Marina facility upgrades attract global yachting community

The welcome carpet was rolled out recently at the newly expanded Shallow Draught Marina for the 17 yachts participating in the Grand Large Yachting World Odyssey 2025 event.

Barbados Port Inc. (BPI), with the support of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), worked assiduously over the past several months with the event coordinators to secure the return of international yachting to Barbados.

The arrival of the 65 passengers and crew underscores Barbados’ reputation as a premier destination for nautical tourism.

The expansion project executed by the BPI doubled the berthing capacity at the marina and enhanced amenities, with the inclusion of new retail spaces, upgraded restroom facilities, new storage and commercial spaces for boaters and mariners, as well as an upgraded market for the sale of fresh fish catches.

Resilience was also prioritised in the redevelopment, with a wave attenuation system that protects the marina during swell conditions, providing a safeguard for vessels at berth. A new fuel dock, convenience store, restaurant and coffee shop are set to be operational in 2026.

BPI’s Chief Executive Officer, David Jean-Marie, said: “We have created a facility in Barbados that sets the stage for what should be more unforgettable journeys to come. This event signals to the world that we have the infrastructure and services available for international visitors who want to explore the seas, discover new destinations and enjoy the places they visit.”

“We also have the resources and technology in place to support operational efficiencies needed. Cooperation with the Customs and Immigration Departments was critical throughout the event planning stages, and as a result, the clearance process was made seamless with utilisation of our new national Maritime Single Window.”

Event manager for the World Odyssey 25, Victor Taburiaux, praised the improvements and the island’s appeal: “We first came in 2021 and had a really good experience, which is why we decided to come back. We knew about the marina project and thought it would be good for both of us to promote the developments. Geographically, Barbados is the first island when you come across the Atlantic Ocean, so it makes sense for us to stop here.”

BTMI’s Manager of Sports, Kamal Springer, commented: “Barbados Port Inc. has done a beautiful job expanding the Shallow Draught, and this is an opportunity to test it out and see how it can handle that capacity as well. Now we can target more of these types of events and attract even more visitors to the island.”

On arrival at the Shallow Draught Marina, the visitors received a vibrant and warm Bajan welcome. The atmosphere was festive, with the lively rhythms of a tuk band and greeters dressed in traditional attire. Guests enjoyed the island’s hospitality with rum punch, fitting for the birthplace of rum, and sorrel, a beverage cherished during the holiday season. The group was encouraged to dance to the local music and received gifts as tokens of the island’s appreciation.

Among the participants was Captain Pablo Ussia of the yacht ‘Kairos’, who was the first sailor to arrive as part of the rally. Describing his experience, Captain Ussia said: “It’s been fantastic. The journey took just over 12 days, and we really chose the right weather to sail in. I’m very happy about that. Crossing the Atlantic has always been a dream come true, and this was the perfect opportunity to do it. It was very emotional; I just couldn’t believe that we made it so quickly and safely.”

He added: “We are staying in Barbados for a month and plan to tour the whole island, from north to south. We’re also having a family reunion with 10 family members, so we’ll be spending Christmas and New Year’s here.”

Many of the World Odyssey participants are expected to spend several weeks on the island, exploring its attractions and contributing to the local economy. Their presence demonstrates the positive impact of infrastructure investment on Barbados’ tourism sector and positions the island as a leading hub for international sailing events.

(BGIS)