With the yacht season in Europe entering its peak period, the world’s leading region by the total number of marinas (from tiny to huge) indeed faces yachts pilgrimage in its waters. Washed by 9 seas and the Atlantic, Europe disposes of over nine hundred seaports, with many of them being worthwhile places to visit.
Yacht Harbour takes a look over 10 out of the most spectacular superyacht ports located in Europe.
#1. Port Vauban, Antibes
One of Europe's oldest and largest ports, Port Vauban is ideally located in the heart of the French Riviera, in Antibes resort, the Alpes-Maritimes department.
The marina disposes of 1,642 berths (with 250 visitors' berths available), including 19 berths for superyachts along the International Yacht Club d'Antibes. Port Antibes is able to accommodate yachts of up to 170 metres in length, with a maximum draft of 7 metres.
Port Vauban Antibes is hosted by an amazing coastal village, between Monaco and Saint Tropez, with an ancient look that attracts an large number of tourists. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing on unspoilt beaches and visiting superb parks and gardens that form this area's natural heritage.
Rich with natural reservations such as the Exflora Park, the Eilenroc Gardens and the Thuret Park, the location was also in favour of the representatives of the artistic world. For instance, Picasso painted some of his famous painting in Antibes in the old Chateau Grimaldi that is open for visiting today. Those who are passionate about nautical sports will be enchanted by the Antibes Yacht Show that is held each year.
Within Port Vauban there is a fuelling station next to the central capitainerie, and all yachts in the port are provided with high-speed broadband internet access as well as shore power and free pump-out of black and grey water. The port is currently monitored by 20 CCTV units, with plans for an additional 165 cameras to be installed, and there is onsite security covering the entire port.
#2. OneOcean Port Vell, Barcelona
OneOcean Port Vell is a top location for superyachts whose destination is Barcelona. Originally built for the 1992 Olympic Games, the Marina has recently completed its transformation to a 150-berth luxury facility with a full set of basic amenities, creating the ultimate destination for yachts up to 190 metres in LOA.
A masterpiece of architectural design, the marina features a 2,750-square-metre glass gallery whith the port’s reception, an elegant crew lounge, a gym and a wellness centre and premium services such as 24h mooring assistance, car parking adjacent to berths, storage facilities next to berths, recycling facilities, tank cleaning, floating platforms, cranes and flatbed trucks with cranes, collection of used oil and waste from works.
Located in the heart of Barcelona, OneOcean Port Vell offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the most vibrant city in Europe. Those who reach this marina will easily access Barcelona’s major attractions, while Barcelona’s old Customs building is situated right next to the port, demonstrating impressive architecture with its historical beauty.
The marina itself represents a touristic attraction that receives more than 15 million people each year. This magnificent location is a sailor’s paradise, thanks to the secluded coves and natural surroundings.
#3. Port Hercule, Monaco
Hosting the most influential events within their fields, Monaco Grand Prix in May and the Monaco Yacht Show in September, Port Hercule represents an opulent extension of all the attributives of Monaco life. Сovering almost 160,000 square metres, the berth provides anchorage for up to 700 vessels of up to 135 metres LOA.
Set amongst the steep rising hills, the impressive setting is the ideal base to explore the sumptuous delights of Monaco and the surrounding area. With a combination of a naturally beautiful setting and a vibrant nightlife, makes Port Hercule a must-visit destination for anyone with a love of sailing.
Located on the French Riviera, Port Hercule represents the only deep water port on this side of the coast. This marina receives millions of tourists each year, attracted to this city's rich culture and the opportunity to spend a wonderful vacation by the Mediterranean Sea.
The natural sights in the area include The Exotic Gardens and the Observation Cave, The Princess Antoinette Park, etc. History enthusiasts will encounter unique collections that are well-preserved in the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology, the Oceanographic Museum and many more similar institutions. The Monte-Carlo Casino and Opera House, the Monaco Cathedral, the Rock, etc. are top choices of travellers who wish to explore Monaco and its flamboyant image.
#4. Porto Montenegro, Bay of Kotor
Acquired by Dubai Government in 2016, Porto Montenegro Marina is a luxury marina by the coastal town of Tivat, on the charming shores of the Adriatic Sea. The largest marina in the region, Porto Montenegro Marina offers 450 berths for yachts of up to 250 metres in length.
