Set to close tomorrow, on March 9, this year’s 21st edition of the Dubai International Boat Show has reported a strong visitor turnout over the first few days, with tens of thousands of visitors streaming through the gates, due to the international buzz surrounding the event. Moreover, significant boat sales have transpired during the show in its first days, highlighting the event’s continuous growth in its 21st year.
Dubai International Boat Show by night
Tomorrow, visitors will have the last chance to view the impressive range of superyachts and boats on display, as well as enjoy a range of family-friendly exhibitions, competitions, prize giveaways and entertainment options.
Impressive superyachts and innovative marine craft on display
Premiering the innovative amphibious (land and sea) boat to the region at the 21st edition of the show, Antoine Brugidou, CEO of France-based Iguana Yachts commented on the receptiveness of innovation and technology in the UAE: “We’ve created an excellent boat that can reach up to 40 knots that is also capable of functioning as a land vehicle. With the vast wide open spaces, deserts, and islands around the UAE and the Gulf, this kind of technology is being well-received by those looking to be on land and on sea comfortably,” he said.
With the largest boat on water at this year’s show, industry leader Behnemar showcased the more than 160 foot motor yacht “Sapphire”, a fully equipped, trans-atlantic ready mega yacht. “The Sapphire is an elegant, opulent yacht well-suited to the potential boat buyers in the region. We focus on high-end, personalised consultancy services to help clients buy the perfect product to make them happy; something that potential buyers at the Dubai International Boat Show are looking for,” said Dr. Rainer Behne, Chairman of Behnemar Yachting.
One of the fastest boats on display this year for its size and launching regionally is the Mercedes-AMG Cigarette Racing black edition, a 50 foot speed craft capable of reaching up to nearly 108 knots. “Most boats at this size usually don’t reach 50 knots, so the feedback for this special edition boat has been fantastic,” said Hector Rodriguez, Operations Manager for Cigarette Racing in the United States.
“The Dubai International Boat Show is a highly anticipated and vital event for the international marine industry and we are extremely pleased with the visitor and buyer turnout, business activity and high-level networking that has taken place so far,” said Trixee Loh, Senior Vice President of Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of the show.
Exciting highlights draw crowds
Hosting try-out sessions is the Dive Middle East Exhibition (DMEX), the only dedicated diving exhibition in the region, which brings together international manufacturers and local suppliers of sub-aqua diving equipment and services. Held in collaboration with Emirates Diving Association, DMEX sees a 35% expansion over last year, with new international exhibitors for this segment travelling from France, Germany, Oman and the USA.
The popular Retail Village and Heritage Village has been buzzing with crowds, and other exciting highlights include visitor prize draws with the chance to win amazing prizes throughout the show, including a Yamaha WaveRunner, opening passes and accommodation to the Cannes Film Festival, Champions League passes, a Yas Marina F1 race package and much more.
The Supercar Promenade continues to delight those with a keen interest in supercars and brings with it a range of limited edition models and the finest examples of engineering prowess available on four wheels. Bentley, Brabus, McLaren and Rolls Royce are some of the luxury motoring brands that have showcased their latest models.
The show is providing an opportunity for international boating enthusiasts to see the best the Middle East has to offer. Adding to the excitement is a jazz band, which has been performing in between a series of local DJ’s who are creating a buzzing atmosphere that is sure to delight.
With even easier access to this year’s Dubai International Boat Show, free Water Taxis are provided by the RTA from Skydive Dubai and Dubai Marina Mall and shuttle buses will provide transportation from Gateway Towers at the entrance of Palm Jumeirah. With these services, visitors can spend ample time enjoying the vast selection of yachts, boats, and the full range of marine equipment available at show.
The Dubai International Boat Show is open to trade visitors and the general public from 3pm to 9:30pm daily from tomorrow and runs from 5 – 9 March, 2013. General admission is AED60 per person for all attendees, while children under 12 will be admitted free of charge (they must be accompanied by an adult at all times). Access to the Marina Display Area may be restricted at certain times.
