The third annual Bahrain Boat Show aims to bring in twice as many exhibitors as the successful show in 2010 (100, up from 50) and 50 per cent more visitors (15,000 from 10,000), organisers said.

Organised by Knotika Holding in partnership with Bahrain’s Economic Development Board (EDB), the Bahrain Boat Show International 2011 will take place at the Kingdom’s Amwaj Islands from April 27 to 30, 2011.

“Events like the Bahrain Boat Show help to raise Bahrain’s profile on the international stage.  They provide the opportunity to tell our wider story,” said Shaikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa, chief executive of the EDB.

“And our unique geographic location that is capturing the imagination of the marine leisure market is also a key factor in driving sustainable growth not only in high-end leisure and business tourism but in manufacturing, logistics, ICT, and business, professional and financial services.  Bahrain is the gateway to the trillion dollar Gulf market,” he added.

Wael Juju, CEO of Knotika Holding, owner-organiser of Bahrain Boat Show International, said: “We are very honoured for the support and partnership with EDB and are delighted in organising this event in Bahrain for the third consecutive year. Bahrain is an archipelago of 33 islands with a larger proportion of water than land and 160 km of easy access to coastline making it the ideal location to stage an international boat show.”

“Last year’s event was a great success and we were very pleased with the outcome, particularly with the participation of a significant number of mega yachts who received firm offers to purchase, and we look to build on this at the Bahrain Boat Show International 2011.”

Juju also highlighted that the Bahrain Boat Show International will give visitors the opportunity to enjoy and discover the pleasures of boating, water sports and explore a healthy lifestyle.

“The third annual Bahrain Boat Show is really the only place one can go to see so many different types of marine crafts and activities all at once and enjoy the spectacular sight,” he added.

Mohamed Nouri, project director – Ossis, Amwaj Islands, added: “We, at Amwaj Islands are delighted to assist and support such major nationwide events and are proud to host the 2011 Bahrain International Boat Show.” – TradeArabia News Service