Pattaya (Thailand) – July 31, 2017 (travelindex.com) – The Thai government is moving forward with its plans for the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) to develop Thailand's Gulf region into a major economic and leisure hub. Following the approval of the expansion of U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport and the high-speed rail line connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports, an additional 230 billion baht has now been allocated for the third phase of the Laem Chabang Deepwater Port, the third phase of the Map Ta Phut Deepwater Port, and a double-track rail network connecting the Laem Chabang, Map Ta Phut, and Sattahip Deepwater Ports. All of these measures will boost maritime tourism in Eastern Thailand.

Reflecting on the growing importance of Eastern Thailand and its geographical location within the region, Scott Finsten, Harbour Master of Ocean Marina Yacht Club, said: “The Gulf of Thailand has tremendous natural resources, both inland and offshore, and it is gratifying to see the region being prioritized by the Thai government. Eastern Thailand is benefiting not only from significant government investment but also from increasing private investment. This is driving further development of leisure infrastructure, and with Ocean Marina Yacht Club – the largest marina in Southeast Asia – and the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show, we are ideally positioned to support this growth.”

The Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show 2017, considered "Thailand's largest boat show for the maritime lifestyle," maintains its leading position on the international event calendar and kicks off the Asian boat show season from November 23rd to 26th. Organized and hosted by the Ocean Marina Yacht Club in Pattaya, the event has established itself as a key meeting point for the regional marine industry. More than 150 companies will present their products and services to a steadily growing audience interested in the maritime lifestyle.

“I am delighted to announce that we will be hosting the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show for the sixth time at the Ocean Marina Yacht Club from November 23rd to 26th. Our goal has been clear from the outset: to make the event a strategic growth driver for the regional marine industry. Every year, the show attracts a growing number of international visitors who want to experience the diverse maritime tourism offerings of eastern Thailand. This year, we aim to build on the successes of the past five years. The displays on land and in the water will be larger than ever, and there will be numerous activities and entertainment to suit all tastes – from serious boat buyers to family members who want to get a glimpse into the maritime lifestyle,” said Mr. Finsten.

The Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show generates at least two billion baht annually for the shipping and tourism industry in the east through trade at the show and business stimulated throughout the year.

“Since our debut at the show, we have enjoyed a successful track record in boat and product sales. Even more important, however, are the contacts made and the deals and transactions concluded after the show. The event provides a marketing platform and an opportunity for interested visitors to learn about the industry's offerings. Thanks to our proximity to Bangkok, many residents of the city arrange appointments for private viewings and test drives in the weeks and months following the show, leading to further sales,” added Mr. Finsten. “As the EEC continues to grow in importance and investments flow into the East Coast, maritime tourism will experience a boom in the coming years.”

The four-day event, with exhibition areas along the marina promenade right next to the underwater displays, has proven extremely popular with both exhibitors and visitors, highlighting the maritime lifestyle that is at the heart of the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show. The 6th Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show will take place from November 23rd to 26th at the Ocean Marina Yacht Club in Pattaya, Thailand.

About the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show: Launched in 2012, the Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show has been a resounding success with both industry professionals and visitors. Attracting a wide range of exhibitors from the watersports and leisure sectors, the 2017 show will take place from November 23rd to 26th at the Ocean Marina Yacht Club, showcasing Jomtien and the Pattaya region to the world. It highlights the importance of the Gulf of Thailand as a strategic hub for yachting in Southeast Asia.

About Ocean Marina (a prestigious project by Ocean Property): Located on Jomtien Beach in the Pattaya region, Ocean Marina is Thailand's premier marina resort complex and the largest in Southeast Asia. It is a short drive from Bangkok and an hour from Suvarnabhumi Airport. The world-class marina is complemented by a yacht club, accommodations, fine dining and leisure facilities, and two luxury residences – San Marino and Ocean Portofino.

Ocean Marina is home to the annual Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show and the Top of the Gulf Regatta – Asia’s largest multi-class regatta – and has been the official venue for leading international events, including the CataWorld Cup, the 24th Southeast Asian Games, and major concerts by Grammy, Cool FM and others.