The marina of Horta (Azores islands) – Impacts on the local population and in the tourism development

Abstract

Horta was the first city o f Azores Islands (Portugal) to have a marina, in 1986. The passage of many foreigners and strong connections with the sea are parts of its history. All that justified the construction of this infrastructure. Across the time it is possible to verify that yachts from all over the world brought to this city more than the expected tourism economic impact. In fact, the existence of the marina created and developed a nautical culture in local population, as well as a strong symbolic relationship with the sea, which can be seen at Peter Café Sport and other nautical and social services. That fact makes this structure to be on top, as the most important structure of the city and a brand of this island, as seen in a survey conducted among the local population. As written by a local author, Fraga (1996) “The marina of Horta is one street of the city”, which means that Horta and the marina are seen as just one element. What makes this to happen? The Faial Island has a population of 15038 (2011) inhabitants. Despite that, each year, in one August week there is the “Sea Week” - a nautical festival with competitions, music concerts and other cultural activities. This nautical festival is considered the biggest in Portugal. The Marina of Horta is a reference of best practices and annually is the stage for international yacht sails races partially promoted by the local naval club, one of the most dynamic of the country.