After more than 50 years under the same operator, the future management of Almerimar Marina in Almería will be decided through a new competitive tender. The Andalusian Regional Government has confirmed it will not grant an extension to the current concession held by the company Almerimar.
The original concession was awarded in 1974 and has now officially expired. Although the operator requested a 25-year extension, the Public Agency of Ports of Andalusia has opted instead to reopen the process, allowing any qualified company to bid for the management of the marina. The move is intended to guarantee transparency, competition and equal access for all potential operators.
Almerimar Marina is among the largest leisure ports in Europe, with more than 1,100 berths accommodating vessels from small recreational boats to large luxury yachts. It is a central hub for tourism in the Almería region, surrounded by bars, restaurants and leisure facilities designed for families and visitors. The marina is also home to around 80 families who live aboard their boats, with the population increasing during the winter months.
As part of its request for a concession extension, the current operator submitted an investment plan valued at more than €9 million. The proposal focused on modernising the marina’s infrastructure and services.
Key elements included replacing the existing sailing school with a new nautical and social centre featuring a gym, changing rooms, physiotherapy facilities, a nautical retail space and restaurant areas with terraces overlooking the port.
The proposed plan also outlined significant environmental and technical upgrades. These included improved drainage systems, repairs to the breakwater, installation of electric vehicle charging points, and upgrades to quay walls and internal safety systems. The measures were designed to enhance sustainability, protect biodiversity and improve the overall experience for users of the marina.
The upcoming bidding round is expected to attract interest from both national and international operators, marking the beginning of a new phase for one of southern Spain’s most prominent nautical facilities.
