Portosole: Sanremo’s marina enters a new era focused on sustainability

Eighteen months after the start of its new management phase, Sanremo’s tourist habrour Portosole presents itself as a vast site of renewal. A historic marina which, fifty years after its creation, is preparing to embark on a new cycle. “This is a splendid facility, but time shows,” Portosole Ceo Giorgio Casareto tells Daily Nautica, recalling how the Sanremo marina was one of the first modern marina in Italy. And it is precisely from this legacy that the desire to redesign its future arises, bolstered by the recent renewal of the concession, which marks the start of a forty-year development path.

A more modern and sustainable marina

The modernisation project affects every aspect of port life: from inner circulation, which will soon become pedestrian-friendly, to the idea of creating a promenade among boats, restaurants and shops, free from interference with vehicular traffic. A more liveable and contemporary port, where the comfort of yacht owners and the overall quality of the experience matter just as much as operational functionality.

The breakwater will be completely rethought, both aesthetically and technically, with new systems and enhanced electrical power capable of supporting megayachts of up to 90 metres without relying on onboard generators. It is a key step towards sustainability: less noise, fewer emissions and greater efficiency.

In addition, a centralised system for collecting wastewater from vessels has being designed, which will eliminate the need for suction lorries, reducing traffic and pollution. Architects and engineers are also assessing the installation of solar panels in currently unused areas or on the new parking canopies. A series of gradual interventions capable of changing both the perception of the port and its impact on the city.

The transformation of the Old Harbour and the bond with Sanremo

The city takes centre stage even more decisively thanks to the major Old Harbour redevelopment project, awarded to Portosole through a public tender. An ambitious intervention, now under evaluation in the Conferenza dei Servizi, which will revolutionise this historic area of Sanremo: underground traffic routes, a large pedestrian piazza overlooking the sea, redesigned spaces for the local sailing clubs, and a waterfront free of cars and service vehicles. “The enthusiasm of the municipal administration – emphasises Casareto – is extremely high. It represents a huge step forward in quality of life for both residents and visitors”. Added to this are about €5 million in works that Portosole will undertake on city traffic connections, improving the link between the marina and the city of Sanremo, facilitating access for those who come into town every weekend.

Shipyard Portosole: a technical hub for large yachts

But the port is not only a place of leisure; it is also a centre of work, expertise and industry. This is where Shipyard Portosole comes into play, managed by Emiliano Martino. Acquired and renamed in 2023, the shipyard — currently experiencing rapid and steady growth — can host and haul out yachts up to 60 metres thanks to its 600-tonne syncrolift and a draft greater than 5 metres, a rare feature in the Mediterranean and particularly appreciated by owners of large sailing yachts and classic yachts.

It is no coincidence that iconic yachts such as Kingdom, formerly Nabila, and Elena of London, a 55-metre gaff schooner with a long keel draught exceeding 5 metres, have chosen the Sanremo shipyard for major maintenance and refit work, as well as home-port. “We welcome both sailing and motor yachts – Martino explains – with no restrictions. Our goal is to offer a comprehensive service in a strategic position between the Côte d’Azur and Genoa, where competition is high but equally stimulating”.

In the coming shipyears, the yard expects significant investment: expanded technical areas, a new layout of operational spaces, and the ability to handle up to four 50-metre yachts ashore at the same time. A development that will allow the Shipyard to compete on equal terms with the major facilities of the Northern Tyrrhenian.

Social engagement and a vision for the future

Portosole, however, does not want to be an island unto itself. Its bond with the city is strong — economically, culturally and in terms of sporting engagement. From supporting the Sanremo Music Festival to triathlon events, from collaborations with the Yacht Club Sanremo to partnerships with local businesses, the harbour acts as an integrated player in the city’s daily life. Almost all employees are local, a sign of strong roots that the management intends to maintain.

Looking ahead to the next five years, the objective is clear: to complete the major redevelopment of the harbour, carry through the transformation of the Old Harbour, consolidate the Shipyard, and create a marina that is at once efficient, sustainable and increasingly attractive to large-yacht owners. “We’ll tackle the second five year period – Casareto says with a smile – once we’ve finished the first”. Behind the remark lies an awareness of the complexity of the work ahead, but equally a sense of enthusiasm that has never been lacking at Portosole.