The latest edition of the Thailand International Boat Show A Luxury Lifestyle Event2026 at Phuket Yacht Haven Marina, brought together senior government representatives and leaders from the marine and tourism industries, and marked the start of the 2026 calendar for Southeast Asia’s yachting and lifestyle events.
Supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Tourism Authority of Thailand, and Phuket Province, the event highlighted the growing role that marine tourism plays in Thailand’s high-value travel economy. The opening ceremony was presided over by Ms. Natthriya Thaweevong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, alongside Mr. Nirat Phongsittithaworn, Governor of Phuket Province, and representatives from local authorities and Thailand’s tourism and marine sectors.
“Our focus has always been on delivering high-quality events and a compelling experience for visitors.” said David Hayes, CEO of JAND Events, organisers of the Thailand International Boat Show (TIBS) and Thailand Yachting Conference (TYC). “The show provided on-the-water yachting experiences for families and first-time attendees, as well as serious buyers, and the show and conference continue to play an essential role in supporting Thailand’s marine and lifestyle industries.”
The Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association (APSA) was a supporting partner for both the TYC and TIBS which is now in its fourth year and several APSA members were speakers at this year’s Conference which had two superyacht panels. Gordon Fernandes, CEO and founder of Asia Pacific Superyachts and an APSA General Committee member said, “the superyacht industry is a key element for the growth of the boating industry in Thailand, and superyachts bring high-end tourism to the country. There have been major developments over the years with the introduction of the superyacht charter licence. But refinements are still needed to the crew visa regulations to allow visiting superyachts to stay while they charter in the region.”
Phuket is a popular charter destination for charter yachts and APSA is keen to support the local industry initiatives that help to grow the superyacht industry in the region. APSA’s role is to promote the world-class cruising grounds in the Asia-Pacific region, and to connect locally based superyacht businesses with the international superyacht community.
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