DP World, IGY Marinas to build superyacht complex in France

Dubai-based global marine terminal operator DP World said one of its units P&O Marinas, has joined hands with top marina operator and developer IGY Marinas to build a major superyacht marina project in Sète (also called the “Little Venice” of France). Once open, it will offer 12 dedicated superyacht berths for the world’s largest vessels of up to 328 ft with a maximum draft of 23 ft. Other features include electrical facilities; fuel service arrangements; in-slip grey and black water pump-out; high level security; and Wi-Fi, according to a statemment from DP World. The construction work on the project is likely to start by the end of this year, it added. Marina guests will also have access to the world’s leading and largest vessel support network – the IGY Anchor Club Strategic Partners, which offers a range of services from provisioning, crew training and full range insurance to emergency health services, maritime travel and satellite communications. The site of the marina will be in the heart of Sète, conveniently located near Montpellier, the Côte d'Azur, and the Balearic Islands. It is an official Port of Entry, fully ISPS compliant and has easy access to quality restaurants and shops. Guests will also be able to enjoy watersports and recreational activities such as paddle boarding, kayaking, mountain walking and biking. Tom Mukamal, the chief executive of IGY Marinas, said: "We have been actively pursuing numerous marina opportunities in the Mediterranean as part of our strategic plan to enhance our global network of berthing options for the superyacht market and expand our Anchor Club strategic platform." "Our customers are well-educated and well-traveled, making it crucial for our brand to continue responding to the demand for more unique facilities and flexible berthing options in the world’s most-sought after destinations. As the world’s largest superyacht market, Europe already hosts many of our customers and we are looking forward to being able to offer IGY’s unique platform on a truly global basis. We are excited to begin our first phase of this expansion in the south of France,” he added. DP World Group Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem said: "As part of DP World’s Maritime Services Division, P&O Marinas can tap into decades of experience in our sector adding value drawn from our expertise across six continents." "By partnering with IGY Marinas we will also be able to combine the skills of both companies to ensure this project features the very best services for owners and operators of superyachts, creating a lifestyle destination for yachting enthusiasts, residents and tourists," he added. The agreement will see IGY providing a global network of commercial and tourist services with P&O Marinas providing technical and crew support