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.
Zeelander Yachts will present its new flagship model, the 24-meter Zeelander 8, for the first time at the Monaco Yacht Show 2025. The yacht will be located at berth C27 Quai Chicane during the event, which takes place from September 24 to 27.The yacht features a layout with social areas on the main deck, including lounging and dining spaces, along with a galley. The lower deck contains three guest cabins. The master stateroom is positioned amidships and includes windows and a headroom exceeding 2.1 meters. The first hull includes customized modifications, such as relocating the galley to the starboard side of the salon and integrating the bar area with the cockpit.The yacht is equipped with a large targa sunroof and retractable aft doors. Sound levels are reported to measure below 65 dBA at its full speed of 32 knots. The yacht can reach speeds of up to 40 knots with optional larger engines.Each hull is built to owner specifications, with customization handled by the shipyard's engineering team. The exterior design maintains the stylistic features consistent with other yachts in the Zeelander range.Zeelander Yachts was founded in 2002 in the Netherlands by Sietse Koopmans. The first model was unveiled to the public in 2008. The launch model Z44 received positive reviews at the Monaco Yacht Show and drew enormous crowds, despite being at an event dominated by much larger yachts. Within three years, the Z44 had been successfully introduced to the US as well as Europe, and it was an obvious direction to add a larger model to the fleet. The first Z55 was delivered in November 2015, and the flagship Z72 was launched in March 2019.Credit: Tom van Oossanen/Zeelander Yachts
September 16, 2025
Pearl Yachts has established a new French dealership, Pearl France, with an office in Antibes. The facility is located at Avenue de Verdun, 06600 Antibes, in the Port Vauban area. The office is operated by Cenk Efe, Founder and Director of the Mallorca Marine Group 1994, and will serve as the brand's exclusive representative in France.Iain Smallridge, Founder and Managing Director of Pearl Yachts, stated: “France has always been one of the most important markets for Pearl Yachts. With the opening of Pearl France, we are strengthening our presence in the Mediterranean’s most vibrant yachting hub. Cenk’s expertise and reputation are second to none, and we are confident that this new chapter will bring our boutique philosophy and unique approach even closer to every client and brand enthusiast based in France.”Iain Smallridge and Cenk Efe Cenk Efe, Director of Pearl France, added: “We are honoured to be launching Pearl France in Antibes. French clients value elegance, craftsmanship, innovation, and discretion; qualities that Pearl embodies in every detail. The response so far has been exceptional, and we look forward to growing the brand’s legacy along the Côte d’Azur and beyond.”This opening follows the establishment of Pearl Germany and Pearl Gulf earlier this year.Founded in 1998, Pearl Yachts has established itself as one of the UK’s leading shipyards, specializing in designing luxury motor yachts known for their voluminous interiors, opulence, and design excellence. Credits: Pearl Yachts
September 16, 2025
Heesen Yachts has completed the joining of the hull and superstructure for Project Grace, designated YN 21350. The yacht is the first unit in Heesen's new 50-meter Steel class. The operation, which lasted one week, began at the Talsma shipyard in Franeker, where the steel hull was fabricated. The hull was then transported by river and canal to Heesen's facility in Oss, where the main engines were installed prior to the joining procedure.The yacht is equipped with two MAN engines, each rated at 882kW and compliant with IMO Tier III emissions standards. This is the first Heesen yacht to use this specific engine model.Peter van der Zanden, Head of the Design & Development / Engineering Department, commented: "The new 50-metre Steel series gave us the opportunity to select the ideal engine for our brand-new platform. The MAN D2862LE438 was the clear choice, offering a power and efficiency profile that is perfectly calibrated for Project Grace's performance targets."The exterior design is by British studio Harrison Eidsgaard. The design includes features such as low bulwarks and full-height windows. The studio is also collaborating with Heesen's engineering team on the layout to optimize guest and crew areas.Ruud van der Stroom, Heesen CCO, commented: “Seeing the lines of this first 50-metre Steel yacht take shape is a powerful moment—it’s where the vision becomes a tangible reality. We are confident her iconic design will resonate strongly with a discerning owner.”Project Grace is currently available for sale, with a scheduled delivery date in the first quarter of 2028.Heesen Yachts is a Dutch ship building company that specializes in custom-built superyachts in aluminum and steel from 30m to 70m in size. Founded in 1978, it has launched more than 170 yachts since its inception.Credits: Heesen Yachts
September 16, 2025
Damen Yachting has confirmed the sale of a new 53-meter Yacht Support vessel from its Yacht Support range. The vessel, currently under construction at the company's facility in Antalya, Turkey, is scheduled for delivery in Spring 2026. This announcement follows the recent sale and delivery of the YS53 Emotional, which will be displayed at the Monaco Yacht Show.The YS53 model is designed to provide logistical support for main vessels, with facilities for additional crew, water toys, and helicopter operations. Its features include an expansive open main deck aft area equipped with a 15-tonne crane for handling submersibles, large tenders, and other heavy equipment. The vessel measures 53 meters with a gross tonnage of 499 and can accommodate 8 guests, 10 crew members, and a captain. The exterior design, interior design, and naval architecture were all developed by Damen Yachting.Jan van Hogerwou, Sales Director North America at Damen Yachting, stated: “This YS53 is the perfect addition to the Owner’s existing fleet and provides the extension of facilities the Owner is looking to achieve with the addition of a support vessel. We would like to thank Stuart Larsen for his collaboration throughout this project. We look forward to the remaining build period as we prepare for delivery in Spring next year."The next available delivery slot for a YS53 model is Spring 2028.Damen Yachting, the yacht-building division of Damen Shipyards Group, employs approximately 500 professionals across its Amels, SeaXplorer, and Yacht Support vessel programs. No purchase price was disclosed for the new build.Credits: Damen Yachting
September 15, 2025
Numarine has introduced a new explorer yacht model, the 27XP, at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025. The 27-meter yacht replaces the 26XP model, of which 30 units have been sold.The yacht's exterior design and interiors are by Can Yalman, with naval architecture by Umberto Tagliavini. Two layout options are available: one with five cabins and another with four cabins. The five-cabin configuration includes a main deck VIP cabin, a full-beam master suite below deck, and three additional VIP suites. The four-cabin option moves the wheelhouse to the main deck.The 27XP features an open kitchen concept and enlarged outdoor areas. The flybridge is larger than on the previous model. A raised bow lounge is also included.Twin MAN 560 engines provide a top speed of 13.5 knots and a cruising speed of 10 knots. The yacht has a maximum range of 2,200 nautical miles at 8 knots. An optional enclosed, glass flydeck helm station is available.Ömer Malaz, Founder and Chairman of Numarine, stated: “After keeping our cards close to our chests for a little while as we worked on refining the design, we are thrilled to unveil our latest model, the Numarine 27XP. Longer, roomier and more versatile than her predecessor, she introduces new levels of comfort, light and openness, while still keeping the rugged explorer spirit which defines our XP series. She sets a new standard of elegance and capability in the explorer yacht class.”Numarine, a European high-performance motor-yacht shipyard headquartered in Istanbul, offers a range of yachts from 19 to 45 meters.Credits: Numarine
September 15, 2025