The newest initiative for a future thriving boating industry, World Boating Day represents a groundbreaking campaign of ‘glocal’ events with the support and participation of key industry players.
Local, regional and national industry bodies are invited to amplify the movement taking place from 25-26 May 2024, for its first edition coordinated by The Superyacht Life Foundation.
World Boating Day: the industry campaign
World Boating Day is a non-profit campaign comprising a myriad of local open days across the globe, aiming to foster a greater understanding of the leisure boating industry. By lifting the veil of the behind-the-scenes magic that happens every day in this sector, it represents an opportunity for participating companies to showcase the breadth of career paths and depth of talent that exists within: shaping the future of the leisure boating and yachting sectors by attracting tomorrow’s talent.
Through collective action, this initiative will elevate the influence of an industry cherished by many, and underscore the value created by exceptional collaborations: reflecting the mission of many industry bodies.
“We are excited to join such an important initiative for our industry, it truly brings a sense of unity among our members. Taking part in World Boating Day is an exceptional way to elevate the worldwide appreciation of diverse leisure boating sectors, and ultimately to celebrate moments on the water on an international scale!” says Joe Lynch CEO of ICOMIA (the International Council of Marine Industry Associations).
Supported by key organisations
ICOMIA and AIMEX are part of 9 international organisations committing to amplify the initiative: ISS (International Superyacht Society), Superyacht Australia, APSA (Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association), EBI (European Boating Industry), BIA (Boating Industry Association), USSA (US Superyacht Association), and Zeal Marinas Network.
“After joining the Superyacht Life Foundation as a partner this year, we were delighted to be able to amplify World Boating Day. This is an innovative campaign for our cherished boating world! We can’t wait to hear the creative ways our network will join in the campaign, when we all reconnect after the event at the next METSTRADE show in November,” says Niels Klarenbeek, Director METSTRADE.
“As a collective campaign, World Boating Day strives to support organizations in engaging their networks for one dedicated weekend per year, inviting their member companies to host memorable events of celebration on the water,” says Dilan Sarac, Executive Director of The Superyacht Life Foundation. “We could not be more grateful for the support we have garnered so far, and truly open our doors to anyone who wishes to join.”
A new ambassador in the South Pacific
Zeal Marinas, a marina Growth Partner based in Australia, will add a burst of energy to the First edition of World Boating Day. Director Luke McCaul will bring pivotal support as an ambassador in the South Pacific, heralding an exciting relationship to build awareness, drive participation, and ignite community engagement with an added touch of zeal.
David Good, CEO of Australian Marine Export Group (AIMEX), Australian Commercial Marine Group (ACMG) and Superyacht Australia (SYA) adds: “World Boating Day presents an excellent opportunity for those of us involved in this enjoyable industry to inspire greater participation and enjoyment, after all, that is what this industry is all about.”
How to take part
Local, national and international industry organisations can join the campaign by simply sharing the World Boating Day message with their audiences and utilising the resources developed by the Foundation, from newsletter templates and digital campaigns to event inspiration sheets. We strongly welcome support from more member networks.
For participating companies, there is no limit or criteria to fulfill, and no deadline to register. Shipyards, design studios, sailing schools, marinas, retail businesses and offices are openly invited to join, creating a specific event or registering an existing one from their calendar under the World Boating Day banner.
The events are freely tailored by each participant to their target audiences, from public openings or collaboration with universities, to more private and exclusive events: the ultimate goal being to claim the date for future years to come.
The Superyacht Life Foundation actively manages all PR movements from the campaign.
“For EBI, it is essential to highlight the vital connection between boating and the environment. By bringing our industry closer to users, we can grow boating, inspire more people to protect our waters, and foster a passion for the seas across Europe and beyond.” Philip Easthill, Secretary-General of European Boating Industry about World Boating Day.
To register your interest and to learn more about this exciting new initiative, please contact: info@worldboatingday.com
About The Superyacht Life Foundation
The Superyacht Life Foundation is a non-profit, commercially agnostic industry body that champions the positive people, places and projects surrounding the superyachting good life. The Foundation, together with its 27 partners from different sectors within the industry, uses its unbiased status to educate, inform and engage – opening up the world of superyachts to new audiences and securing the long-term health of our superyacht industry.
