To secure the island’s position as the top yachting destination in the region Tourism and Sports Minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul has announced that changes in visa and chartering legislation are necessary.
“Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha wants to make Thailand a world-class hub for yachts and cruise boats in Southeast Asia – and we think Phuket is ready for that,” Minister Kobkarn said. “I am aware that Thailand has to change some regulations to develop our tourism in response to heightened competition from other yachting destinations in the region.”
Following a meeting with Governor Nisit Jansomwong on January 16, Ms Kobkarn vowed to raise concerns voiced about yacht crew visas and the chartering of foreign-flagged superyachts at a Cabinet meeting slated to take place in early February. Current legislation allows boats entering Thai waters to remain for six months. However, captains and crew receive visas on arrival or entry on visa-exemption status, which allow stays of only up to 30 days.
“I will talk with Cabinet members about what we can do concerning yacht crew visas. Actually, the government has been talking about making changes to other types of visas that would be best for the country,” Ms Kobkarn said. “I give my full support to tourism, but there are of course internal security and safety measures that must be considered. The Minister of Foreign Affairs is in charge of visas, so, as you can see, this is beyond my authority to approve. We will look at what can be done to decrease the VAT to support yacht tourism. However, this will take time,” she said.
“We have to work step by step to make changes to support superyacht tourism. At this stage, I have no idea when we can make such changes. Other ministries must be consulted and the subject must be debated to determine what is the best for Thailand. I can’t do it alone.”
Since its establishment, Horizon has endeavored to create and build yachts that embody each client’s dreams. Horizon’s integrated company structure contributes to this goal, allowing each subsidiary company to focus…
Fleming Yachts build semi-displacement, long range cruising yachts from 55 to 85 feet. Established in 1985 by Tony Fleming, they are driven by a passion to design and build boats…
Marex exemplifies Scandinavian boatbuilding at its best, blending craftsmanship, smart design, and lasting quality. Their cruisers offer comfort, safety, and versatility perfectly suited to Southeast Asia’s waters, making Marex an…
Greenline Yachts is a visionary company that is setting the standard for eco-friendly luxury yachts. With their innovative hybrid propulsion system, Greenline Yachts is revolutionizing the industry by delivering a…
Axopar boats are the result of the builder’s long time experience and passion for boating. Designed and developed by true boating enthusiasts for the quality and performance conscious boater. The…
BRABUS Marine is devoted to redefine luxury day boating through building and developing an ultra-exclusive, supremely exciting new breed of luxury tenders and day boats. Outstanding performance, power and superior…
November 24, 2015
Krabi province provides some beautiful cruising destinations with lively as well as quiet beaches, great snorkelling and diving, spectacular limestone cliffs and rock formations and…
November 14, 2015
On Saturday the 14th of November our new Fairline Targa 62 was off loaded from the Sevenstars ship Regine just outside the Boat Lagoon Marina….
October 20, 2015
The Derani Yachts office in the Phuket Boat Lagoon marina has moved, but only by a few metres. After almost eleven years at our purpose…
