Future-proof your Business with a
SMART Marina Certification
More than just a certification- it’s a pro-active partnership that helps marine businesses stay up to date with the latest tech & digital practices
“…it’s the ISO 9001 of the maritime world.”
We audit, test, and train marinas on the latest sustainable digital practices in Marketing and AI and their real-world applications in the marine environment.
The end result is a business that’s more appealing to customers, businesses and investors.
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Website functionality and social media content, using AI in the workplace, SEO and local content, user interaction tech, APP presence (Navily etc)
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key cards and access, booking automations, communication, e-bikes and solar charging,
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Recycling, solar powering, water filtration, charging stations
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Dynamic pricing, Concierge service, co-working, wellness facilities, partnerships with local dining, e-scooter rentals, Events & regattas, Partnerships with charter companies & sailing schools.
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GDPR-compliant data handling, Secure online payments, Encrypted WiFi network, Cybersecurity policy in place, Regular data audits, Staff cybersecurity training
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Local cultural partnerships, Marina loyalty programs, Educational workshops, Startup/tech partnerships, Renewable energy integration, Innovation pilot programs
About Us
With 15+ years of hands-on marketing and certification experience and over 30 years cruising the Mediterranean between us, Marina Marketing speaks the language of both business and the sea. Our team understands both the operational challenges of ports and the expectations of modern boaters.
Smart Marina Certification SMCERT was founded with one goal: to set a clear, trusted standard for what makes a marina truly smart in today’s world.
We created the Smart Marina Certification to recognise marinas that go beyond simply filling berths. Certified marinas demonstrate excellence in digital readiness, sustainability, customer experience, and innovation — proving to boaters, partners, and regulators that they are future-ready.
Our role is independent and authoritative. We define the criteria, audit marinas against transparent benchmarks, and award certification levels that reflect their achievements. The result is a program that builds credibility, trust, and visibility across the European maritime sector.
How Does it work?
When we receive your request we will first determine if your business requires an in-person visit or if the audit can be done remotely. If done remotely we will require some time with an employee to help work through some questions about the current digital and tech setup.
We assess the business based on the answers given as well as our own independent observations and provide feedback on areas to improve. This is an in-depth, personalised assessment- we will look at all digital aspects from website design and SEO, to online presence in booking apps like Navily to digital marketing and blog / social content
If your business passes our foundational standard you’ll immediately receive certification- this includes a printed certificate, display materials such as stickers as well as digital badges for online use. All certificates are connected to our secure on-line database and are checkable via unique QR code. If you don’t immediately we will re-test (free of charge) when ready
When partnering with Smart Marina Certifications you’ll also receive regular industry updates and links to the latest software, content ideas, AI prompts for marinas and ports. Our annual subscription includes an initial audit (in-person or remote), feedback and hands-on assistance, all certificates (physical and digital) + 12 months of remote help from our team. (we speak Spanish, Italian and French!)
What our clients say
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![A woman with blonde curls smiling at the camera in a cozy indoor setting.]()
The team were a big help- we checked all certification modules, we had some things to work on and they were super helpful with showing us how we can improve. Recommend!
Natalia, Marina Director, ES
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![Smiling middle-aged man with short gray hair and beard wearing a blue shirt.]()
Best certification we have so far- they are v proactive with the help
Alessio, Port Sales / Web, IT
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![A woman with long brown hair wearing a teal top stands outdoors with a blurred background of trees and a white structure.]()
Just THE BEST, grazie team!! We are so happy with the results!!
Marzia, Marina Manager, IT
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![Close-up of a man with short brown hair and a beard, looking at the camera in an indoor setting.]()
We did some remote assessment and the final part was hands-on- they helped us modernise, they were even teaching team members on how to use AI. Very knowledgable team- thanks Lee
Gonzalo, Port reservations manager, ES
FAQs
Q: What is Smart Marina Certification (SMCERT)?
A: SMCERT is the official EU certification that recognises marinas for excellence in digital readiness, sustainability, security, community engagement, and innovation.
Q: Why should my marina apply for certification?
A: Certification builds trust with boaters, investors, and partners. It shows your marina meets the highest European standards and helps you stand out in a competitive market. We also teach your staff valuable skills like using AI in the workplace, Website SEO, content creation and GDPR. (the fines for improper GDPR are in the €millions)
Q: How does the certification process work?
A: You complete an application, provide supporting documents, and undergo a remote or on-site audit. If you meet the standards, your marina receives official certification valid for the year. If you fail we will coach you on how to pass and provide missing skills / materials / knowledge.
Q: What kind of businesses do you work with?
We provide certificates for marinas, ports, boatyards, dry docks, charters, jet ski rentals, sailing schools, boat shows and other marine businesses.
Q: How much does it cost?
Certification itself doesn’t have to cost your business anything- if you just want the audit-.it’s free. We have an annual plan based on receiving support and training for the digital aspects of the SMART Certification- the fees based on the size of your marina / port. This includes an audit from our team, on-site training and all certification materials and a follow up visit each year.
Q: Is certification recognised internationally?
A: Yes. While SMCERT is an EU-led standard, recognition is growing across the Mediterranean and globally as a mark of modern marina excellence.
Q: What support do you provide to marinas during the process?
A: We offer guidance, checklists, and feedback at every stage. If a marina doesn’t meet criteria, we provide an improvement roadmap and hands-on help before re-evaluation.
Q: How long is certification valid?
A: Certification is valid for one year. Renewal involves a simplified reassessment to confirm standards are maintained.
Q: Can small marinas apply, or is this only for large ports?
A: Any marina can apply. Our framework scales for both boutique and large-scale facilities.