Investment Firm Launches New Marina Fund
The move suggests potential cost shifts for renters as institutional firms increase their focus on waterfront properties.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Commercial
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Investment firm Harrison Street has filed a disclosure for a new fund targeting marina properties. This follows a broader industry trend of institutional investors acquiring waterfront assets due to rising demand and consistent rent growth.
Why it matters
Rising rents and high occupancy rates are drawing institutional interest to marinas, potentially reshaping development and access at local waterfront sites. Investors are increasingly favoring marinas as reliable assets amid favorable lending conditions.
Public marinas in Miami have seen rent growth of 23% since 2019, with rates reaching $52 per foot and over half of facilities reporting occupancy above 95%. The global marina market is projected to reach $42 billion in value by 2034.
The players
Harrison Street
An investment firm active in real estate that previously specialized in student housing before expanding into marina asset acquisition.
Suntex Marinas
A marina owner and operator that frequently partners with investment firms to manage large-scale waterfront properties.
Safe Harbor
A Blackstone-owned entity that has become a dominant force in the marina market through large-scale acquisitions.
The details
Institutional interest in marinas is driven by a combination of high occupancy and the ability to add mixed-use components to waterfront projects. This strategy involves acquiring existing facilities and leveraging increased demand for boat storage and recreational space. The market is expected to remain active through 2027 as developers continue to target properties with potential for long-term rental appreciation.
Timeline
2011: Harrison Street and Suntex bought Liberty Landing.
2012: Harrison Street and Suntex bought Bay Pointe Marina.
2015: Suntex took full ownership of Liberty Landing.
August 2026: Safe Harbor acquired MarineMax for $1.5 billion.
October 16, 2026: Harrison Street filed the marina fund disclosure.
The Home Front
The move into marinas mirrors the trend of institutional investors seeking high-yield niche assets outside of traditional housing. This shift toward large-scale management follows years of significant capital deployment in sectors like student housing.
Local marina users should watch for potential service changes or fee adjustments as large firms consolidate ownership of waterfront facilities. Checking your current lease or slip agreement for long-term renewal terms can help insulate your household from rapid shifts in market-rate rent.
The takeaway
The increasing institutionalization of marina properties is a trend that boat owners should track for potential impacts on long-term storage costs. Review your local marina's ownership status and contract terms to understand any upcoming lease or rate adjustments.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest shifts in Commercial property ownership and development.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Bisnow.
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