Asia‘s leading consumer Boat Show, Phuket International Boat Show (PIMEX), opened today exhibiting USD250 million (THB7.5 billion) of yachts, varying in price from USD80,000 (THB2.4 million) up to USD14 million (THB420 million), the largest being the luxury motor yacht Pershing 92 showcased by Ferretti Group.
Opening of the Phuket International Boat Show 2012
The ninth edition of PIMEX was officially opened by Phuket’s Vice Governor, Sommai Prijasilpa, together with PIMEX Show Director, Andy Dowden, and Bangonrat Shinaprayoon, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand Phuket Office.
Attending PIMEX for the first time was Robert Braithwaite, Founder and President of Sunseeker, who opened the Sunseeker display together with local dealer Max Marine Asia presenting a trio of boats – the new Manhattan 53, together with the motor yacht Manhattan 63 and Manhattan 73 yacht.
Following the opening, Braithwaite said “We are launching a number of new models in the near future including the smallest boat we’ve ever built, the superyacht Sunseeker 40, together with the largest at 48 metres.”
“Thailand has been full of opportunities for us and Sunseeker Thailand is an important part of the Sunseeker family,” Braithwaite added.
This year’s date move from January to late March has resulted in an increase in the quality of boats displayed at PIMEX.
“The quality of the boats in the water this year is the best yet. It is second to none in the region with a large choice of luxury power and sail boats, down to smaller day boats and dinghies,” commented Show Director, Andy Dowden.
An international mix of visitors turned out on the first day with a number of exhibitors commenting on the improved quality of visitors together with strong interest from Russians, with activity both in the Exhibition Hall and the marina, and rumours of several boat deals in process.
With a strong first day, exhibitors are hopeful for the rest of the Show. “We’ve had some good leads this morning,” commented Hakan Lange, Managing Director, Derani Yachts, adding “It’s looking good. I’m positive.”
PIMEX runs from 29th March through 1st April at Royal Phuket Marina on the island of Phuket, Thailand.
