunities for stakeholders and enhance the customer experience through a seamless loyalty network for visitor berthing.
The initiative, set to launch in the upcoming 2025 sailing season, invites independent marinas to collaborate on a shared programme aimed at increasing berth utilisation, attracting new customers and fostering deeper engagement across the boating community.
The pilot programme builds on the strengths of MDL’s Otium loyalty scheme, which includes the renowned Pass-Ports Escales package offering customers free visitor nights at over 140 European marinas, and Pick a Pier’s Sail Club providing reciprocal loyalty benefits to marina users.
Marinas interested in joining the Pick a Pier programme should e-mail the team at alliance@pickapier.com for more information.
Last October, long-standing TransEurope Marinas member Saint-Quay Port d’Armor in Brittany, France, was awarded Ports Propres certification, which was created in 2011 and aims to encourage all operations that contribute to improving the environmental quality of ports. It is awarded to ports that implement a set of measures to better manage waste and pollution from port activities. For boaters, certification is a guarantee of quality, sustainable management and environmental preservation. Since 4 June, 2024, this certification has become a worldwide standard, known as ISO 18725.
Specialist builders of marinas with more than sixty years’ experience on five different continents
Industry leading technical, design, manufacture and engineering capabilities
Floating wave attenuating, commercial and leisure pontoons, access bridges
Installation barges, dedicated piling and workboat fleet
Abespoke bridge and pontoon has been designed, built and despatched to the harbour authority of the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic by Walcon Marine. Its primary purpose is to be the point of entry and exit for the 80,000 plus tourists, who arrive at Port Stanley between October and March each year on board cruise ships. The harbour authorities had been discussing replacing the previous floating jetty for some time. Both the structure, originally built for domestic use, and its location were inadequate, with the largest cruise ships capable of bringing up to 4,000 visitors. Long queues of passengers waiting in the open air to embark and disembark were becoming increasingly common.
Project planning for a new access bridge, as well as pontoons, began in 2022 and, once Walcon Marine was on board, the design brief was agreed. This was to create a safe and stable facility that would be long enough to accommodate four tenders (two on each side), each 10-14 metres in length and capable of carrying up to 100 passengers. It also had to be safe and efficient, and able to move passengers between the tenders and the shore as rapidly as possible.
The requirement was for the supply of commercial-grade pontoons with non-slip decking and Kee-Klamp handrails, with many of the visitors being of retirement age.
“The new finger pontoon installation adjacent to the public jetty has been a huge improvement for the safety of its
users,” said Steuart Barlow, Harbour Master, Falkland Islands Maritime Authority (FIMA). “I have personally been on the pontoon during choppy seas and the stability of the pontoon has been proven to be very stable with minimal movement. The addition of a central handrail is an added
safety measure, which provides users greater confidence when using the pontoon. I have spoken with cruise ship expedition staff, who have been coming to the Falklands for many years, and they have had positive feedback on the new pontoon.
“From a FIMA perspective, this pontoon has been used more than once to extract casualties from ships/ harbour launches. The widened gangway provides stretcher bearers easy access when transferring patients in stretchers to the waiting ambulance in the car park. For single ship tendering operations, it provides the tender coxswain an option to use either the East or West side of the pontoon during times of challenging weather. FIMA and other marine users are very happy with this new installation.”
The new equipment was fabricated at Walcon Marine’s factory in the South of England and the units loaded at the port of Southampton. The voyage took 30 days, arriving in Port Stanley after an 8,400 nm journey! The installation was then completed by a local contractor. Walcon Marine Ltd sales@walconmarine.com www.walconmarine.com
In 2025, Metstrade expands to all 13 halls at RAI Amsterdam, offering more space for new and returning exhibitors. With enriched product categories and a focus on emerging technologies, sustainability, and inclusion, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase your business.
Join us in Marina & Yard, Metstrade's prime stage for the global leisure marine sector. Connect with industry professionals, share innovative solutions, and boost your brand.
Don’t miss out, secure your spot for Metstrade 2025 today!
