Best Marinas in the World

By Peter12 mins read

Nowadays, there are numerous emerging marinas in beautiful locations that provide a plethora of amenities for all types of customers. Most of us choose a cruising destination based on certain criteria. The most important ones are natural and cultural heritage, history, status, and privacy, among others. Are you sailing with your family, friends, looking for new adventures, or for high-end marinas to visit? Then, this article is what you’re looking for! Below, I’ll give you a list of the best marinas in the world, their characteristics, and some secrets to understanding what makes them being the best!

Best Marinas in Europe

Cala del Forte, Ventimiglia, Italy: This marina is nearby of one of the most famous Italian food markets and close to the historical Old Town of Ventimiglia. It is situated approximately 14.6 kilometers away from the Principality of Monaco by boat. The marina has 171 berths and accommodates sailboats ranging from 6.5 to 60 meters. It’s a totally new state-of-the-art marina, fully-equipped and in the heart of the Meditteranean!
Portonovi Marina, Montenegro: This superyacht marina is situated inside the tranquil Boka Bay. As a result, it’s the best starting point to explore the magnificent Adriatic coast. The marina has 238 berths and can accommodate yachts up to 70 meters as well as sailboats up to 120 meters for seasonally using the berths. In the marina, you can find a wide range of services such as technical, security, and environmental cleaning services. Don’t forget to visit Lovcen National Park and Lake Skadar for hiking or for a relaxing walk in nature. Furthermore, taste some local Meditteranean dishes in the old town of Kotor and enjoy walking around its picturesque medieval alleys.
Marina Borik, Zadar, Croatia: Explore the Adriatic islands and islets in case you moor in this top-of-the-line marina. It’s situated in the heart of the historical city of Zadar and nearby several Adriatic natural wonders. The Kornati National Park, and the Adriatic archipelago with a string of 89 islands and reefs. Moreover, in Zadar, you experience a mixture of Byzantine, Roman, and Venetian architecture. This is due to the many influences and conquests that happened in the past. The marina has 177 berths with a max draft of 3.5m and 15 dry dock capacity.
Marina Di Porto Servo, Sardinia, Italy: Porto Cervo provides by far the best quality facilities in the Mediterranean. It’s the world’s second most expensive marina and one of the best European marinas. Porto Cervo village is an Italian seaside resort on the northern coast of Sardinia. The Marina di Porto Cervo consists of two ports Porto Vecchio, and the modern marina. The marina provides 700 berths for vessels of a maximum of 100m and a maximum draft of 7m. They also have a boatyard that serves for repairs and maintenance for boats of a maximum of 45m.
Marina Port Vauban, Antibes, France: Antibes is on the French Riviera and is considered one of the best sailing European destinations. Moreover, Antibes is a place that can fulfill everyone’s needs. Are you a nature lover? Then, visit the Valmasque Park in Mougins or the Esterel National Park. There you can hike, take some photographs, swim, and even do some watersport or mountain ride activities. Are you looking to explore culture and history? Then, port Vauban is just the place for you! It’s where history and luxury create a perfect mix in a magnificent landscape. You can find historic sites like Chateau Grimaldi, the Fort Carée, the Picasso Museum, and others. The marina can accommodate vessels of up to 170m and provides top services and excellent assistance staff.

>>Also Read: Best Marinas in Greece

Best Marinas in South America

Marina Riviera Nayarit, Mexico: The marina Nayarit is at the North Shore of Banderas Bay. It’s sheltered by a tranquil cove with a panoramic view of the bay from the Malecon esplanade. Mooring in the marina will make you experience the traditional charm and beauty of the fishing village, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. As for the marina, it’s the only full-service marina on the Pacific Coast and has over 340 berths ranging from 30′ up to 400′ feet. Some additional services provided are fuel station, rigging & welding services, shipyard, service docks, among others.
Marina Pez Vela, Costa Rica: This marina is the newest construction in Costa Rica, located on the central Pacific coast in Quepos. Furthermore, it’s the largest full-service marina with 195 berths and can accommodate sailboats up to 200ft. The stunning Manuel Antonio National Park is nearby the marina where you can enjoy many outdoor ecotouristic activities.
Bocas del Toro, Northwestern Panama: The marina is located across Bocas Town and has enough space at its floating docks for up to 100 boats, with a maximum length of 120 feet. This well-known sailing destination offers an awesome tropical setting, ease of access, and all kinds of sailing and mooring services. Bocas del Toro is a hidden gem that consists of an archipelago with secluded anchorages, coral reefs, and paradisiacal corners. Moreover, there are mangrove forests, sustainable eco-resorts, and villages with a blend of Caribbean black, central American Spanish, and Mestizo cultures.
Marina Santa Marta, Colombia: Santa Marta is an IGY Marina and the top marina facility in the region of Colombia. Santa Marta is a top historical and cultural destination, with an impressive coastal area and a wide range of activities. Nature is also abundant here. The Tayrona National Park is surrounding the city, which is rich in wildlife flora, and fauna. The marina can accommodate sailboats up to 132ft in length, with five slips dedicated to more than 100ft yachts. It also has 24-hour security, a bunkering, a helipad, and other modern amenities.

>>Also Read: Best Marinas In The US

Best Marinas in Asia

Nansha Marina, Guangzhou, China: This luxurious marina has a strategic position in the center of the Pearl River Delta, in close proximity to Guangzhou and Macau. It’s the biggest marina in Southern China and provides high-class facilities and services. Furthermore, it’s an ideal nautical gateway into China. The marina offers 150 berths for both small and large sailboats.
Boat Lagoon Marina, Krabi, Thailand: It’s basically one of the most beautiful marinas in Thailand and offers a safe harbor for those sailing in the great Andaman Ocean. It can accommodate up to 80 boats and has fuel, water, and maintenance services. Although it’s not a high-end marina, you can benefit from exploring the surroundings of the area and chill under the warm Thai sun!
Nongsa Marina, Indonesia: This marina is the starting point for a sailing trip to the Riau Islands. You can choose from a wide range of outdoor activities and sailing trips to the local islands. If you’re a culinary lover, then don’t miss to taste local Indonesian food. There’s a small paradise there that is waiting to be discovered! The marina provides all basic services, has a maximum draft of 2.5m, and accepts sailboats up to 120m long.
Keppel Bay Marina, Singapore: Enjoy the luxurious lifestyle and stroll around the bright city streets in Singapore. There you will see high-end yachts as well as a variety of luxurious bars, restaurants, and services. The marina has 168 berths and can accommodate up to 590-feet superyachts.
Royal Phuket Marina, Thailand: As you can understand, this marina is a luxurious world-class sailing destination. This marina is by far the most well-equipped and is also awarded with 5 Gold Anchors. Furthermore, as it is located on the east coast of tropical Phuket, you can enjoy sailing trips to Phang Nga Bay and to other paradisiacal islands.