Visakhapatnam Port plans world-class marina to boost coastal tourism
The Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has initiated plans to develop a world-class marina as part of its efforts to promote coastal tourism in line with the Centre’s Sagarmala programme.
The port has invited expressions of interest from organisations with expertise in engineering, technology, construction, and financial planning to assist in preparing the project. The proposed marina is expected to complement the port’s existing cruise tourism infrastructure and strengthen Visakhapatnam’s position as a maritime tourism destination.
The Centre has encouraged major ports to contribute to the development of coastal tourism by creating infrastructure that generates employment, strengthens local economies, and improves visitor amenities. Under the Sagarmala programme, coastal regions are envisaged as engines of economic growth by 2030.
As part of this initiative, the VPA earlier developed a ₹100-crore cruise terminal to cater to both domestic and international cruise vessels. It has also completed a 600-metre waterfront promenade adjacent to the terminal, enabling visitors to watch ships entering and leaving the harbour. The promenade is yet to be formally inaugurated.
A marina is a dedicated waterfront facility for berthing recreational boats and yachts. In addition to docking facilities, it typically includes infrastructure for boat maintenance and repairs, as well as tourism-oriented amenities such as waterfront restaurants, cafés, recreational spaces, and water sports facilities.
The port has identified three locations for the proposed marina: near Dolphin’s Nose, the lighthouse precinct near VUDA Park, and the existing fishing boat anchorage. A consultant will evaluate the technical feasibility and commercial viability of the three sites before recommending the most suitable location.
The consultant has also been tasked with assessing whether floating or fixed berths would be more suitable, studying market demand and competition, determining the need for dredging, and conducting hydrographic surveys required for the project.
Port officials said a detailed meeting on the proposal would be held shortly to discuss the project’s next phase.