Following recent improvements to the rules for international yachts visiting Pattaya, and the Pattaya-Hua Hin ferry service set to be launched in early 2017, Thailand’s marine tourism industry is poised for dramatic growth. Government investment is at an all time high – a sign of the importance of marine tourism to the national economy – while the record-setting 5th edition of the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show is set to boost marine tourism in the Gulf of Thailand and showcase Thailand’s marine industry to the world.
With an expanded line-up of 28 boats in-the-water and more onshore, the 6,000 expected visitors will experience a world-class marine and lifestyle festival from 24 to 27 November, 2016.
Ranging from small day boats upto superyachts, the three largest boats on display at this year’s show include the Monte Carlo Yachts 86, Princess 88 Motor Yacht and the largest of all – the 41-metre Ocean Emerald, which stared in the recent Hollywood movie, Point Break (2015).
Sail and power, large and small (and everything in between), the show offers something for all and also includes a selection of brokerage yachts. International boat brands from Europe and the USA will display alongside the best local builds from Thailand’s much revered boat building industry, a sign of the increased interest in boat ownership, and a driver of future charter market growth.
“It’s very encouraging to see how the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show continues to grow each year. This year we have the largest number of boats ever on display and onshore there is diverse range of products from marine to lifestyle as well as luxury property. Over the four day show there’s lots for visitors to do and Ocean Marina is a great place for families and friends to meet and relax by the sea,” said Dr. Tirachai Pipitsupaphol, Managing Director, Ocean Property.
In honour of His Majesty late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, there will be a special sailing exhibition titled “The King Rama IX’s Sailing of Exhibition” which showcases His Majesty’s sailing achievements. The exhibition is FREE and open to the all.
In addition to the impressive boat line-up, there are all manner of marine products, accessories and services, as well as charter, insurance, marine toys and gadgets, and water sports. Onshore some of Thailand’s finest properties are exhibiting as well as a collection of lifestyle products and services that complement the nautical lifestyle.
“Pattaya is already Thailand’s domestic marine leisure playground. With the Gulf of Thailand opening up to visiting international yachts and the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show showcasing Thailand’s marine industry to the world, we expect to see the region grow considerably in the coming years and underscore it’s billing as the “Riviera of Asia”, added Dr. Tirachai.
Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show takes place 24 to 27 November at Ocean Marina, Pattaya, Thailand, and is open daily from 11:00 to 19:00. Entry to the event is FREE.
For more information, visit www.oceanmarinapattayaboatshow.com.