A $2.8 million stage one development has transformed the site.

The marina, with a mix of facilities, services and businesses, has the ability to attract multi-million dollar travelling vessels.

Marina manager Daimon Martin said essentially they had an entirely new marina and specialised marina services precinct able to accommodate world-class yachts and giving local boat owners an improved experience.

“What we are finding is that transient vessels travelling up and down the horizon highway are selecting a destination and Port Macquarie Marina is a destination marina,” he said.

The vessels often stay for two to five days.

“That generates tourism for two to five days here in town,” Mr Martin said.

He said the visitors spent money in town and that had a great spin-off for small business turnover and employment.

The upgrade work involved local and leading national contractors including local architect Derek Collins and leading berth suppliers and installers Bellingham Marine.

Upgrades include new retail areas and office spaces for tenants; new boat berths and pontoons; a new slipway and hardstand area for boat servicing; new balustrades on walkways; new lighting and CCTV cameras; landscaping; and car park re-asphalting and expansion.

The new D Arm can accommodate boats of up to 24 metres, which doubles the maximum berth length of the marina.

The D Arm offers 18 to 20 new berths.

The addition of solar panels and other measures will minimise the marina’s environmental footprint.

The marina facility and precinct, Mr Martin said, were not only for boat owners but for all the community to enjoy.

“Community engagement is very important to us and here in Port Macquarie our community engagement is largely with the clubs,” he said.

That encompasses the outrigger canoe club, Flamin’ Dragons and Port Macquarie Game Fishing Club.

“Our vision is not just about improving facilities for boat owners and attracting visitors, it’s about opening up access to a very unique ocean environment and giving the local community a space they can enjoy,” Mr Martin said.

“The result is a boost to the local economy, confidence for local retailers and a vibrant hub of activity for locals - everyone benefits.”

He said the vision was for the marina to keep evolving.