LOLC Group MD says Marina development in Port City poised to redefine tourism and maritime industries

LOLC Holdings Group Managing Director Kapila Jayawardena

• First and largest investor in Colombo Port City believes it will emerge as one of the greatest special economic zones, attracting much-needed foreign investment to Sri Lanka and creating thousands of employment opportunities

LOLC Holdings PLC Group Managing Director Kapila Jayawardena last week declared that the $ 120 million Marina at Colombo Port City is poised to redefine the tourism and maritime industries in Sri Lanka.

“This is a landmark occasion for Colombo Port City and Browns Investments PLC. We stand here with immense pride as pioneer developers for Colombo Port City, and specifically for this iconic Marina development; a project that is poised to redefine Sri Lanka’s tourism and maritime industries,” Jayawardena stated at the groundbreaking ceremony of Marina development.

He said Sri Lanka has faced a series of extraordinary challenges over the past five years; from economic uncertainties to global crises. “Yet, we have demonstrated resilience, determination, and a commitment to progress. The present optimism about Sri Lanka by foreign governments and international investors promise better opportunities for this county,” Jayawardena emphasised.

He also said the groundbreaking ceremony is a testament to that perseverance and LOLC-Brown’s ability to undertake transformative initiatives that will shape the future of Sri Lanka.

“As the first and largest investor in Colombo Port City, with six strategically acquired land parcels, Browns Investments remains committed to its vision for this development. We firmly believe that Colombo Port City will emerge as one of the greatest special economic zones, attracting much-needed foreign investment to Sri Lanka and creating thousands of employment opportunities for our people,” Jayawardena said.

According to him, infrastructure development is critical to elevating a developing country to the next level. It is the foundation upon which economic growth and prosperity are built. In that context, Jayawardena extended LOLC-Browns’ heartfelt gratitude to the Government and CHEC for their invaluable partnership and unwavering support in making this development a reality.

“At Browns, we identified a unique opportunity with the Marina development. Sri Lanka’s strategic location, nestled in the crossroads of international maritime routes, provided the ideal setting for a full-service Marina. This development is more than a Marina, it is a lifestyle destination, designed to elevate Sri Lanka’s profile as a premium travel destination,” explained Jayawardena.

Spanning a total land area of 37,776 square metres, the Marina will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including sunset bars, seaside restaurants, retail outlets, and entertainment spaces, creating a vibrant and sophisticated environment for visitors from around the globe. With berthing capacity for up to 200 mid to large-sized boats and yachts, this project fills a critical infrastructure gap in the region and positions Sri Lanka as a hub for luxury maritime tourism.

“This $ 120 million project is not just about constructing buildings or facilities, it is about building confidence, driving economic activity, and showcasing Sri Lanka’s potential to lead in luxury tourism and maritime excellence,” Jayawardena said.

He also said by 2027, when the Marina development is fully completed, it will not only symbolise Sri Lanka’s capabilities and capacity but also contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth story.

Jayawardena reiterated LOLC and Browns’ unwavering commitment to investing in ventures that drive progress, create value, and uplift Sri Lanka. 

“Together, we are shaping a future where Sri Lanka takes its rightful place as the leading destination for luxury, innovation, and opportunity,” the LOLC Group Managing Director added.