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D-Marin, the selection of premium marinas, is marking World Environment Day 2026 by sharing progress across its sustainability programme, highlighting continued investment in clean energy, marine conservation, biodiversity protection, waste reduction, and responsible marina operations across the Group.

As pressure grows on coastal ecosystems globally and the yachting industry faces increasing scrutiny over its environmental impact, responsible marina operations have never been more important.

Continuing to advance its environmental and social initiatives across 26 marinas in nine countries, D-Marin remains focused on protecting coastal destinations while supporting a more sustainable future for the yachting industry.

Six D-Marin marinas now operate with installed solar energy systems, generating approximately 3 GWh of renewable electricity annually across its portfolio. Since 2021, the Group has reduced its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by more than 20 per cent and remains on track to achieve its Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)-aligned target of reducing emissions by 42 per cent by 2030.

Over the past year, D-Marin expanded its marine clean-up initiatives, removing 74m³ of debris from marine and coastal areas, including more than 1 tonne of seabed waste and ghost nets. Environmental actions were supported by DPOL and Jellyfishbot technologies, now deployed across D-Marin marinas to support cleaner waters and strengthen marine pollution prevention through the collection of hydrocarbons, microplastics and floating marine waste.

D-Marin also managed approximately 7,500 tonnes of waste during the year, with recycling rates reaching around 30 per cent, while continuing to invest in smart infrastructure with more than 2,500 smart pedestal systems installed across the portfolio.

Korina Kostakaki, Head of Sustainability and H&S at D-Marin, said: “World Environment Day is an important reminder of the responsibility we carry towards the coastal environments and communities where we operate. Over the past year, we have continued advancing initiatives focused on marine protection, biodiversity restoration, renewable energy, waste reduction and Health & Safety culture across our international marina network. During 2025 alone, D-Marin delivered more than 6,600 hours of Health & Safety training across its marinas, representing a 20 per cent increase compared with the previous year. Through strong partnerships and measurable actions, we remain committed to creating long-term positive impact for both people and marine ecosystems”.

Further strengthening its biodiversity initiatives, D-Marin partnered with ©Ecocean to launch the Biohut® programme, starting with France, Italy, Greece and Croatia. These underwater nursery habitats provide shelter and feeding grounds for juvenile fish, supporting healthier marine ecosystems and biodiversity restoration. The initiative has been recognised with a Silver Award at the Tourism Awards 2026, in the category of ‘Initiatives for Conserving Land and Marine Biodiversity’.

D-Marin’s sustainability efforts continue to receive international recognition, including an EcoVadis Gold sustainability rating, Gold and Silver honours at the Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards 2025, continued Blue Flag certifications across D-Marin marinas, and internationally recognised ISO certifications for environmental management and health and safety standards across the Group.

Christina Samoulada, CHRO at D-Marin, said: “At D-Marin, sustainability is not only about protecting the environments in which we operate; it is also about empowering our people to make a positive impact every day. Across our marinas, our teams play a vital role in safeguarding marine ecosystems, supporting local communities and embedding responsible practices into our daily operations.

Through continuous learning, employee engagement and a strong culture of ownership, we are building an organisation where environmental responsibility, wellbeing and operational excellence go hand in hand. As we continue to grow, our ambition is to ensure that every marina, every team and every individual contributes to creating lasting value for our customers, our communities and the coastal destinations we are privileged to call home.”

D‑Marin, the selection of premium marinas, is once again inviting guests and local communities to enjoy its popular open-air cinema experiences this summer across two of its marina destinations in Greece.

Every Friday at D-Marin Gouvia Marina and every Monday at D-Marin Lefkas Marina, local residents and D-Marin customers are welcome to enjoy a selection of family favourites and children’s movies. This year also brings a special tribute to iconic 80’s sci-fi and fantasy classics which shaped a generation and cinematic history.

Located on the island of Corfu in a UNESCO World Heritage site, D-Marin Gouvia Marina brings the experience to the local area for a fifth consecutive year with D-Marin Lefkas Marina on the island of Lefkada, one of the most popular Ionian destinations, enjoying its third year of offering open-air cinema experience.