17 → 18 November 2025 The
Forum 18 → 20 November 2025
For over 115 years, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club has been an essential part of the fabric of the St. Petersburg, Florida, community. As part of an ambitious ten-year redevelopment, the club replaced and reconfigured its ageing dock array with a state-of-theart floating concrete solution from SF Marina. The update will provide new dockage for over-sized vessels and the infrastructure needed to host larger national events.
Due to the private club’s busy event calendar, marina designer Applied Technology & Management (ATM) and marine contractor Speeler & Associates had a tight timeline to complete the project. To meet this aggressive schedule, SF Marina used multiple production lines at its facility in Gothenburg, Sweden, to manufacture the concrete pontoons.
ATM specified an extensive list of utilities that would need to be routed through the concrete pontoons: power, fuel, potable and large-volume fire suppression water, waste, communications and security, and wiring for future EV chargers. Undeterred by the complex request, SF Marina customised the ducting within the dock sections during casting to ensure quick and trouble-free installation and ease of future utility maintenance.
Once completed, SF Marina transported the sections via ship to a staging area in Tampa Bay from where they were towed to the marina.
The new dock configuration at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club consists of 33 SF Marina Type 1200 floating concrete pontoons secured with 34 internal 50 cm piles with HDPE sleeves. The marina now has 50 wider-thanaverage leaseholder berths and over 188 metres of adjacent tie up
pontoons for larger and transient yachts and the fuel dock.
“The transition from fixed concrete to floating concrete docks has been a dream come true,” said Corey Hall, CMO, Waterfront and Club Communications Director. “Our members and guests are extremely impressed with the new layout and attractive appearance, and there’s a palpable excitement surrounding the marina.”
A project to renovate and extend the existing marina at Ocean Marina Yacht Club in Pattaya, Thailand, has been accomplished by Poralu Marine. The marina has 450 berths for megayachts up to 60 metres long.
Ocean Marina Yacht Club is the largest marina in South-East Asia and was a signature project for Poralu Marine as it is a major achievement in not only the size of the facility, but also because it was purpose-built for the high end, megayacht market.
The pontoons built by Poralu
Marine accommodate yachts up to 60 metres in length and finger piers of 12 metres have been installed to accommodate
One of the oldest yacht clubs in the US, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club offers a rich history and strong tradition of boating and community engagement. Offering year-round access to Tampa Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway, it is a frequent host of national and international regattas.
SF Marina info@sfmarina.comwww. sfmarina.com
yachts that are 15 metres in length. The fingers can be moved when necessary along the main pontoon in order to accommodate yachts of various beams.
The flexibility offered by this feature alone – to move fingers seamlessly – is a major advantage for the marina operator as it allows them to welcome catamarans to the facility.
Poralu Marine contact@poralu.com www.poralu.com
Anti-slip, safe and durable Glass Reinforced Polymer (GRP) d² Dura Grating was selected for the fixed jetties at Mancetter Marina on the Coventry Canal. The remarkable design drew extensively on the expertise of local ecologists, who advised on the careful balance of hard and soft engineering to create infrastructure that would
provide practical longevity whilst maintaining the rural feel of the space.
The unique bowl-like shape of the marina required the use of specialist machinery and lightweight materials to carry out work on the site, which was undertaken by The Rothen Group, a company with wide expertise
in marina repair, maintenance and waterfront marine construction. The contractor was able to utilise its adapted fleet to build-in the necessary stability for the marina’s structures.
Whilst traditional jetties have been made from sheet piles and timber walkways, these degrade over time. As the timber decking rots, it may result in hazardous walking conditions for marina users. In this project, The Rothen Group opted to deploy the latest innovation in GRP grating technology to deliver safe, costeffective, user-friendly and aesthetically-pleasing jetties by using lower embodied carbon mini mesh d² Dura Grating as the walking surface.
With between 17.33% and 33% less embodied carbon than any mini mesh grating available elsewhere in the industry (dependent on thickness), Dura’s patented d²
GRP mini mesh product is also fully recyclable making it a truly sustainable choice.
Dura Composites Ltd info@duracomposites.com www.duracomposites.com
Thousands of small motor cruisers and powerboats are refuelled at marinas on our rivers, lakes and seashores – this article looks at the challenges faced by the siteowners and why choosing the right dispensing equipment is crucial for the health and safety of boaters.
