This master thesis takes its point of departure in the notion that marinas always have had a clear purpose of aiding maritime use, but today 84 % of Danish sailors are over 50 years of age, resulting in significant challenges. This is visualized in a generation gap. The marina faces additional challenges, as the number of overnight stays in the Danish marinas are decreasing significantly, which leads to vacant moorings, making it difficult for many marinas to fill their capacity.

Since the subject lacks an academic scope, this thesis will elucidate the marina and its relation to the city, where the thesis strives to find better knowledge regarding the use of the marina and its physical environment as well as its potentials.

The abovementioned is met through research, which is based on existing theory. The research is seen and assessed in the context of the marina. This is supplemented by an empirical research, a case analysis of best practice marinas, and user research. The latter results in a collection of design parameters that contribute to adapt and improve the marina to meet its challenges, and anchor it as a recreational place in the city. The design parameters are combined in a design compass to set a holistic and sustainable direction for the development of the marina. This compass is tested and exemplified through the chosen case, Middelfart Marina, leading to a site-specific design strategy, where we, as urban designers, provide principles and inspiration for its development on a conceptual level.