Meanwhile, the recently added 250-metre flagship berth surpasses the size of any yacht built to date. This forward-thinking outlook on the industry reflects Porto Montenegro's ambition to become a go-to location for large yachts.
Porto Montenegro Marina represents astonishing balance of a true taste, sense of freshness, unique nature, history and avant-garde solutions. Travellers and boat owners who will reach this port will witness impressive waterfronts, turquoise waters and a luxuriant vegetation.
The town of Tivat is a charming settlement surrounded by the imposing Mount Vrmac as a picturesque aspect. Opulent hotels and guesthouses, friendly restaurants and an incredible gastronomy based on seafood and Mediterranean dishes welcome its guests into this paradisiacal environment.
#5. Marina di Porto Cervo, Sardinia
The world’s second most expensive marina, Marina di Porto Cervo lays on the northern tip of Sardinia on the famous Costa Smeralda. Berthing fees can easily exceed € 2,500 during the high season, especially during the Deluxe Fair in June and the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup Regatta in September.
The marina disposes of 60 superyacht berths for yachts up to 100 metres in LOA and maximum draught of 7 metres. This marina is one of the best equipped on this side of the coast and offers an endless list of activities for those who are passionate about nautical activities, water sports and leisure activities.
The surrounding area boasts a mix of unspoilt natural beauty and modern luxurious facilities including clubs and high-end boutiques, fancied by the world’s most popular celebrities. Porto Cervo has hypnotic beaches with incredible shades of blue and transparent waters.
#6. Puerto Banus, Marbella
Puerto Banus Marina is hosted by Spanish coastal town of Marbella, in the chic Costa del Sol. Originally built in 1970, the marina covers 150,000 square metres and has 915 berths with a clientele of the richest and most powerful people in the world.
Protected by the Sierra de Marbella mountain range and flanked by beautiful beaches, Marina Puerto Banus attracts an increasing number of tourists thanks to its rich history and a well-reputed culture.
Marbella features its historic charm and many important sights, as well as natural areas and entertaining festivals. Avenida del Mar, the Iglesia Mayor de la Encarnacion, Alameda Park, Museo del Bonsai, are just a few of Marbella’s main attractions. Las Murallas del Castillo is a fascinating historic place that was left behind by previous generations.
#7. ACI Marina Dubrovnik, Croatia
Situated at a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the foothills of Srd hill, only 6 kilometres away from the centre of Dubrovnik, this marina is famous for its “Blue Flag” award winning clean sea.
Voted best marina in the Adriatic in the “Flower of Tourism- Quality for Croatia” competition for three consecutive years, ACI Marina Dubrovnik boasts 380 berths and 140 dry berths, able to accommodate yachts up to 60 metres in LOA.
The coastal area of the Dubrovnik region, comprising the islands of Korčula, Mljet, Lastovo and the Elaphite archipelago, as well as the Pelješac peninsula, makes ACI Marina Dubrovnik an ideal starting point for a complete boating adventure.
The visitors will be able to explore Dubrovnik’s undersea world and protected underwater archaeological sites, along with exciting adventures in Prevlaka Park.
#8. Grand Harbour Marina, Malta
Grand Harbour Marina is located in the central region of Malta, a splendid area in the Mediterranean and a fascinating historic location that belongs to the UNESCO Heritage. The port comprises 240 berths, able to accommodate vessels of up to 135 metres in length.
The port offers all the basic marina services, along with a set of extra facilities that include technical assistance and repairs, travel lift, fuel bunkering, and what is most important for a perfect holiday, nearby dining facilities and bars.
Some of the most renowned natural treasures in the area comprise mesmeric sandy beaches, Blue Grotto, the amazing Gozo Island where nature seems untouched by modern times. Gozo Island is also a home to the famous rocky formation known as the Azure Window.
Other attractions are the Golden Bay Beach, a tranquil getaway, the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island, with its terrific turquoise water, the scenic Dingli Cliffs where one can admire a breathtaking view of the sea. What is more, Malta is rich in historic attractions, fine dining places, and souvenir shops.
