Southwest of Athens, Greece, the Saronic Gulf islands in the Aegean Sea are steeped in ancient history and among the world’s most beautiful yachting destinations. Marina Porto Heli was designed to be thoroughly modern and innovative, including the use of a 984-foot, floating concrete dock system from SF Marina.
Two hurdles had to be overcome by the marine construction firm overseeing the project, ΤΟΜI S.A. Floating Pontoon Department, part of Ellaktor Group—the shallow water near the west and east walkways and the extensive utility ductwork needed within the docks to service yachts up to 180 feet.
The depth issue was easily overcome with SF Marina’s expansive selection of floating concrete pontoons. The dock layout consists of two arms. Both begin in the shallow areas with SF Marina type SF1240 pontoons. With a height of only 3.9 feet and a freeboard of less than two feet, they provide ample space beneath the docks for secure mooring. After angling inwards, SF 400 pontoons are used. On the east side, the arm continues with SF1260 pontoons and SF1240 models used for storage. Each of the two arrays has a pair of interior docks comprised of SF STD 2,4 units.
Engineered for commercial use, SF Marina floating docks provide unprecedented stability—enough to drive golf carts on—and superior strength. Virtually unsinkable, the pontoons are moored using chains and blocks, so no visually-distracting piles are seen.
The greater challenge was the extensive network of 30 utility ducts. SF Marina engineers designed large EM boxes 6.5-feet wide by 3.2-feet long and a unique channel at the ends of each pontoon with the ability to cross the network around the center connectors. Currently, the ductwork system contains 16A–125A electrical, potable water and communication cables, as well as black water pump-out, with plans being finalized to include fuel service.
“Once our interior marine department offloaded the pontoon sections with a floating crane, they were easy to install,” said Nikolas Aslanidis, TOMI S.A. manager of the floating pontoon department. “The marina owner is very satisfied with the results and we are already in discussion on a second nearby project at Ermioni Port.”
Built within a naturally-sheltered bay, Marina Porto Heli can accommodate up to 149 vessels. Catering to an upscale yachting audience, its services include maritime pilots, dock transport via electric vehicles, 24/7 CCTV security and a full array of rental equipment. Stunning views of the picturesque Greek landscape greet visitors, with restaurants, hotels and world-class beaches a short walk away. Marina Porto Heli’s website is www.marinaportoheli.gr. Göteborg, Sweden-based SF Marina designs and builds floating breakwaters and concrete dock pontoons, and related marine structures. With a large international network of offices and manufacturing sites, it can ship anywhere in the world and has completed recreational and commercial projects around the globe.