The outdoor screenings will start between 20:30 and 21:15 depending on the sunset time.

Ioannis Koutsodontis, General Manager of D-Marin for Greece, said: "Our annual open-air cinema experience is incredibly popular bringing together berth holders, local residents and visitors in a unique waterfront setting. We continuously look for new ways to enhance the experiences offered across our marinas in Greece while strengthening our connection with local communities. This year’s programme includes a fantastic mix of timeless classics and family-friendly films for all ages to enjoy.”

Please find the scheduled for both locations below:

LEFKAS MARINA | EVERY MONDAY

08/06 – E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial - Director: Steven Spielberg (1982)

15/06 – Migration | Kids - Director: Benjamin Renner (2023)

22/06 – Smurfs: The Lost Village | Kids - Director: Kelly Asbury (2017)

29/06 – Back to the Future - Director: Robert Zemeckis (1985)

06/07 – The Bad Guys | Kids - Director: Pierre Perifel (2022)

13/07 – Looney Tunes: The Day the Earth Blew Up | Kids - Director: Peter Browngardt (2024)

20/07 – The Thing - Director: John Carpenter (1982)

27/07 – How to Train Your Dragon | Kids - Director: Dean DeBlois (2010)

03/08 – Kung Fu Panda 2 | Kids - Director: Jennifer Yuh Nelson (2011)

10/08 – The Goonies - Director: Richard Donner (1985)

17/08 – Kung Fu Panda 3 | Kids - Director: Alessandro Carloni (2016)

24/08 – Yuku and the Flower of the Himalayas | Kids - Directors: Arnaud Demuynck & Rémi Durin (2022)

31/08 – Cocoon - Director: Ron Howard (1985)

07/09 – The Lost Boys - Director: Joel Schumacher (1987)

GOUVIA MARINA | EVERY FRIDAY

12/06 – E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial - Director: Steven Spielberg (1982)

19/06 – Migration | Kids - Director: Benjamin Renner (2023)

26/06 – Brazil - Director: Terry Gilliam (1985)

03/07 – The Bad Guys | Kids - Director: Pierre Perifel (2022)

10/07 – An American Werewolf in London - Director: John Landis (1981)

17/07 – Looney Tunes: The Day the Earth Blew Up | Kids - Director: Peter Browngardt (2024)

24/07 – The Thing - Director: John Carpenter (1982)

31/07 – How to Train Your Dragon | Kids - Director: Dean DeBlois (2010)

07/08 – Cocoon - Director: Ron Howard (1985)

21/08 – Kung Fu Panda 3 | Kids - Director: Alessandro Carloni (2016)

28/08 – Christine - Director: John Carpenter (1983)

04/09 – Yuku and the Flower of the Himalayas | Kids - Directors: Arnaud Demuynck & Rémi Durin (2022)

11/09 – The Lost Boys - Director: Joel Schumacher (1987)

D-Marin Lefkas proudly returned as the main sponsor of the Lefkada Green Half Marathon for the fourth consecutive year. Held on 23 May, the race celebrated its 13th edition and once again brought together participants of all ages in celebration of sport, inclusion and wellbeing, reflecting the values D-Marin has continued to support through its long-standing partnership with the event.

One of the event’s most inspiring moments was the participation of six individuals with disabilities, who completed the course with the support of companions and specially adapted wheelchairs. Their involvement stood as a powerful testament to the race’s accessibility and the community’s spirit of togetherness.

Over the years, D-Marin Lefkas has helped the event grow into one of the region’s most anticipated athletic gatherings. From increasing participation and expanding access for athletes with disabilities to supporting environmental education in local schools, the brand has played an active role in creating a lasting impact within the local community.

This year, the race welcomed both returning participants and new faces, continuing to build traditions for families and inspire the next generation of runners.

The programme included the 21km half marathon, an 8km race, as well as a 1,000m route for children aged 6 to 15 years. The children’s race was filled with energy and excitement, while the “Smurfs” added a playful and imaginative touch to the day, spreading smiles and creating a fairytale-like atmosphere enjoyed by children and adults alike.