#9. Marina di Portofino, Liguria
One of the most exclusive Italian marinas, Marina di Portofino is a former fishing village famous for its stunning landscape, picturesque houses and a tiny quaint harbour. Lying on the Italian Riviera of the Ligurian Sea, this place is highly appreciated by celebrities, politicians, aristocracy and footballers, representing a genuine billionaire’s playground.
The marina has only 14 berths for yachts of maximum 70 metres in length and a maximum draught of 4 metres.
Marina di Portofino lays in an impeccably natural environment that is filled with forests, beaches and historical monuments. Colourful buildings and homes can be seen on romantic waterfronts of the fishing village.
Some of the main tourist objectives are the Statue of Christ of the Abbys, the 16th century Castello Brown, the Oratory of Santa Maria Assunta, etc. Additionally, gothic architectural elements and classic buildings can be also witnessed seen there, within the hidden gem of the Italian coast.
#10. Port Adriano, Mallorca
Designed by Phillipe Starck, the Port Adriano harbour is situated just 9 km to the South-west of Palma de Mallorca. The marina boasts a total of 488 moorings from 6 metres up to 80 metres and a maximum capacity of up to 100 metres.
Surrounded by areas of great natural beauty for sailing and other nautical sports, the marina makes an ideal base for exploration of Mallorca’s beautiful coast. That comprises the Malgrats Islands, the coast of El Toro and the North coast of Mallorca, recently declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Those who reach this destination are eager to explore the astonishing city of Palma de Mallorca, where superlatives are used at every step of the way. Along with a distinguished maritime life, tourists will not only discover hypnotising flora and fauna, but also rare bird species and over 1,000 animal species that live here. Calvia's tourism is extremely well-developed, which is why tourists from the entire world can find luxury accommodation services by the beach, with green areas and a romantic environment.
Azimut has received three industry accolades in China, reflecting its focus on technological innovation, sustainable design, and luxury interiors. The honors include a Best of the Best Award 2024 from Robb Report China for the Seadeck 6, and two China Yacht Awards 2024 from Oceanway magazine for the Azimut Grande Trideck and the Azimut Grande 26M.Azimut Grande 26MSeadeck 6 Honored by Robb Report ChinaThe Seadeck 6 earned the Best of the Best Award 2024 from Robb Report China, with judges citing its approach to sustainable yacht design and operations. The vessel’s construction utilizes carbon fiber to reduce weight and features a streamlined hull aimed at lowering energy consumption. Seadeck 6A “Fun Island” concept was introduced, merging indoor and outdoor living spaces and enhancing the connection with the sea. In addition to the use of alternative, sustainable materials like cork and recycled fabrics, the Seadeck 6’s mild hybrid system allows zero-emission operation at anchor and reduces fuel use while cruising.Azimut Grande Trideck main saloonAzimut Grande Trideck and Grande 26M Recognized at China Yacht Awards 2024At the China Yacht Awards 2024, organized by Oceanway magazine, Azimut’s Grande Trideck was named Superyacht of the Year in the 30M to 40M category. Judges praised the yacht’s design, which adds a dedicated Sea View Terrace to the three traditional decks, creating a “+one” layout that enhances outdoor living and maximizes the vessel’s connection to the ocean environment.Seadeck 6 saloonThe Azimut Grande 26M received the award for Best Interior Design in the 24M to 30M category. The jury noted the yacht’s attention to interior layout and detail, featuring a main deck master cabin with full-height windows and a layout focused on comfort and natural light. The craftsmanship and choice of materials were also recognized as contributing to the yacht’s overall sense of refinement.Azimut Grande 26M saloonCommenting on these recognitions, Enrico Chiaussa, Azimut’s Chief Commercial Officer for EMEA-APAC, stated that the awards highlight the company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and careful craftsmanship across its product range.Azimut Grande Trideck Azimut, founded by Paolo Vitelli in 1969 and part of the Azimut|Benetti Group, offers owners around the world a wide range of motor yachts from 42 to 144 feet in length, organised in seven series (Verve, Atlantis, Magellano, Fly, S, Grande and Seadeck). The brand stands out for the spirit of innovation that puts it at the forefront of trends and solutions in technology and design recognised throughout the world of yachting.Credits: Azimut
December 16, 2024
