Bangkok, 8 February, 2016 – The inaugural ‘Thailand Yacht Show 2016’ is taking place from 8-14 February, 2016, at the Ao Po Grand Marina, Phuket, as part of the Royal Thai Government’s plan to position Thailand as a ‘Marina Hub of ASEAN’ to help stimulate growth for the Thai economy and the tourism sector.
The Thailand Yacht Show 2016 features over 50 participating yachts and more than 2,000 attendees including yachting operators, yacht owners, shipyard operators, yacht repair service providers, investors, and the general public. It is set to be a powerful platform for Thai entrepreneurs to unveil their products and one-stop services to high-end customers ranging from yachting financial solutions, long-term leasing services, insurance services, on-board catering services, on-board yacht services by captains or yacht crews, and after-sales services to technician services by well-trained and certified yachting experts.
H.E. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Minister of Tourism and Sports said, “The first Thailand Yacht Show 2016 aligns well with the government’s policy to enhance the image of Thailand as a quality leisure destination. The positive news streaming from hosting the event as well as the introduction of yachting products and services will be a substantial part to strengthen the image of Thailand as a high-profile tourist destination.”
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Ao Po Grand Marina, Phuket
Under the Thai government’s policy, the first Thailand Yacht Show 2016 is set to be a key driver for sustainable economic growth in all aspects ranging from promoting the tourism sector to creating inspiration and a vibrant atmosphere for the marine tourism industry and other services.
H.E. Arkhom Termpittayapaisith, Minister of Transports said, “We are aware from the experience of other countries that lie amidst beautiful cruising grounds that yachting tourism brings a significant economic impact. It is, therefore, a logical step to change the ways that we attract more yachts to visit, stay and promote Thailand as a yachting destination. We are currently in the process of making the necessary changes in super yacht charter regulations and implementing yachting-friendly immigration and customs rules. At the same time, we are identifying and promoting new location for marina development, and seeking private sector investment.”
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is offering its full support to the event with a range of activities including a 60-square-metre pavilion at the show that will be offering information on tourism and the yachting industry in Thailand in collaboration with the relevant agencies including the Thailand Privilege Card, Thai Ship Building and Repairing Association, and the Marine Department.
Dr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor said, “The hosting of the first Thailand Yacht Show 2016 will showcase the confidence, strength, business opportunities and the readiness of yacht tourism in Thailand. This will result in more revenue for the country’s tourism industry and help spread income to the relevant sectors across the nation. The event also helps illustrate TAT’s plan to focus on stimulating more tourism revenue through luxury tourism products, as part of our plan to promote Thailand as a quality leisure destination.”
The Thailand Yacht Show 2016 is comprising a series of warm-up events including water sports and activities; such as, stand up paddle boarding, sailing, kayaking, and beach parties in several locations across Phuket.
The event is also set as a kick-off event of 2016 for Thailand’s yachting industry ahead of other forthcoming international yacht events; such as, the 19th Bay Regatta, Cape Panwa Hotel Raceweek, which will be an opening event of the Asian Yachting Grand Prix and Asia Super Yacht Rendezvous.
Visitors are invited to witness the latest yachting innovations from yachting experts, plus witness the exquisiteness of world’s famous yacht brands; for example, Azimut from Italy. Among the show’s highlights is the showcase of the 73 meter “M/Y Titania”, one of the most voluminous yachts available in the region, but also one of the most luxurious, designed for indoor-outdoor living.
For more information, please visit www.thailandyachtshow.com
Contact Information
International Public Relations Division
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48
Fax: +66 (0) 2253 7419
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.tatnews.org
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