Marina Bay is set for a multi-million pound investment, with the objective of further enhancing Gibraltar’s reputation as a go-to marine destination.
The plan includes an increased number of upgraded berths, 144 high-end waterfront rental apartments comprising “Marina Club” and new infrastructure with enhanced facilities.
Work is already underway with the first stage of development of this word-class project, which is replacing the old concrete Mediterranean-style berths to make way for the installation of easier access new floating finger pontoons.
The number of berths will increase and will be able to cope with vessels in the 15-18m (49-59ft) range. In addition, 12 fully serviced and carefully designed superyacht berths for yachts up to 100m (328ft) will be constructed. It is envisaged that the majority of new berths will be completed by the end of 2020.
It all forms part of a long relationship between Gibraltar and Gregory Butcher, owner and chairman of Ocean Village. Marina Bay was added to his property portfolio in 2006 as part of his long-term, high volume investment in the area.
William Bowman, Marina Bay marina director commented, “Short term and long term berthing will be massively enhanced, with continued opportunities for locals to berth their boats here and visit.”
The new superyacht berths, apart from having substantially improved infrastructure will also offer new services such as concierge.
Bowman went on to emphasise, “Our aim is to encourage longer term mooring from superyachts and provide them not only with duty free fuel, but also fantastic facilities and services to encourage them to use Gibraltar more frequently as a home port. We now have 5-star bathroom facilities, so after a long trip on the ocean, we offer the opportunity for boatowners to take a soak in a hot bath! This is something which is quite rare in the offering for marina facilities in this area.”
“Superyacht crew will have access to the Marina Club facilities for accommodation, sport facilities and F&B outlets. It is anticipated that a number of new jobs will be created as well as a direct result of the multiplying effect on local employment”.
