Current yacht tourism assessment : a case study of Phuket

Abstract

Yachting can be a marine leisure and luxury entertainment activity for high-end tourists. The success of yacht tourism is based on the natural beauty of Phuket's marine environment. It generates some of the higher revenues among tourism activity. (Payeras et al., 2011). According to Phuket's geography, Phuket's economy formerly was derived by tin mining and rubber plantation. Tourism is now a key contribution to Phuket's economy and Thailand. Therefore, this study sets out to present the current situation of yacht tourism in Phuket and to assess its conditions in the term of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis by conducting the qualitative method. This research was performed with in-depth interview from 4 major stakeholders with purposive sampling technique. The finding indicated Phuket has greater potential with its location enrich with natural resources and adequate facilities to be a "Regional-Hub of Yachting industry in South East Asia". Not only will yacht tourism be a major part of local economic growth, but it also generates revenue and economic growth to neighboring provinces, such as Phang-Nga and Krabi. However, the limitation of restrictions and regulations from government authorities address the competitiveness. The results of this study provide the guidelines for sustainable growth and the development of yacht tourism. These need to be supported by government and non-government organizations. Collaboration from all stakeholders is also an important factor. Finally, this research could be used as a guiding tool to gain on policies development and being promote Phuket as a World Yacht destination.