There are the usual health and safety considerations associated with storing and dispensing fuel, such as fire safety and environmental protection. However, the very nature of refuelling at a marina, and the close proximity to water, creates additional hazards and increased environmental
concerns relating to the protection of local wildlife from fuel spillage. It should also be noted that many recreational lakes and rivers are also a source of drinking water, and as a consequence, require extra regulations for the refuelling points to combat pollutants entering the waterways.
When forecourt fuel spills occur, a quick and easy clean-up can be actioned by site staff, usually in the form of sand being scattered over the affected area to soak up the fuel and later swept away for safe disposal. However, this is not the case for spillage at a marina refuelling point, as even a few small
drops entering the water leaves a tell-tale iridescent, rainbow effect on the surface and, whilst unlikely to pose a contamination threat, it is extremely undesirable.
The following guidance will help marina operators to ensure berthholders’ safety:
l Any fuel dispensing equipment should be located a sufficient distance from other structures to allow the safe access of boats to be refuelled.
l Dispensers should be a minimum of 7.5 metres from any other marina activity not associated with the handling of fuel.
l Only approved dispensing units
should be used and may be located on open or solid-fill piers, docks, floating pontoons or onshore.
l All nozzles should be fitted with a self-closing control valve (automatic shut-off) with a lever guard to prevent accidental dispensing.
l To prevent causing a trip hazard, it is advisable that extra-long fuel hoses should be stored on a heavy-duty, retractable reel (preferably stainless steel to avoid corrosion) and ideally have piping disconnects with automatic shut-off valves in case of breakage.
l Ensure there is a fire extinguisher readily available to deal with small fires.
This guidance will help boaters refuel safely:
l Adhere to any marina guidance and rules regarding refuelling on the site.
l Ensure that no-one is on the vessel when refuelling takes place.
l Operate the dispenser by hand only – do not attempt to jam the nozzle in the open position.
l To prevent petrol vapour pooling in the confines of the boat –close all windows, hatches and doors; also turn off all cooking appliances and other ignition
Swedish companies SF Marina and Malte Group have collaborated on an innovative floating fuel dock. Since 1909, family-owned Malte has been the Scandinavian market leader in off-the-shelf and custom-built above-ground fuel and vehicle wash solutions, and EV charging stations. Engineered to ensure the ecologically-safe storage and distribution of Diesel and petrol, the turnkey solution provides marinas with the ability to deliver refuelling services without the shorebased infrastructure of a traditional fuel dock.
The SF Refuel Dock is designed to meet the strictest environmental safety regulations for use in sensitive water protection areas. Automatic onboard systems manage fuel spills with numerous leakage sensors. It meets rigorous Swedish NFS 2021:10 and MSBFS 2018:3 regulations.
entire structure can be transported by road or water.
Internally, configurable fuel tanks provide the ability to store a wide range of fuel types in up to four chambers. This makes it possible to offer niche fuels such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and methanol in economicallysustainable volumes. The SF Refuel Dock can hold from 10,000-60,000 litres, depending on length of pontoon, and tanks can be further partitioned into smaller sections if required.
The SF Refuel Dock also offers the option of unmanned operation. State-of-the-art Malte fuel dispensers and pumps are simple for owners and employees alike to use. By delivering efficient logistics, it meets consumer demand while supporting profitable operations.
sources before removing the tank cap.
l Avoid decanting petrol from containers where possible.
l Maintain contact between the hose nozzle and filler neck to avoid static sparks.
l Only restart the engine when satisfied the boat is free from flammable vapours.
l Do not overfill the tank to avoid overflow and use a drip tray to catch any stray droplets of fuel.
l Do not smoke in the refuelling area.
TSG UK Solutions Ltd enquiriesuk@tsg-solutions.com www.tsg-solutions.com
Based on the SF Marina 1240 floating concrete pontoon, the Refuel Dock provides a low centre of gravity and exceptional stability. Designed for commercial use, it features a modest 0.6 metre freeboard for easy docking with a wide range of vessels. It can be anchored with chains and concrete blocks or standard piles. Constructed in lengths from 15-31 metres, the
“This partnership is an exciting development for both companies,” said Lina Odhe, SF Marina Design and Brand Manager. “The project allows virtually any marina the ability to expand their services by providing or primary or secondary fuel service. Because the SF Fuel Station is self-contained, installation is also quick and straightforward.” Malte Group AB info@maltegroup.com www.maltegroup.com
By Dan Natchez, CMP*
This
overshadows her berth area.
