A new proposal for the future of Larnaca’s marina was put forward on Monday by the town’s chamber of commerce and industry (Keve), aiming to preserve its local charm while encouraging investment through the creation of a second, luxury marina nearby.

Evel president Nakis Antoniou said the plan seeks to protect what makes the current marina special, rather than turning it into a replica of Monaco or Cannes.

“Our position is clear,” he told the Cyprus Mail. 

“We wish to preserve the existing character and charm of our [existing] marina, not alter or expand it recklessly.”

Under the proposal, the existing marina would remain under state ownership but be managed by local authorities. Larnaca Keve suggests creating a joint board made up of the municipality, the chamber of commerce, and other local stakeholders. The aim is to keep fees low for boat owners while upgrading the marina’s safety, cleanliness and facilities.

This would include dredging, quay repairs, sewage collection and installing solar-powered energy stations. The current marina hosts around 380 vessels and would stay affordable and accessible to residents and visitors alike.

Next door, on a nearby piece of state land, a brand-new marina would be built by a private investor. The proposed luxury marina would offer berths for around 200 to 300 yachts, with high-end repair, storage and fuel facilities. The estimated cost is €90 million.

“This approach allows for the future of Larnaca to develop without sacrificing what already works,” said Antoniou.

Antoniou said the plan is about balance, not expansion for the sake of profit.

“We’ve seen many plans fall through over the years, but this time we’ve developed a clear alternative,” he said. 

“We’ve already discussed it with political parties, the mayor, local stakeholders and the minister of transport.”

He was referring to meetings with Larnaca mayor Andreas Vyras and Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades, both of whom have expressed interest in finding a viable way forward for the stalled development. Deputy tourism minister Kostas Koumis has also signalled that tourism authorities are open to creative alternatives for the Larnaca marina, provided they serve long-term public interest and maintain the city’s character.

Antoniou clarified that Keve’s aim is not to build a massive complex or dense housing development, but rather to use the land to create jobs and lasting value for Larnaca.

The investor would receive a long-term lease of up to 125 years, covering around 130,000 square metres, including 25,000 square metres for boat storage and repairs. The final design could be scaled down depending on investor interest.

“We don’t want a second Monaco. We want a living waterfront for locals and tourists, where luxury yachts can moor beside fishing boats, as they do in many Greek harbours,” Antoniou said.

The proposal will be submitted to Greece’s privatisation fund, Taiped, which will carry out a formal study of the area and advise on next steps.

Antoniou said Taiped’s recommendation may be to renovate the current marina and develop the adjacent land under concession. Evel has already funded a preliminary analysis and will soon present a formal brief to support the proposal.

He added that if Taiped or the government opts for a different project on the same site, such as a hotel or a theme park, the chamber remains open to discussion. “Our aim is to secure the best future for Larnaca,” he said.

Antoniou also highlighted that Larnaca’s marina is the only one in Cyprus located in a city centre, making it easy for visitors to walk straight into town.

Plans also include connecting the marina to Europe Square through a redesigned waterfront promenade, creating a new Yacht Club and a lively public space with cafes and traditional eateries.

“Our vision is for a space open to all,” he said. 

“Families should be able to enjoy the marina without high costs.”