From Ermioni to Corfu, investments in marinas are accelerating, upgrading maritime tourism infrastructure and strengthening Greece’s position on the international yachting map. New projects, modern services, digital applications, and sustainable practices are shaping a new development model for a sector with significant prospects for the national economy and local communities.
The Greek Marina Market: A New Era of Development
The Greek marina market is entering a new phase of development, with significant investments in infrastructure and services underway across the country. The needs of modern yachting, the increasing demand for mooring berths, and the effort to upgrade the tourist product are driving investors and facility managers to new actions, which are expected to substantially influence the future of maritime tourism.
Ermioni Marina: A Game Changer for Argolida
Another step towards the implementation of the Ermioni Marina is being taken through a new environmental study concerning the modification and renewal of the project’s environmental terms. This investment, estimated to exceed 20 million euros, is being developed by Ermionida S.A., a company predominantly owned by Nikos Th. Vardinogiannis’ Tethys family office, with EMMA Capital holding a stake.
The new marina is planned to feature 256 berths, including 231 permanent and 25 seasonal, for yachts up to 60 meters in length. Additionally, on the approximately 20-acre land zone, administrative buildings, commercial uses, dining areas, tourist accommodation, and supporting facilities will be developed. Special emphasis is placed on the functional organization of the marina, the creation of over 2,000 sq.m. of green spaces, and full accessibility of the facilities. The project aims to significantly upgrade the wider Ermionida area, which already attracts a substantial number of yachts during the summer, while also boosting the local economy and the region’s tourism product.
Corfu’s Gouvia Marina: A Modern Yachting Hub
At the same time, D-Marin has completed an extensive 8.5 million euro investment in Gouvia Marina in Corfu, transforming it into a modern destination for international yachting. The upgrade included the creation of 104 new berths for vessels up to 50 meters, new parking areas, an additional 6,000 square meters of dry storage facilities, and a complete upgrade of communal infrastructure.
Furthermore, ‘smart’ systems for water and electricity consumption management were installed, digital infrastructures were upgraded, and Wi-Fi coverage was enhanced throughout the marina. Sustainability holds a special place in the investment program. The marina acquired a 100 kWp photovoltaic system, which is expected to cover approximately 20% of its energy needs, while electric vehicle charging stations and low-energy consumption systems were installed. New communal areas, an amphitheater, and a playground were also created, strengthening the marina’s role as a meeting place for both visitors and the local community.
Investments Following International Trends
Commenting on the developments in the sector, Mr. Zacharias Kiaffas, General Manager of Porto Heli Marina, points out to newsbeast that the investments currently being made in Greece are moving in the right direction and respond to international developments in maritime tourism. As he states, according to the European Commission’s study “Study on Specific Challenges for a Sustainable Development of Coastal and Maritime Tourism in Europe” (2016), coastal and maritime tourism is the largest marine economic activity in Europe, and the development and modernization of marinas are recognized as a strategic pillar for the future growth and competitiveness of the sector.
He notes that the increasing demand for mooring infrastructure for large vessels is now evident, which justifies the investments proceeding in areas such as Vouliagmeni, Elliniko, Corfu, and Ermioni. At the same time, he emphasizes that there is still a significant need for organized facilities to serve smaller recreational boats and professional charter vessels.
From Mooring to Integrated Tourist Ecosystems
According to Mr. Kiaffas, marinas are no longer merely mooring areas. This trend is also recorded in the international study “Development of Marina Services in the Context of Sustainable Water and Coastal Tourism” (2022), according to which modern marinas are evolving into integrated tourist ecosystems that combine hospitality, retail, technical services, entertainment, digital applications, and sustainability actions. Technology now plays a leading role in their operation. Digital berth reservations, consumption management applications, specialized operating software, customer information networks, drones for aerial surveillance, and underwater facility control systems are already part of everyday life in many modern marinas.
The Challenge of Tomorrow
Mr. Kiaffas also highlights that one of the areas needing immediate development in Greece is facilities for dry storage, wintering, and boat repairs, as demand is constantly increasing. Furthermore, modern marinas can substantially contribute to reducing the seasonality of Greek tourism, supporting activities throughout the year, such as boat maintenance, winter mooring, sailing events, cultural events, and activities that bring local communities closer to maritime tourism.
“Greece’s geographical position is undeniably advantageous on the international yachting map,” emphasizes Mr. Kiaffas, adding that beyond new infrastructure investments, the systematic training of executives and employees across the spectrum of maritime tourism is equally important. The investments currently underway indicate that Greek marinas are claiming a more upgraded role on the international yachting map, aiming not only to attract more vessels but also to create an integrated and sustainable development model for Greek maritime tourism.
Source: Newsbeast – Tourism
