The Chinese government is to step up yacht development on the island of Hainan. Located at the southernmost end of the country, Hainan is already popular with high-net-worth Chinese, Koreans and Russians and has now been given a special visa-free status for EU, US and Canadian visitors.

It is also about to have its first yacht show. From April 2-4, more than 3,000 international visitors are expected to attend the 2010 Hainan Rendez-Vous, based at the Visun Royal Yacht Club, which will feature dedicated shows for megayachts, private jets and property.

Builders such as Royal Huisman, Blohm & Voss, Lürssen and Azimut-Benetti have confirmed participation, along with Sunseeker and Ferretti Yachts. While yacht names and models have yet to be released, the organisers say the event will be the largest fleet of yachts ever exhibited in the country's waters — and it will be the first time superyachts exceeding 50m (164ft) will have been displayed in China.

Engine and equipment manufacturers are also expected to attend as are several companies offering yachting-related services. The show organisers say they also plan to hold a forum on legal and environmental issues.

Still undergoing its first phase of construction, the Visun Royal Yacht Club will eventually have dozens of megayacht slips when it is finally completed.



Superyacht Business/Diane M Byrne/Megayachtnews.org, 17 March 2010