New Leadership for the Maritime Sector and Its Growth in Alicante
Jordi Carrasco, who previously managed Real Club Náutico de Calp, has been named managing director of the National Association of Shipping Companies (ANEN). The appointment signals strong confidence in the province’s potential to expand its maritime economy and improve the sector’s national standing.
In contrast to many industries that slowed during difficult times, the shipping sector enjoyed a notable upswing that aligned with the pandemic period. The activity attracted many enthusiasts to water sports, which are outdoor and low in direct contact, resulting in a surge of boat registrations. While challenges such as economic volatility, supply disruptions, and rising costs remain, the current priority is to consolidate this growth. Optimism remains high because the industry has demonstrated resilience amid recent pressures.
What position does the province of Alicante aspire to hold within the industry?
Alicante is well positioned to lead the national maritime sector. The Balearic Islands maintain a lead due to their archipelagic geography and extensive coastline, but Alicante benefits from top-tier facilities, robust company networks, and exceptionally favorable waters for navigational training. During peak season, moorings fill up almost entirely, and the focus is on sustaining growth beyond peak periods, leveraging foreign tourism to de-seasonalize activity.
Is there room to grow even with saturated anchorages in summer?
Yes, expansion is feasible, though it presents challenges. Plans include restructuring ports to enlarge the water surface and permitting dry marinas. Ongoing positive relations with the administration, along with an enabling Coastal Law, open doors to new concessions that support capacity increases and improved access for vessels and sailors.
What role can maritime activities play in the provincial economy?
Maritime tourism already contributes significantly by spreading tourism demand beyond the high season and adding value to local experiences. Beaches attract spectators, but visitors seek more diverse activities, and sailing is steadily gaining traction as a preferred pastime for holidays. This evolving demand helps diversify revenue streams for coastal communities and related services.
Yet there is a perception that maritime tourism is a privilege reserved for a few. In reality, affordable options exist across the range, from compact boats to larger crafts, making sailing accessible to a broader audience and supporting a vibrant, inclusive boating culture.
How are relations with the administration shaping the sector?
Regulatory hurdles still affect competitiveness. One notable issue is the registration tax that applies in Spain and the broader European context, effectively a double burden when VAT is included. The sector is actively exploring policy solutions to reduce tax imposts and pursue compensation mechanisms that sustain public revenue while enabling continued contributions to local economies. These discussions reflect a collaborative approach between industry stakeholders and government bodies to sustain growth and ensure responsible stewardship of coastal resources.
Overall, the Alicante maritime scene stands at a crossroads with a clear path forward. The combination of strong infrastructure, favorable waters, and a growing demand for sailing and related activities creates a compelling case for continued investment. With strategic development, coordinated policy support, and careful expansion, the province can enhance its role as a national hub for nautical tourism and marine commerce, while delivering broader economic benefits to communities along the coast.