Emerging Yachting Tourism and Luxury Policy Mobility: Singapore and the Southeast Asian Extension

Abstract

Despite the richness and advanced state of the luxury tourism landscape, Singapore does not have an official luxury tourism policy. Nevertheless, the island's tourism landscape manifests key luxury attractions and resources, as Singapore's yachting marinas have been associated with high-end lifestyles and leisure destinations. In view of these developments, this study seeks to examine the significance and potential of yachting tourism in Singapore using the "policy mobility" lens. This approach considers the adoption and adaptation of a tourism policy, in this case by taking into account the historical context of yachting in Singapore as a means of recreating a negotiated space that is in continuous adjustment with its contemporary society. The study conducts extensive scoping of the development and expansion of yachting marinas and the nautical activities appearing horizontally (e.g. regattas) and vertically (e.g. residential enclaves and restaurants). The contribution is the critical assessment of luxury yachting tourism in Singapore and Southeast Asia. The findings indicate the need for a more pronounced policy promoting luxury yachting tourism and a broader regional yachting agreement on transboundary navigation for leisure boats to invigorate the luxury yachting segment in Southeast Asia to a level similar to the Caribbean and European Mediterranean Seas.

Transportation and growth of Tourism Industry in Singapore

“…Singapore is a thriving hub for tourism and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia (Eijdenberg, Thirumaran & Wong, 2022). The country's tourism industry is diverse, offering a range of attractions and experiences for visitors of all ages and interests.…”

Yachting tourism's contribution to the Caribbean's social economy and environmental stewardship

“…Yet, yachting tourism has the potential to create linkages with other economic sectors by virtue of the longer length of stay of yachting visitors and the additional services required to service the vessels that these tourists utilize. Policymakers should consider the potential sectorial linkages from a destination management perspective, as the yachting tourism industry could contribute to inclusive growth (Eijdenberg et al, 2022). Ioannidis (2019) has pointed out that yachting tourism is still nascent.…”

A scoping review of luxury yachting and wellness: study trends and research prospects

“…Originating from the 14th century Dutch word jaght (Modern Dutch: jacht), "yachts" and the associated activity "yachting" refer to the use of small boats, possessed by wealthy individuals and families, for pleasure during celebrations, holidays and other leisure activities (Eijdenberg et al, 2022). Before the Industrial Revolution, yachts were sailboats in European waters and used for pleasure by royals.…”