Finally the Bermuda tourist authority has caught onto the idea that the islands hold attraction to superyachts and there is money to be made out of attracting them there.
For decades those with vision have been trying to convince the authorities that Bermuda needs to be more superyacht friendly and offer more berthing to these craft.
Now the agency also wants legislation that would allow it to attract superyacht tourism.
The 2017 superyacht regatta held in the islands attracted about twice the number of entrants that raced in San Francisco during the 34th America’s Cup, while the convergence of eight J Class yachts in Bermuda was the largest gathering of this class in history — even more than ever raced at any one time in the 1930s and 1940s when the majestic sailing vessels competed for the America’s Cup.
Having woken up to the opportunities The Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) said it now plans to request legislation that would make the island more friendly to superyachts.
It is seeking to actively investigate the feasibility of hosting sports-related events that will include superyacht and J Class Regattas, similar to those that took place during the 35th edition of the America’s Cup.
The agency said that it plans to recommend to Members of Parliament legislation that would incentivise superyacht owners to come to Bermuda.
In 2016 just sixty-eight superyachts visited Bermuda, yet more than 80 came for the the America’s Cup alone.