The country is experiencing a surge of interest in yacht tourism, while the shipbuilding industry is seeing a significant increase in sales and production.
The coronavirus pandemic has led to a decline in some industries, but at the same time contributed to the growth of others. People who own a sufficient amount of money willingly began to purchase both small boats and impressive sailboats. As a result, many Turkish shipbuilders are seeing a significant increase in orders and revenues.
According to Zeki Gurses, manager of the Antalya Free Trade Zone (ASBAS), between 2000 and 2019, 479 vessels were produced in the area, worth US$1.27 billion. Today, there is a significant increase in production, thanks to which the industry can reach new indicators. Thus, it is expected that by the end of 2021, 49 ships will be built, with a total cost of $150 million.
A good indication of the growing interest is the recently concluded CNR Eurasia Boat Show On The Sea. Originally scheduled to run from June 1st to June 6th, this boat show was eventually extended by one day due to an unprecedented surge of interest from visitors who were presented with a wide range of boats, the smallest of which was 5 meters long, 1 meter wide and cost $800. It is expected that such a boom will be observed for another 5-6 years.
At the same time, there has been a significant increase in interest in renting tourist boats. It is noted that the growth amounted to an impressive 280%. According to the statements of industry representatives, for the summer season they have almost everything occupied. Tourists wishing to spend time away from crowds of people willingly charter ships with or without a crew.
Turkey is not the only country in which there is an increase in interest in yacht tourism. We have previously reported on revival of interest for a sailing holiday in Croatia.
