The Potima Marina (Kissonerga) is one of the most ambitious and significant infrastructure projects planned for Paphos. The project plan, which was announced for tender in September 2025, envisions the development of a modern, high-standard marina with berths for 1,000 yachts, state-of-the-art port and landside facilities, and commercial and residential properties . The goal is to transform Paphos into a leading destination for marine and water tourism.
Among the investment groups bidding for the project is the Cusano consortium. Mare LTD . While awaiting the final decision of the tender committee, the group’s management presented its approach and vision for the project. Antigoni Mita (the consortium’s Managing Director) and Loukas Charalambous (the project consultant) outlined the investment and strategic aspects of this initiative, which could change the map of Paphos.
Contents
- 1 Why is the yacht marina project being implemented now?
- 2 Composition and strength of the Cusano consortium Mare
- 3 Strategic importance for the region
- 4 Impact on the local community and economy
- 5 The residential real estate market and “affordable luxury”
- 6 Lessons from the past and guarantees of success
Why is the yacht marina project being implemented now?
When asked why the project is finally moving forward after years of discussion, Antigone Mita notes that large infrastructure projects in Cyprus often “acquire history first, and only then do the construction cranes appear.” However, the situation has changed: the project is supported by a clear concession structure, strong political will, and a mature investment base. The application deadline was February 9, 2026, and the presence of genuine interest from major players confirms the momentum of the project.
Cusano’s side The Mare marina is viewed not just as an idea on paper, but as a fully researched, technically designed, and financially feasible project. Mita emphasizes that when international experience and financial stability are combined with local knowledge, theory is transformed into concrete work schedules.
Composition and strength of the Cusano consortium Mare
Cusano Mare is an international consortium created specifically for the Paphos Marina concession. It brings together European and global investors with local market leaders:
- Technical Expertise: The Consortium partners with elite organizations with experience in marina construction in Israel and Europe. This ensures technical safety and flawless execution of marina works.
- Construction: Aristo Developers Group complements the team as one of the strongest players in the Cyprus market. Their experience in land development and high-quality residential real estate in the Paphos region is a key asset.
- Engineering solutions: MITAS The Group brings many years of experience in electromechanical and energy systems, ensuring reliability at all stages of implementation.
- Financial base: The economic structure of the consortium is based on organizations from Italy and Dubai working in the fields of education (for example, the Universit à degli Studi Niccol ò Cusano in Rome), health and real estate. ALP Emirates The Group adds industrial strength by specializing in advanced air quality technologies and environmental engineering systems.
Strategic importance for the region
Paphos’s geography makes it an ideal location—it’s the first port of call for ships entering Cyprus’s waters from the west. Its proximity to Coral Bay, the airport, UNESCO sites, and the Akamas Nature Reserve makes the marina a true gateway to the sea.
Marinas are more than just boat stops; they’re hubs of economic activity. A project of this scale will modernize the entire area , repositioning Paphos on the Mediterranean tourist map.
Impact on the local community and economy
Loukas Charalambous argues that a project that doesn’t benefit society cannot be considered viable. The Paphos marina will create hundreds of direct and indirect jobs and ensure long-term demand for local services. It’s important to emphasize that this is not a “gated project”, but an integrated part of the urban environment, functioning together with the city.
For the state, this is a ” Build – Operate – Transfer ” model, implemented without burdening the budget. Investments are entirely private, guaranteeing the state long-term income from the concession and modern infrastructure at zero public expense.
The residential real estate market and “affordable luxury”
There are concerns that such large-scale projects could lead to rising prices and displacing local residents. However, Charalambous explains that high-quality projects expand the market rather than oversaturate it. The marina creates a new wave of demand, including international demand, which brings income and new opportunities to the area .
The concept of the project is based on the principle of “affordable luxury ” Luxury ). In Europe, the market is moving away from excess and toward functional quality. This means high service standards and a premium experience without creating a sense of isolation or exclusivity.
Lessons from the past and guarantees of success
Recalling the difficulties of similar projects in other cities (for example, Larnaca), the consortium’s leadership notes that skepticism is useful. Projects fail when risks are underestimated or responsibilities are unclear. At Cusano From day one, Mare has focused on eliminating any gaps – financial, technical or operational.
“No serious investor can guarantee perfection, but we guarantee discipline, preparation, and accountability,” concludes Antigoni Mita. The marina project is intended to become a symbol of responsibility and sustainability for all of Paphos for decades to come.