The scientist’s answer to the age-old question “which came first the chicken or the egg” will quickly be that there have been eggs around for far longer than chickens, so of course eggs came first. However, if you become a little more specific and ask “which came first, the chicken or the chicken’s egg,” then there is still a fair amount of debate!
The other version of the question is not quite so age-old, but when it comes to waterfront development, it is definitely worth pondering. I should also note that ‘architect’ in this sense could be almost any upland-oriented development
professional (architects just seem to get the most teasing), while ‘marina consultant’ could be almost any marina/waterfront-oriented development professional. I would also venture to say that, in many a project, it is clear that the marina consultant did not come first. We have seen just too many projects designed by architects where it is clear that there was little understanding of the various needs, exposures, turning radius and overall functionality required to have a truly functional and successful marina.
Many projects start with architects, particularly where there are significant upland real estate
elements, and sometimes, perhaps too many times, some pontoons and finger piers are drawn on the site plan that just don’t make sense. These include boats that are much larger than the actual berth area and that cannot possibly navigate in and out of the space or the marina, or where the marina is meant to accommodate 100 berths, but the space allocated would fit 50 at best.
Designing for a new or reconfiguration of an existing marina requires a meaningful knowledge of the ingredients that make for a great design and a good marina consultant brings a great deal to the table. Marinas are more
than just a parking lot for boats, but involve creating a meaningful hospitality experience not only financially, but functionally and aesthetically. While pretty concept pictures are enticing, they may not indicate the functionality nor the desirable economics of a project.
For example, water depths at the lowest predicted tide, during a reservoir draw down or in rivers during a drought, are important to know. That knowledge, along with knowing the draft of the boats desired for the design, allows for a meaningful design approach. Sometimes, folks forget to
do their homework and design a facility for a location where at times there is no water or insufficient water depths for the desired boats. A couple of examples immediately come to mind, one for a new governmental facility and another for a private marina. In both cases a marina consultant was not part of the project.
View lines and functionality are also among the most important components of any design. The property was purchased in large part for the views of the water. Yet the view corridors are not often given enough consideration as the designs are being created. That can be a missed opportunity.
Functionality in the minds of the end-users is also critically important. It ultimately determines their experience and comfort-level with the project, and the customers are the least expensive and the most important advertisers that a project has.
One of the most successful
marina chains to date built its clientele on customer satisfaction –and was definitely at the top end of what customers were charged. They were very conscious of view lines and aesthetics, while making the facility as functional as possible: providing meaningful navigational room to, from and within their facilities, taking into account the elements such as wind, currents, water depths and wave/storm protection, removing potential trip hazards, and providing the upland services and amenities that made sense for each location.
Boaters everywhere desire a safe harbour for their boats, protected from strong currents, strong winds and storms. A good example of unintended consequences is that of a major holiday resort area known for its sunny weather and upland recreational activities, and bordering on a major desirable coastal waterway. The resort
Many projects start with architects, particularly where there are significant upland real estate elements, and sometimes, perhaps too many times, some pontoons and finger piers are drawn on the site plan that just don’t make sense.
did much planning with noted architects, landscape architects and other developmental and recreational consultants. A marina consultant was not involved until after the plans were put into motion, including digging inland for the harbour. Unfortunately, no-one in the early planning stages looked into the coastal currents and, in this case, the littoral drift (the natural
continuing movement of sand and sediment along the shore). The result was a neat-looking harbour, except that the entrance has to be continually dredged 12 months out of the year or the boats would not be able to get in and out. Fortunately for this facility the overall economics and disposition of the regulatory agencies allow that dredging to happen, but significantly reduced the desired operating rates of return and diminished the functionality.
