Proposals invited for 240-berth marina at Sa Maison

A request for proposals will be issued for the concession for the development, operation and management of an all-weather marina, with a minimum of 240 berths and complementary shore-side facilities at Sa Maison. The concession shall be for a fixed term of 25 years.

Malta has experienced a considerable increase in yacht ownership and activity, creating considerable demand for more facilities with demand for berthing facilities exceeding the existing capacity.

Trasnrpot minister Joe Mizzi said the new marina will raise Malta’s profile in the yachting industry across the Mediterranean and consolidate its strategic position as an international centre of maritime excellence.

Transport Malt chairman James Piscopo said: “We aim to provide the right conditions and environment for the yachting industry to grow and prosper through the maximization of our coastal and physical resources.

“Through the publication of this RFP, Transport Malta took a tangible step towards addressing the shortfall which has been restricting the further growth of the industry. We are confident that the development of this marina will foster a variety of ancillary services and related business activities with the implied value added in the economy. We invite the business community to invest in this opportunity.”

Transport Malta intends to conclude negotiations with the selected preferred bidder within the shortest possible time-frame after the 23 September deadline.

The new operator is expected to invest in the right quality infrastructure and to operate to the highest international standards. The investment will include the upgrading of the adjacent area, which will remain accessible at all times, pontoons and mooring systems to accommodate the maximum number of yachts, the  development of weather protection measures, adequate land facilities for berth holders, electrical shore power and water supply, landscaping and other ancillary facilities and services.

The Armed Forces’ gate to its Haywharf base will now be relocated inward to make an additional area available for this development. Gozo Channel operations will also be relocated to an alternative site.