A portion of the proceeds from the children’s race was allocated towards organising a special cinema night for the children who participated in the event. The evening, which will take place within the marina area and will feature a sports-themed film, offering a fun and inspiring experience for young runners and their families.

The scenic route began and ended at the Lefkada Cultural Centre, highlighting the island’s natural beauty during golden hour and passing through ecologically significant areas such as the NATURA-protected Lefkada Lagoon. In line with D-Marin’s ESG values, the race not only promoted fitness but also celebrated the biodiversity and environmental importance of the Ionian region.

Spyros Dallos, general manager D-Marin Greece, [SE1.1]said he was delighted to once again support the Green Half Marathon:

“This event was more than just a sporting occasion; it was a celebration of the Lefkada community. Through initiatives that highlighted the beauty of our island, promoted inclusion and supported local health and education, D-Marin Lefkas was proud to contribute to something truly meaningful.”

D-Marin remained committed to building healthier and more connected communities, not only through annual events, but also through sustained local engagement, environmental action and youth empowerment.

D-Marin has completed a major upgrade of its Gouvia Marina in Corfu, transforming it into a modern, premium destination for yachting and leisure through an investment of €8.5 million. The redevelopment strengthens the marina’s role as a key regional gateway, while delivering measurable environmental, social and customer experience impact.

Strategically located between the Adriatic and the Mediterranean, Gouvia Marina is the largest marina in Corfu and an important economic hub for the island. The upgrade reflects D-Marin’s long-term vision to elevate the yachting experience, while reinforcing the marina as an open and active space for both visitors and the local community.

The project delivered a comprehensive infrastructure transformation, increasing capacity and enhancing operational efficiency. A total of 104 new berths have been created for vessels of up to 50 metres, supported by new parking areas and an additional 6,000 sq m of onshore dry storage space. The waterfront has been fully pedestrianised, the internal road network extensively resurfaced, and all restroom and shower facilities renovated. These improvements significantly enhance accessibility, comfort and the everyday experience for visitors and crews.

Landscape redevelopment also played a central role, with more than 2,000 new trees and plants creating an open, contemporary and welcoming public space. A newly-developed playground and amphitheatre further strengthen the marina’s social and cultural character. The venue will host concerts, cultural events and open-air cinema nights, positioning Gouvia Marina as a destination beyond boating.

Ioannis Koutsodontis, regional director of D-Marin Greece, said:

“The upgrade of Gouvia Marina goes far beyond infrastructure. It is a complete transformation that combines construction excellence, technological innovation and sustainability, while creating a premium destination that is open, vibrant and closely connected to the local community of Corfu.”

The redevelopment also introduced a major leap forward in digital capability. Smart Pedestals have been installed at every berth, enabling remote management of electricity and water consumption via D-Marin’s mobile application. This enhances the customer experience while improving operational efficiency and energy management. In parallel, the marina’s digital infrastructure was fully upgraded, including enhanced Wi-Fi coverage throughout all areas, ensuring seamless connectivity.

These improvements have translated into clear customer benefits, reflected in an 11-point increase in the marina’s Net Promoter Score (NPS), as customers recognised the enhanced facilities, services and overall experience.

Environmental performance, safety and ESG principles are embedded throughout the upgrade. The marina now features high-pressure water filtration systems, advanced fire detection and emergency alarm systems, and low-energy LED lighting. Electric vehicle charging stations, extensive green interventions and improved accessibility further reduce environmental impact and strengthen integration with the local community.

As part of the wider redevelopment, Gouvia Marina has also completed its first on-site solar power installation, marking D-Marin’s first such project in Greece. The 100 kWp photovoltaic system is expected to generate approximately 167 MWh of clean electricity annually, covering around 20 per cent of the marina’s operational electricity demand.

Korina Kostakaki, head of sustainability and health and safety at D-Marin, Greece, said: “Gouvia Marina’s new solar installation reflects D-Marin’s continued progress on its decarbonisation pathway and marks our first Greek marina to generate renewable energy on site. The project complements the 5 MW of solar capacity already deployed across our marinas in Turkey, Croatia and Italy, supporting our SBTi commitment and our ambition to reduce emissions by 42 per cent by 2030.”

