APSA Chaiman's Message 15 November 2021

Dear APSA Members

METSTRADE is happening this week, and APSA will be represented by two of our committee members, Christophe Ceard (Vice Chairman) and Gordon Fernandes.  Some of our APSA Members are exhibiting at METSTRADE: Navim Group, Sevenstar Yacht Transport, YACHTNEEDS and Cluster Yachting Monaco - so if you are wandering around the Superyacht Pavilion, do stop by to say hello! In the main hall the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) is at the Australian Pavilion, and this year Brookes Bell is one of the sponsors of The Superyacht Forum. In addition, many more of our members will be visiting METSTRADE so we look forward to hearing all about “where the superyacht industry is going.”

The 10th Anniversary Edition of the APSA Guide is now online on the APSA website, and all members will receive hard copies soon. This edition of the Guide includes a short history of the Association, focusing on the people and companies who have been part of APSA’s 10-year journey. It is gratifying to see that; indeed, progress has been made, and APSA is looking forward to playing a stronger role in the region in the future.

Travel restrictions and quarantine are still with us, but congratulations to Labuan Shipyard & Engineering Sdn Bhd in Borneo, Malaysia, who report that 100% of their shipyard staff are now vaccinated. Asia Pacific Superyachts have given us an update on entry requirement for the Southeast Asian countries in which they operate. Japan and Australia have now opened their doors to international travellers, but this is not the case in Hong Kong where Covid restrictions are tightening even further.

Finally, congratulations to APSA Member Diane Byrne (MegayachtNews.com) who is the new Chair for the U.S. Superyacht Association. APSA hopes to connect more with this superyacht community in the future.

Stay safe, and stay connected!