Nautical Sports Center: A new option for water sports tourism

Elsa Noguera, the Governor of Atlántico, paid a visit to the construction site of the Nautical Sports Center, also known as Centro de Deportes Náuticos, to oversee the progress. This project aims to bring together kitesurfing schools, restaurants, artisans, and tourists in Salinas del Rey.

The Center is currently under construction on an area spanning over 2,000 square meters. This new facility is set to boost nautical sports tourism in the department and region.

The construction work is advancing, involving the installation of hydro-sanitary and electrical connections, the creation of foundation slabs, and the erection of masonry walls.

“The climate, consistent strong winds, and wave size make Salinas del Rey the world’s second-best kitesurfing spot. Thanks to these factors, we’ve successfully hosted the GKA Kitesurfing World Championship two years in a row,” emphasized the governor.

Noguera further elaborated, “The project encompasses five distinct zones: a primary area designated for kite schools, a section for restaurants, another for a permanent crafts exhibition from Juan de Acosta, and two more designated for relaxation and contemplation. Undoubtedly, it’s a splendid initiative that will continue to drive sports tourism within the department.”

Infrastructure Secretary Nury Logreira clarified that the ongoing work involves the installation of hydro-sanitary and electrical connections. Simultaneously, progress is being made in constructing foundation slabs and masonry walls. “Additionally, a crane has already been deployed to hoist the wooden structural components of the main module,” she added.

When is the nautical sports center expected to open?

Luis Restrepo, the Director of Indeportes, noted substantial advancements achieved over the past two months. “The contractor is committed to completing the project within this second semester. By December, as the winds return, we can prepare for the upcoming kitesurfing season, which consistently draws new tourists.”

The Nautical Sports Center’s construction spans an area exceeding 2 thousand square meters, with an investment of 25 billion pesos. The facility encompasses a central structure containing classrooms, an infirmary, restrooms, changing rooms, storage areas, administrative offices, tourist information points, a terrace, a kitchen, technical spaces, and lockers. Additionally, provisions include a first aid zone, parking facilities, sections dedicated to gastronomy and crafts, and areas meant for contemplation.

The Centro de Deportes Nauticos is one of the megaprojects under construction near Barranquilla.