Pacific unveils strategy to expand yachting tourism and strengthen regulation

The Pacific Tourism Organisation, together with the Market Development Facility, introduced the Pacific Tourism Yachting Strategy 2026-2030 to position the region as a premier, sustainable yachting destination. The framework focuses on marketing, regulatory infrastructure, private-sector development, sustainability, community benefits and regional cooperation. A key element is enhancing yacht-tourism statistics, starting with Fiji, where the Fiji Bureau of Statistics will track arrivals, vessel types, expenditures and charter activity.

Earlier studies in Vanuatu, Tonga and Kiribati recorded more than US$8.7 million in direct yacht spending and over US$18 million in total economic impact, with roughly 950 yachts visiting annually. The strategy also seeks tighter coordination among customs, immigration, health, quarantine and maritime authorities, requiring yachts to keep their AIS active for monitoring. SPTO chief executive Christopher Cocker highlighted the plan’s role in diversifying tourism while ensuring inclusive, community-focused growth, aligning with broader Pacific blue-economy goals.