A new marina will be built in the heart of seaside Gdynia, in the area of Molo Południowe (Southern Pier), next to the Gen. Mariusz Zaruski Sailing Pool. The first preparatory work for its construction has begun. Nova Marina in Gdynia is a project that is the result of cooperation between Ghelamco and the Polish Sailing Association (PZŻ), which aims to create a modern centre of Polish sailing, combining sport, club and commercial functions.
On the third of April 2025, preparatory activities began, which include the demolition of buildings dating back to the 1970s. Demolition work is being carried out on the area previously occupied by the pavilions, which were the headquarters of Gdynia’s sailing clubs, in order to clear the space for the new development. The previous buildings, comprising the commercial section and the hangars for yacht service and maintenance, have long since lost their original function, giving way to the vision of a modern home for Polish yachting.
The start of the works
At the same time as the demolition work, the tendering process is being finalised to select a general contractor and secure financing, which is the next key step in the realisation of the Nova Marina. The planned construction period is approximately two years, during which time temporary premises have been prepared for the sailing clubs, ensuring continuity of their operations.
The project for Gdynia’s Nova Marina is the result of long-term plans that emerged some twenty years ago. In 2009, the local zoning plan provided for the possibility of building new, larger facilities on the land occupied by the sailing clubs. The turning point was the decision on a public-private partnership, concluded in 2021 between Ghelamco and the Polish Sailing Association. As part of this partnership, a special purpose vehicle was created to develop a project with a usable area of approximately 20,000 sq m.
Agreements signed with Jacht Klub Morski Gryf, Yacht Klub Polski Gdynia and Yacht Klub Stal ensure that the new investment will provide modern and functional premises for the most important sailing clubs in the region. In addition, the interests of other industry players, including the Pomeranian Sailing Association, have been taken care of to support the development of both young adepts and experienced sailors.
Nova Marina – elements of the project
Nova Marina is a multi-faceted development with a number of key amenities. The project includes spacious boat hangars, modern club rooms and residential or accommodation units on the upper floors with panoramic views of the harbour and marina. An underground garage is also planned beneath the building, which will significantly enhance the functionality of the entire development.
The design process was dominated by a partnership approach – the key project was won by PIG Architekci, a studio known for its public and sports facilities. The entire design process was carried out in cooperation with the City Conservator of Monuments, which guarantees that modern architecture will fit harmoniously into the historic surroundings of the seaside part of Gdynia.
Significance for sailing in Poland
Statements from key representatives of the investment’s partners emphasise the importance of Nova Marina to the Polish sailing community. Jarosław Zagórski, managing director of Ghelamco Poland, points out that the investment is expected to be ready to host the World Sailing Championships in 2027 – an event comparable to the Olympic Games in terms of prestige. Dr Tomasz Chamera, former president of the Polish Sailing Association, emphasises that thanks to this investment, Gdynia is strengthening its position as the undisputed capital of Polish sailing, which will affect not only the sporting infrastructure, but also economic development and sailing education.
The Polish Sailing Association, founded on 11 May 1924 in Tczew, has been promoting sailing and nurturing the development of the sport for decades. The history of the Polish Sailing Association is a story of passion, tradition and commitment to shaping Polish sailing culture. The investment of Nova Marina Gdynia is another step in strengthening this heritage, opening up new opportunities for competitors and sailing enthusiasts.
Nova Marina Gdynia is part of a long-term vision to create a space that not only meets the needs of modern sailors, but also refers to traditions that are forever associated with the coastal history of Gdynia. It is a project that will certainly contribute to the further development of sport, culture and tourism, while at the same time strengthening the city’s position on the international arena.
By combining a precisely thought-out architectural concept with a partnership between the public and private sectors, the Nova Marina Gdynia promises to become the new centre of Polish sailing. We look forward to the next stages of this ambitious project, which is already inspiring and mobilising the water sports community. Will Nova Marina become a catalyst for the further development of sailing in Poland? We will soon find out the answer to this question by watching the next steps of this fascinating investment
source: press materials
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