Inaugurated in 1974, it was the first marina to be built in Portugal, marking the beginning of luxury nautical tourism in the country. Unlike docks adapted from old fishing areas, it was designed from scratch as a sophisticated leisure center. Over the decades, it has undergone several phases of expansion and modernization, becoming the most awarded marina in Portugal and an international reference.
It is the largest marina in the country, with a capacity for around 825 berths. It stands out for its versatility, welcoming everything from small recreational boats to large mega yachts (up to 60 meters in length). It has a generous draft compared to river docks, allowing the entry of vessels with significant drafts, depending on the anchoring area.
In 2026, this international recognition was once again reinforced with the attribution of the “Superyacht Marina of the Year 2026” award, granted by The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) at the Marina of the Year Awards. The distinction, based on customer voting and experience, placed Vilamoura Marina in first place in the category dedicated to superyachts, ahead of some of the most prestigious international marinas. The award confirms the excellence of its infrastructure, services, and standards of care, consolidating Vilamoura as one of the world’s reference destinations for luxury nautical tourism and large vessels.
Current Function: The nerve center of luxury tourism in the Algarve, serving as a base for water sports, boat charters, and international sailing competitions. It is surrounded by a vast commercial area, five-star hotels, a casino, and leisure areas, functioning as an economic and social engine for the region.

