The 2nd Asia Superyacht Conference ended in vibrant mode last week with participants forging new relationships and creating a new mood of collaboration to power the region forward. With over 220 participants in total from over 35 countries around the world, the event highlighted both the tremendous opportunities in the region and the need for Governments, Associations and the commercial sector to work together.
Presentations included all aspects of the superyacht industry in Asia including extensive market statistics in terms of ownership and visiting yachts, needs of Asian buyers, manufacture and refit in Asia, regulation and permits and cruising destinations. With the region being defined as stretching from The Seychelles to Hawaii, the conference gave the industry a mandate to both promote the region to the west and work with Governments to set standards and improve infrastructure.
Simon Turner, Chairman of the Conference, neatly summed up the event in his closing statement stating that there were four critical “C’s” that needed to be considered: Collaboration, Communication, Cuddle (meaning look after visiting yachts when they come to the region) and Carrots. The Carrot part was a reference to the tongue in cheek “Golden Carrot” awards held during the Gala Dinner.
In addition to over 40 speakers and interactive sessions, delegates were treated to sumptuous networking social functions including pre-conference drinks on the floating bar at One°15 Marina Club, pre dinner drinks and a Gala Dinner at the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club and a closing networking drinks reception in the historic centre of Singapore.
Delegates then went on to a marina tour and a ride on the Singapore Flyer.
