The constitution contract for the future non-profit private association, was signed on November 22, 1991  under the name Associação Portuguesa de Portos de Recreio (APPR).

The creation of the APPR was promoted by EUROMARINA- the European Federation of Yachting Harbours, with headquarters in Paris, with the aim of supporting the European Commission in their desire to create a network of recreational Ports, efficient, safe and with high standards of quality service and installation along the coasts of Europe with the aim of developing the free movement of recreational craft. 

The installation Committee of APPR – Associação Portuguesa de Portos de Recreio, was chaired by Eng. José Manuel Velez, in representation of the Associação Naval de Lisboa, making this the following entities that run the Commission represented:

• Marina de Leixões – Associação de Clubes
• Junta Autónoma do Porta da Horta
• Lusotur – Marina de Vilamoura
• ENATUR – Marina de Cascais
• Marlagos – Marina de Lagos
• Junta Autónoma do Porto da Figueira da Foz
• Associação Naval de Lisboa
• APICAN
• ABAE

Subsequently, in February 5, 1992, the final constitution of the Associação Portuguesa de Portos de Recreio, designated by APPR, was held on the 9º Notary of Lisbon