As we are entering the final stages of the high season, the timing is about right to start thinking about the following season. We find initiatives like the Balearic Yacht Destination very positive and welcome. It is necessary to boost the recreational yachting on our islands as an alternative to golf or beach tourism. For that reason we will continue working to extend the matriculation tax exemption on non-commercial yachts (currently 8 m), in order to be able to compete in equal conditions with our neighboring countries. During the month of August an old problem of illegal charters has received special media interest. AENIB has given several interviews and participated in various discussions over this problematic issue.
Generally this season has been very positive for the nautical sector, but still not quite the same as during the years before the crisis. An indication of the turning tide is the large number of superyachts that have been spotted navigating in our waters. It is very important to promote the Balearic Islands as a nautical destination, it will be a guaranteed investment for our economy. The profile of the nautical visitor is exactly what is needed to deseasonalize the tourism – a tourist with high purchasing power who wish to enjoy the gastronomy, the entertainment and the local culture. During the next Monaco Yacht Show, one of the most influential shows in the world, our islands will be highlighted thanks to the Balearic Yacht Destination. The companies Marina Ibiza, Astilleros de Mallorca, STP Shipyard Palma and Port Adriano will promote Mallorca and Ibiza as nautical destinations, both from a cruising point of view as well as service and refit destinations. Of course we would have liked to see also Menorca and Formentera being represented, but even so we believe it is a great initiative and hope it will serve to increase the awareness and the prestige of our islands. At AENIB we encourage our local government to pay attention, and to continue working to improve in this respect towards the next season.
