The Infrastructure Minister, David O'Byrne, today unveiled another boost for Hobart's waterfront and recreational boaters.

Mr O'Byrne officially opened a new $400,000 public berthing marina at Sullivans Cove.

It gives recreational boaters convenient short-term access to the waterfront - making it easier to reach local businesses and facilities.

The Marine and Safety Tasmania project is mostly funded by recreational boat licence fees, with some private sector investment.

"I congratulate MAST for its leadership and vision, and look forward to this project making a real difference for local businesses," Mr O'Byrne said.

"This is an incredibly exciting time for people who use and love the Hobart waterfront.

"Whether it's the $50-million railyards clean-up, our $15-million modernising of Princes Wharf Number One Shed, Tasports' $7-million cruise ship and Antarctic hub at Macquarie Two, or the exciting IMAS project next to Salamanca - we're upgrading this waterfront into a modern, vibrant place, packed with opportunities.

"We know the waterfront is a huge asset for Hobart - socially, culturally and economically. We're prioritising these projects to unlock that potential," he said.

Recreational boats can tie-up at the marina for up to three hours, free of charge. It can hold between eight and 15 boats at a time, depending on size, and has a special section for kayakers.

"This is a major new asset for recreational boat owners who want to come ashore for a few hours in the heart of Hobart," Mr O'Byrne said.

"But it's also a huge boost for local businesses at Sullivans Cove. It's effectively a short-term inner-city car park for boats.

"It offers a really convenient place to access the waterfront, and therefore its shops, coffee shops, restaurants and tourist attractions.

"The Tasmanian Government's economic strategy is all about playing to our natural strengths to support businesses and grow jobs.

"Our beautiful waterways and love of boating are among those strengths. This facility is a great example of how we can harness them to support local businesses," he said.

The local business, Pennicott Wilderness Tours, has partly funded the project, to acquire a section of the marina for its commercial operations.

The Hobart City Council has agreed to own and manage the facility after its initial 12-month maintenance period.

Tasmania has more than 56,000 recreation power-boat licence holders, and more 28,000 registered boats. The Recreational Boating Fund (RBF) - administered by MAST - takes money raised from registrations, and lets boat owners and licence-holders submit their own ideas about how to re-invest it.

Eligible projects need to improve safety, infrastructure and services for boating in Tasmania.

More than $9.6-million has now been spent on 365 projects since 1998.