The French Marina Association (the FFPP), which has completed an in-depth study into marina services in France, has revealed the results that there are currently around 41 775 applications for places in marinas on the waiting list. The study would appear to conclude once again that yachting infrastructure such as refit maintenance yards , marinas and ports cannot keep up with the increase in new yachts and the expansion and growth of the yacht industry.
Some 43.2% of these waiting are from Britain. The waiting time can vary from two years to up to nine years in the Channel on the Mediterranean coast, which is the busiest area for larger superyachts.
Port Vauban Antibes France - One of the largest superyacht Marinas in the world
“We can confirm that 41 775 applications for location are not satisfied members in our 301 ports,” – Serge Pallares the President of the French Federation of marinas (FFPP).
Meaning in French ports there is a “need is for 50 700 seats,” said Gilbert Le Corre Brest, vice president of the Federation.
“The ideal would be to provide 30 000 additional places in the five years,” said Serge Pallarès. Known projects are far off. “We estimate the increase to 9000 places in four years. “Without the concreted coast marinas. “We need to diversify supply,” continued the president.
The Port of St Tropez - a notouriously busy luxury yacht Mediterranean French marina during summer
The problem of expansion and dredging Marinas and Ports:
“Our growth potential is significant. In times of economic crisis, we cannot ignore a sector like ours, argued Serge Pallarès. Our ports have weathered the crisis. If governments take into account our needs, we are capable of creating 9,000 jobs within five years. ”
“Today, we generate one billion euros in sales and nearly 23 000 direct and indirect jobs. Among the thorny issues and urgent, that of dredging. “We cannot dismiss anything at sea, say the leaders of the Federation. Some of our ports will no longer able to accommodate large units. The hardstanding is mentioned, “but it is very expensive.” The FFPP will propose a charter of dredging to the elected officials.
