Royal Phuket Marina in Thailand has announced it will invest £95 million over the next five years to become an “iconic waterfront destination”.
The development will increase the marina’s capacity from 100 to 250 berths and will see two new hotels and an extensive children’s zone built.
“The 5bn baht (£95 million) planned investment over the next five years is part of my vision to make Royal Phuket Marina an iconic waterfront lifestyle destination,” said Gulu Lalvani, chairman of Royal Phuket Marina.
“Phuket’s visitor demographics have changed considerably over the last 10 years. More tourists are looking to the east coast and to new destinations. Approximately 1,000 tourists and residents use the marina’s facilities every day. Our marine leisure facilities and central location makes Royal Phuket Marina the gateway to more than 30 islands.”
At the moment the marina has the capacity to accommodate vessels up to 35 meters as well a hardstand that can accommodate larger vessels. As well as the increase in berths the marina will also build the first dry stack system in Thailand. There will also be a full-time concierge service introduced for yachts docked at the marina.
The news of the investment comes at the same time as Thailand is finalising plans for new superyacht charter licenses, which will allow foreign-flagged yachts to charter in the area. Thailand's Prime Minister wants to make Phuket a superyacht hub to boost the economy.