KwaZulu-Natal’s blue economy prospects continue to improve with news of a planned new world-class marina on the KwaZulu-Natal coast.
The marina forms part of a planned extension of the Zimbali development led by international hospitality group IFA Hotels & Resorts.
IFA shared details of the R20 billion new development phase, which also comprises a new country estate. It will be situated adjacent to its Zimbali Lakes Resort north of Durban, the company announced on its website.
“The Zimbali Marina is envisioned as a world-class waterside destination aligned with national marine-economic objectives,” the statement says. “The concept imagines a vibrant marina precinct that could integrate leisure, tourism, hospitality, fishing, and commercial activity — positioning the North Coast as a globally competitive coastal destination.”
“A key element of the vision includes a proposed breakwater structure that could transform an unsafe stretch of coastline into a swimmable, family-friendly shoreline, enhancing coastal safety, tourism appeal, and ecological resilience.”
“Importantly, this is a long-term vision, with environmental stewardship placed at its core. International experience shows that well-managed marinas can enhance ecosystems through improved water quality, habitat restoration, and shoreline protection — outcomes that Zimbali Vision 2030 seeks to imagine responsibly,” the statement says.
This is the second major blue economy bonanza within the space of a year, following last year’s news of the small craft harbour project in Port Shepstone – now official and confirmed by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.