South-East Asia represents fresh fields for yachts and superyachts

by Fulford PR on 10 Apr 2011 South-East Asia’s scenic cruising grounds and clear blue waters that are perfect for yachting and all the attendant water-sports, remain relatively undiscovered, according to industry experts at the inaugural Singapore Yacht Show.

Superyacht owners remain reluctant to abandon the traditional cruising hot-spots in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, which have nevertheless become crowded and over-commercialised in places.

South-East Asia, with its rich, diverse cultures, tropical weather, miles of pristine nature, exceptional coastlines and extensive marine eco-system, makes for an ideal destination for charters. For busy professionals with high disposable incomes, chartering a superyacht is one of the best ways to spend time with family and friends, without interruptions and distractions.

'These people are extremely busy and always on the go – they are the original jet-setters. Chartering a superyacht allows them to have one week of undivided attention for their family, a priceless time for family bonding that they value and cherish,' said Jean-Jacques Lavigne, General Manager, ONE15 Luxury Yachting.

Currently, the majority of the week-long charter market is still confined to European visitors and affluent Russian travellers who fly in from around the world, then transfer onto a superyacht to begin their cruising adventure.

The current challenge for the superyacht charter market is to attract, inspire and entice affluent Asians to take plunge and go on a more extended luxury cruise.

'Chartering a yacht enables a family to discover new places and adventures together, enjoy water sports like snorkeling, diving and jet-skiing. Busy professional couples can relax and enjoy time with the family, while the on-board private chef cooks the meals,' explained Jean-Jacques.

The South-East Asian charter market, like the region’s wealth, is growing and has room to expand further. For Eric Kraus, owner of El Aleph, a traditionally built Phinisi which is participating at the Singapore Yacht Show, the wondrous nature and cruising grounds around countries like Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore make ideal getaways.

'My favourite at the moment is Raja Ampat in West Papua. It is located in the far eastern part of Indonesia. It is the most unbelievable place I’ve ever seen. It has incredible diving, very clear waters great for snorkeling, there is no commercial fishing so it is rich in marine life. There are also beautiful mangroves and forests where you can go hiking and meet the Dayaks, the native inhabitants, and spot birds of paradise,' said Eric. 'The potential is unlimited. Cruising in South-East Asia is the perfect getaway for people who want to experience something new.'

South-East Asia’s charter market is estimated to be worth around $10 to $15 million at the present juncture, with Singapore accounting for about a third of the market. These figures are expected to grow exponentially – up to five-fold – in the next 5 years.

With sights set on the future potential, premier superyachts from around the Asian region and beyond are exhibiting at the first-ever superyacht show in Singapore to increase the profile of these beautiful vessels while at the same time promoting the charter services they offer.

'Most superyacht owners start with sailing on small motor boats, then move on to chartering large yachts for family holidays, before taking the plunge and investing in a second-hand yacht that will eventually be traded up. We have here a great fleet of excellent superyachts for people to view this weekend, most of which are available for charter, and we hope this will fuel more interest amongst potential superyacht owners attending the show,' said Andy Treadwell, Managing Director of Informa Yacht Group, organiser of the Singapore Yacht Show.

The Singapore Yacht Show is supported by the Singapore Tourism Board and the Superyacht Singapore Association, with ONE°15 Marina Club as the official venue partner, as well as BMW Group Asia, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Singapore, and Bank Julius Baer as the show’s main sponsors.

The Singapore Yacht Show takes place from April 8 – 10 at ONE°15 Marina Club. The Show opens daily from 3.00pm to 9.00pm. For more information on event schedules and highlights, please visit www.singaporeyachtshow.com