The nautical industry in Sardinia in 2024: a strategic driver for regional economic development

The boating supply chain continues to be one of the most significant sectors for Sardinia’s economy, with results highlighting growth, employment, and a strong capacity to attract international interest. The most recent data show that the sector represents a strategic component of the island’s productive and tourism development.

In 2022, the regional boating supply chain generated revenues of approximately €403 million, with over 2,200 direct employees and nearly 1,900 businesses involved across shipbuilding, maintenance, nautical tourism, and trade. In terms of economic size, the sector ranks among the leading productive industries in Sardinia.

Particularly noteworthy is the presence of shipbuilding activities in the island’s main production areas, such as Olbia, Arbatax, Cagliari, Porto Torres, and Portovesme. The construction and refit segment represents one of the most specialized areas, with dozens of active companies and hundreds of employees. At the same time, the growth of maintenance and storage services highlights the region’s ability to attract and manage high-end vessels, strengthening Sardinia’s international reputation as a technical and logistical hub for recreational boating.

A central role is played by the Olbia production district, where boating represents the leading economic sector in terms of number of businesses. The contribution of nautical tourism is also significant, generating important employment and economic impacts. Gallura confirms its strategic importance, concentrating nearly half of Sardinia’s berths and the majority of moorings dedicated to superyachts, with substantial effects on the local economy.

The sector also develops in close connection with the island’s environmental heritage, characterized by the presence of numerous marine protected areas that contribute to the sustainable enhancement of the territory.