Last updated on October 1st, 2024 at 08:26 pm
A Luxury Boutique Marina by Maritime Project
Benitses Marina is managed by Maritime Project and lies in the charming village of Benitses on the beautiful Greek island of Corfu.
You’ll find yourself strolling along the promenade, bathed in the warm Mediterranean sun, as you take in the breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.
What makes this picture-perfect scene even more special is the heart of the village – the Benitses Harbor. Let’s dive into the story of this harbor, from its historical roots to the modern-day experiences it offers.
Benitses itself is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional charm, and vibrant local culture, making it a popular destination for tourists and boating enthusiasts.
Apart from Benitses and Gouvia Marina in Corfu, there are thousands of incredible boat and yacht rentals across Europe and options worldwide for travelers of all ages looking to experience the water.
If you are interested in a full report about other boating destinations across Europe there is a good report here about The Top 15 Boating Destinations in Europe for 2024
Marina Overview:
- Size and Capacity: Benitses Marina can accommodate 96 boats up to 25 meters in length, including yachts and smaller boats. It was agreed that 10 berths would be made available free of charge to local professional fishermen. It’s a relatively smaller marina than others on Corfu, making it a more intimate and quieter location for docking.
- Facilities: The marina is equipped with essential facilities for boaters, such as water and electricity hookups. It may also offer services such as fuel supply, waste disposal, and possibly minor repair services. Nearby, you’ll find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, providing all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.
- Access and Navigation: The marina’s location offers easy access to the Ionian Sea, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding waters, nearby islands, and coastal attractions. The waters around Benitses are generally calm, and the marina provides a haven for docking.
- Security: As with most marinas, there are special personnel and security measures in place to ensure the safety of the docked vessels and their crew, including surveillance and controlled access.
Nearby Attractions:
- Benitses Village: The village itself is worth exploring, with its mix of traditional tavernas, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Corfu Town: A short drive away is Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its historic architecture, vibrant streets, and cultural landmarks.
- Natural Beauty: The surrounding area is known for its lush landscapes and clear waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.
Benitses Marina offers a charming and peaceful spot for boaters exploring Corfu and the Ionian Sea.
It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a more relaxed and traditional Greek island experience.
March 2021 – Lease of the tourist port of Benitses
In March 2021, the Greek government made a significant move by leasing the tourist boat shelter to a private company for the next 15 years, with the possibility of two 5-year extensions.
Maritime Projects secured the lease for an annual amount of €250,000, along with approximately 2% local tax on turnover.
While this lease promises financial benefits for the Municipality of central Corfu, the local community of Benitses is expected to receive only a meager annual sum of €5,000 from the €250,000 lease revenue. Understandably, this has sparked some local controversy.
The lease also imposes restrictions on the company, preventing it from operating cafes or restaurants, and only allowing a leisure bar.
The decisions surrounding the lease were made after discussions (at least this is what they said) with the local council, which is closely aligned with the ruling party.
What Lies Ahead
As per the contract, the lessor is responsible for providing the necessary studies and permits for the port at their expense.
Following the granting of the operating license and the first round of repairs, the harbor was expected to start operating at the end of June or the beginning of July 2021.
An official inauguration ceremony took place on July 5, graced by the presence of a government minister.
For local professional fishermen, there’s a silver lining: 10 berths at the tourist port of Benitses are available free of charge. Additionally, amateur fishermen will have access to the sea via a ramp for their boats at a nominal cost.
The fate of the parking lot space remains uncertain. While there are rumors that it will reopen as a paid service after repair work is completed, this is not explicitly stated in the contract.
Fortunately, the parking area became operational again in 2022, albeit with a small and reasonable fee. But after a year or so it became a parking lot only for the customers.
A Glimpse into History
To truly appreciate the significance of Benitses Marina, we must delve into its historical roots.
The residents of Benitses have long relied on fishing and the cultivation of citrus and olives as their primary means of sustenance.
Naturally, a shelter for their fishing boats was essential, and so they decided to take matters into their own hands.
Work on the harbor commenced with the dedication of residents and a handful of mechanical aids. In the early stages, the process was labor-intensive and community-driven, as seen in old photographs of those initial efforts.
It’s important to note that the construction of the current marina didn’t entail the destruction of a beach, as some might assume. Instead, it involved expanding the old port by filling in part of the harbor to create a larger land area.
Over the years, two significant engineering projects have taken place in the harbor area, inevitably altering some of its picturesque landscapes.
A notable development was the shifting of the road away from the houses, addressing safety concerns, and accommodating the increasing traffic flow.
The first infill project began in 1972, covering the creek in the old port area where the road now lies.
The second major project took place during the construction of the marina in 2002, covering nearly the entire area within the old harbor’s boundaries.
The Benitses Harbor has come a long way since its inception. Historically, it was a bustling fishing harbor, and its transformation into the Benitses Yacht Marina commenced in 2002 as an extension of the existing port.
While it is officially complete, some equipment has endured wear and tear over the years due to a lack of upkeep and maintenance.
However, fret not! The harbor’s future looks bright. Soon, the Benitses Yacht Marina will officially fall under the purview of the Municipality of Corfu and resume its regular operations.
This step is bound to rejuvenate the harbor and breathe new life into this picturesque corner of the island.
Benitses Yacht Marina Today
The Benitses Yacht Marina was conceived to attract affluent visitors and their yachts.
The idea was to offer top-notch anchorage facilities to entice these travelers while boosting the local economy directly through mooring fees and indirectly through their spending.
However, the marina currently faces some challenges due to equipment shortages and damage, coupled with a lack of official operators.
As a result, its operations are somewhat rudimentary. Many ships are moored here, and there’s a growing demand for space.
Residents are eager to clarify the commercial status of the port.
Overall
In essence, the Benitses Marina, once a vital fishing port, has evolved into a significant tourist hub.
Its journey through history, challenges, and recent developments is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of this picturesque village on the shores of Corfu.
Whether you’re a traveler seeking a glimpse into the island’s heritage or a maritime enthusiast eager to explore the Ionian Sea, Benitses Marina offers an array of experiences and stories waiting to be discovered.
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