The Sardinian Port System Authority and the Port of Tangier Ville signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the Race Village of the preliminary regatta for the 38th America’s Cup in Italy. The agreement establishes cooperation in the luxury yachting sector and plans for a structured maritime connection between Sardinia and Morocco across the Mediterranean.
Signed by Domenico Bagalà, president of the Sardinian Port System Authority, and Mohamed Ouanaya, president of the Port of Tangier Ville, the agreement focuses on the development of an international nautical circuit connecting the two regions.
Sardinia records more than 3,100 vessels above 24 metres during the 2025 summer season, including 347 superyachts valued at more than €21 billion ($24 billion USD). The region also reports a growing shipbuilding sector with winter refitting potential.
In Morocco, Tanja Marina Bay has more than 1,400 berths and additional capacity during winter periods supported by tourism activity and regional travel demand. The marina operates within Tangier’s wider port redevelopment area, which supports cruise, ferry and yachting services.
The agreement covers coordination on yacht and superyacht circulation as well as support for services for large vessels, including reception, assistance and improvements to port facilities. It also includes the development of nautical routes linking port areas with cultural, coastal and food-related attractions in both regions.
Environmental topics are also included, with attention on digital port systems, renewable energy use, smart marina models and shared practices on biofuels.
The agreement also covers joint promotion through participation in industry events and shared branding work. Both authorities will implement the agreement through operational planning, technical meetings, exchange visits and training programmes.
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Bagalà said the agreement supports cooperation with a Mediterranean partner and aims to strengthen the position of Sardinian ports across yachting, cruising and shipbuilding, as well as related tourism and refitting activities. He added that it represents an opportunity for economic, social and employment growth, allowing Sardinia to expand the international reach of its yachting sector, while Tangier can work with qualified partners to develop a structured industry.
Ouanaya said the Port of Tangier Ville marina, located at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, serves as a reference point for superyacht traffic and highlighted Morocco’s position as a gateway to Africa supported by maritime and tourism infrastructure.
