MDL Marinas has been named an official participant in the Monaco Yacht Show’s Blue Wake™ programme, an initiative designed to spotlight sustainable practices within the superyacht and marina industries. The selection was reviewed by the Water Revolution Foundation and follows several years of investment in renewable energy and sustainability frameworks across the company’s network.
Founded in 1973, MDL Marinas currently operates 19 marinas and boatyards across Europe, including 18 in the United Kingdom and one in Spain, and manages more than 7,000 berths.
Between 2022 and 2025, MDL Marinas cut its operational carbon emissions by 54%. The reduction was achieved through a switch to 100% renewable electricity, an expanding solar programme and the application of BREEAM standards to refurbishment and development projects. The operator is the first in the UK to apply this internationally recognised sustainability framework to marine environments.
Solar energy has become a core part of the group’s operations. In May 2025, installations across the group’s network of marinas and boatyard sites produced 101,918 kWh of electricity, the highest monthly output to date. Over the past year, generation reached 601,128 kWh, delivering annual savings of more than £144,000 ($184,000 USD) compared with grid electricity.
Steve Russell, Head of Property Infrastructure at MDL Marinas, said: “Our Blue Wake recognition validates the substantial infrastructure investments we’ve made in sustainable technologies. The 54% carbon reduction demonstrates that environmental responsibility and operational efficiency go hand in hand.”
Tim Mayer, Sales and Marketing Director at MDL Marinas, added: “Being recognised as part of the Monaco Yacht Show’s Blue Wake programme is a proud moment for MDL. It reflects the sustained investment we’ve made to reduce our emissions as part of our #greenermarinas strategy, in our mission to become the UK’s most sustainable marina group.”
The Monaco Yacht Show is regarded as a landmark event in the global yachting calendar, attracting yacht owners, charterers and industry professionals. While the exhibition is well known for its display of large vessels, the Blue Wake™ programme aims to highlight innovation and environmental responsibility across the sector.
As a participant, MDL Marinas will be featured on the show’s communication platforms and interactive map, with its initiatives also considered for the Blue Wake Awards, which will be presented during the Grand Opening Night. The company will exhibit and discuss environmental initiatives, development plans and the wider application of BREEAM standards to marina projects.
