IGY Collaborating on Marina at 2014 Olympic Site
You're looking at an artist's interpretation of what the Russian port of Sochi will look like in time for the 2014 Winter Olympics. Now, while yachting events obviously take place during the summer Games, Sochi is positioning itself as more than just...
You're looking at an artist's interpretation of what the Russian port of Sochi will look like in time for the 2014 Winter Olympics. Now, while yachting events obviously take place during the summer Games, Sochi is positioning itself as more than just an Olympic tourist site. It intends to be a seasonal destination for yacht and megayacht owners, as well as cruise-ship passengers.
If all goes according to plan, Mourjan Marinas IGY, the Dubai-based affiliate of Island Global Yachting (IGY) that's focused on marina development and management services throughout the Middle East, will play an integral role. Mourjan Marinas IGY has partnered with Sochi Grand Marina, a division of the state-owned Russian shipping company Sovcomflot, for the project. It will develop the 300-slip-plus marina and clubhouse, the land-based shops, and the mix of residential and hotel units. It will also oversee the construction of a new cruise-ship terminal and the reconstruction of a historical marine building.
Michael Horrigan, CEO of Mourjan Marinas IGY, sees great potential in the Russian market for this type of yachting activity. The goal is to break ground next February and have most of the items outlined completed by 2013, well in time for the Olympic Games. Some features, such as the residential complex and a boardwalk, are anticipated to be done by the second phase in 2016.
As for the marina, it has been designed to hold regional and international yachting events as well as a variety of power and sailing yachts, from 10 to 50 meters (33 to 164 feet). Ten slips will be available for superyachts in the 30- to 50-meter range during Phase 1, followed by six more in Phase 2.
There is one potential obstacle, however, according to The Moscow Times: The Russian government has yet to commit to establishing a protective breakwater for the marina. Sochi, on the Black Sea, is subject to rough seas and stormy weather. When asked for comment, Katrin Mueller, marketing manager for Mourjan Marinas IGY, stated, "The issues related to Russian governmental matters are fully under the control of our client Sovcomflot, who have assured us that these aspects of Sochi Grand Marina are resolved." Regardless, she adds, "the commercial marina that Mourjan Marinas IGY is responsible for has its own wave-protection system that is independent of the breakwater being built by the Russian government."
