International Boat Show from Feb 28 to March 2

Mumbai, Dec 29: The Mumbai International Boat Show (MIBS) will be held at the Bandra Kurla Complex here from February 28 to March 2.

Speaking to reporters here yesterday, MIBS Director Dr Malav Shroff said, ''The twin objectives of demonstrating India's potential as a large boating market to the global community and creating awareness among the Indian consumer are amply achieved during this event.'' ''It is not just mere curiosity driving the show, the estimated sales figure speak for themselves with over Rs 150 crore (approximately 40 million dollar) worth of boats sold during the prior event,'' Dr Shroff said.

This year's 2008 edition of the show is expected to double, both on ground and at the marina. The show now has a capacity of 3000 square meters. The Mumbai International Boat Show 2008 is filling up fast as already on board are yachting brands including Princess Yachts, Sunseeker, Azimut, Benetti, Larson, Cobalt, Grady White, Ferretti Jeanneau, Searay, GC Marine and Pershing Mercury, to name a few.

With 2,700 kms of beautiful unexplored coastline, India is awaiting an explosion in boating lifestyle with an anticipated market size of one million dollar over the next five years, said Dr Shroff.

''The opening up of the market is also a big boost to the entire service industry, and we have started a dialog between the government and private sector regarding the need for marinas. One of the crucial aspects is that all stakeholders in the show like the Maharashtra government, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), the Bombay Port Trust and the Indian Navy have strengthened their association and partnership giving a solid backing to MIBS,'' Dr Shroff added. UNI