Two long-established German shipyards, Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft (FSG) and Nobiskrug, have filed for insolvency amid ongoing financial difficulties faced by their parent company, Tennor Group, and its owner, Lars Windhorst.District courts in Flensburg and Neumünster have appointed lawyers Christoph Morgen of Brinkmann & Partner and Hendrik Gittermann of REIMER as provisional insolvency administrators. These filings follow months of instability and reported mismanagement, during which the shipyards struggled to meet operational costs and payroll obligations.On Monday, Schleswig-Holstein’s public utility provider threatened to cut off power at the Rendsburg facility after unpaid bills dating back to December 1. The shutdown was temporarily postponed because a federal police vessel remained at the yard for repairs.The financial collapse has affected around 500 employees at both facilities, leaving many uncertain about their future before the holiday season. Some have already lost their jobs. At a recent rally in Flensburg, workers’ union representatives claimed delayed salary payments, including outstanding November wages and Christmas bonuses. Jan Brandt, chairman of the Flensburg Works Council, accused Windhorst of repeated dishonesty and unkept promises regarding timely compensation.In recent months, workers, unions, and political figures have criticized Windhorst, citing poor management and lack of transparency. Schleswig-Holstein’s Economics Minister, Claus Ruhe Madsen, urged Windhorst to assume responsibility and consider selling the shipyards. With insolvency proceedings now underway, new investors may have the opportunity to restructure operations and stabilize the workforce.Tennor Group took over FSG in 2019 and rebranded it as “FSG 2.0,” but failed to secure the orders needed to ensure long-term viability. In 2021, FSG acquired Nobiskrug following the latter’s own insolvency proceedings, though this acquisition did not resolve ongoing financial problems. During summer 2024, the federal government withdrew a €62 million grant intended for LNG bunker ship construction at FSG, citing insufficient equity from Tennor.The provisional insolvency administrators are now working to resolve existing projects, including a RoRo ferry at FSG and a yacht at Nobiskrug. They may seek interim financing from federal and state governments until clients accept completed projects and provide payment. Insolvency pre-financing has been arranged to secure compensation for approximately 340 employees in Flensburg and 140 in Rendsburg through January 2025, covering overdue November salaries.Local officials and industry observers have suggested that FSG should pivot to manufacturing components for offshore wind energy projects to meet growing market demand. Others have recommended that Nobiskrug broaden its portfolio to include commercial vessels. With new ownership and strategic adjustments, the shipyards may still find opportunities to recover and rebuild their reputations in the maritime industry.German shipyard Nobiskrug was founded in 1905. Recognised today as one of the world’s foremost builders of spectacular fully custom superyachts, the shipyard is famous for the 92m Tatoosh, the award-winning 68m Sycara V, the 74m Mogambo, the 143m industry-changing Sailing Yacht A, and the environmentally innovative 80m Artefact.Credits: Nobiskrug
December 16, 2024
Milan-based design studio Hot Lab, part of the Viken Group, has provided a custom interior for the recently delivered M/Y Oculus, the latest unit in the Numarine 37XP explorer yacht series. This marks the fourth collaboration between Hot Lab and Numarine on this particular model.The Numarine 37XP’s design is characterized by an angular exterior, large trawler-style windows, and a pronounced bow. According to Hot Lab, the interior concept for M/Y Oculus was developed to reflect these purposeful lines while also meeting the owner’s requirement for a contemporary yet robust aesthetic. The design process was carried out remotely during the yacht’s construction phase.The interior features a blend of contrasting tones and materials. Pale upholstery stands against darker cushions, while dark-stained oak flooring contrasts with white deckheads. The chosen materials include ebony slats, white marble with dark veining, and organically patterned wool carpets. Stone elements, such as three large backlit onyx panels in the upper saloon’s bar area, contribute to what Hot Lab describes as a masculine ambiance, complemented by stitched leather bar stools and metallic mesh detailing.The yacht’s layout includes an open-plan main deck saloon with floor-to-ceiling glass, dining and lounge areas, a forward owner’s suite on the main deck, four guest cabins below, and additional lounges on the upper deck and flybridge. Numarine Chairman Ömer Malaz noted that the 37XP