More recently a new marina project was started as part of a large planned upland residential development. Again, little attention was paid to the details of the inwater development. Nevertheless, they proceeded to dig out the harbour and canals, as well as construct the breakwaters that would create the harbour entrance. The breakwater plans looked really nice on the architectural renderings. The project was far from completing the upland work
when the littoral drift completely overwhelmed and closed the harbour entrance. To date they have not found a viable solution. The design and planning for breakwaters for protection of a harbour requires significant study to avoid such issues as the unintended consequences of littoral drift, or perhaps worse, inner basin wave energy agitation. With respect to the latter, my example involves a relatively small marina project that needed wave protection. Two stone breakwaters were constructed and the docks installed. What was missed was the site’s exposure to long period swells at certain times of year. While those swells never looked like much in the overall area, when they made their way into the new marina basin they started bouncing around and growing to the point where the docks were
being damaged and it was not possible to keep the boats in place.
Even in cases where the siting of upland residential and commercial developments is the main aspect of a waterfront development, a good marina consultant can be very helpful for issues beyond just the in-water and shoreline issues. We are aware of a major project that, in effect, was to create a mini city on an offshore island. Some of the leading architects, site planners, canal-lock and harbour designers, as well as numerous other consultants worked on the design for over two years. The height of the reports, studies and plans when stacked up together was impressive.
The owner decided to have a marina consultant undertake a
peer review of the project before its implementation. The consultant reviewed the material and was called back to meet with the project managers to present the consultant’s findings. In the middle of the meeting, the owner and his chief lieutenants unexpectedly entered the room and wanted an in-person briefing. The client was told that the peer review was complete and all the plans, designs and details were technically correct. The consultant then asked the client what the anticipated market values would be for the individual ‘bungalows’ and for the apartments in the condominium buildings. The owner related the significant multiple values of the bungalows over the apartments. The marina consultant then asked the client which property he would want to own: one with a view of the open
ocean waters and small islands with palm trees or one with a view of a 24/7 industrial port?
The owner was somewhat taken aback by the question, but finally said,”Well the open ocean water and small islands with palm trees of course”. The marina consultant then asked why the bungalows were facing the industrial port and the condominium buildings were facing the open ocean waters and small islands with palm trees. The consultant went on to suggest that, while all of the reports and designs were technically correct, which was the assignment, some other aspects of the project also did not seem to make sense, particularly with respect to the canal lock system and the marina design. For the latter, there were clear deficiencies, relative to their overall target market, in the number of
larger berth sizes provided and in the accommodation of megayachts. As regards the lock system, which was for boats berthed in the canals by the bungalows, it would take over eight hours to move 15% of the boats out through the lock to open water and another eight hours to move them back in – not the most functional scenario. For the next few hours, the consultant with the owner went through some redesigning of the site plan. The end-result was the marina consultant adding significant value to the project by looking at more than just the technical aspects of the design and providing a broader perspective to enhance the project, creating a more functional harbour along with a revised site plan that added significant value
to the project.
So, in the case of many waterfront projects it turns out to be pretty clear which came first and some of those bad outcomes would suggest that the answer to the forwardlooking version of the question – “which should come first?” –should, of course, be the marina consultant!
The most unbiased answer I can give is, it depends, but in almost any waterfront project where there is a marina or any other simpler form of mooring facility that is intended to be a focal point or otherwise of real value to the project, it just makes sense to bring in the marina consultant as soon as possible so its feasibility and functionality can be examined early on – ideally before one even purchases a property.
Architects, please don’t get me wrong. We really love working with you and so many marinas could no doubt benefit from investing a little more in their architecture. After all, marinas are ultimately a hospitality venue and providing an aesthetically-pleasing project where people are both comfortable and excited to be there is essential. Just like many architects don’t know that much about the details required for a marina, many marina consultants wouldn’t be too great at laying out the details of an office building, a restaurant or a condo complex.
At the end of the day, in more cases than not, today’s projects will benefit from both disciplines working together, whether they be starting something new or refurbishing and/or reconfiguring something old.
You can’t have chickens without eggs and you can’t have chicken eggs without chickens.
