Plans for single boat show founder

A boat show is now open at the Trade Fair Grounds, in Naxxar putting paid to yachting industry hopes of a single national show being held this year.

The Malta Boat Importers and Manufacturers Association and the Yacht Traders Association had planned to hold their own show this year, based at Manoel Island yacht marina, but the long term hopes had always been to have only one show.

MBIMA president Anthony Farrugia explained that the Trade Fair was already committed to various exhibitors this year and that a second show had therefore been planned.

MBIMA and the YTA eventually had to drop their plans after the Trade Fair show dates had to be moved because of the election, bringing them too close to their own planned dates of May 14 to 18.

"Malta is one of the few Mediterranean yachting centres without a water-based show," he explained.

"The Trade Fair had tried to base their show around two venues in the past: the grounds in Naxxar and the sea, but this hadn't really worked.

"Ideally, we would have one show in which all the industry takes part."

Mr Farrugia said they could not force their competitors not to hold the show but instead would focus on persuading the exhibitors about the benefit of one show.

"We will have to get moving on this as soon as possible," he said.

In the meantime, the Trade Fair show remains popular, spread over six exhibition halls. The display ranges from small dinghies to leisure boats and cabin cruisers, from both local and foreign manufacturers. Jet skies are well represented as well.

Marine engines, navigational equipment, parts and accessories insurance and marine engineering services complete this interesting display. Fishing tackle and other products related to the hobby are also present.

The show will be open today from 6 to 10 p.m., tomorrow from 6 to 10 p.m., on Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 3 to 6 p.m.