Five consortia were bidding for the development and management of a marina at Sa Maison, Transport Malta said.

Mostly consisting of established yachting operators, the bidders are from Marina di Valletta Consortium, Valletta Marina Consortium, CGS Consortium, Harbour Management Ltd and Valletta Marina Consortium (a different consortium).

In July, Transport Malta issued a request for proposals for the development, operation and management of an all-weather marina. Closing date was September 23. The evaluation process has started and the regulator said the preferred bidder would be selected within the shortest possible time.

The concession will be for 25 years and the marina will provide up to 240 berths and shore facilities at Pietà.

The area adjacent to Sa Maison will have to be upgraded and remain accessible at all times. The investment will also include weather protection measures, land facilities for berth holders, electricity and water supply as well as landscaping.

In agreement with the Armed Forces of Malta, the gate to the Maritime Squadron’s base will be relocated inward to provide an additional area for the development. Gozo Channel operations will also be moved to an alternative site.

Over the years, Malta experienced a considerable increase in yacht ownership and activity, resulting in the demand for berthing facilities exceeding existing capacity, Transport Malta said.

Transport Minister Joe Mizzi said that while the investment would generate commercial activity, it would also be raising Malta’s profile in the yachting industry across the Mediterranean and consolidating the island’s strategic position as an international centre of maritime excellence.