Boat owners will continue to spend money in Fiji as long as their vessels remain in its waters, stated Vuda Marina general manager Adam Wade. He voiced concerns that the 2024-2025 National Budget’s reduction of the allowed stay for yachts in Fiji waters to 24 months would significantly impact the yachting sector.
Previously, yachts could remain in Fiji for 54 months, but now this period is cut to 24 months, Wade highlighted during the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s post-budget consultations in Nadi.
Wade mentioned that the yachting sector contributed around $60 million to the economy before COVID-19, and this figure has now risen to more than $100 million.
He emphasized, “As long as there are boats in Fiji, they will continue to spend. Yachties will spend money on food, shopping, and their friends and families will stay in hotels.”
The Vuda Marina, Wade noted, has increased its staff to 110, reflecting an 80 percent rise in recent years. He pointed out that this decision affects all local marinas in Fiji and has broad implications.
“Nearly all yachts arriving in the country bring tourists, directly funnelling foreign reserves into Fiji’s economy,” Wade added.