Marina de Portimão has been awarded “Portugal’s Bluest Marina” for 2025 after receiving the highest national assessment under the Blue Flag programme. Formally known as “Most Blue 2025”, the award was announced by the Blue Flag Association of Europe and the Portuguese Environment Agency.
Marina de Portimão is located in the estuary of the River Arade, within a sheltered harbour monitored by the forts of Santa Catarina and São João do Arade. Its proximity to Praia da Rocha positions the marina along a route commonly used by vessels travelling to the Mediterranean.
The site covers approximately 25 hectares and provides 620 moorings for vessels up to 50 metres in length. It also includes parking areas, commercial facilities, a hotel and a beach. The moorings are supplied with electricity and water, with daily collection of waste and oil. Operators based at the marina offer coastal excursions and water-based activities.
On the left bank of the River Arade, Marina de Portimão runs a boatyard equipped with a 50-tonne gantry and another lift capable of handling vessels up to 300 tonnes, including catamarans up to nine metres wide. The facility also provides technical support and repair services for recreational and professional vessels.
The distinction recognises marinas that comply with Blue Flag requirements and implement environmental education initiatives. Marina de Portimão received the award for the first time, ranking first among 18 Blue Flag marinas and recreational ports across Portugal, as reported by The Portugal News.
Over the past year, the marina has developed environmental awareness activities involving local organisations, community groups, students and visitors. These initiatives focused on sustainable practices and the protection of marine habitats.
The evaluation process considered multiple areas, including water quality, safety, accessibility, environmental information and operational standards. The award follows Marina de Portimão’s record of maintaining Blue Flag status for 25 consecutive years.
In a post, the marina stated: “This award, combined with the international certificate of Blue Flag status, reflects our dedication and contribution to a better environment for all who visit and support our marina.”