*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
Located in the Paleo Faliro area of Athens, Flisvos Marina serves mariners of the world seeking a place to feel at home, while maintaining its competitive edge by providing internationally-recognised and state-of-the-art services and facilities. From its enviable position in the Mediterranean, it is possible to chart a course to thousands of Greek
islands and islets and explore the blue seas of the Aegean and the emerald waters of Ionian seas.
For the more adventurous navigator, the geographical location of Flisvos Marina affords the opportunity to travel to top European destinations such as Italy, France, Spain and Croatia.
Finding the right berth is often the most important concern for owners of megayachts. Flisvos Marina has 310 and more than half of these have been designed to accommodate yachts larger than 30 metres in length.
The marina’s infrastructure includes electricity and water services, a control tower for the safe entry and exit of yachts into and out of the port, as well as their movement inside the marina, and an outdoor self-service car park, with a capacity of 650 spaces. There are also excellent privacy and security measures, including: a security fence; 24/7 CCTV, controlled vehicle entrance; a single exit/entry point for all vehicles and pedestrians; and an all-day surveillance service and vehicle patrol.
There is a wide range of concierge services provided such as VIP meals, chauffeur services, medical attention, baby-sitting and helicopter/ private jet charter – there is a helipad on site.
The creation of Flisvos Marina established a complete leisure destination on the Athenian Riviera. Unprecedented in Greek land development, the 8,200 square metre premises offers visitors a delightful seaside setting in which to shop, savour a cup of coffee or try a variety of local or international cuisines at one of the cafes and restaurants.
The promenade alongside the marina is lined with greenery to give shade and is much appreciated as a place to relax by yacht crews and visitors.
Flisvos Marina
flisvos@lamdamarinas.com www.flisvosmarina.com
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.
Arange of modular docks, with non-slip surfaces suitable for a variety of nautical activities, as well as a jet-ski platform, are made by Rotax. They are easy to assemble and can be used for permanent or temporary facilities on water.
The jet ski platform features an innovative two-part design that makes both installation and disassembly extremely simple. This design and the adjustable roller system facilitate entry and exit, making it practical for individuals,
as well as commercial operators.
The platform is constructed of high-density polyethylene, which offers excellent resistance to UV light, salt water and challenging environments. Due to the quality of the materials used, these docks and the jet-ski platform require very little maintenance.
The company also offers a wide range of accessories, including mooring systems, gangways, safety ladders and handrails. Rotax Marine contact@rotaxmarine.com www.rotaxmarine.com
The Swiveling Rescue Ladder from Bluet Floating Solutions has been specifically designed for floating pontoons and similar structures. This ladder remains horizontal when inactive, minimising environmental wear, and quickly flips to a vertical position when needed. It can easily be shifted from a resting horizontal state to an active vertical position with a quick pull, ensuring rapid response in emergencies, and is designed to
An aluminium catamaran dedicated to sea water desalination, coupled with a 250-bar high-pressure cleaner, is built by Ecotank. This ecological innovation, designed to produce and store fresh water in a 3,500 litre tank, will enable marinas to access a range of desalination services while respecting the environment.
The Watermaker’s on-board sea water high-pressure cleaner and lance, enables staff to wash vessels and infrastructure such
as docks, pontoons, riprap and even clean vehicles with sea water and rinse them with fresh water. The optional features of Ecotank’s multi-service design are, of course, still available, including lifting jib, removable ladder, fire hose and macro waste basket.
The Watermaker is powered by a 60 hp inboard engine and measures 6.50 m long by 2.48 m wide, with a draft of 0.5 m. Ecotank info@ecotank.fr www.ecotank.com
reach both above and below the waterline. This helps to overcome any barriers during an escape. It also locks vertically for secure use without needing manual intervention.
This Finnish ladder is made from strong materials that withstand corrosive marine environments, guaranteeing durability.
Bluet Floating Solutions info@bluetfoatingsolutions.com www.bluetfloatingsolutions. com
Navicork FD01 is a 100% natural, reusable and recyclable cork composite solution for sustainable deck construction complying with the industry´s safety and technical standards. It has been specifically
developed for applications in marine vessels.
