From October 15 to 17, Venice hosted the ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2025, an international gathering focused on the future of boating and port infrastructure.
The 2025 edition was included in the side events program of VSF's Sustainability Biennale 2025.
Organized biennially by ICOMIA (International Council of Marine Industry Associations), the event brought together experts, operators, institutional representatives, and international investors to foster dialogue on innovation, sustainability, and responsible management of coastal and marine areas.
The conference offered an opportunity to examine the sector's global evolution and long-term strategic visions through a three-day program: the first day was dedicated to plenary sessions, the second to a technical tour of local marinas, and the third concluded with further in-depth panel discussions.
Project Manager Damiano De Marchi represented VSF during the opening session and highlighted the importance of building new coastal development models that combine environmental protection with economic vitality. From this perspective, coastal territories are called upon to reflect on how to integrate growth and environmental preservation with the quality of life of local communities. Venice itself fits into this debate, which concerns the relationship between port, lagoon, and sea, as well as the medium- to long-term transformations expected in connection with climate change and adaptation strategies.
