PAPHOS, CYPRUS – A transformative marine tourism project in Paphos, long languishing in development limbo, is once again centre stage. Following nearly two decades of delays, the Cypriot government, through its Deputy Ministry of Tourism, has formally re-entered the competitive tender process for the Paphos marina development. This ambitious undertaking aims to establish a state-of-the-art facility designed to significantly bolster the region's appeal as a premier Mediterranean destination for nautical leisure and potentially accommodate larger maritime vessels.
The initiative, earmarked for state-owned land in the Potima area of Kissonerga, represents a concerted effort to inject vitality into a project that has faced considerable headwinds since its inception. The call for expressions of interest, issued recently, has set a firm deadline of January 23rd for potential investors and economic operators to signal their intent. This preliminary stage is crucial for pre-qualifying candidates before they are invited to submit comprehensive bid proposals, a process expected to commence shortly thereafter. The entire endeavour is slated to operate under a 55-year lease agreement, underscoring the long-term vision underpinning its revival.
Originally conceived to enhance Paphos’s tourism infrastructure, the marina project has been a subject of prolonged discussion and planning. The decision to resuscitate the development, made between late 2023 and early 2024, signals a renewed commitment to leveraging Cyprus's extensive coastline for economic and tourism growth. The ultimate objective is to cultivate a more robust marine tourism sector across the island and to forge a cohesive and secure maritime zone along the Republic’s shores, thereby enhancing the overall visitor experience and addressing the perennial challenge of tourism seasonality.
The scope of the Paphos marina development is substantial, encompassing approximately 165,000 square metres of land. The project’s blueprint includes provisions for berthing up to 1,000 leisure vessels, a testament to its scale and ambition. Crucially, the chosen contractor will have the flexibility to pursue one of two distinct development pathways. The first option focuses predominantly on marine facilities, with an estimated 70-80% dedicated to sea-based infrastructure, complemented by 20-30% land-based amenities, including residential units, commercial spaces, and a hotel complex. The second, more expansive option, while maintaining the same capacity for leisure boats, additionally incorporates the potential for berthing cruise ships, alongside a mixed-use development.
This dual-option approach reflects a strategic intent to cater to diverse market demands, from superyacht enthusiasts to the burgeoning cruise tourism sector. The project’s execution will adhere to the Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) model, a comprehensive framework designed to ensure efficient project management and long-term operational viability. The successful implementation of this project is anticipated to yield significant economic benefits for Paphos and the wider region, attracting investment, generating employment, and diversifying the island’s tourism portfolio. Furthermore, the development is being framed within the broader context of sustainable development principles, with an emphasis on environmental protection and integration. The revival of the Paphos marina, after years of dormancy, represents a significant stride towards realising the island's potential as a preeminent maritime hub in the Eastern Mediterranean.