The 2011 Phuket International Boat Show (PIMEX) opened today to a packed in-water display and Exhibition Hall. 47 boats fill the marina basin, an increase of more than 25% on last year, and the Exhibition Hall is packed with marine products, luxury cars and high-end real estate.
More exhibitors than ever before at PIMEX 2011. - Phuket International Boat Show- Photo Credit Event Media
The official opening of PIMEX 2011 was presided over by Andy Dowden, PIMEX Show Director, and Khun Somkiat Sangkaosuttirat, Vice Governor of Phuket. A record of 86 companies are exhibiting this year.
“The first day has been very busy with over 1,500 people visiting the Show. Feedback from exhibitors and visitors has been very positive,” said Andy Dowden, Show Director, Phuket International Boat Show.
PIMEX has brought the Mediterranean to Phuket, Thailand for the next four days. Boat brands from all over the world, ranging in size from 30 feet to 87 feet superyachts, with a cumulative value in excess of USD100 million, are on display in the marina, surrounding the all new XJ Jaguar on a central floating dock.
Jaguar, also with a large indoor display, reported strong interest and good feedback on the first day of the Show, having taken many interested customers for test drives.
A regular PIMEX exhibitor, SEAT Boat Co. Ltd. are exhibiting in the water for the first time this year: “We are presenting SeaRay as well as Thai built boats this year and after the first day we are very happy with the interest. PIMEX is a great place for marine business and networking. The quality of visitors is very high and we already have lots of enquiries,” said Ruangrat Benjarit, Managing Director, SEAT Boat Co. Ltd.
Activity down the dock at other dealers and boat builders has also been brisk, as has traffic in the Exhibition Hall.
At close on the first day of the Show, the signs are positive for a strong PIMEX 2011, and all indications are that Phuket continues to attract well-heeled visitors and is THE place for marine business in Asia.
“The weather has been ideal, a little overcast and not too hot. If it stays this way we could well beat previous years’ visitor numbers,” added Dowden.
The Phuket International Boat Show continues Friday 7th through to Sunday 9th January at the Royal Phuket Marina. Open daily from 11:00 to 20:00, closing 18:00 on Sunday 9th January, entry is free.
