Phuket can expect a few thousand very wealthy visitors come January, when the Thailand International Boat Show kicks off. Organisers say the event, taking place January 11- 14 at Royal Phuket Marina, will be a major boost for the island’s tourism and economy.
JAND Events says the show, which will include a multi-billion-baht line up of luxury yachts, superyachts, and private jets will also boost Phuket’s reputation as a place where the international community can invest and do business.
CEO David Hayes says the event is expected to bring thousands of high-net-worth visitors to Phuket, generating at least 500 million baht for the marine leisure and luxury lifestyle sectors. He also expects the event to increase yacht tourism to the island, confirming Thailand’s position as Southeast Asia’s leisure marine hub.
“The response to the 2024 Thailand International Boat Show a Luxury Lifestyle Event has been excellent. We have increased the in-water space to accommodate brokers and brands and will have a wide range of luxury boats of all sizes up to superyachts at the show. We have also seen considerable growth in the number of luxury brands and businesses exhibiting. The show has become a platform that will not only drive sales and business for the marine and luxury industries, but also attract international investors who are keen to do business and live in Phuket.”
The event will also host the inaugural Thailand Yachting Conference, where local and international business operators can exchange ideas, as well as the Robb Report Thailand Best Of The Best Yachting Awards Gala, which recognises the best yachts and brands.
Simpson Marine has the largest in-water line-up, with six boats, including a Sanlorenzo SX76, Lagoon 51 and Fairline Targa 45, amongst others while Derani Yachts will be displaying three boats from the popular Axopar brand as well as the striking Brabus Shadow 500 Cabin and a Greenline 40.
Complementing the in-water display is a wide range of marine businesses and products, and services from the luxury lifestyle sector who will be exhibiting onshore.
Exhibiting in the new purpose-built air-conditioned exhibition space are A. & Marine, Aqua Air Asia, ASA Group, Cholamark Boat, Flexiteek, FLS Yachts, Hull Co. Ltd, Marine Services Asia, Nava by Thaicom, Nespresso, Octopus Electrical Service, Royal Phuket Marina, SEA Yacht Sales, Siam Legal (Thailand) and Thailand Privilege.
There will also be plenty of entertainment on offer, including jazz on the boardwalk and live DJ performances, to alfresco dining, oysters, champagne, and cigars. January 13 marks Children’s Day in Thailand, with a range of activities laid on for younger family members.
The boat show will be open daily from 1.00pm to 8.00pm, with the exception of Sunday, January 14, when the show closes at 7.00pm. For more information, visit www.thailandinternationalboatshow.com
SOURCE: Phuket Index
