Phuket hosts record-breaking boat show
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Thailand’s largest marine expo, the 2011 Phuket International Boat Show (PIMEX), was hosted from 6-9 January 2011, surpassing all previous records for both visitors and sales.
The four-day event staged at the Royal Phuket Marina attracted an estimated attendance of over 5,500 to see almost 50 super boats, with 25 per cent more exhibitors than last year.
Visitors arrived from across the region including Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, while Russian interest was also high.
Ranging in size from 30 to 87 feet (9-27 metres), the latest super boat designs were together worth more than US$100 million. A record 86 companies were showcased, with its exhibitors extending to marine products, luxury cars and high-end real estate priced up to US$10 million.
“Over US$17 million of sales were negotiated at the event with approximately THB510 million (US$16.4 million) more in the post-PIMEX sales,” said PIMEX Show Director, Andy Dowden. “It was encouraging to see so many sales. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive and the feeling of exhibitors, buoyant and upbeat.”
A novel attraction at this year’s show was Jaguar showcasing its latest XJ marque on a floating pontoon in the centre of the marina.
Also attracting admirers was the arrival of Royal Phuket Marina owner Gulu Lalvani’s stunning new ‘Mangusta 72’. His latest purchase is the fastest and most luxurious boat in Phuket. Capable of 45 knots, it can speed to Phi Phi in just 30 minutes, James Bond Island in 15 minutes and Langkawi in around two hours.
Boat sales included a Monterey 298SS Super Sport, sold by Derani Yachts and a 33ft Fountain powerboat private sale, hotly followed by a 57foot Jeanneau by Lee Marine. Marine services companies reported transactions for marine accessories, jet skis, kayaks and more.
Exhibiting in the water for the first time, SEAT Boat showcased the latest SeaRay and Thai-built designs. Managing Director Ruangrat Benjarit said; “PIMEX is a great place for marine business and networking. The quality of visitors was very high and we had lots of enquiries.”
Ferretti Group underscored their focus on the Asia market with the launch of the Riva brand at PIMEX. “The show was good for us. We had a lot of interest,” said Riva Brand Manager, Paola Procopio.
First-time exhibitor Prout International’s Managing Director Matthew Steinert said: “We had a lot of interest and have some keen potential customers.”
“The high number of visitors and good sales volume indicate strong growth in the regional marine industry as PIMEX reinforces Phuket’s position as the marine hub of Asia,” added Mr Dowden.
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