Light, resilient, versatile and with excellent levels of thermal and acoustic insulation, cork has a negative carbon footprint, which helps customers to increase their
sustainability performance. This natural product offers delightful aesthetics and is soft and cool under-foot even on the warmest days, delivering extraordinary comfort and grip. The material is available 6 mm
It has been announced that the MB92 Group has completed its acquisition of GYG, a leading superyacht painting, service and supply company, which trades under the Pinmar, Pinmar Yacht Supply and Technocraft brands. This milestone is part of MB92’s strategic plan to drive growth through consolidation, strengthening its ability to meet evolving industry demands.
Pepe García-Aubert, Chairman of MB92 Group, commented: “We are honoured to welcome GYG to
the MB92 Group. Over the past 30 years, our collaboration has been rooted in shared values, mutual respect and a dedication to delivering excellence for our clients. Moving forward, we aim to build on this strong foundation, sharing knowledge and expertise to enhance our services while advancing sustainability and innovation initiatives that benefit the wider superyacht community”. MB92 will continue to collaborate with a range of providers, giving clients the flexibility to work with
their preferred partners while benefitting from MB92’s extensive expertise, developed through managing over ten large-scale paint projects annually across the Group.
Remy Millott, CEO of GYG, added: “This is an exciting new chapter for our company. With MB92’s support, we are wellpositioned to continue delivering the high-quality standards our clients expect while exploring opportunities for future growth. Together, we can further optimise
or 8 mm thick, but it is possible to manufacture other thicknesses, depending on the needs of customers and the volumes required.
Corticeira Amorin amorin@amorin.com www.amorin.com
operations, elevate the level of service and continue to advance in areas such as paint application, project planning and digitalisation, ensuring we remain at the forefront of the industry”.
GYG will continue to operate independently across Europe and the US, upholding the high standards of service that have earned it a trusted reputation for 50 years.
MB92 Group info-barcelona@mb92.com www.mb92.com
Deadline: Monday, 7th April
The third edition of the Thailand International Boat Show was officially opened on 9 January by the Prime Minister of Thailand, Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Attended by dignitaries and distinguished guests from central and local government, and Thai tourism leaders, the opening ceremony recognised the importance of the show as an economic driver for luxury tourism and a platform to showcase Thailand’s soft power while supporting the sustainable growth of Thailand’s marine industry.
The four-day show was held at Phuket Yacht Haven Marina and was attended by over 6,000 visitors from
around the world. David Hayes, CEO of Thailand International Boat Show organisers JAND Events, commented on the importance of the show to Thailand’s marine tourism industry.
He said: “The Thailand International Boat Show showcases the best of the best in Thailand’s yachting and luxury lifestyle industries.
“Following a successful 2024, we have doubled the size of the show and welcome brands and businesses from all over the world to exhibit this year. We are expecting thousands of high net worth individuals from across Thailand and around Asia to visit the show and cement Phuket and Thailand as the leisure yachting
hub of Asia.”
From day boats to superyachts, there were 54 boats on display this year, complemented by marine gadgets and boat services, charter agents, lifestyle products and luxury real estate. Cessna and Beechcraft by Textron Aviation return as presenting sponsor of the VIP Lounge, which for the first time will be hosted on the Superyacht Lady Eileen II, and also for the first time the Exhibitors and Captain’s Lounge will be hosted on board the superyacht Free Bird.
In addition to the exhibitor displays, restaurants, pop-ups and many activities throughout Phuket Yacht Haven Marina engaged visitors
of all ages, including Children’s Day activities on 11 January.
The Thailand Yachting Conference, which took place the day before the show, welcomed 150 delegates and expert speakers from across the Asia-Pacific region and, together with the show, created a 360-degree B2B2C platform that connected industry stake-holders and showcased Thailand’s marine leisure industry to the world.
Thailand International Boat Show
info@thailandinternational boatshow.com www.thailandinternational boatshow.com
Europe’s leading commercial marine and workboat exhibition, Seawork, is set to launch an exciting new feature – a dedicated Associations Hall – as part of its ongoing growth and commitment to fostering industry collaboration.
