Traditionally, superyachts bypass Portugal, favoring a direct journey from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean or North America, with Gibraltar as a common fuel stop. Can the upcoming Vilamoura marina change this pattern?
The Algarve coast of southern Portugal is renowned for its sunny beaches, hidden bays, and fantastic surfing spots, making it a prime destination for holiday-goers. Soon, superyacht owners will have a new haven as the state-of-the-art Vilamoura marina, currently under construction, is set to open later this year.
Since its inception in 1974, Vilamoura Marina has pursued a clear goal: to be the largest Marina in Portugal and among the world's best.
Vilamoura Marina certainly stands as the pioneer in Portugal and maintains its status as the largest marina in the country, consistently voted the best by the Publituris Portugal Trade Awards.
Vilamoura Marina is recognized as the 11th marina globally with 5 Gold Anchor Platinum by The Yacht Harbour Association."
A testament to its success lies in its ability to evolve with the changing needs of clients, adapting to meet the growing demands of users. Vilamoura Marina's dedication to providing top-notch service and hospitality is evident, with a firm commitment to delivering the highest standards. Clear and useful information is a vital component of this commitment, ensuring an exceptional experience for all visitors.
With 68 berths spread across three pontoons, the new marina is tailored for yachts ranging from 20m (66ft) to an impressive 40m (131ft). The focus is exclusively on providing a haven for superyachts, aiming to bring the glorious Algarve coastline to their attention.
In a nod to sustainability, the construction teams are taking a forward-thinking approach by installing charging points specifically designed for electric boats. Furthermore, Vilamoura World Group is exploring the possibility of integrating photovoltaic power, utilizing solar panels to enhance the efficiency of water and electric supplies. This proactive stance aligns with the commitment to modern and eco-friendly solutions for the evolving demands of the superyacht industry.
The Gold Anchor scheme was developed by the global marina industry with the specific objective of raising standards and providing customer-centric services. Participation provides a global performance benchmarking that contributes to continual business improvement. For yacht owners, Gold Anchor helps in their evaluation and selection of marinas aligned with their needs.
