Organizers of the Pacific Yacht Conference, slated for May 28-29 in Vancouver, have confirmed that BC Minister for Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training, Shirley Bond, will deliver the event’s welcome address. The conference will provide a forum for Northwest yacht builders, refitters, designers, brokers, marinas and service providers to tackle issues and encourage growth in the industry.
“The yacht industry creates employment for skilled workforces and high-value tourism revenues for economies across the globe,” says conference organizer Lorna Titley. “Minister Bond’s…participation creates a strong impetus for both the Pacific Yacht Conference and the Pacific Northwest yacht industry itself.”
Set aboard the luxury harbour cruise yacht Magic Charm, the conference will address pilotage and regulatory issues, local cruising grounds, marina demand and supply, servicing larger yachts, and refits versus new-builds.
Other confirmed speakers include yacht designers Greg Marshall, Patrick Bray and Ivan Erdevicki; Wes Vermuelen of West Bay SonShip Yacht Builders; Sara Anghel, National Marine Manufacturers Association; Peter Schrappen, Northwest Marine Trade Association and US Superyacht Association; Don Prittie, president of Boating BC and general manager, Canoe Cove Marina; and John Nassichuk, general manager, Raven Marine.