In a bid to attract more superyachts to cruise the waters of Fiji, the government there has scrapped the 12.5% Superyacht Charter Tax.
In the heart of the South Pacific, Fiji is blessed with 333 tropical islands that provide a perfect cruising location.
Famous for its soft coral diving, white sand beaches and pristine natural environment, Fiji is a leader is eco-tourism. Known as the “soft coral capital of the world” Fiji is the perfect place for unforgettable dives or a cruise to remote, secluded beaches and hidden bays.
It is not all good news however because what it gives away it claws back from another direction
Superyachts cruising the waters of Fiji will now be charged an environment and climate adaptation levy of 10 per cent.
This is levied on the stated gross charter fee as disclosed on the charter contract.
Welcoming the news Port Denarau Marina general manager Cynthia Rasch said, “Port Denarau Marina is expecting more than 700 vessels visiting its shores this year.”
Considered a hub for the country’s visiting super yachts, the marina welcomed 554 yachts and 65 super yachts last year.
Rasch added, “The 2017 yachting season was a record year for the company.”
“The 2017 yachting season was a record year with 65 super yachts visiting the country,” she said.
“This shows strong growth from 2016 following Cyclone Winston.”
She said Government’s reduction of the Super Yacht Charter Tax from 12.5 per cent to 10 per cent would also help in the increase of visitors.
“Our commercial operations saw 445,000 visitors through our terminal building in 2017, an increase of 10 per cent in comparison with 2016 and we are expecting these numbers to rise in 2018,” said Ms Rasch.
She said the 2017 yachting season had a total of 11 weeks of charter sold to visiting super yachts in Fiji.