04 April 2024
Local, regional, and national industry bodies are being invited to amplify the new World Boating Day initiative, which is set to take place from 25 to 26 May 2024.
The Superyacht Life Foundation is coordinating the first edition of the initiative, which was launched at the Monaco Yacht Show in 2023.
ICOMIA and are among nine international organisations committing to the campaign so far. These include ISS (International Superyacht Society), Superyacht Australia, APSA (Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association), EBI (European Boating Industry), BIA (Boating Industry Association), USSA (US Superyacht Association), and Zeal Marinas Network.
World Boating Day is a non-profit campaign comprising many local open days worldwide. It aims to foster a greater understanding of the leisure boating industry and help attract more talent to safeguard its future as a thriving industry.
“We are excited to join such an important initiative for our industry. It truly brings a sense of unity among our members,” says Joe Lynch, CEO of ICOMIA.
“Taking part in World Boating Day is an exceptional way to elevate the worldwide appreciation of diverse leisure boating sectors and ultimately celebrate moments on the water on an international scale.”
Dilan Sarac, executive director of The Superyacht Life Foundation, adds: “As a collective campaign, World Boating Day strives to support organisations in engaging their networks for one dedicated weekend per year, inviting their member companies to host memorable events of celebration on the water.
“We could not be more grateful for the support we have garnered so far, and truly open our doors to anyone who wishes to join.”
By ‘lifting the veil’ behind the scenes of the sector, World Boating Day represents an opportunity for participating companies to showcase the breadth of career paths and depth of talent that exists within.
Local, national and international marine industry organisations can join the campaign by sharing the World Boating Day message with their audiences and utilising the resources developed by the foundation, from newsletter templates and digital campaigns to event inspiration sheets. The Superyacht Life Foundation says it strongly welcomes support from more member networks.
For participating companies, there is no limit or criteria to fulfil and no registration deadline. Shipyards, design studios, sailing schools, marinas, retail businesses, and offices are openly invited to join, creating a specific event or registering an existing one from their calendar under the World Boating Day banner.
“For EBI, it is essential to highlight the vital connection between boating and the environment,” says Philip Easthill, secretary-general of the European Boating Industry.
“By bringing our industry closer to users we can grow boating, inspire more people to protect our waters, and foster a passion for the seas across Europe and beyond.”
Niels Klarenbeek, director of METSTRADE, adds: “After joining the Superyacht Life Foundation as a partner this year, we were delighted to be able to amplify World Boating Day. This is an innovative campaign for our cherished boating world.”