El Puerto de Santa María, 25 January 2024 – Puerto Sherry is recognised as one of the most complete and best equipped marinas in southern Europe, but beyond its unquestionable qualities for the practice of nautical activities and as a base port, it plays a crucial role as an economic engine and generator of employment for El Puerto de Santa María, the province of Cádiz and Andalusia.

In recent years, Puerto Sherry has broken historical records in terms of investment in the improvement of its facilities, which has resulted in the provision of more services and a greater influx of visitors. The figures of the exhaustive assessment carried out by its management team and the outlines of its future plans, with sustainability as an obsession, were presented this lunchtime at the International Tourism Fair FITUR 2024.

The figures speak for themselves

The data on the economic and social impact are eloquent. In 2023 Puerto Sherry had a turnover of more than 9 million euros, with a gross operating profit of 3 million, generating an economic activity of more than 30 million, thanks to the more than 50 companies established in Puerto Sherry. These figures confirm a trend of constant growth, reaching records in recent years in terms of business, volume of clients and number of visitors.

Generator of employment in one of the Andalusian provinces with the highest unemployment rate.

Its contribution to job creation is notable and manifest, with more than 70 direct jobs and more than 250 indirect jobs within the marina, in addition to more than 800 indirect jobs in total. In addition, the number of permanent contracts within the marina staff has increased by more than 80%.

Promotes the circular economy

Puerto Sherry stands out as an economic benchmark by maintaining relationships with local suppliers, with more than 60% located within a radius of less than 100 kilometres. This decision not only contributes to the protection of the environment, but also boosts the circular economy at a local level.

Top tourist destination

Its attraction as a tourist destination is reflected in the fact that it receives more than 30,000 visitors a year from 40 different countries. With 300 hotel beds, it represents 11% of those existing in El Puerto de Santa María and contributes 24% of the overnight stays in the municipality.

Its strategic location and the favourable climate are two fundamental attractions, in addition to an excellent and diverse sporting offer. After the latest improvements carried out, Puerto Sherry offers 900 moorings, equivalent to 45% of all existing moorings in the Bay of Cadiz, with 800 boats at anchor at present.

In terms of training and competition, the yacht club trains more than 2,500 students at the sailing school, and supports 50 top-level sailors, some of them with Olympic projection, as is the case of the young Pilar Lamadrid, world number two in the Olympic discipline of windsurfing, the iQFoil class. On the other hand, the organisational capacity of Puerto Sherry has been demonstrated in recent seasons, with an ambitious calendar of national and international regattas.

Committed to the environment

Known for its economic and social contribution to the province, another of Puerto Sherry’s obsessions in this new phase is to become the most sustainable port in Andalusia. It is working to grow on the basis of sustainable development, with efficient and responsible management of natural resources to guarantee ecological balance. Through responsible practices in promotion and tourism, it aspires to be an example of commitment to the conservation of the marine environment.

To achieve this, it has implemented measures such as reducing its environmental footprint through innovative and advanced technologies to minimise emissions and maximise energy efficiency. Among the challenges for 2024 are the proliferation of marine life and the implementation of the “plastic free” seal for customers and suppliers. It is also working to obtain official certificates that endorse the work carried out, such as the Blue Flag obtained last May.

“As can be seen, the study confirms our significant contribution to the local and regional economy. It reveals that our strategy of sustainable development and employment generation has been a success, with a proven direct socio-economic impact.”

Although the figures are what they are, this goes beyond numbers; it is a reflection of our connection to the community and our commitment to the environment. We will continue to promote sustained growth and foster a strong local economy, always with a humane and environmentally conscious approach,” says Puerto Sherry CEO Nicolás Figueras.