Thailand Yachting Conference 2025
The Thailand Yachting Conference, held on January 8, 2025, in Phuket, brought together 150 industry professionals, policymakers, and marine enthusiasts to discuss sustainability, innovation, inclusivity and the growth of the growth of the superyacht sector in Thailand. Organized by JAND Group Co. Ltd, the conference set the tone for the Thailand International Boat Show A Luxury Lifestyle Event, which took place from January 9–12, 2025, and showcased the vibrancy of Asia’s marine sector.
The conference opened with a keynote address by David Hayes, Director of JAND Group Co. Ltd. “Today, Thailand stands at the helm of Southeast Asia’s yachting sector. Our waters welcome over 1,500 yachts annually, more than any of our neighbouring countries. But numbers don’t tell the whole story. Each vessel that enters our waters brings with it dreams, adventures, and opportunities—for our people, our economy, and our future. What truly sets Thailand apart isn't just our stunning coastline or world-class infrastructure – it's our vision for the future.
The morning presentations were given by the local Thai Government Departments and included workforce training and funding opportunities by the Skills Department and Technical College and the Thai Marine Department shared updates on national regulations, providing valuable guidance for industry professionals navigating compliance.
Sustainability then took center stage with impactful presentations from Dr. Chantinee Boonchai, Kanokwan Homcha-aim, and Assistant Professor Wan Chantavilasvong, who explored marine conservation, wilderness preservation, and ocean livability. A panel moderated by Shemaine Sebastien allowed questions from the audience and provided practical strategies for tackling environmental challenges in the yachting industry.
The afternoon sessions showcased marketing strategies and regional tourism collaboration. Trewut Anurakapndit, and Jeanette Teo (Simpson Marine) presented on digital and multilingual marketing approaches, and this was followed by a panel discussion on different marketing strategies. This was followed by a group presentation from the IMT-GT Integrated Tourism Corridors, with presentations from representatives from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The session ended with a Q&A with the audience on market development and regional tourism opportunities.
Superyachts were the next topic of discussion with Lies Sol (Northrop & Johnson Asia) presenting an update on the Thailand charter license. Followed by Suzy Rayment (Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association) who presented some key superyacht industry statistics that included the growth of the superyacht sector in the SEA region with 139 yachts visiting the region in 2024. This was followed by a Q & A session with key superyacht experts: Gordon Fernande (Asia Pacific Superyachts), Carmen Lau (Camper and Nicholsons) and Antony Cowie (Cowie and Co), that focused on changes to the Thai superyacht industry in the last 20 years; new Asian owners and where they are keeping their yachts; and what new Asian owners need to know when purchasing a superyacht.
Shemaine Sebastian (Galileo Academy) and Georgina Allen (ISWAN) then delivered compelling presentations on mental health support for yacht crews, sparking meaningful conversations about the industry's human aspect, and the new introduction of the Charter on inclusivity and crew welfare and the day finished with a panel discussion on ‘Women in the Yachting Sector.’
The day concluded with a vibrant networking session that facilitated connections among industry leaders, students, and policymakers. Attendees left with actionable takeaways, including new ideas for sustainable practices, marketing strategies, and partnerships to advance the industry.