series aims to combine a spirit of exploration with interior design that aligns with the yacht’s overall character.M/Y Oculus was delivered in summer 2023 and is the latest result of a longstanding partnership between Hot Lab and Numarine. The studio reports that experience with previous units in the series informed its approach and execution on this project.The Viken Group includes Tillberg Design of Sweden, Hot Lab and Thalia Marine. It has been established to gather leading and passionate companies, with similar ideas and business ethics, under one umbrella. This enables it to provide a full range of completely aligned and comprehensive design, naval architecture and project management services.Credits: Kerem Sanliman/Numarine
December 16, 2024
Bilgin Yachts has launched Al Reem, the third and final yacht in its 80.1-meter Bilgin 263 series. Sold in 2022 through brokerage firm Bluewater Yachting, Al Reem follows the delivery of Tatiana, introduced at the 2021 Monaco Yacht Show as the largest yacht built in Turkey, and Leona, delivered in 2023.Al Reem, formerly known as Project Silence, is said to offer increased volume – around 100GT more than its predecessors – and additional exterior deck space, as well as a larger mast structure. All three units of the series share a slender exterior profile by Unique Yacht Design and interiors by H2 Yacht Design.The latest hull incorporates various design modifications, including a teak foredeck, a superstructure finished in a metallic grey-white and black scheme, and a reconfigured internal layout with enlarged living areas. Technical refinements include a lengthened upper deck and an extra covered area at the stern.The owner’s deck, positioned on the main deck level, provides 300-degree views and access to an outdoor terrace and hot tub. Guest accommodation comprises two VIP cabins on the main deck and three guest cabins on the lower deck. A secondary saloon on the lower deck includes a balcony-style opening to the sea. An elevator connects all decks.Al Reem’s interior uses materials such as matte timber, cream leather wall panels, silk carpets, and marble feature walls. According to H2 Yacht Design’s Jonny Horsfield, the interior is designed to be “light and modern,” differentiating it from the layout and design of Tatiana.<iframe width=560 height=315 src=https://www.youtube.com/embed/FF3TcLuDFNk?si=VGpDFVuo2UIL8Pt5 title=YouTube video player frameborder=0 allow=accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share referrerpolicy=strict-origin-when-cross-origin allowfullscreen></iframe>In terms of technical capabilities, Al Reem features a new ventilation system and increased generator capacity. Equipped with twin 2,560 kW engines, the yacht can reach a maximum speed of 19 knots and has a reported range of up to 6,000 nautical miles.With the launch of Al Reem, Bilgin Yachts concludes its 263 series. Delivery of Al Reem is scheduled for 2024. Bilgin Yachts is a boutique shipyard on the European side of Istanbul, building 50 to 120m luxury superyachts. It has been a family-run business for five generations since the early 1900s.Credits: Bilgin Yachts
December 13, 2024
Northrop & Johnson has confirmed the sale of the 25.8-meter Feadship motor yacht Monara. Yacht brokers Ed Dickinson and Ed Cavendish acted on behalf of both buyer and seller, with the yacht last listed at EUR4,500,000. Originally built in 1969, Monara underwent a complete rebuild at Feadship’s Makkum yard in 2016, placing it among the Feadship Heritage Fleet. The rebuild included the installation of Zero Speed stabilizers and a silent electric battery system.Inside, the main salon is designed with warm oak finishes and offers an L-shaped settee and a concealed pop-up TV. A glass floor panel provides a view of the yacht’s restored Gardner main engines. The galley features a Dutch door that opens to the main deck, creating an integrated indoor-outdoor living area.Accommodations include four staterooms for up to eight guests. The master suite, lit by four hull windows, has a queen-size bed and an ensuite with adjustable privacy glass. The VIP cabin is also ensuite, while two additional guest cabins can be configured as twin or double rooms and share a bathroom.Externally, Monara retains classic yacht elements, including a clipper bow and canoe stern. The covered aft deck features seating around a teak table, accommodating up to 12 for alfresco meals. The sundeck is equipped for multiple functions, offering a convertible 10-person sunbed, an L-shaped lounge, an additional sunbed forward, and shade options via adjustable sails.Following its recent sale, Monara continues to represent a combination of traditional Feadship craftsmanship and contemporary onboard technology.Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
December 13, 2024