The upgrade of D-Marin Gouvia Marina sets a new benchmark for Greek marinas, combining premium design, smart technology and measurable ESG impact within a fully operational environment.

The redevelopment was supported through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan ‘Greece 2.0’, funded by the European Union – NextGenerationEU. D-Marin believes the initiative represents an important step forward for the Greek nautical tourism sector, helping to accelerate sustainable investment, infrastructure modernisation and long-term competitiveness across the industry.

To kick off the season in style, Porto Mirabello hosted a special Crew Party dedicated to the superyacht crews who bring energy, professionalism and life to the marina throughout the season.

Set against a beautiful sunset overlooking the marina, the evening offered the perfect opportunity to relax, connect and celebrate together before the busy summer months ahead. Guests enjoyed great food, signature cocktails and a DJ set, all brought to life through a sparkling bubble-inspired theme.

The event was designed as a moment of appreciation and community, recognising the important role that crews play in creating exceptional experiences every day.

Here’s to a successful and sparkling season ahead ✨⚓

D-Marin has identified a structural shift in cruising behaviour, as modern boaters increasingly move away from single-base sailing and embrace more flexible, multi-destination itineraries.

Year on year, total boat nights across D-Marin marinas have increased by 51 per cent. The number of unique boats visiting multiple D-Marin destinations has risen by 28 per cent since 2023, while overall visits are up by 41 per cent.

Together, these figures reflect more than growth alone. They point to a change in mindset: boaters are seeking greater mobility, adaptability and the freedom to design journeys that span multiple destinations within a single trip.

Recognising the growing desire for more flexible cruising, D-Marin launched its Happy Berthdays programme nearly a decade ago, enabling annual berth holders to explore multiple destinations across the group. Over the years, the initiative has seen steady adoption, with participation accelerating since 2023 as cruising patterns have become more dynamic and multi-destination itineraries increasingly popular.

Rather than treating a marina as a static home port, customers are increasingly viewing it as part of a broader cruising journey combining destinations and extending time on the water.

Giorgio Arpresani, a lifelong sailor from Porto Mirabello and captain of the catamaran NANA BLU, reflects this approach.

“I don’t really have a favourite destination for me, it’s enough just setting sail, leaving the harbour behind and feeling the wind as I head out to sea. The journey itself is what matters most.

Having the possibility to include different D-Marin marinas in my route makes it easier to shape longer journeys and adjust plans along the way. Programmes like Happy Berthdays support that flexibility and make it simpler to think beyond a single home base.

But what truly makes the difference for me is the atmosphere. Beyond the technical excellence safety, services and organisation Porto Mirabello has become much more than just a berth. After two years, it feels like home.”

Dean Smith, Chief Commercial Officer at D-Marin, said:

“What we are observing is not simply increased activity, but a clear evolution in cruising patterns. Boaters are planning more fluid routes and engaging with several D-Marin marinas during a single journey.

Happy Berthdays was developed in response to this shift, enabling greater flexibility while ensuring consistent quality and standards across our marinas.

The continued growth confirms that customers value experiences that combine freedom of movement with reliability and service excellence.”

As cruising patterns continue to evolve, D-Marin remains focused on shaping marina experiences around the needs of modern boaters delivering flexibility, consistency and a connected approach to yachting.

D‑Marin, the selection of premium marinas, has unveiled its 2026 summer events programme, transforming its destinations across the Mediterranean into vibrant lifestyle hubs during the peak yachting season.

The programme features more than 70 curated cultural, sporting and social experiences, bringing together yacht owners, captains, crew members and local communities to connect, relax and enjoy the best of summer across the D-Marin group.

From regattas and outdoor cinema nights to cultural festivals, wellness sessions and community celebrations, the initiative reflects D-Marin’s commitment to delivering premium experiences both on and off the water. The programme also embodies the brand philosophy “Feels Like Yachting Should Feel”, creating effortless moments of connection, enjoyment and discovery throughout the season.

