Morelli (Marina Cala dei Sardi): "Flexible mooring plan to accommodate superyachts up to 70 meters"
The marina's founder discusses the philosophy and evolution of a marina that has chosen sustainability and a direct relationship with yachtsmen to distinguish itself among the top facilities on the Costa Smeralda.
In one of the most competitive areas of the Mediterranean, Marina Cala dei Sardi has earned a leading position with a simple and solid model: listening to sailors, providing targeted services, and respecting the environment. Simone Morelli, owner and founder of the marina, explains how innovation and authenticity have become the keys to its increasingly international success.
What are the main new developments in the pipeline?
We're working to further expand the availability of superyacht moorings while maintaining our eco-friendly approach. At the same time, we're investing in staff training and creating new onshore services. Future projects include the construction of a clubhouse that will house the Yacht Club, complete with a restaurant and private lounge. The goal is to offer a comprehensive welcome without losing our identity.
How has the size of yachts and berths changed in recent years?
Cala dei Sardi began as a charter base and hosts a fleet of around 100 vessels, including boats and catamarans, ranging from 9 to 24 meters. In recent years, we've also established ourselves as a popular destination for nautical tourists seeking a private place to spend a few days. The length of the yachts in transit is often significant, and today we regularly receive catamarans over 50 feet and sailing or motor yachts over 25 meters. We've adapted with reinforced moorings, dedicated services, and a flexible marina layout. I'm confident that the evolution will continue in this direction, and we're ready to follow it.
What are the main reasons why a captain should choose Marina Cala dei Sardi over other destinations?
The captain who chooses our marina will give his guests or the shipowner a pleasant surprise. It's not the usual gray port with high walls and chaotic docks; it's a garden by the sea. A private place where privacy is important, with a waterfront restaurant and ample parking. The captain has the comfort of a reliable mooring, rapid assistance if needed, and guaranteed safety. We offer protected moorings, especially from the mistral, the prevailing wind, 24/7 availability, and a network of technicians always ready. The captain can be sure that he will make his shipowner and guests happy with us. Cala dei Sardi is all this, with the naturalness and warmth that only Sardinia can offer.
In a context where digitalization is becoming a priority, how are you adapting to new needs?
"Unusually, Cala dei Sardi doesn't manage berths with "fixed" dimensions, but has a mooring plan based on the width, not the length, of the vessel. For this reason, having a "flexible" mooring plan, we have developed dedicated software and management software that automatically calculates and optimizes mooring based on the variables of width, draft, and, ultimately, length. The software, integrated with the charter management software, automatically calculates the available dock space, taking into account the vessels checking in and out. With this system, even seasonal operators can offer berths from 30 feet to 70 meters with a single click."
What more could Italian navies do to better counter foreign competition?
We need a clear and far-sighted national policy. Streamline procedures, facilitate investment, and protect serious entrepreneurs. Too often, we face short-sighted bureaucracy, yet Italy's potential is enormous. We should work together, public and private, entrepreneurs and institutions.
What was the formula for success?
We focused on the authenticity of nature and the experience of the sea, combined with high-quality services. Cala dei Sardi is more than just a mooring point; it's a place where those arriving by boat feel welcomed, relaxed, and free. Our secret was listening to those who sail—owners, skippers, and crew—and offering them a safe, eco-sustainable environment, with all the essential amenities but without excess. The location does the rest: we're in the heart of the Gulf of Cugnana, a natural paradise where you can still breathe the true essence of Sardinia.
What measures have you adopted to have practically zero environmental impact?
Our marina is truly green, and we're proud of it. It's the first eco-friendly floating marina in the Mediterranean. It's not a concrete structure; the marina is made of breakwater modules that ensure the natural flow of currents. The anchorages, equipped with Seadamp shock absorbers by Seares, effectively cope with the rare but challenging north-east winds. Thanks to advanced mechatronic devices, load sensors, and active monitoring, we can guarantee constant 24/7 monitoring of mooring conditions, and we're gradually equipping all lines with next-generation systems, including adaptive energy recovery systems. We use advanced purification systems and irrigate the lawn with water partially mixed with seawater. We promote plastic-free practices and separate waste collection, and we've installed an automatic water dispenser. We've been receiving the prestigious Blue Marina Awards for two years, but true sustainability is practiced every day, in our relationship with the local area and in the awareness of those who choose us.
What sets Marina Cala dei Sardi apart in terms of services dedicated to the superyacht segment, for both the owner and the crew?
"The difference is in the details. We offer personalized 24-hour assistance, an international concierge, VIP services, and private land and sea transfers with our tenders. We have relaxation areas surrounded by greenery, a sundeck overlooking the sea, a large parking lot with reserved spaces and Porsche charging stations for electric cars, as well as essential services like laundry. We collaborate with the best suppliers to ensure high-quality catering, supplies, and technical support. And all this with the discretion and efficiency a captain expects from a premium facility."
What are the main needs/requests of the marina and tourist port sector?
"Flexibility in services, digitalization, sustainability, and professionalism. Today's customers are demanding, informed, and international. They demand customized services, immediate technical assistance, fast connections, and impeccable hospitality. And they want to feel safe and respected, including from an environmental perspective. Marinas that are able to meet these needs will remain leaders in the coming years."
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