Even after consistent efforts to increase participation, the Indian boating industry is still in a nascent stage and is grappling with infrastructure problems and legal bottlenecks.

“The size of the boating industry is just about Rs 1,000 crore. This includes the manufacturing, local shipyards among other things,” said Mr Maneck Davar, Chairman, Mumbai International Boat Show (MIBS).

The sixth annual MIBS this year is showcasing a variety of day boats, speed boats, security boats, personal watercrafts, kayaks, boating accessories, marine engines, marine toys, luxury yachts, large boats and sail boats. Around 80 exhibitors will be taking part in this four-day leisure boating event. This year, Gujarat is participating with a clear mandate of developing a holistic plan of tourism on water.

Brands such as Ferreti, Kawasaki and Azimut Yachts will be on display during the show.

The event is supported by the Maharashtra Government, Coast Guard, Yachting Association of India, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation and the industry body CII.

During the event, exhibitors and industry experts will be discussing the ways and means of expanding and sustaining the Indian boating industry. The potential buyers are the high net worth individuals, Davar said.

“Speed boats are available in the range of Rs 20-30 lakh and cruisers range between Rs 1 crore and Rs 4 crore,” he said.

The sale of leisure boats touched nearly Rs 100 crore last year. Charter boat business is increasingly becoming a popular trend in the leisure boating segment.

>niveditag@thehindu.co.in>priya.s@thehindu.co.in

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