Thailand International Boat Show: A Luxury Lifestyle Event 2025
The Thailand International Boat Show: A Luxury Lifestyle Event (TIBS) held at Phuket Yacht Haven Marina for the first time, ran from 9-12 January 2025. Officially opened by the Prime Minister of Thailand, Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the opening ceremony was attended by dignitaries and distinguished guests from central and local government, showing the importance of the show as an economic driver for luxury tourism, and a platform to showcase Thailand’s soft power while supporting the sustainable growth of Thailand’s marine industry.
Government dignitaries and VIPs attending the Opening Ceremony included Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn (Minister of Labour), Mr. Sorawong Thienthong (Minister of Tourism and Sports), Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool (Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand), Mr. Sophon Suwannarat (Governor of Phuket), as well as industry stakeholders, including Mr. Ditapong Thitadilok (Executive Director of Port Macchanu) and Mr. Thakoon Boonmak (Executive Vice Director of Port Macchanu).
This year’s show had a record-breaking line-up 59 yachts in-the-water, ranging from superyachts to sailing yachts, and there was an airconditioned Exhibitors Pavilion on shore that featured boat service companies, charter agents, marinas, marine gadgets, lifestyle products, and luxury real estate.
Attracting over 50 nationalities participating in the show, TIBS 2024 is now recognised as a bona fide international event. David Hayes, Chairman and CEO of Thailand International Boat Show organisers JAND Events said, “The Thailand International Boat Show showcases the best of the best in Thailand’s yachting and luxury lifestyle industries. Following on from a successful 2024, this year’s show has doubled the size, and welcomed international brands and businesses.
The new venue also meant that larger superyachts could be accommodated in the show. The Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association was again a Supporting Partner, and Committee Member Gordon Fernandes (Asia Pacific Superyachts) said, it’s been amazing to see the growth in numbers of both visiting and permanently-based superyachts in the region. Now TIBS has moved to a marina which can accommodate the larger yachts, and this can only be a good thing for Phuket and the industry in Asia.”
One of the stars of the show was the sailing yacht Cariad 1 (36m) which was built in 1896. The classic superyacht was recently renovated to her original condition at the Blue Ocean Shipyard in Thailand, and in the process scooped the prestigious Boat International ‘Neptune Award’ in the new Classic Rebuilt Yachts category that was included in the 2024 award ceremony.
Northrop & Johnson Asia Pacific turned heads with their presentation of the 36m power catamaran SpaceCat, built by Silver Yachts, which quickly became one of the show’s most talked-about vessels. The catamaran’s sleek design and spacious layout has a great deal of appeal for potential charter clients. “We’ve already received several charter requests following the show,” said Lies Sol (Northrop & Johnson Asia-Pacific).
Simpson Marine presented the Sanlorenzo SL90A, a blend of classic Italian design with innovative features. Her asymmetrical layout eliminates the port side deck to expand the main saloon and master stateroom, creating an exceptionally spacious and luxurious interior. Simpsons also presented the Bluegame BGX63, a bold, versatile, and adventurous yacht that is perfect for those who seek exploration without compromising on refined craftsmanship and luxury.
Other superyachts exhibited included m/y Tyee, a Horizon FD90, being presented by Camper & Nicholsons. A popular model in the acclaimed FD Series, the FD90 embodies the space, layout and performance that define the Fast Displacement range from this famous Taiwanese shipyard. Also from Taiwan came an 85ft Fleming Yacht; the yard is renowned for exceptional craftmanship combined with innovative design that developed over many years, merging traditional styling with modern technology with a focus on performance and comfort.
The show's VIP Lounge was hosted on Lady Eileen II (28.96m) also built in Taiwan, and VIP guests enjoyed exclusive hospitality sponsored by Cessna and Beechcraft by Textron Aviation. The Captain’s Lounge was hosted on Free Bird (32m), a Thai built and owned superyacht, which proved popular with exhibitors and APSA members who enjoyed the relaxed air-conditioned networking space, as well as a free happy hour (drinks and snacks) 15.00-16.00 every afternoon.
The show also had some Asia-Pacific launches; Andrew Pitchford (Ferretti Group) said, “TIBS 2025 was the perfect stage to launch the Ferretti Yachts 580, also showcasing Ferretti Yachts 720, along the elegant Riva 66’ Ribelle Sportfly. We enjoyed the well organised event and met some interesting clients across the four days, and look forward to attending next year’s edition to display our growing fleet in Thailand, in collaboration with our regional distributor – V Yachts.”
Sunreef Yachts founded in Gdansk, Poland, in 2002 was another one of the international shipyards exhibiting at the show. Specialising in designing and constructing luxury catamarans, the shipyard had a Sunreef 60 sailing catamaran on display. A leader in fully-customised yachts, the yard's pioneering eco-friendly solutions make for a unique yachting experience.
Off the water there was plenty to do and enjoy in the Garden Lounge, where food trucks and pop-up bars provided F&B options, and the Churchill Cigar Lounge drew crowds eager to watch a skilled Thai cigar maker roll cigars by hand using local tobacco. In the evenings live music performances created a relaxed yet lively atmosphere for sunset networking.
Saturday 11 January was a family-friendly day featuring a special Children’s Day celebration. Young visitors took part in a variety of engaging activities complete with face painting and a clown, and popular snacks such as candy floss and popcorn were available to the youngsters. The UWC Children Skiff Regatta, provided excitement on the water as young sailors showcased their skills and created unforgettable memories for the sailors and spectators alike.
As plans begin for next year’s event, there is already excitement about how the event can grow and develop, and the groundwork is being laid for further regional marine integration, along with sustainable tourism that will make for a bright future for the yachting industry in Thailand.
APSA at TIBS
The Thailand International Boat Show 2025 was a great opportunity for APSA members to connect and grow the Asia- Pacific superyacht community. APSA members exhibiting included: Camper & Nicholsons International, Gulf Craft, Simpson Marine. Ferretti Group, Frigomar srl, Lee Marine, Northrop & Johnson Asia, ONE˚15 Marina, SEABOB, and Sunreef Yachts. Visitors to TIBS included: Asia Pacific Superyachts, Burgess, Clearvac Engineering Asia, Cowie and Co, Lodestone Yachts, Maritime Cook Islands, ONE˚15 Marina, Sea Leisure Yachting Group (SLYG), and Sevenstar Yacht Transport.