Antigua Barbuda Yachting and Marina Association Announces Economic Impact Study

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Minister Greene Addressed the Students and Exhibitors

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The Antigua Barbuda Yachting and Marina Association is excited to announce the commencement of its fourth annual Discover Antigua Barbuda Yachting & Marine Expo.

This event kicked off today, focusing on the critical importance of the yachting industry and its impact on the local economy.

A significant highlight of this year’s Expo is the launch of a new project: an Economic Impact Study commissioned by the Antigua Barbuda Yachting and Marine Association.

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This comprehensive study, which has not been undertaken in over 20 years, aims to evaluate the value the yachting and marina industry brings to Antigua and Barbuda, identifying both current challenges and future growth opportunities.

“With the remarkable growth of our industry over the last two decades, this assessment is crucial at this pivotal moment in our history,” noted President of the ABYMA,  Franklyn Braithwaite, in his opening speech.

“Understanding how we can continue to develop and support this sector will ultimately benefit the whole economy of Antigua and Barbuda.”

The study, guided by the consultancy Eco-Sustainability and led by Guy Chester, will begin in December and continue through June 2026.

It will assess both the consumer side, focusing on visiting sailors, as well as the business landscape in Antigua, ensuring a robust understanding of the entire industry.

He went on to thank sponsors the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority, Falmouth Harbour Marina, The Antigua Yacht Club Marina, Budget Marine & Falmouth Ocean Club who have all come on board significantly to fund the study and asks that other members consider a donation to assist in the final funding.”

Vice President of the ABYMA,  Bobby Reis, emphasized the vital role the yachting industry plays in our local economy.

In particular, Reis highlighted, “The yachting sector not only supports tourism but also creates job opportunities year round. “

Liz Isdale from the International Yacht Restoration School of Technology & Trades Scholarship Fund delivered an inspiring speech.

She said, “The scholarship is a transformative initiative led by IYRS in Newport, Rhode Island, in partnership with the Antigua and Barbuda Yachting & Marine Association (ABYMA), your government and other local organizations.

Together, we are working to open doors for Antiguan talent to thrive in the global marine trades.

This scholarship program was born out of a simple but powerful truth: Antigua’s marine industry is both growing and current workforce is aging out, and it needs skilled professionals to sustain and expand that growth. 

We saw a clear demand for trained marine technicians, individuals who not only have the passion but also the credentials to lead and innovate in this field.

And we knew that the solution was not just to import talent, but to invest in the incredible potential that already exists right here in Antigua.”

Governor General Deputy, Sir Clare Roberts, officially declared the Expo open and enthused, ‘Opportunity does not lie only on the road but takes to the seas’.

The Expo continues (assuming the weather system continues to head north) through October 9th, from 9 AM to 3 PM, offering career advice and networking opportunities for those interested in the marine sector.

The ABYMA is very thankful to host sponsors Antigua Yacht Club Marina, Antigua Yacht Club and Falmouth Harbour Marina along with the team at the  National Sailing Academy and the  planning committee for making the event happen.

For more information about the Antigua Barbuda Yachting and Marine Association and the ongoing Expo, please visit our website or contact us directly.

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