“The new Corfu marina will change the map of maritime tourism in the Ionian Sea,” said the Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, after the ratification of the Sub-Concession Agreement for the construction, operation, management, maintenance and exploitation of the Mega Yacht Marina by the Greek Parliament. As the Minister said characteristically: “We are not only talking about a modern infrastructure of high standards, but about a project that creates new jobs, strengthens the local economy and upgrades the tourism product. The Greek state secures significant income from the price of the sub-concession and at the same time, an operating model that respects the environment and the physiognomy of the island is ensured. Corfu has the maritime tradition and the potential to become a hub for attracting mega yachts from all over the world. With the cooperation of investors, local authorities and the state, we are advancing a project that will yield benefits for decades, with modern infrastructure, clear rules and development with respect for local communities.”
The project will be implemented by Lamda Marinas, following a tender process that was completed a year ago. The investment exceeds 50 million euros, while the price to be paid to the Greek State over a 40-year period amounts to approximately 80 million euros.
The marina will be able to accommodate approximately 400 pleasure boats, including mega yachts, up to 140 meters long, with modern standards of energy efficiency and environmental management. The land zone of 39,400 sq m. will include commercial shops, dining areas, a small hotel unit, parking, recreation and green areas.
Its operation is expected to create hundreds of new jobs in sectors such as shipping, boat maintenance, trade, catering, cleaning and tourism.
The Deputy Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, Stefanos Gikas, stated:
“The strengthening of maritime tourism, one of the most dynamically developing forms of tourism, is a central political choice of the Government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis, with the aim of making Greece a top yachting destination. The mega yacht marina will be developed according to the most modern sustainability standards, with an emphasis on energy efficiency and environmental protection, constituting a model of a green port. The location of the marina has been included in the port’s master plan since 2009 and today we are entering the final phase of implementation. This is a significant investment that strengthens public revenues and yields multiple benefits to the local and national economy.”