Building on the success of previous years, the expanded Hall 3 will become a dynamic association zone, welcoming both
long-term supporters and firsttime exhibitors. This vibrant space will serve as a hub for networking, professional development and knowledge sharing, enabling supporting associations to connect with their members through social
events, meetings and speaking sessions held directly on-site. Returning exhibitors include prominent organisations such as the UK Harbour Masters Association, Workboat Association, Society of Maritime
Industries and Association of Diving Contractors. They will be joined by newcomers, including British Marine and the European Onshore Power Supply Association, further enriching the exhibition’s offering to the commercial marine industry. Seawork sales@seawork.com www.seawork.com
15-17 October 2025
Venice Since 1993, the ICOMIA World Marinas Conference has been the premier international gathering for marina professionals. Overseen by the ICOMIA Marinas Group , the conference attracts
Johan Hasser, General Manager of Mulpha Events has resigned after 12 years of leading the world-renowned Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) and a growing portfolio of major events. Under Johan’s leadership, SCIBS has become one of the most anticipated events on the global marine calendar.
“Johan has taken the Show to new heights, making it a key event in the marine industry worldwide,” said Patrick Lonergan, Head of Hotel, Hospitality and Leisure, Mulpha Australia. “His contribution extends far beyond SCIBS, with the Events Division growing significantly under his guidance.”
Recruitment for a suitable replacement is underway, ensuring the right leader is secured to take Mulpha Events into its next phase of growth. In the interim, Senior Events Manager Corey Rattray-Wood, who has worked closely with Johan during his tenure, will lead the team.
“Corey has been a key part of our
success and will ensure continuity as we prepare for an exciting year ahead,” added Patrick.
Looking ahead, Mulpha Events has an exciting 2025 calendar, including SCIBS in May and the event delivery
of the Sydney International Boat Show in partnership with the Boating Industry Association. Mulpha Events enquiry@mulpha.com.au www.mulphaevents.com.au
Following the record-breaking success of METSTRADE 2024, the upcoming 2025 edition is already attracting strong exhibitor interest, with demand for stand space exceeding previous years. Despite a challenging market, enthusiasm for participation remains high, reaffirming METSTRADE’s position as the premier global platform for innovation,
technology and business development in the leisure marine industry.
A key highlight for Metstrade 2025 is the expansion of the exhibition with an additional 8,000 square metres in Hall 8. The new space will also feature a dedicated theatre
Daniel S. Natchez and Associates Inc 17 www.dsnainc.com
Dura Composites 11 www.duracomposites.com
ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 23 www.icomia.org
LeeSan 5 www.leesan.com
Marina & Holiday Park Solutions Ltd 3 www.rmcs.co.uk
Marine Travelift Inc OBC www.marinetravelift.com
showcasing the latest industry trends and innovations, alongside a new restaurant designed to enhance networking opportunities. The show will take place in Amsterdam from 18-20 November, 2025.
METSTRADE registration@rai.nl www.metstrade.com
9 www.metstrade.com Seawork 24 www.seawork.com SF Marina IFC www.sfmarina.com Walcon Marine Ltd
www.walconmarine.com Water Witch
www.waterwitch.com
Please check websites for up-to-date information before booking hotels or confirming travel plans.
China (Shanghai) International Boat Show
Shanghai, China 30 March-2 April, 2025 www.boatshowchina.com
Palma International Boat Show
Palma de Mallorca, Spain 30 April-3 May, 2025 www.palmainternationalboatshow. com
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
Queensland, Australia 22-25 May, 2025 www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com. au
Seawork
Southampton, England 10-12 June, 2025 www.seawork.com
Sydney International Boat Show
Darling Harbour, Australia 30 July-2 August, 2025 www.sydneyboatshow.com.au
Salone Nautico Genoa, Italy 18-23 September, 2025 www.salonenautico.com
Grand Pavois La Rochelle, France 23-28 September, 2025 www.grand-pavois.com
Southampton International Boat Show
Southampton, England 19-28 September, 2025 www.southamptonboatshow.com
Barcelona International Boat Show
Barcelona, Spain 8-12 October, 2025 www.barcelonaportginesta boatshow.com
ICOMIA World Marinas Conference Venice, Italy 15-17 October, 2025 www.worldmarinas conferencevenice.com
METSTRADE
Amsterdam, The Netherlands 18-20 November, 2025 www.metstrade.com