Captains share their top picks for the world’s most exceptional marinas
There are thousands of marinas located around the world — so what is it that makes one stand out against another? Is it the proximity to well-established cruising grounds, additional refit facilities on hand or state-of-the-art amenities for crew? Whether needing a quick pit stop between charters or a comfortable home berth for the off-season, there are various factors to consider when selecting a safe haven. We talk to captains to find out what they consider to be the cream of the crop when choosing a floating base. Here are their recommendations.
Marina Taina, Tahiti
Downtime in Pacific paradise for those who love getting on the water, even off the clock, this one is for you. A welcoming and bustling hub for the South Pacific, Taina is the perfect gateway to cruising these idyllic remote islands. Close to Papeete and with a large, well-stocked supermarket within walking distance, this superyacht facility was French Polynesia’s first, built in 1995, and now has 500 berths. Captain Angus “Biff” Biffin of sailing yacht Asahi says, “I love this marina for its natural protection and for the wave that breaks at Taapuna pass, which is only two minutes away by tender.” Playtime close by is the winning formula here, as Captain Tom McKinnell of Secret Love also adds, “The location is perfect for freediving and paddleboarding after work, with an amazing reef just off the bow.” marinataina.com
Port Vauban, Antibes
All the amenities in Antibes fresh from a multi-million-euro project, the updated IYCA hosts yachts up to 490ft and is a firm favorite for many, including Captain Jason Egan of Only Now, who says, “It is the best marina around. It has shipyards, chandleries, restaurants, bars, dayworkers and suppliers for everything you need, brokers, training schools, markets; you name it, all wrapped up in the cutest little big town!” The recent additions of a crew gym, lounge, games room, bar and clubhouse have been a hit, as Captain James Halsall of Zazou confirms: “The new crew facilities and large protected harbor are hard to beat.” leportvauban.com
Marina Jack, Sarasota, Florida
Location, location, location for Captain Kelly Gordon of Andiamo II, location is key, and Marina Jack is in a prime position. “Right across the street from downtown Sarasota, there are two Publix supermarkets and a Whole Foods within a two-mile radius of the marina, so provisioning is very convenient,” she says. Lugging bags to the passerelle can be a nightmare, but Marina Jack offers valet parking, providing a quick trip from car to boat. Once work is done, there’s a ton of entertainment options and restaurants within walking distance. For logistics, the marina has a 24-hour fueling service and substantial on-site capacity with two underground fuel tanks — never letting the docks run dry. marinajacks.com
Grand Harbour Marina, Malta
Middle of the Med nestled within one of the Mediterranean’s largest natural harbors, this Camper & Nicholsons marina exudes historic allure alongside its highly rated facilities. Captain Edin Prgua of sailing yacht Wellenreiter chooses Grand Harbour regularly because of the “people, location and amazing history of the island.” Yachts up to 330ft can call it home, and being at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, it makes a great base for cruising. The marina combines old-world charm with modern amenities and opposite is Valletta, a captivating UNESCO World Heritage City with lots to see and do. cnmarinas.com
Nantucket Boat Basin, Massachusetts
History meets hospitality location is undoubtedly a high priority for many; with 240 slips, Nantucket Boat Basin is just one block from downtown Nantucket, the heart of New England. But Captain Mike Lemay also applauds this marina for its hospitality, “I have come to know the staff over the years, and they have always been so great to work with and super accommodating for any requests I have.” Complementing the service is the area’s preserved historic beauty. Nantucket is the epitome of summer in New England; think lunch breaks on the water with lobster rolls and walks exploring the picturesque town. nantucketboatbasin.com