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Curtain to India International Boat Show (IIBS) 2006
November 1 2006 : Showcasing vast opportunities of trade in the boating and marine industries, the fifth edition of India International Boat Show (IIBS) concluded recently in Kochi. The three-day show provided an ideal platform to learn, interact and trade in the global water sports industry. The event was participated by more than 500 registered buyers, 63 exhibitors and 1,000 odd visitors.
An estimated Rs. 800 million of business enquires was generated at the Show. Boating and tourism are inseparable, said Mr. S. Sharma, Minister for Fisheries, who delivered the valedictory address. Kerala now has a favourable climate, which would increase tourist inflow, the minister said. IIBS has reinforced Kochi's ability to host international commercial ventures, said Vice-Admiral J. S. Bedi, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command. The event is also a tribute to the state's rich maritime heritage, he said.
The highlight of this year's Show was the Vasco da Gama Yacht Rally that arrived at the Bolgatty Island from Turkey. The rally including six sailboats arrived in Kochi on the way to Goa.The show had special sections on leisure boating, marine equipments, marine engines and navigation and telecommunication aids. Major international players like the Bayliner (U.S.), Feretti (Italy), Walker Bay, Trophy and Regal participated in the show. Other prominent participants include the British Marine Federation, U.K.'s apex marine industry association; Gulfcraft; GC Marines and Art Marine. Marine equipment makers from Garmin, Lalizas, Plastimo, Vetus and Volvo Penta also attended.The strong Indian contingent included Praga Marine, Sea Spray Aluminum Boats, Hunter Marine, Aries Marine and Alcock Ashdown. Kerala's traditional boating sector was another highlight of the Show.A special display of traditional boat building and fishing equipments of Kerala was another remarkable feature of the event.
Expert boat builders from the Kumbalangi village displayed some for their finest skills at the Show, by adding the finishing touches to a traditional fishing boat. IIBS 2006 was also an opportunity for the students of the Cochin University of Science & Technology to showcase their talent with the 'Ecosol', an eco-friendly solar-powered cruises.The minister also distributed the IIBS 2006 awards. Goa Glass Fibre, Mumbai bagged the IIBS 2006 Best Exhibitor Award while Sea Spray Aluminum Boats picked up the 'Best Exhibit Award'. The 'Boating Innovation'of the year award went to ALFA Eco systems, Mumbai.
