Marinas: The Must-Have Amenity for Water Lovers

A residence with a sea view is one thing; a residence with access to the open water is quite another. One luxury amenity that buyers are increasingly shelling out for is a private marina—or otherwise, a residence with one nearby. From Miami to London, let’s moor up at six of the best.

Onda Residences, Miami

Wave-like undulating balconies, spa-style bathrooms overlooking Biscayne Bay, a rooftop pool with 360-degree, panoramic views. Every aspect of Onda Residences is inspired by the water it overlooks. The icing on the cake is a private marina; from here, residents can embark on mini adventures across the glistening waters by paddleboard or kayak. They can also take advantage of their own boat slip, setting sail on their yacht via the Haulover Inlet to the tropical climes of the Bahamas.

Turnberry Ocean Club Residences, Miami

The clue is in the name. The condominiums at Turnberry Ocean Club are a waterfront haven for those who feel a deep affinity with the ocean. One of the star attractions is its outdoor pool suspended on a balcony, forming an extension of the Atlantic. Mere minutes from the residences is the recently renovated Turnberry Marina, which prides itself on its ipe wood decking, modern aluminum floating dock system, and discerning staff.

Fisher Island Condos, Miami

A slew of premium condominiums can be found on Fisher Island. From Palazzo Del Mare to Seaside Villas, these waterside communities owe a debt to classical Spanish architecture, with their pitched red rooftops and large terraces. The Fisher Island Club boasts its own golf links, racquet club, and—importantly for the nautically inclined—one of Miami’s premier deepwater marinas, hosting yacht clubs and fishing tournaments.

Quay Tower, New York City

Not all the marina action is in Miami; Quay Tower in Brooklyn enjoys prime positioning on the East River, gazing out over Governors Island and the Statue of Liberty. Adjacent to these luxury condominiums is ONE°15 Brooklyn Marina, a new waterfront destination offering 100 berths for vessels up to 300 feet in length, with Quay Tower residents benefiting from a discounted yacht service. Brooklyn Point—which boasts striking East River vistas—is also less than a 15-minute drive from the marina.

Aqualuna, Toronto

From their sweeping balconies, Aqualuna residents can relish views across Toronto’s Inner Harbour, watching ferries ply its shimmering waters. For those who wish to get their hands on the tiller, there are a number of marinas on the doorstep for private vessels, including Alexandra Yacht Club (established in 1906, it hosts race nights each Thursday) and the Island Yacht Club, boasting 140 docks on its private island venue, plus private beaches, a swimming pool, and tennis courts. If you’re fresh to this sailing lark, they have programs for all levels too.

Landmark Place, London

You couldn’t ask for a more iconic view of the Thames than that offered by Landmark Place. This collection of 165 upmarket condominiums overlooks the world-renowned Tower Bridge, which regularly opens, allowing taller ships to pass through. Landmark Place is also moments from another slice of London’s history: St Katharine Docks. Here, three basins offer 185 berths—with accommodation for long-term contracts. Residents can set sail downriver toward the North Sea and the rest of Europe beyond it.