SUPERYACHT FACILITIES
SUPERYACHT FACILITIES Arno Lippert Photography Newly launched Sovren Ibiza welcomes megayachts The Sovren House Group has opened a world-class megayacht marina on the island of Ibiza in the Western Mediterranean, ahead of the 2017 season. The marina, called Sovren Ibiza, offers 16 berths for superyachts between 60 and 185m (197 and 607ft) at fixed docks. In January, the Ports of Balearics APB awarded YSM – the specialist marina division of Sovren House Group – the concession to build the new marina, which it intends to be a yearround facility. The marina uses existing port space in an area that was previously occupied by the Port Ibiza Town marina. In the past, this part of the port, situated by the historic Dalt Vila (old town), was used as the main car ferry dock to the mainland, which led to congestion and pollution within the UNESCO world heritage site. A collaboration between the town hall, the Ports of the Balearics, the Ibiza port authorities, the Ibiza Chamber of Commerce and select yacht captains and experts led to the ferry dock being moved to the newly constructed terminal near to the new outer port wall, paving the way for Sovren’s new development. Facilities at the marina include CCTV surveillance, 24-hour active patrol, mooring assistance, shore power (depending on berth position), fresh water supply, a black water pump-out service, refuse collection, a complimentary private transportation service and a private helicopter/jet service. Despite Ibiza’s global appeal, yachts larger than 40m (131ft) have not been well catered for on the island. Smaller 20-40m (66-131ft) yachts have found space at marinas such as Botafoch, Ibiza Magna and Marina Ibiza. Sovren’s new development specifically caters for yachts up to 185m (607ft) in length. “We’re delighted to have been awarded this concession. I am really excited about the positive impact YSM & Sovren can and will make, not only to the economy of Ibiza Town, but also to the appeal of the island to megayacht owners and charterers worldwide. We will be groundbreaking both in Ibiza and across the Balearics in providing the kind of marina that is worthy of the expanding fleet of megayachts. Currently, we are focused on working with local port authorities as well as the town hall and the mayor to highlight the areas in which the marina can give a positive effect and benefit the local community,” said Stephen White, founder and CEO of Sovren House Group. He added: “I also look forward to collaborating over the coming years – as this is just the start. Right now, supply doesn’t meet demand for berths Sovren Ibiza (above & right) is a stunning addition to the Ibiza waterfront. over 60m [197ft] and we are about to change that dynamic.” Next year, Sovren plans to open a 600m² (6,458ft²) flagship building at the Es Martell end of the marina. Currently, the building has a viewing terrace with spectacular panoramas over the harbour, which is now open to the public. The new building will provide recreation areas divided into four sections, comprising a tree-covered square, a stage area, a stairway with access to the square and the square itself. The marina is located 15 minutes from the airport and all four main Balearic Islands are within easy reach. Direct flights are available to most major European cities and the short flight to Barcelona opens up global connections. www.marinaworld.com - November/December 2017 39
