Cyprus has officially announced an international tender for the development and construction of the large-scale Paphos Marina project in the Potima (Kissonerga) area. The project will be implemented using the DBFOT (Design, Build, Finance, Operate, Transfer) model, involving the design, financing, construction, operation and subsequent transfer of the facility to the state.
The scale and features of the project
The new marina will have a capacity of 1,000 berths for yachts and boats, 70–80% of which will be located on the water, with the remainder on land. The future complex will cover an area of approximately 165,000 m² and will include marine and land areas for yacht services, as well as residential and commercial buildings. Plans also include hotels and infrastructure for cruise ships.
This project is pivotal to the development of maritime tourism in Paphos and forms an integral part of a government programme worth over €230 million to improve infrastructure in and around the city.
Economic and tourism significance
The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nicos Christodoulides, emphasised that the new marina will be a 'landmark project' for the entire region. Its implementation will lead to job creation, strengthen the tourism sector and expand opportunities for attracting foreign investment.
In turn, the Ministry of Tourism noted that the project will contribute to Cyprus becoming a centre for Mediterranean maritime tourism, as well as helping to combat seasonality in leisure, which is particularly important for the industry's sustainable development.
Modern standards and sustainable development
The new facility will be built in accordance with environmental requirements and international standards. The authorities emphasised that coastal infrastructure development must be combined with environmental protection and long-term economic sustainability principles.
Tender procedure and international cooperation
The selection process will take place in two stages: first, expressions of interest will be submitted, followed by invitations to tender. A consortium of international consultants — Deloitte Ltd and Triton Consulting Engineers S.A. — is participating in the project, which guarantees transparency and compliance with European standards.
The relevant documentation is available on Cyprus's official public procurement e-platform and in the Official Gazette. Potential investors can submit applications in accordance with the established procedures.
Development prospects
The marina in Paphos will play a key role in strengthening Cyprus' position in the global tourism market. The country's aim is to transform its coastline into a convenient and safe centre for yachting, cruises and sea travel. Once construction is complete, experts predict that Paphos will be able to compete with the leading ports of the Eastern Mediterranean and that Cyprus will receive a new impetus for developing its maritime economy, tourism and real estate.