Yachting
YACHTING
IN AND AROUND GRENADA
Illustrating that Yachting is firmly embedded in
the countries DNA, Grenada was one of the first
islands in the Eastern Caribbean to build a big
marina (GYS) in the early 70’s.
As a result, the island became a major yachting
base for both cruisers and charterers.
Looking back on that period, one can now
see, that these were the seeds, that would
see Grenada grow into a regional Yachting
powerhouse that it is today.
The growth of the Grenada Yachting Industry
over the past 15 years has been nothing short
of spectacular. Despite world economy ups
and downs yachting figures continue to trend
upwards. Internationally recognized Camper
& Nicholson took over the old GYS location
on the Lagoon and constructed a world class
facility that now attracts the finest Mega Yachts
from around the world. Grenada and Carriacou
combined, now has 9 marina/boatyard facilities
catering to every taste.
Investment of this nature creates many benefits.
Employment of Grenadians within the industry
is plentiful and knowledge is being constantly
transferred to a young and eager work force.
“
In terms of yachting’s contribution to the
economy, it is hard to calculate precisely
because the Grenada government tracks only
The Yachting Act of 2000 stimulated Private
Sector development in the industry and has
resulted in exponential growth
A strong marine industry requires a strong
Marine Trade Association. MAYAG, the Marine
and Yachting Association of Grenada, recognize
the importance of strong legislation and has
been that conduit between the Marine Industry
and Government.
MAYAG also facilitates the training of individuals
within the industry using the ABYC (American
Boat and Yacht Council) international standards.
Grenada has the kind of product that can be
easily advertised to the world. So it becomes
clear that a world class product, needs a world
class workforce, to handle the world class
yachts that visit.
“
T
here is no question that Grenada,
Carriacou and Petite Martinique is truly
one of the most beautiful, unspoilt cruising
destinations in the world.
two categories, stay over visitors and cruise
passengers. Boaters are included with stay
over visitors. Nevertheless, a 2013 study which
interviewed many businesses and reviewed
existing government data concludes that the
marine and yachting segment “is a major
contributor to the economy of Grenada” and
almost certainly “outstrips the international
cruise segment” and “is comparable with the
resort tourism segment.” This is a statement
that has to be taken very seriously. Analyzing this
statement indicates that Yachting as a whole,
has a considerable impact on the Grenadian
economy and probably in one way or the other,
impacts each and every Grenadian.
Yacht tourism in Grenada is better placed than any
other country in the Caribbean to take advantage
of the two major lines of business in the sector –
cruising and services. There are opportunities for
Grenada to take advantage of its position at the
southern end of the best cruising grounds in the
Caribbean and to significantly expand its share
of the market.
To date much of the sector’s growth “has been
spontaneous,” The government promotes
“policies for business retention and business
expansion of this sector” which is crucial for long
term survival and competitiveness.
Grenada truly has a remarkable product in
Yachting. Armed with a yachting friendly
Government, and benefitting from both foreign
and local investors in the industry, Grenada
is poised to become a leading destination for
cruisers throughout the Caribbean and the world.
This article is the view of
Nicholas George (C.Dir)
Past Director –
Marine and Yachting Association of Grenada BG
PHOTO BY DAVE TOD
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