All Aboard!!

As we know yachting is one the seven non-energy industries that the government has targeted for aggressive development. In keeping with their mandate to implement the industry’s strategic development plan, the Yachting Steering Committee recently held an information session for stakeholders, including MTI.

This session not only brought us up to date on the work being done to advance the sector but allowed us to see firsthand the wide range of activities and how, once stimulated and supported, the industry can grow and be a substantial contributor to our economy.

Did you know that we store, repair and build yachts and other types of sea vessels right here in Trinidad and Tobago! Well guess what, it was news to me too. Many Europeans, Americans and persons from other parts of the world store their yachts, catamarans and other types of vessels here during summertime in their own countries. This usually takes place between May and August each year. They then return for their vessels once the hurricane season is over in this part of the world and winter begins up north. This usually runs from October until April.

This means that not only do foreigners benefit from storing their boats here but we also benefit because employment is created for us because the vessels require maintenance, equipment and repairs while on land.

Yachting brings in foreign exchange, creates job opportunities for locals, helps with technology transfer and gives yachties a place to stores their vessels…. I’d call it a “win- win” situation, wouldn’t you?