Natalia Amolochiti, Head of CX and Marketing, said:

“We want our marinas to be vibrant places where guests and local communities can connect and enjoy their time by the sea.

This year’s summer programme is our most dynamic yet, bringing together cultural, sporting and social experiences across our selection of premium marinas. Docking at a D-Marin marina is only one part of the experience; the moments created on shore are just as important in making every visit memorable.”

Each marina will host a distinctive programme of events reflecting local culture, community traditions, and the vibrant atmosphere of the summer season.

Event highlights by region:

Croatia:

Tribunj Marina

- Summer Outdoor Cinema Nights – July–August

Open-air cinema evenings by the sea offering relaxed entertainment for guests and the local community.

France:

Camille Rayon

- Outdoor Cinema Nights – August

- Port Mondial Festival – June

- A vibrant cultural and sports festival combining live screenings of international football matches, music concerts, DJ sets, international themed evenings, food experiences, and family activities.

Italy:

Punta Faro

- Opening Season Party – June

- Kids Sailing Lessons – June

- Weekly Yoga Sessions – June–September

- Regata Punta Faro Cup – September

- Regata Lui & Lei – September

- Closing Season Party – October

Aregai

- Regata Trofeo Cozzi Parodi – April

- Opening Season Party – June

- Weekly Live Music Evenings – June – September

San Lorenzo

- Regata Trofeo Cozzi Parodi – April

- Summer Aperitivo Evenings – June–September

Livorno

- Regata Accademia Navale – April–May

- Regata 151 Miglia – May–June

- Effetto Venezia Festival – August

- Captain Event – October

- Closing Season Party – November

Mirabello

- Crew Party – May

- Opening Season Party – May

- Outdoor Cinema Series – July–August

Varazze

- Opening Season Party – May

- Monthly Artisan Markets – May–September

- Summer Cinema Nights – June–August

- Live Dance Concerts and Music Events – June–September

Greece

Lefkas

- Green Half Marathon of Lefkas – May

- Summer Open-Air Cinema Series – June–August

- End-of-Season Party – September

Gouvia

- Brindisi–Corfu Regatta Award Ceremony – June

- Summer Open-Air Cinema Series – June–August

- End-of-Season Party – September

Türkiye

Didim

- Bluefin Fishing Tournament – August

- An elite sport fishing competition that unites international participants and supports marine research initiatives.

Spain

Palma Cuarentena

- End-of-Season Party – October

- Barbecue Get-Together – October

Malta:

Valletta

- Hosting Spring Boat Festival - April

- Beneteau open weekend - April

- Summer opening party - June

- Rolex Middle Sea Race - October

- Malta Boat show - October

Guest experience

Mark Smith, a long-standing guest at D-Marin Lefkas, said:

“The summer events really bring the marina to life. From outdoor cinema nights to social gatherings, there’s always a fantastic atmosphere where guests can connect and enjoy the season together.”

By Dean Smith, D‑Marin, Chief Commercial Officer

Twenty years ago, boating was a world defined by heritage, hands‑on skill, and a slow climb through vessel sizes. Owners began with smaller craft and worked their way upward; they had to learn the intricacies of engines, electronics, and maintenance along the journey. Marinas were reliable, practical, functional hubs, designed for seasoned mariners who wanted a safe berth and little else. Today, that world looks almost unrecognisable.

Dean Smith has watched this transformation from one of the best vantage points in the industry. As Chief Commercial Officer at D‑Marin, he oversees 26 premium marinas across nine countries, welcoming more than 50,000 customers annually.

"Boating used to be about progression through experience," says Smith. "Today, it's about immediate access to a lifestyle."

The superyacht shortcut

In the last five years, an unprecedented wave of newcomers has reshaped the sector. First‑time buyers now make up 31 per cent of all new boat purchases and 37 per cent of pre‑owned transactions, fuelling a 35 per cent rise in first‑time ownership overall. But it isn't just the volume of new entrants that's significant; it's how differently they behave.

