What amenities should a fully equipped marina offer?

As yacht ownership and chartering continue to expand in Greece and the broader Mediterranean, the role of marina infrastructure becomes increasingly critical. A fully equipped marina is not merely a berthing location; it serves as a logistical, technical, and hospitality hub that supports both yachts and crew. For yacht owners, operators, and investors alike, understanding the scope of services a marina should offer is fundamental to ensuring operational efficiency, minimizing downtime, and maximizing the asset’s performance.

Berthing Infrastructure and Mooring Capabilities

At its core, a marina must provide secure and well-maintained berthing facilities. The quality and variety of mooring options directly impact the types of yachts the marina can host, from compact sailing yachts to large catamarans and luxury motor yachts.

Key parameters include:

- Floating or fixed pontoons with sufficient width for safe access

- Adequate depth for keel or engine draft (minimum 2.5–5.5m for most yachts)

- Wide beam berths for multihull yachts

- Mooring assistance services, especially during high winds or tight docking areas

- Nighttime illumination and 24/7 surveillance

Electricity and Water Supply

A standard requirement across all professional marinas is continuous and reliable access to:

- Electricity supply (usually 16A, 32A, or 63A, depending on yacht size and energy demands)

- Fresh potable water, preferably metered per usage

- Grey and black water disposal systems compliant with EU environmental directives

- Emergency power backup in the event of grid failure

For motor yachts and luxury yachts with high energy consumption (due to air conditioning, refrigeration, etc.), high-amperage electrical connections are non-negotiable.

Fuel Docking and Bunkering Services

A fully equipped marina should offer an on-site fueling station with access to marine-grade diesel and gasoline. Efficient fueling systems ensure minimal waiting times, accurate metering, and safe handling practices. Larger marinas often include:

- High-speed fueling for superyachts

-Pre-booked bunkering slots

- Fuel quality certification for compliance with charter or commercial operations

The ability to refuel directly within the marina avoids unnecessary repositioning and aligns with tight charter schedules.

Technical and Maintenance Services

One of the most critical aspects of marina functionality is the availability of in-house or adjacent technical service providers. Yacht maintenance and repair should be possible without leaving the facility. Essential services include:

- Travel lift or crane operations (typically 40T to 200T capacity depending on marina size)

- Dry docking and hard-stand areas for hull inspection and seasonal maintenance

- Engine diagnostics and repair, particularly for Volvo Penta, Yanmar, or inboard/outboard systems

- Sail and rigging repairs, typically for sailing yachts

- Electrical and electronics services, including battery replacement, solar panel installation, and navigation systems

- Antifouling and hull cleaning, performed according to EU environmental regulations

Crew and Guest Facilities

A marina serves not just the yacht but also the individuals aboard. Comfort, hygiene, and convenience are key considerations. High-standard marinas should include:

- Modern shower and restroom blocks, regularly cleaned and accessible 24/7

- Laundry services, either coin-operated or outsourced

- Secure Wi-Fi coverage across the berthing area

- Hospitality services, including cafés, restaurants, and yacht clubs

- Crew lounges or briefing rooms for professional charter operations

- Medical facilities or nearby access to emergency healthcare

Logistical Support and Yacht Management Services

To support the broader operational life cycle of a yacht, marinas must function as logistical centers. This includes:

- Customs and port authority liaison for incoming and outgoing international traffic

- Document handling and charter compliance (especially important for commercial yachts)

- Provisioning services, including food, beverages, marine supplies, and spare parts

- Crew recruitment and management, often in collaboration with yacht agencies or yacht managers

- Concierge services, from arranging land transfers to restaurant bookings and activity planning

Security and Regulatory Compliance

Marinas must also ensure compliance with international and local maritime safety regulations. Best practices include:

- 24/7 security patrols and controlled access points

- CCTV surveillance across docks and entrances

- Firefighting systems and extinguishers at regular intervals

- Emergency response procedures for oil spills, electrical fires, or medical situations

- Waste management systems compliant with MARPOL Annex V and national standards

Such safeguards not only protect the asset but also enhance the commercial reputation of the marina and its hosted yachts.

In a country like Greece, where the maritime sector is both a cultural tradition and a central pillar of tourism, a fully equipped marina is essential for the sustainable, efficient, and profitable operation of a yacht. Whether you own a sailing yacht, catamaran, or motor yacht, the quality of the marina infrastructure will significantly influence your asset’s performance and longevity.

For yacht owners working with Cosmos Yachting, we prioritize strategic partnerships with marinas that meet the highest technical, logistical, and service standards. Cosmos Yachting bases are carefully curated to match all the criteria that constitute a fully equipped marina, and are spread across Greece, ensuring seamless interconnection with the mainland and easy access from a wide range of geographical locations.

Cosmos Yachting’s current bases:

·     Alimos Marina

·     Lavrion Marina

·     Gouvia, Corfu

·     Kefalonia

·     Preveza

·     Rhodes

Read our article about the Best Marinas in Greece.