The Thailand International Boat Show returned to Phuket for a third edition in January, incorporating the Thailand Yachting Conference and a visit from the Prime Minister.
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The third edition of the Thailand International Boat Show (TIBS) took place at Yacht Haven Marina in Phuket from 9 to 12 January 2025, inaugurated by Thailand’s prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
The expanded edition of the now-annual show attracted a range of international yachts, luxury brands and industry professionals. Shinawatra officially opened TIBS in the presence of Thai government officials and local dignitaries.
The event provided a forum to present regulatory developments and initiatives within Thailand’s marine industry.
Tanyuta (Jojo) Singhmanee, Asia Pacific Superyachts co-founder and Thai Yachting Business Association board member, helped to oversee the prime minister’s visit. During the visit, they discussed the requirements for attracting additional superyachts and addressed issues concerning the Thailand Superyacht Charter License and visas for crew.
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The recently introduced Thailand Superyacht Charter License marks a regulatory change within the maritime and tourism sectors and strengthens Phuket’s position as a global charter boat destination. This change removes the requirement for foreign-flagged superyachts over 24 metres to pay a 7 percent VAT on the yacht’s value when operating charters in Thai waters.
The importance of extending crew visas was also addressed during the visit. Currently, visiting crew receive a 30-day visa; superyacht service agencies and others in the marine industry have been working to change regulations to 90-day or 180-day crew visas.
“Thailand can boost superyacht tourism by revising charter laws and redefining yacht size and insurance policies to align with international standards along with crew visa change,” says Gordon Fernandes, APS co-founder and Thailand Yachting Conference panellist.
Held the day before TIBS, the Thailand Yachting Conference welcomed 150 delegates and expert speakers from across Asia-Pacific. In conjunction with TIBS, the conference provided a comprehensive platform connecting industry stakeholders and presenting developments in Thailand’s marine leisure sector.
TIBS has established itself as a key event for marine industry professionals in Southeast Asia. Organisers report the event recorded a 62 percent increase in total visitors compared to the previous year, a 74 percent increase in foreign attendees and a 54 percent increase in Thai visitors.
thailandinternationalboatshow.com
asia-pacific-superyachts.com
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