D-Marin to spotlight smart tech & sustainability at 2025 global marinas conference
Marina operator D-Marin has outlined its strategic priorities ahead of its participation in the 2025 ICOMIA World Marinas Conference (IWMC), placing sustainability, digitalisation, and workforce transformation at the heart of its agenda.
As platinum partner of the event, taking place 15–17 October 2025 at Venezia Certosa Marina in Venice, D-Marin will lead multiple sessions on the changing landscape of marina management. Topics will include smart marina technology, accreditation, health and safety, and attracting the next generation of marina professionals. The company recently launched a new brand campaign at Cannes Yachting Festival with the slogan: feels like yachting should feel.
“We are delighted to continue our support and sponsorship of the ICOMIA World Marinas Conference,” says Oliver Dörschuck, chief executive officer at D-Marin. “The conference consistently champions sustainable growth and innovation, and we are honoured to be sharing our vision and best practices at this year’s event.”
Dörschuck will present on the future of the marine industry, with a focus on opportunities and challenges in the Mediterranean and Gulf regions — both key areas in D-Marin’s network.
Earlier this year, MIN sat down with Dörschuck to discuss his expansion strategy and why France is proving key for the company at the moment. Read the interview.
Dean Smith, chief commercial officer, will offer a practical perspective on marina accreditation and its value to operators and customers, while chief people officer Christina Samoulada will discuss the importance of adaptability in building and retaining a high-quality workforce.
A key part of the 2025 ICOMIA World Marinas Conference programme will be the role of digital tools in enhancing operations for smart marinas.
Matthias Gehring, chief digital officer, is set to explore how technologies such as IoT, AI and smart platforms are being deployed across D-Marin marinas to streamline management and improve customer experience.
Andrea DeSantis, chief operating officer, will contribute to a panel on risk management, sharing the company’s operational strategies to reduce fire hazards and other marina-specific risks.
Rounding out the programme, Can Akaltan, regional director for Türkiye, will lead a discussion on how to create memorable experiences for marina visitors through service design and operational detail.
D-Marin is returning to the IWMC for a second consecutive year. The event brings together marina professionals from around the world to explore trends, share best practices and shape the future of marina operations.
In a recent ICOMIA podcast with Roberto Perocchio (president of Assomarinas) and Alberto Sonino (founder of Vento di Venezia), it was revealed that conference conversations are expected on topics such as the fact that marinas are not just docking points; they are vital infrastructure supporting everything from tourism and economic development to environmental management.
Discussions are likely to highlight the growing need for adaptable marina designs, advanced refitting services, and dry stack storage solutions to meet the diverse needs of everything from small boats to superyachts.
A core focus will be on sustainable maritime practices, with panels addressing topics like alternative energy, AI integration, water management, and coastal resilience in the face of climate change. Venice – as a UNESCO site — provides real-world context for innovation and environmental adaptation.
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