The company Blue Point Yachting is one of the pioneering and leading companies in the yachting sector, with a trajectory of over 20 years and rapid growth in recent years, both in Cyprus and abroad. It specializes in sales, repairs, maintenance, and management of yachts, with offices in Limassol, Larnaca, Ayia Napa, and Lebanon, representing some of the most renowned shipyards, such as Azimut, Benetti Group, Sea Ray Boats, and Elan Sailing Boats.
Since the end of 2024, they have been the exclusive representatives of Azimut Yachts throughout Greece, through the newly established company AZ YACHTING HELLAS A.E., which is headquartered in Athens with offices at 83 Poseidonos Avenue in Alimos.
Additionally, through Blue Point Yachting, the company Yacht Shore was created, through which sea enthusiasts have the opportunity to access yacht charters, yacht management, and crew recruitment.
The CEO of the company, Mr. Marios Iordanous, is considered one of the first professionals in the yachting sector in Cyprus and abroad, as his professional involvement in the field of recreational yachts spans more than thirty-one years.
1. Mr. Iordanous, when did you start your involvement with the yachting sector, and how did it come about, considering that in the past, the infrastructure for recreational yachts in Cyprus was minimal?
From a very young age, I loved the sea and boats. So, at the age of 21, what was once a hobby became my profession. Today, I consider myself lucky that my passion became my job.
2. Your company has offices in Lebanon, a large market that experienced significant growth in the past. What is the current state of the yachting market in Lebanon? Are there opportunities for Cyprus to attract yachts from Lebanon? What challenges does the yacht market face in this region?
The Lebanese market, where we have been active for 18 years, is a unique and challenging one. However, despite the significant challenges Lebanon faces due to the prolonged economic crisis, political instability, and geopolitical tensions, there has always been a client base, mainly consisting of Lebanese expatriates who visit Lebanon and keep their yachts there.
Cyprus, as a neighboring country with developed maritime infrastructure, has the potential to attract yacht owners from Lebanon. Our modern marinas and maintenance and mooring services make Cyprus an attractive destination for Lebanese yacht owners. However, we find that the Lebanese market is currently stagnant, though we hope that with recent developments, it will soon recover.
3. How do you see the yacht market in Cyprus? In recent years, with the creation and operation of the two marinas in Limassol and Ayia Napa, we have observed a boom in the sector. Do you think further growth will follow?
The yacht market in Cyprus has experienced significant growth in recent years, with the marinas in Limassol and Ayia Napa playing a decisive role in this development, significantly contributing to the strengthening of the yachting sector and supporting industry professionals.
However, regarding large yachts over 25 meters, the situation has been affected by the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, creating serious problems for the market and mooring options. On the other hand, in the smaller yacht sector, the new marina in Protaras is expected to provide a significant boost, facilitating the growth of the small to mid-sized yacht category.
4. Where do you think Cyprus falls short as a yachting destination compared to neighboring countries? In your opinion, what should be improved in our country to make it an attractive destination for recreational yachts?
As mentioned, the marinas have helped significantly, particularly for large yachts that wish to moor for the winter and prepare for the new season. However, you understand that large yachts usually leave during the summer for larger markets.
The size of our island and the ongoing issue with Turkey unfortunately do not allow for extensive yachting along Cyprus' free coasts. Imagine if we could travel by yacht to Varosha, Kyrenia, and the entire northern occupied side of our island.
Given the current situation, Cyprus lacks services that could be utilized to its advantage. To attract the yachting community, we could offer tax-free fuel to passing yachts, as well as organized services in protected bays, allowing yachts to moor and stay overnight safely—similar to what is already happening in neighboring countries. At the same time, strict controls must be implemented to ensure environmental protection.
5. Greece, after the financial crisis, has managed to regain rapid growth in the yachting sector. Do you think the development of yachting in Greece has a positive or negative impact on our country? Which countries do you consider to be experiencing the most growth in the maritime and yacht sectors?
Greece has grown tremendously, especially in the charter yacht sector, making it one of the most famous and popular destinations with great success. Naturally, this growth positively affects Cyprus.
I believe that the countries with the most development in the maritime and yachting sector are France as the most popular destination, followed by Greece, Italy, Croatia, and Turkey.
6. The evolution of yachts in recent years has been rapid, both in terms of technology and aesthetics and innovation. As a representative of some of the most well-known shipyards, what can yacht enthusiasts expect in the coming years?
We truly see shipyards every year striving to outdo each other, leading to new design ideas and innovations, especially in fuel consumption and environmental impact.
For example, the new series from Azimut Yachts, the Seadeck models, are now available in a Hybrid Version and are built with eco-friendly materials. A prime example is the complete replacement of traditional teak decking with cork, a sustainable material that can be harvested without damaging the tree and regenerates over time. Other advancements include a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions, reduced engine noise and vibrations for completely silent operation when running on battery power, and much more.
7. Especially after the COVID-19 period, we have noticed an increase in the superyacht sector. Do you think this was a coincidence, or is there still growing demand for superyachts?
Indeed, there was an increase in this category, as well as in smaller yachts, with rising demand. This phenomenon was expected, as we knew it would be temporary and that, sooner or later, sales would return to normal levels. Today, the market has returned to its usual pace.
8. What are the main requirements and expectations of customers purchasing superyachts?
Many, and rightfully so! The primary concerns are the interior and the onboard comforts. Additionally, the crew plays a significant role for owners, and in this sector, demand has increased significantly in recent years. Unfortunately, Cyprus still lags behind in this area.
9. With your partners, you have achieved several professional milestones, are considered one of the market leaders, and have won significant awards such as the Best Brand Identity Ambassador Award in 2024 from Azimut, the Commitment Award in 2023 from Sea Ray, as well as recognition for after-sales support and sales performance from Azimut. What do you attribute your company’s success to?
This is primarily due to the entire BPY team, whether in sales or, most importantly, after-sales service, for which I am proud of our achievements. I would like to especially thank our external partners, who are always willing and available to assist us at any time, as well as the entire BPY team, which works tirelessly to provide the best service to our clients.
10. What are Blue Point Yachting’s strategic goals for the next five years?
We are promoting the new generation in all areas so that BPY can continue successfully with fresh ideas while maintaining our momentum and achievements. Over the past seven years, new faces have joined our sales and after-sales teams.
Our goal now, with the team we have established in Greece, is to increase sales and enhance service for both existing yacht owners and new clients.
