Thailand Govt chases high-end superyacht cruise market

Phuket’s bold plan to host the Thailand Yacht Show is just the start

From Bangkok Post, 22 September 2015

The government is gearing up efforts to make Thai waters more attractive for cruise tourism and foreign yachts, as part of a plan to promote the country as the marina hub of Asean.

Phuket_Thailand_Yacht_Show_Superyacht_AgencyThe Marine Department is loosening boat regulations to make it easier for yacht and superyacht owners to dock in Thai waters, says its director-general, Chula Sookmanop.

The prime targets are yacht owners coming from Mediterranean and Caribbean seas, who want to escape cold weather there during the winter, he said.

The owners will be allowed to stay longer in Thailand and will become eligible to receive some tax incentives, he added. One of the new regulations allows foreign-flagged superyachts — those over 30m long — to obtain permits to run businesses serving tourists in Thai waters, Mr Chula said. They are, however, required to have insurance and be guaranteed for Thai juristic persons.

Read the full article here from Bangkok Post:  Govt chases high-end cruise market
Photo credit:  Panupong Changchai

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