Time spent aboard a superyacht is incomparable on every level. From bathing in secluded bays and receiving first-class service night and day, to the unadulterated, uncompromised element of privacy. So when it comes to finding a marina in which to drop anchor, refuel, reprovision and explore, it takes something pretty special to feel like you’re not stepping down a level when you step off your yacht. Here’s a look at five superyacht marinas around the world that go the extra nautical mile.
Port Ferdinand Yacht and Beach Club Residences
Courtesy of Port Ferdinand Yacht and Beach Club Residences
The Location: Barbados, one of 28 island nations in the Caribbean.
Slips: 120, for vessels up to 90 feet.
Details: The community includes private villas with direct access to private berths, boat upholstery and cleaning services, personal chefs.
Unique Features: A floating wave attenuation system prevents large storms from causing hull damage. The marina also serves as a safe haven for the endangered hawksbill sea turtle.
Best Suited for: Privacy seekers who still want to be out during hurricane season.
Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina
Courtesy of Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina
The Location: Port Douglas, a one-hour drive from Australia’s Cairns international airport.
Slips: 135, with 20 dedicated to superyachts up to 164 feet.
Details: Queensland’s northernmost marina and the gateway to the farthest outer reefs; has an on-site brewery as well as other cafés and restaurants.
Unique Features: The only place in the world where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites meet—the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.
Best Suited for: Sports-fishing enthusiasts looking to catch some huge marlin.
Coral Sea Marina|Resort
Brooke Miles
The Location: The Whitsunday Islands, on the coast of Queensland, Australia.
Slips: 520 total, with a few for vessels up to 260 feet.
Details: Thanks to berths with 16-foot draft, boats can dock here year-round and enjoy the beauty of the Whitsundays.
Unique Features: Local suppliers deliver fresh meats, seafood and produce to the marina directly; two helipads for guests’ use; Jet Ski and jet-boating adventures; on-site Ocean Club spa for massages and manicures; and complimentary concierge cars.
Best Suited for: Adrenaline junkies looking for adventure.
Luštica Bay
Courtesy of Lustica Bay
The Location: Montenegro, along the Adriatic Sea, about 140 miles from Port of Split, Croatia.
Slips: 176 total planned, but only 85 complete so far; for vessels up to 147 feet.
Details: This planned port is entirely new and still being built, taking inspiration from Côte d’Azur seaside villages. Currently the boutique Chedi Luštica Bay hotel and spa are on-site, but six more resorts and plentiful dining and shopping venues are in the works.
Unique Features: A driving range and eventually a nine-hole golf course; access to nearby hiking and a private beach.
Best Suited for: Yachties looking for lots of company and needing a few days on land.
Port Denarau Marina
Courtesy of Port Denarau Marina
The Location: Fiji, in the heart of the South Pacific between Momi passage and Lautoka.
Slips: 56, for vessels up to 280 feet; and 16 swing moorings.
Details: A new Bellingham Marine floating jetty can accommodate superyachts.
Unique Features: First marina in the South Pacific to be accredited Level 3 Clean Marina and Fish Friendly status; live music, a new retail center, nine bars and restaurants, medical services, trike and Jet Ski rentals.
Best Suited for: Island hoppers looking to sail to Fiji’s more than 330 tropical isles.
