Marina consultancy for Sozopol Marina, Bulgaria
1 September 2008Marina Sozopol lies on the Southern Black sea coast conveniently situated within a few hours run from Istanbul to the South and Varna to the North. The boating market in Bulgaria is in its infancy. Unrestricted access to these cruising grounds has only recently opened up and leisure boat ownership is increasing very rapidly. The expansion in the market is predominantly for power craft although significant numbers of sailing craft are now being sold. There are currently very few marina locations on this coastline and so demand for marina berths far outstrips supply.
In early 2007, Marina Projects Ltd provided detailed design consultancy and a pontoon layout together with operating budgets, guidelines capital budgets and tariff improvements. A number of the key staff members received induction training in the UK.
The first phase of pontoons were successfully installed and let to long term berth holders. The second phase of pontoons were immediately ordered and installed in early 2008 ready for the start of the season. These were let as soon as they were completed and the third phase of pontoons ordered. This will bring the total berth available to more than 300.
As part of the ongoing consultancy services, Marina Projects provided an experienced Marina Manager to provide expert help and advice on the ground in Bulgaria. Key tasks were: To set up the operating systems for the new marina. To recruit a number of key staff members. To refine and improve the marina berthing and services tariffs. To deliver a boat yard and lifting strategy. Design liaison with the project Managers and Architects in key areas. Marina facilities, Fuel berth, lifting equipment, jet-ski and PWC berthing strategy and consultancy for other key projects. Attendance at the first true Bulgarian Boat Show in Varna took place in June 2008 and a presentation to the boating industry was undertaken to present Bulgaria newest Marina!
The announcement of the marina together with its associated development work led to a successful property launch, significant numbers of new tenants and an increase in demand for marina berths. With record numbers of new boats being registered and boat sales continuing to increase, the demand for marina berths at Marina Sozopol is very high.
Construction is programmed to commence on the Marina facilities buildings in October 2008.