Puerto Banus could be heading for a major ownership shake-up as talks begin over bringing in new investors.

The Vidiella family, which owns the marina, has hired EY to carry out a financial review exploring the potential entry of new partners into the company that runs the port’s long-term concession.

According to Expansion, the process is being handled discreetly and remains at an early stage, with only a small group of infrastructure-focused investors involved so far.

A prized Mediterranean asset

At stake is one of the most recognisable assets on the Mediterranean, filled with designer stores, restaurants and nightlife venues.

One of the options under consideration is the entry of a financial partner capable of funding future growth, potentially even taking a majority stake, although no final structure has been agreed.

The deal could be structured through a mix of share sales and a capital increase, aimed at giving the group the firepower to expand beyond Marbella.

According to reports, the long-term ambition is to grow the Puerto Banus brand by acquiring and operating other marinas.

Part of a wider global trend

The potential move comes amid a surge in investor appetite for premium marina assets.

Expansion points to consolidation strategies by major players such as Blackstone – via its Safe Harbor platform – and the ongoing sale of marina operator D-Marin.

Meanwhile, Forbes frames the process as the start of a new strategic phase for Puerto Banus, at a time when international demand for stable, high-end tourism assets is booming.

Marinas are increasingly seen as attractive investments thanks to limited berth supply, rising superyacht traffic and diversified revenue streams.

A €20m-a-year business

According to Expansion, the business generates around €20 million in profits annually, with an estimated EBITDA of €10 million, across multiple income streams – including moorings, real estate, parking, hospitality, events and sponsorships.

It also operates under a valuable long-term concession granted in 1967, which runs until 2066, adding further weight to its appeal for investors.

A family legacy

The marina has been controlled by the Vidiella family since 1983, when Alberto Vidiella Tudores acquired it from his uncle, developer Jose Banús.

Now in the hands of the third generation, the family is understood to be exploring the move not out of necessity, but as a strategic decision in a market flush with liquidity.

Any deal could mark the beginning of a new era for one of Marbella’s most important economic engines and one of the Costa del Sol’s most recognisable global brands.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.