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ICOMIA conference reunites marinas

The ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2021 (IWMC) held at The Address Dubai Marina from 12-14 October saw the participation of key industry leaders, attracting over 200 delegates from 24 countries, making it a truly global event, despite the present Covid-19 travel restrictions. The event played a significant role in reuniting the marina industry, as well as equipping participants with the knowledge needed to embrace the challenges in the years ahead and find solutions for their industry’s future success.

The second day of the conference featured a full-day tour around local marinas, including Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Dubai Harbour, Palm Jumeirah and Mina Rashid, which provided a great opportunity for networking, partnership building and led to some important discussions. The day ended with a fantastic Gala Dinner on Queen Elizabeth 2, hosted by P&O Marinas, during which ICOMIA Marinas Group Golden Cleat Awards were presented for the first time, including the categories of Lifetime Dedication and Sustainability & Innovation.

The newly created awards’ aim is to recognise and honour outstanding individuals, who have demonstrated a true commitment to the global marina community throughout their careers. The winner of the Lifetime Dedication Award is Oscar Siches, while Lars Brandt received the Sustainability & Innovation Award.

Udo Kleinitz, Secretary-General of ICOMIA, stated: “It was an honour to include the Golden Cleat award ceremony in the World Marinas Conference Gala Dinner. Celebrating the commitment and leadership of two outstanding industry players is a unique way to unite the industry and I am pleased to congratulate Oscar and Lars for their awards and achievement. My thanks go to our Marinas Group for proposing the awards and all those who submitted proposals”.

The first session of the final day of the conference focused on ‘Greener and Sustainable Marinas’. From the example of the smart cities covered by Emmanuele Delarue to the circular economy advantages pointed out by Kellie Covington, valuable insight was gained into what needs to be the future of the sector. Following that were great presentations by Christophe Saune and Michael De Jong on how to build resilience and sustainability for nautical tourism and marinas.

Change always comes with technical challenges and opportunities, but determination and focus can overcome any obstacles. During session two, Idan Cohen showed how technology and digital transformation can better connect marinas and their clients. Then, Kevin Desmond presented great examples of electric systems from other industries that can be applied to marinas. Following that, Kresimir Zic from Croatia showed how IT can be applied very efficiently to the needs of the operation of a marina, resulting in significant improvements in quality and safety, as well as having financial benefits. The final presentation of this session offered delegates the opportunity to learn and see the results of the anti-sedimentation system called Life Marina Plan.

Oscar Siches, Sara Anghel, Martinho Fortunato and Udo Kleinitz then outlined the areas of engagement with authorities to be recognised as contributing to the economy and tourism, but also what areas of regulatory development may affect the marina industry.

Session seven focused on operational trends. Nicklas Dahlstrom from Emirates Airlines explained the challenges around human resource training, which are the key to success in a world that is constantly being transformed, even more so after the Covid-19 pandemic. Mika Parvianien then discussed how the growing demand for floating residential developments in marinas will impact new layouts and operations. Dean Smith outlined the requirements associated with the increasing size of yachts, followed by Vasco de Cet, who reminded the delegates of the important role of marinas as the frontier between the ocean and land, which has an infrastructural, as well as an operational impact with many challenges to be overcome.

In conclusion, members of the Organising Committee summarised the outcomes of the conference. The human element and customer experience remain the highest priority despite developments around larger vessels and digitalisation. Delegates expressed their relief at being able to meet in person again and share experiences. Climate change and the need to maintain biodiversity will put the marina industry at the centre of legislation, but there will also be challenges related to client demands where marinas need to adapt to new customers becoming familiar with boating. The share of knowledge from other industries and from good examples around the globe is the best way for the world marina business to improve practice and raise the bar of the industry to become more efficient, more responsible and more sustainable.

The conference signed off with remarks from Bruno Meier from the Leisure Marine Association, Middle East North Africa (LMA MENA), following a presentation of the ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2023, which will take place in Vilamoura, Portugal.

ICOMIA World Marinas Conference info@icomia.com www.icomia.org

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