Posidonia Sea Forum to examine yachting industry expansion

The Posidonia Sea Forum will be held at the Onassis Cultural Centre in Athens between 21 and 22 June 2011. The two-day event will examine the issues associated with attracting vessels to Greece and the wider Eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea.

“The 1st Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum will bring together government officials, business leaders, entrepreneurs and representatives of the region’s sea tourism industries and create the opportunity to interact, discuss and explore ways which can help develop this important sector and maximize the sea tourism potential of this region” said Theodore Vokos, Project Manager of Posidonia Exhibitions.

The yachting industry will take centre stage on the second day of the forum, with its significant economic benefits being a prime topic for discussion.

Rosemary Pavlatou, Director of the A1 Yacht Trade Consortium, who will coordinate the day said:

“It is no secret that Greece, like so many other countries, currently faces serious economic challenges. Yachting could constitute a part of the solution. Grave as the situation is at the moment, there are investors willing to develop infrastructure in the country and with her natural resources enhanced with good infrastructure and benevolent legislation, there is no reason why yachting in Greece cannot attract much larger numbers of the highest level of tourism, in the form of yacht charterers and private owners, seeking to enjoy the unique sailing experience that is Greece. They would make a significant difference to the economy of Greece as a whole, as well as a huge difference to local island economies.

“Encouraging yachting of all kinds, bringing visitors who are beyond doubt among the wealthiest visitors to Greece, should be a priority. How these goals should be attained constitutes the basis of the debate we shall have at this important forum.”

Speakers on the second day will include Tony Rice, Secretary General ICOMIA, Nick Maris, Chairman Camper & Nicholsons Marinas International, Oscar Siches, Partner & Manager Pantalan del Mediterraneo Marina, Consultant & Member of ICOMIA, and Stephanos Manos, Managing Director of MVS & Associates.

Vokos added: “The potential of the yachting industry in Greece is significant and it is one of the industries Greece should invest in to stimulate economic growth and create new jobs. Greece has both the expertise and potential to become the yachting hub for the East Med and the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum means to kick-start the discussion on how to capitalize on this potential.”



WM

Related Links

Posidonia Sea Forum Website

A1 Yacht Trade Consortium Profile | A1 Yacht Trade Consortium Website

ICOMIA Website

MVS Website

Camper & Nicholsons Marinas Profile | Camper & Nicholsons Marinas Website

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