Maritime Tourism: Skiathos Marina Set to Get Makeover
Greece’s public assets body announced that it had given the upgrade of Skiathos’ main marina the green light to proceed with the master plan due to be presented to the public by the end of June.
More specifically, the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund SA (HRADF or TAIPED in Greek) has undertaken together the Skiathos Port Authority to implement the project and once completed announce a tender for the marina’s management.
At the same time, the Skiathos Port Authority signed a contract with MARNET SA, an engineering company specializing in marina design, for the formulation of a spatial and strategic plan to be submitted in the coming period. Funding for the project has been secured through the Interior Ministry’s Filodimos ΙΙ program.
Budgeted at 15 million euros, the new plan foresees the creation of a 405-berth marina (up from the current 80 berths) that will cater to the needs of recreational boats of up to 50 meters in length. Additionally, it will be equipped with the necessary infrastructure and facilities, office space, parking area, restaurants and cafes as well as with recreational areas for residents and visitors.
The Skiathos marina project “is on track for implementation, a project that will drastically change the tourism and development dynamic of Skiathos, with respect for the environment, immediately implementable; a project that will give impetus to Skiathos by establishing the island as a leading destination in the Aegean,” said Skiathos Mayor Thodoris Tzoumas.
“During the selection of the location and the design of the proposed project, both environmental and aesthetic parameters were seriously taken into consideration, aiming to create a high-level facility to serve marine tourism and to minimize the environmental impact while ensuring the harmonious integration of the project on the beach front of the city,” said the municipality in its statement.
Besides upgrading the infrastructure and level of services offered at the marina, it will also enhance the waterfront and establish Skiathos as a leading marine tourism destination, said the local authority.