"We're seeing owners step straight into 40, 50 or even 70-metre yachts as their first acquisition," Smith explains. "They're not buying into boating as a technical pursuit—they're investing in a fully formed lifestyle."

The average superyacht owner has dropped from around 65 to under 55 in just one decade. For this cohort, entry at the superyacht level isn't about tradition or seamanship. It's about acquiring a turnkey asset that functions simultaneously as vacation home, entertainment venue, and personal brand statement.

This shift is visible across D‑Marin's network, which provides more than 14,000 berths, including over 1,000 dedicated to superyachts. Demand for larger berths has been one of the fastest-growing segments within the portfolio - a trend Smith expects to continue as the global superyacht fleet expands.

Customer expectations are evolving

This generational shift is forcing a fundamental redefinition of what a marina represents.

"The marina is no longer just infrastructure," says Smith. "It's an integral part of the ownership experience."

Across D‑Marin's Mediterranean and Gulf locations, demand for hospitality-led environments has grown measurably; curated events, premium retail, concierge-level service, and thoughtfully designed social spaces. D-Marin guests consistently report that it isn't just the quality of the facilities that keeps them returning; it's the level of care and hospitality that surrounds them from the moment they arrive.

Modern owners now expect the atmosphere and service standards of a five‑star resort delivered dockside: concierge assistance, premium dining, wellness facilities, and community-oriented social environments. These are no longer differentiators. They are the baseline.

A new model of marina

Digital fluency has become equally non-negotiable. Today's ownership demographic manages everything through their phones, and they expect their marina to meet them there. D‑Marin's app allows customers to manage berth bookings and renewals, coordinate services, and access complimentary smart sensors for real-time vessel monitoring. The continued growth in adoption across the portfolio reflects a customer base that measures quality not just by facilities, but by how effortlessly everything works.

"Ten years ago, certain administrative delays were accepted as part of marina life," Smith notes. "Today, they're a reason to move elsewhere. Speed and simplicity matter."

Environmental responsibility is accelerating alongside digital demand. Nearly one‑third of new superyacht builds now include hybrid or electric propulsion systems, a clear signal that the next generation of owners expects luxury and sustainability to coexist, and that marinas must be equipped to support both.

Adapt or get left behind

With the global yacht market valued at more than $10 billion and expanding rapidly as new wealth enters the sector, the pressure on marina operators to evolve has never been greater. Since 2023, D‑Marin has added ten new marinas and entered new markets including Spain, Malta, and Albania, growth driven not just by geography, but by the conviction that consistent, premium standards can and should be delivered across an entire network.

"Growth isn't simply about adding locations," Smith says. "It's about building an interconnected network that delivers consistent standards, whether an owner is in the Adriatic, the Balearics, or the Eastern Mediterranean, that consistency is what builds trust - and trust is what builds loyalty."

The marinas that will define the next decade are those willing to embrace a fundamentally new model, one that integrates luxury hospitality, digital innovation, sustainability, and the heavy-duty infrastructure demanded by the world's largest yachts. Those that treat these shifts as optional upgrades risk losing a customer base that has already raised the bar.

Because today's boater and superyacht owners aren't just looking for a berth - they're looking for an experience worthy of the life they've chosen.

At D-Marin Porto Mirabello, D-Marin hosted an exclusive evening dedicated to its captains, reinforcing its commitment to delivering premium marina experiences across the Mediterranean.

Inspired by D-Marin’s network of Mediterranean marinas, the event was designed as a curated tasting journey, where each destination was expressed through carefully selected local flavors, wines and storytelling. This immersive format reflected the diversity and excellence of D-Marin’s destinations, from Italy to the wider Mediterranean region.

The evening went beyond a traditional event, offering a valuable opportunity to strengthen relationships within the captains community, encourage meaningful exchanges and enhance the overall customer experience—one of the key pillars of D-Marin’s approach.

Events like this highlight D-Marin’s focus on quality, attention to detail and customer-centric services, reinforcing its positioning as a leading premium marina operator in the Mediterranean.

We sincerely thank all participants for their presence and engagement, which contributed to making the evening both memorable and impactful.