The International Marine Certification Institute (IMCI) is introducing a revised version of its Blue Star Marina certification programme starting May 2025. The updated system includes a new catalogue of criteria aimed at aligning with the current demands of marina operators, customers and other stakeholders.
IMCI was founded in Brussels and serves as an independent certification body for the global water sports industry. Its network includes over 40 inspectors operating across 24 countries and in 17 languages, offering localised expertise for marina certification and related services.
The Blue Star Marina certification has long provided a transparent quality framework for marinas through a star rating system, similar to hotel classifications. The revised structure retains the familiar format while offering additional flexibility.
Marinas can choose to combine the Blue Star award with the ISO 13687 series classification, which provides a coordinated international benchmark for marina infrastructure and services. The dual approach supports both customer decision-making and operational improvements.
The new certification criteria are already being applied in the field, with initial assessments underway and further enquiries received from marinas in multiple countries.
In addition to the updated standards, IMCI has entered into a new partnership with ADAC, the German automobile club, which also caters to boating enthusiasts. Through the collaboration, certified marinas will receive preferential visibility in the upcoming ADAC marina catalogue.
To learn more about the Blue Star Marina certification programme, contact Falk Morgenstern at falk.morgenstern@imci.org.
