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.
Royal Huisman showcases a new lightweight 46m high-performance cruiser sloop: “Nauta Reichel Pugh 151”. Nauta Design produced the exterior and interior styling, Reichel/Pugh for the yacht’s naval architecture, Rondal did carbon Panamax rig, and Royal Huisman provided their most-qualified engineering and construction skills for the optimal end result. Royal Huisman Project 405’s lightweight aluminium and carbon composite construction will present formidable competition to existing carbon yachts, whilst combining comfort with the low sound levels of aluminium yachts.The team worked with “intelligent lock-down” measures implemented in the Netherlands since mid-March 2020 and promptly adopted by Royal Huisman. These measures allow the shipyard team to continue working in strict observance of the regulations, such as the continuous monitoring of its workers’ health situation and etc.According to Jan Timmerman, CEO Royal Huisman: “It is truly an honour to work with the owners and this great expert team of designers to realize their lightweight superyacht. The team of Royal Huisman is proud that the owners and their team have selected us for this innovative lightweight construction which was cleverly developed by our in-house R&D team, backed up with over 55 years of experience with aluminium construction. This latest superyacht order confirms Royal Huisman’s adage “If you can DREAM it, we can BUILD it!”Royal Huisman Project 405 is scheduled to be delivered in 2022.
May 29, 2020
34m SX112 is the flagship of the SX crossover line by Sanlorenzo that proposes a new way of living on the sea: the barriers on board are eliminated, and the boat opens to the outside, in a close relationship with the marine context.The project design of the external lines produced by Bernardo Zuccon of Studio Zuccon International Project and interiors by Piero Lissoni, art director of the company since 2018.The key features of the project are the new stern zone which undoubtedly represents the yacht’s most iconic area. Conceived as a spacious internal beach area, it is directly connected to the outside, allowing the yachtsman to enjoy these spaces in a novel way.
May 29, 2020
Superyacht design studio Bannenberg & Rowell have released a new superyacht concept, the 43-metre Estrade. Bannenberg & Rowell describe this yacht to be designed for the soul, for relaxed and healthy living and, above all, to connect with the environment. The yacht can accommodate up to 10 guests and nine crew on board and ample space for toys.Key features include the beach club aft that folds out on both sides. Elsewhere, the cantilevered sunning deck overlooks the beach club, ensuring “positively no FOMO”, the studio said. Elsewhere, Estrade features a sundeck with a spa pool. The jet skis and tenders meanwhile are stored at the bow.
May 28, 2020
Project Mana, the third hull in Dutch yard Mulder's ThirtySix series, has been launched and ready to begin sea trials at the North Sea.ThirtySix features a bespoke modern exterior with sleek aluminium construction and a continuous window line which culminates in a contemporary plumb bow. The four-cabin version accommodates eight guests on board. Five spacious cabins onboard accommodate up to ten guests. Both the four and five-cabin layout have Pullman beds in the forward guest cabins.The saloon, dining room and bar area are located on the main deck, with floor to ceiling windows providing panoramic views. The dining experience is enhanced by the addition of a folding side balcony, which brings seascape panoramas right to the table.The sun deck above the aft deck and main saloon include generous seating, lots of sun pads, a whirlpool bathtub with room for eight and a comfy dining place.The design features the Van Oossanen patented Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF) to ensure comfortable sailing and fuel economy at all speeds. Twin 847 kW engines will ensure a maximum speed of 16.8 knots. The fuel consumption at economic cruising speed of 11 knots is less than 80 litres per hour.
May 28, 2020
Horizon Yachts has begun construction of a 32m customised CC98 yacht. Horizon Custom Collection 98 is fourth Horizon vessel for the experienced Australian owner, who requested specific – and somewhat challenging – details including accommodations for a helicopter as well as a submarine.The new owner requested that his new yacht would feature an exterior style similar to the Horizon E Series yachts. Thus, this new CC98 has a unique exterior profile, with expansive windows and a spacious interior within a 23’ 6” beam.To accommodate a touch-and-go helipad, the entire superstructure of this new vessel will be constructed of carbon fibre composite for strength and structural integrity for the helipad. Also, this yacht features a telescoping mast and radar arch to navigate the low bridges in Australia.The yacht can accommodate up to five guests in five staterooms including a full-beam, on-deck master suite. A large galley area is positioned aft on the main deck to facilitate dining either on the aft deck or at the interior dining table. Relaxation and entertaining areas are found throughout and the foredeck has been designed to accommodate a jacuzzi and large sun pad.The yacht has commercial-grade 10V 2000 series MTU engines have been chosen. The ZF trailing gearboxes are designed for full redundancy and to enable the ability to run on one motor, which reduces fuel burn and engine hours. Lithium-ion battery packs will also be installed to offset the house functions such as air conditioning and general electricity. The fuel capacity is 24,600l.The yacht is on schedule to be delivered to her owner in early 2021.
May 27, 2020