The Wave, Muscat, a $3.5 billion mixed-use residential and commercial project, has awarded the main pontoon contract for its 400 berth marina to Canada-based Technomarine, a leading provider of custom marina systems.

“This world-class Marina promises to be a unique and vibrant centre for on and off water activities in the Gulf region, providing unrivalled facilities for sailing and boating enthusiasts and a first-of-its-kind integrated marina lifestyle in Oman,” said Michael Lenarduzzi, CEO The Wave, Muscat.

“The awarding of the pontoon contract to Technomarine will further boost our efforts to make Almouj Marina one of the region’s leading marinas."

Technomarine will be responsible for delivering The Wave and Mourjan Marinas IGY’s design and vision for the marina, with phase one expected to be completed by the end of 2011 and consisting of 113 berths, a 40-metre fuel dock with high flow diesel pumps, pumpout and yacht provisions, as well as VIP berthing for megayachts.

A specialized dinghy ramp, which provides quick and easy access to the water, will be available for Oman Sail, which utilizes sailing to help revive Oman’s maritime heritage and develop young Omanis.

Matthew Bate, director of Operations at Mourjan Marinas IGY, the appointed marina management company of Almouj Marina at The Wave, Muscat, said: “Almouj Marina is progressing very well and we are pleased to now be working with Technomarine who have brought innovative technology to ports and marinas for over 30 years.”

“This is another important milestone in the development of this exciting marina which will be Oman’s flagship yachting destination and an ideal location for sailing enthusiasts locally and from across the globe. It also adds to Mourjan Marinas IGY’s growing portfolio of world-class marinas in the Middle East.”

Bate added that with construction now getting underway at the marina, interested boaters are being encouraged to enquire about berthing at Almouj Marina to ensure they secure a berth at what will be among the region’s leading marinas.

“It’s very much full steam ahead and we are encouraging interested boaters to start enquiring with us about berthing now rather than later as we are expecting a lot of interest,” he said.

Mourjan Marinas IGY is also in discussions with marine related businesses for the commercial space that will soon become available in and around the marina.

The marina’s development  plan, which will see piling in the marina begin during September this year and installation of the first pontoon starting in November, will exceed and set a new standard for Oman in marina design and hospitality.

Claude Barbeau, Technomarine president and general manager, said: “Technomarine is proud to be the selected contractor for this prestigious marina in Muscat. The opportunity to collaborate with The Wave and Mourjan Marinas IGY presents the challenge of working with some of the highest standards in the industry.”

As part of the waterfront destination, the marina will provide harbour-side views, dining options ranging from al fresco to quaint coffee shops and a retail promenade.

Mourjan Marinas IGY’s management role with The Wave, Muscat, has seen the award-winning company provide every level of support from design through to development support whilst optimizing the marina for operations.

At the completion of the project, Mourjan Marinas IGY will then fully manage and operate the facility and will oversee the regional and global marketing of the facility. – TradeArabia News Service