Despite boasting 450km of breathtaking, mountainous coastline, Albania has long lacked a marina able to accommodate the yachts heading to and from other nearby destinations. In this interview, Project Director of Vlora Marina, Vanova Strakosha, speaks about how Vlora will change the face of Albanian maritime tourism with the country’s first full-service, international standard superyacht marina.
Firstly, thank you very much for your time and for the interview with Marina World. On your website the Vlora Marina project is described as the “latest flagship investment” of the company. Why did the company decide to invest in the project and what is your end vision for Vlora Marina?
When this idea emerged three or four years ago, Albania was lacking a fully equipped, functional, international marina. So, recognising this gap, we saw the opportunity to pioneer a new industry when it comes to the country’s tourist infrastructure and services. The location of Vlora Marina is very important because it is in the centre of one of Albania’s fastest developing cities. This gives the project both strategic and symbolic value. The vision is for Vlora Marina to become a Mediterranean reference point blending modern design, high-end hospitality and Albanian identity. It will elevate how the city and country is perceived in the region and internationally.
What do you consider to be the main opportunities and USPs of not only Vlora Marina, but Albania as a destination? Are other similar investments on the horizon?
Albania is transforming from a hidden gem to a rising Mediterranean destination. I like to call it a “sleeping beauty” that is waking up in Europe. Its untouched coastline, authentic culture and warm hospitality are key assets. Vlora is the place where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet, making it a logical and advantageous base for yachting groups exploring Italy, Greece and the whole Balkans. With over 400 berths accommodating superyachts up to 50 metres long, Vlora Marina will not only be a port but a gateway linking Albania to the wider Mediterranean region.
The project also demonstrates a new model for coastal development that integrates marinas, hospitality and lifestyle spaces to create a vibrant, year-round destination. This part of Albania enjoys an average of 300 days of sunshine a year. We hope it will set a benchmark and will inspire similar high-quality investments along the whole Albanian riviera.
The architecture of Vlora Marina residences will “blend tradition and heritage with contemporary design, while retaining its Mediterranean values”. Can you further outline how this will look once the development is complete? What inspiration are you drawing on and which architects are you working with?
The design of Vlora Marina residences emphasises Mediterranean lifestyle, combining modern comfort with traditional coastal values. Buildings are oriented to maximise views towards the sea and the beautiful green mountains across the bay. This ensures that every residence connects with the natural surroundings. Vlora Marina will be a place where you can really experience the close connection between the city, the water and the countryside.
Outdoor public spaces will play a central role reflecting the local tradition of living between indoor and outdoor areas. For example, Albania has the highest density of cafés in the world, this is an important part of our culture. In Albania, we relax with family, socialise with friends, conduct business with colleagues and clients, all in cafés.
We are inspired by our local Albanian culture. At Vlora Marina, the thoughtful use of shaded elements - including terraces and pergolas - enhances comfort while respecting the region’s climate and architectural heritage. The result is a blend of contemporary design, natural materials and Mediterranean sensibilities, creating residences that are elegant and connected to their environment.
We are working with international architects that have a track record of delivering outstanding projects in Albania and elsewhere. The waterfront park, promenade and residences are being designed by XDGA from Belgium, Xaveer de Geyter is the main architect. They are quite well known in Albania because they have done a number of projects here. Meanwhile, the marina is being designed by the British-Turkish company ARTI Proje. They are also well known in the region and have designed a lot of other marinas, especially in Turkey.
The marina itself is being marketed as a “world-class” marina once built. What special considerations are you making to guarantee utmost quality and international standards?
From the start, our goal has been to set new standards in Albania as well as the Adriatic and Ionian regions. We have partnered with top international consultants and designers to ensure that every element - from raw materials to the guest experience - meet world-class marina criteria. We are aiming for the 5 Star Gold Anchor, the highest recognition for marina quality and services. This involves not only engineering and infrastructure but also comfort, hospitality, sustainability and the overall visitor experience. We are striving to make Vlora Marina a symbol of modern, responsible and elegant coastal development where excellent design meets Mediterranean charm.
Why was D-Marin chosen as the operator of the marina once it is finished?
D-Marin brings proven international expertise and a track record of operating premium marinas in the Mediterranean and beyond. Their approach to safety and sustainability aligns perfectly with our vision. Partnering with D-Marin not only ensures that it is built to high standards but also ensures that every visitor, yacht owner and crew member has a world-class experience. They have a special philosophy of hospitality and tailor-made services, and this collaboration is key to establishing Albania as a leading Mediterranean yachting destination.
D-Marin has supported us through technical expertise and consulting about facilities, their locations, pontoon types, offices and other elements such as our fuelling station. We have visited their offices in Athens, we have met them in Monaco, they have visited us here in Vlora, they invite us to all the international events they attend to give us a taste of what they offer, their future plans and their vision. They have been very supportive of the Vlora Marina project and we are very happy to have them on board.
The Albanian Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy is placing great importance on the development of its luxury maritime tourism portfolio. How is the Albanian government supporting Vlora Marina in this development, and vice versa?
The Albanian government has been an essential partner from the start, providing support in strategic planning, regulatory frameworks and key approvals. Their recognition of luxury marine tourism as a national priority has been instrumental. Conversely, Vlora Marina will contribute by setting benchmarks for quality, sustainability and international best practices. The positive environment created by the government and private investment demonstrate what can be achieved when vision and high standards guide and reinforce each other. So, together, we aim to position Albania as a distinctive, competitive, maritime destination.
What is the construction timeline? When are the projected pilot and full openings of the marina and residences?
Construction is planned in phases. The marina is expected to be operational by mid-2027, while the residences will be delivered to customers from mid-2027 until 2029. The A1 building, a luxury entertainment hub, will be ready in 2030. The Marriott tower, a 34-floor flagship tower with branded residences and hotel rooms, will be ready in 2031. These are the main milestones of the project.
How do you envisage Vlora Marina and Albania as a country changing marine tourism in both the Adriatic and the wider Mediterranean?
Vlora Marina will mark a turning point for marine tourism in Albania and the region. For the first time, Albania will offer a marina capable of welcoming international yacht charter operators and maritime travellers with world-class services and infrastructure. Meanwhile, Albania’s authenticity, coastline, natural beauty and welcoming culture remains largely untouched compared to other Adriatic destinations. Vlora Marina will connect this unique identity with global standards of luxury and hospitality. We aim for Albania to emerge as a fresh, sustainable and inspiring alternative on the international maritime map.
