Andalusian marinas, including Caleta de Vélez, Puerto Deportivo Marina del Este in Nerja, and Puerto de Motril, are are about to enjoy a bumper, record-breaking summer, with bookings expected to hit between 95 and100 per cent, according to a Marinas de Andalucía survey.
2025, it seems, is the year of sailing and is more popular than any time in its history. The boom in nautical tourism promises significant economic benefits for local businesses, from restaurants to retail. Most marinas anticipate between 8 and 9 daily boat arrivals, with some seeing up to 40, and average stays of 2 to 4 days. Visitors, primarily Spanish, British, and French, are those reserving moorings, but emerging markets like that of Italy and even the US show Andalusia’s global appeal.
The growing charter boat sector, with 5 to15 rental companies per marina, is attracting younger crowds and increasing local commerce. “Our ports are vibrant hubs for dining, shopping, and leisure, driving tourism in coastal towns,” said Marinas de Andalucía President Manuel Raigón. Increased staffing levels will be needed to ensure quality services, establishing these marinas as long-term economic engines.
