10 Highest Priced Megayacht Marinas in Europe

　　The European continent has some of the most desirable megayacht marinas in the world. It also has some of the most expensive. This, according to research by Engel & V?lkers Yachting, using a theoretical 180-footer (55-meter) as the measuring stick. The company has compiled a list of the 10 highest priced megayacht marinas in Europe, the results of which may surprise you.

　　First, some explanations. The above-mentioned LOA is not a random size. “We are currently seeing increased interest on the market for yachts over 50 meters,” says Anissa Mediouni, Engel & V?lkers Yachting CEO. “The number of available moorings for vessels of this size is limited, however.” High demand and low supply are big reasons why these are among the highest priced megayacht marinas in Europe. Witness the marina ranked fourth. It has just 16 megayacht berths. In fact, in general, these factors, along with location, “all influence the extent of the mooring fee,” Mediouni adds.

　　Second, the firm researched the daily rates during the summer high season this year. Engel & V?lkers Yachting selected dates outside of major sporting events, festivals, or exhibitions being in town. As you might expect, in situations like that, prices typically rise. Consider the Monaco Grand Prix, which runs right past Port Hercule (pictured), for example. Dozens of megayachts line up every year, with dozens more hoping for a cancellation so they can secure a slip. Naturally, that type of demand drives a high cost.

　　Without further ado, here’s the list:

　　You may be surprised to see Monaco’s famed Port Hercule not ranked as number one. Even though it’s perennially popular, Ibiza Magna in Spain is nearly three times more expensive. In dollars at press time, Ibiza Magna’s daily rate is $3,564, versus $1,265 for Port Hercule.

　　Something else worth noting: owner vs. charter preferences. According to Engel & V?lkers Yachting, charter guests gravitate toward the marinas in Ibiza, Marbella, Marmaris, Monte Carlo, and Saint Tropez. Megayacht owners, meanwhile, favor Capri, Porto Cervo, and Portofino.

　　The bottom line for Mediouni? “Anyone looking to book a yacht berth in one of Europe’s finest marinas in high season should do this three to five months in advance due to the high demand.”