The GCC is witnessing a growing demand for more fulfilling on-water experiences, characterized by a strong desire for extended sea travel and greater onboard comfort, according to Erwin Bamps, CEO of Emirates-based Gulf Craft. The builder's oceangoing Nomad Yachts has witnessed remarkable success since the brand was unveiled at last year's Dubai International Boat Show, with another yacht in the collection planned for debut next month. The global move towards long-range yachts is further bolstered in the GCC because of the region's inherent passion for boating, said Bamps. "Today, existing and prospective boat owners are looking for space and luxurious comfort, not power. And this is precisely what inspired our Nomad Yachts brand," Bamps noted. "These seaworthy yachts are all about stability and reliability – they are built for family-oriented comfort and long-range cruising at low fuel consumption. At the same time, they combine luxury with deep sea performance, delivering the home-away-from-home experience that many devoted yachters are looking for." The next few years are expected to see surging worldwide interest in explorer yachts as more owners look to venture to the farthest reaches of the globe, according to Boat International. The Global Order Book – the internationally recognized report for global yacht builds – recorded a significant increase in the number of explorer yachts being built worldwide, with a 17 percent year-on-year increase in 2015. A total of 55 explorer superyachts were on order or being built as reported in December 2015, while in 2014 this figure was just 47. Significant progress in yacht engineering is making these long-range craft more capable than ever, with fuel efficient engines and advances in hull design making them a powerful mode of conveyance, added Bamps. Gulf Craft will be exhibiting its wide range of yachts and boats, including its line of Nomad Yachts, the luxurious Majesty Yachts, Silvercraft fishing boats and family cruisers, and Oryx sport yachts and cruisers, at this year's Dubai International Boat Show. The region's leading marine luxury, leisure, and lifestyle event takes place on March 1-5 at the Dubai International Marine Club Mina Seyahi.
