Luxury marina relaunches to attracts yacht owners wanting to connect with Omani Heritage [20 November 2013 – Dubai, UAE] Zighy Marina, a luxury yacht and boat facility on the Gulf of Oman, is relaunching itself as a nautical attraction for the region's elite. Operators of the heritage development, which was established in 2008, say that it is proving increasingly popular with a new breed of traveller who seeks to enjoy exclusivity and refinement. “We are relaunching Zighy Marina to cater for a rising number of visitors who fit a new profile. They are considered to be in the region's boat-owning elite and as such, want to enjoy high standards, but they also have a social conscience and deep appreciation towards heritage and an intact nature.” said Nour Al Sayyed, Director of Operations at Zighy Marina. “Zighy Marina is becoming increasingly popular with these customers as they can enjoy a comfortable and relaxing sojourn without being to be exposed to the bright lights, glitz, glamour and noise that are often a feature of urban marina life,” she added. Zighy Marina is the only marina located at Musandam, an exclave of Oman separated from the rest of the country by the United Arab Emirates. Situated on Zighy Bay, a 1.6 km stretch of white beach on the Musandam peninsula, it is surrounded by rugged mountains which rise to 2,100 meters above sea level, offering spectacular scenery. The development has berthing accommodation for 45 yachts and features club buildings that reflect the traditional architecture of Oman. Building materials used in the construction of Zighy Marina were sourced from the locality to ensure that the facility blends with the geology of the area, whilst disruption to nearby settlements of traditional Omani fishermen - the original inhabitants of the bay - has been kept to a minimum. As well as ensuring the least amount of disturbance to these communities, Zighy Marina supports their livelihoods by having built a docking platform for the fishermen's boats, which it also maintains. Since its operations began, Zighy Marina has played host to yacht and boat owners attracted by the areas stunning natural beauty and its out-of-the-way discretion. Its exceptional facilities have also been a draw, including, a wave-breaker, navigation lights, a slipway, shore power and a diesel refuelling station. Among the events it caters for is Oman Sail, an annual regatta inaugurated in 2008 to rekindle Oman's maritime heritage. In addition to creating a sailing race from Manama to Muscat, the sailing extravaganza aims to teach young Omanis about the sport and reinstate the maritime eminence the country once had. “Zighy Marina was built with the principle that it would offer tranquility and peace in conjunction with the area's unique geography and heritage. Whilst it perfectly blends in with landscape, its character and exclusivity set it apart from other marinas, making it the ideal destination for yachts owners from around the world who are seeking a luxury experience that allows them to appreciate their region's unique nautical history,” said Al Sayyed. A two hours' drive from Dubai and a 15 minute boat ride from Dibba Port, Musandam, Zighy Marina also comprises of a dive center and a crew relaxing area. Guests at the Marina may also enjoy visiting Six Senses Zighy Bay Resort. About Zighy Marina: Amidst the scenic and rich location of Zighy Bay- Musandam lies Zighy Marina, a sustainable boutique marina built to capture the spirit of indigenous Omani heritage, which respects both the environment and the traditional architecture of Oman. Zighy Marina comprises a dive centre, multiple relaxation areas, fuelling station, berthing spaces and the best view of the Gulf of Oman. A mere two-hour drive from Dubai, it has quickly become one of the top attractions for luxury yacht owners in the region since being established in 2008. Its character and exclusivity sets it apart from its contenders creating the ideal destination.
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