The forum aims to provide a unique platform to evaluate new investment opportunities and meet the leaders of Yachting and Cruising industries. Building on the success of previous events, and thanks to an active involvement of the major cruise and yachting associations in the Med, the forum will welcome over 500 delegate and exhibitors, and will consist, once again of cruise sessions, yachting sessions, exhibitions and B2B meetings.
Yachting sessions will be including various topics relating to East Mediterranean Yachting such as:
- Challenge to change the image of Greek yachting both domestically and internationally;
- Regulatory environment for Yachting in Europe;
- Berth allocation: solution for large and small ports;
- Port & Marina privatisations and the road ahead;
- Yachting: an underachieving giant for the East Med.
The topics that will be evoked during Janet’s session are as follows:
- The question of cabotage has been extensively debated over the last few years, with little result. Instead of trying to block foreign flagged entries to the local yachting market and in particular those of mega yachts, should the government address the issue of making the Greek flag more competitive and thereby making it more attractive? If so, what incentives would work?
- Apart from the crowded marinas of the Attica Region, yacht owners have the choice to use marinas located on the islands or other parts of the mainland. Do the existing facilities and services provided satisfy requirements of owners or is the case of the award-winning Kos Marina simply an exception?
- The recent government decision to impose a 24% VAT on all ship and yacht building in Greece for local owners effectively discourages interest in new constructions and repair works, even though there are facilities available and the know-how to support a robust industry. Will policy makers be able to look at the long term benefits such an industry will bring to the economy and adjust policy accordingly?
- Traditionally, sailing is one of Greece’s most successful sport and recreational activities. Yacht races and regattas in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, whilst not uncommon, are not as high profiled or frequent as one would hope. What needs to be done to attract more international interest?
17/05/2017