Donegal has considerable potential to develop marinas, and over 450 berths should be established initially at a cost over €7million, according to a development strategy report.
Independent consultants Deloitte recommend that five sites be developed at Burtonport (100 berths), Killybegs (100 berths), Bunagee, (15 berths), Ballywhoriskey, Fanad (three berths), and Tory Island (15 berths).
To advance the plans, the report favours the establishment of a professional marina management company. It believes the company should work closely with a private marina that is being developed at Fahan which will have 220 berths.
However, it also notes that a subsidy would be required initially to finance the operating costs. It estimates this "phased shortfall provision" would amount to €340,000 for the first four years of operation.
It also identified "longer-term" development options, with the possible addition of more berths in areas including Bunbeg, Arranmore Island, Rathmullan, Downings, and Bundoran.
Welcoming the report, Cllr Sean McEniff, chairman of North West Tourism, expressed optimism that the provision of berths would attract sailing visitors.
"The whole west coast does not cater for these type of tourists who are generally high spenders. Even with this report we will find we will have insufficient capacity and will be crying out for more."
The Deloitte report cost €123,000, and was funded by Donegal County Council (€80,000), the Peace Task Force (€25,000) and Údarás na Gaeltachta (€18,000).