The Marche Cruising and Yachting Association (AMYC), supported by ATIM – Marche Agency for Tourism and Internationalization – has outlined a new future for yachting in the region. At the heart of this strategy is the Ancona Port Master Plan, which will solidify the Marche’s position as a key part of the Mediterranean luxury maritime economy.
The scheme includes new space for boatbuilders, redevelopment of existing facilities, and yacht berths with drafts of up to eight metres. These developments will allow the area to accommodate larger boats and receive high-end visitors. As AMYC general manager Alfonso Postorino pointed out in Cannes Yachting Festival, “More superyachts are built in the Marche than in the combined total of the Netherlands, Germany, and Turkey”. It’s time we also offer them the berths and facilities they deserve to come back here.”
Beyond its growing shipyard facilities, Ancona is poised to enhance its infrastructure. As Alberto Galassi, CEO of Ferretti Group, highlights, the city now has the opportunity to strengthen its high-speed rail links, expand international flight connections, and open itself further to a global audience of owners, brokers, and crews. With these developments, Ancona is set to stand alongside the great Mediterranean hubs, fully connected to the markets it proudly serves.
In the words of Marina Santucci, director at ATIM, yachting is a solid link between tourism, craftsmanship, and worldwide development. “The Marche is an area of manufacturing excellence,” she said, “but up until now, the yachting sector has not been sufficiently valued. We are determined to associate the Marche brand with luxury yachting and attract high-spending tourists. Luxury isn’t exclusivity — it creates jobs and stimulates local growth.”
Ancona is already notable for having notable shipyards like Ferretti Group, ISA Yachts, Cantiere delle Marche, and Cantiere Rossini. In 2025, Ferretti also brought its new Superyacht Yard headquarters to the city, further cementing Ancona’s place in world yacht building. The announcement by ISA Yachts of a new 100-metre megayacht further establishes the city’s growing reputation.
There are still challenges to be overcome, not least the need for more waterfront space and better infrastructure. “New spaces by the sea are becoming essential, and this is the perfect moment to create them.” said Giuseppe Palumbo, CEO of ISA Yachts. The amended master plan with its designated yachting district addresses this need and guarantees the retention of employment and skills in the region.
Infrastructure development of transport connections and accessibility is also in focus. As Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi explained, “Ancona’s main asset is its craftsmanship and innovation. With a more modern infrastructure, it can rival established Mediterranean destinations with ease.”
Parallel to this, Ancona’s shipyards are making the transition to sustainability and innovation, investing in green propulsion systems, new materials, and smart technologies that define the future of yacht construction. With books full of orders up to 2030, the region is proving its ability to balance tradition, quality, and visionary mindset.
The vision is clear and full of promise. With strong coordination between shipyards, institutions, and the Port Authority, Ancona is ready to move beyond its regional role and emerge as a true benchmark for the global luxury yachting industry.
The city already holds the expertise, the heritage, and the momentum. What lies ahead is the opportunity to expand its spaces, enhance its infrastructure, and accelerate its growth — essential steps to match its ambition.
Once achieved, Ancona’s luxury yachting district will not only reinforce Italy’s leadership in the Mediterranean but also stand as a proud pillar of Europe’s blue economy.
Source: https://marineindustrynews.co.uk/the-marche-region-presents-ancona-port-update-and-future-plans/