Construction of the Kobe Marina project in Japan is set to kick off in April. The Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association (APSA) reported that a consortium named Superyacht Base Kobe has been granted the development rights for this new project.

Source of news IBI News

The consortium is made up of seven key investors, including Glion Group, Plan Do Sea, Horizon Yachts, Setouchi Brand Corporation, Creation Co Ltd, SYL Monaco, and SYL Japan.

The marina construction is scheduled to start in April, with yacht services becoming available in 2026 and the full infrastructure being completed by 2027. This project is part of the rejuvenation of Kobe's harbor and waterfront areas, located near the Glion Arena Kobe sports complex.

The marina itself will boast 1.4km of superyacht quays capable of accommodating vessels of all sizes, featuring two 350m quays and three 100m quays.

Additionally, a new breakwater will offer over 200m of dockage, while a floating dock will provide 300m for yachts under 60m. The facility will provide various docking options, including long-term leases, annual, and short-term dockage, with 400V 3-phase 150-amp power pedestals and customizable power setups.

Yukio Shintani, the owner of Creation Marine, expressed his excitement about the project, stating that the marina will rival those in Monaco, France, Italy, and South Florida in terms of facilities and yacht accommodation.

Kobe, situated in central Japan at the entrance to the Inland Sea, is surrounded by approximately 3,000 islands, offering vast cruising possibilities.

Nigel Beatty, the chairman of APSA and owner of SYL Monaco, highlighted the incredible cruising potential in Japan, with an extensive coastline providing numerous undiscovered destinations for yachts.

The Kobe Marina will be in close proximity to luxury boutiques and local amenities in downtown Kobe, offering easy access to three major airports and bullet train connections. The development phase spanning 2026-2027 will include marina offices, boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and the Kobe Yacht Club.

Being the largest superyacht facility in the Asia-Pacific region, the marina aims to host international yacht industry events and serve as a year-round hub for charter and private yachts in Japan.