Investment for the 2007 America’s Cup in Valencia will bring major improvements to other ports along the Valencia region coast.
Regional government plans include the modernisation of the ports at Dénia, Santa Pola, Torrevieja and Burriana - all owned by the Valencia government - so they can stage preparatory regattas.
In Dénia the installations for ferries and cruise ships will be modernised and the number of moorings increased to hold 1,500 boats.
Santa Pola port will have a new leisure complex, a maritime station and 240 more moorings in the port iself, with a further 890 in the new port of Varadero.
In Torrevieja the project by world famous architect Santiago Calatrava includes the creation of a whole new sports area and will double the number of moorings (reaching more than 1,500).
There will also be a tourist area, another for cruise ships - aimed at mid-range Mediterranean cruises - a new fishing port and shopping centre.
About 20 million euros will be invested in creating the new fishing harbour, with a fish market and stores, refrigeration and an auction room with a gallery so tourists can watch the auctions. There will be a two-storey building with restaurants and cafés.