The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMIAN marinas believe that strong interest at the recent Fort Lauderdale boat show will translate into increased business, telling Tribune Business: "We're not taking our foot off the gas."

Basil Smith, the Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) executive director, told Tribune Business yesterday that this nation had enjoyed a strong showing at the show, which was held from October 31- November 4.

"We had The Bahamas pavilion, which took up a space of about four booths near the main entrance area of the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show. It was very spectacular," he said.

"There was a very high degree of interest in The Bahamas as a boating destination. We were certainly far and away the busiest section in that area. The marina operators who attended were all very pleased at the representation. If the Fort Lauderdale Boat show is any indication, we are in for a good season."

Mr Smith added: "What these boat shows do is allow us to be able to plan ahead, and so we position ourselves. Marina operators have time to go and attend the shows, so that when spring and summer come they are well positioned. We are positioning ourselves in the market and putting the word out there about The Bahamas. All indicators are that The Bahamas is very well poised."

The ABM executive director added that The Bahamas continues to benefit from the ongoing recovery of other Caribbean nations from the 2017 hurricane season. "They might have addressed the physical damages, but it will still take a while for them to get the word out. That is still working in our favour, but we can't assume that will carry on forever. We are not taking our foot off the gas."