Foreign Ownership of Croatian Marinas: Promoting Corporate Social Responsibility or Limiting Development?

Abstract

This paper explores the role and importance of Croatian marinas within the broader framework of nautical tourism, with a particular focus on the increasingly intensive takeover of marina infrastructure by foreign capital. The starting premise of the research is the understanding that marinas in Croatia represent far more than purely economic or profit-oriented entities; they are also significant drivers of local development and important stakeholders in the preservation of community identity through the implementation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices. Given the strategic national importance of the maritime domain as a public good, the question of ownership structure—domestic versus foreign—becomes a key determinant of long-term sustainability and the socio-economic contribution of marinas. The paper provides a comparative analysis of marinas under domestic and foreign ownership, evaluating them through several criteria: the level of cooperation with local self-government units, the strength of multiplier effects generated within the local economy, and the degree to which marinas support local cultural, social, and environmental values. Special emphasis is placed on understanding how ownership influences CSR policies and operational priorities. An in-depth analysis of Marina Punat and Marina Frapa, both in domestic ownership, reveals a high level of integration with local communities, manifested through continuous cooperation, support for local initiatives, participation in development planning, and investment in broader societal well-being. These marinas demonstrate how locally rooted ownership structures tend to foster long-term strategic thinking aligned with community needs. Conversely, the case of the foreign-owned Marina Kremik indicates significantly lower engagement in CSR activities. The research identifies a minimal degree of cooperation with local authorities and stakeholders and a predominant prioritization of short-term financial objectives. Although foreign capital contributes to infrastructural upgrades and improved service standards, these benefits appear to be limited, with potential long-term risks such as the erosion of local identity, reduced community involvement, and weakened sustainability of nautical tourism. The findings underline the need for a more balanced approach to concession policies and ownership structures in order to ensure that marinas continue to generate economic value while safeguarding local interests and contributing to sustainable development.