04 Jun Puerto Sherry, a Driving Force in Nautical Tourism in Andalusia
Puerto Sherry highlights its strategic role at the ‘Tourism and Future’ Forum
El Puerto de Santa María, June 4, 2025 – Puerto Sherry recently hosted and participated in the ‘Tourism and Future’ Forum, organized by the Andalusian People’s Party, where it reaffirmed its key role in consolidating the province of Cádiz as a year-round destination for nautical, sports and sustainable tourism.
A benchmark in employment and mooring capacity
During the forum, it was emphasized that Puerto Sherry accounts for 7.35% of total employment in the Andalusian nautical sector, with 386 direct and indirect jobs linked to its activity (marina, hotel, suites, and tenant businesses).
In addition, the port manages 846 moorings, representing 9% of the Marinas de Andalucía network and 3.65% of the total in the autonomous community, strengthening its position as one of Southern Europe’s most significant marinas.
Year-round tourism without seasonality
Puerto Sherry showcased its successful strategy for combating seasonality, maintaining operations throughout the entire year thanks to its privileged location, favorable climate in the Bay of Cádiz, and continuous operating capacity.
Its presence at major international fairs, such as Boot Düsseldorf in Germany and the Nautical Salon in La Rochelle, France, also reinforces its visibility as a premium nautical destination in Europe.
A commitment to the blue economy and sustainability
Puerto Sherry’s commitment to the blue economy and sustainable tourism was another highlight. The port actively promotes initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and encouraging responsible practices, positioning it as an attractive choice for the most environmentally conscious international visitors.
This approach aligns with the global tourism promotion strategy spearheaded by the Andalusian Regional Government and the private sector.
A venue for major sporting events
Puerto Sherry has proven its ability to host high-level sporting events, including international regattas, nautical weeks, and multi-sport activities. These events have a positive economic impact on local employment, commerce, and the municipality’s tourism image.
Structural challenges: urban connection, mobility, and public support
Despite its strong performance, Puerto Sherry also highlighted several structural challenges that limit its growth potential:
- Lack of direct urban connection to downtown El Puerto de Santa María
- Absence of public transport services
- Deteriorated access roads and public infrastructure
- Limited public investment in sustainable infrastructure, such as EV charging stations or green mobility plans
The port also called for greater institutional involvement to professionalize the sector and create integrated tourist routes that combine the marina with the local heritage, gastronomy, and natural surroundings.
A strategic partner for Andalusian tourism
The data presented at the forum underscores the importance of the nautical sector in Andalusia’s economy:
- Over €842 million generated
- 5,250 jobs created
- Nearly 300,000 users per year
Within this ecosystem, Puerto Sherry is positioned as one of the most economically and socially relevant marinas in Southern Europe, with room to grow in both visitor numbers and international visibility.
A clear commitment to the future
Puerto Sherry reaffirms its dedication to:
- Sustainable tourism development
- Local job creation
- Promoting Andalusia as a nautical destination all year round
And offers itself as a strategic ally for shaping a modern, structured, and forward-thinking tourism policy.
