The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) and its development partner – Market Development Facility (MDF) yesterday launched the Pacific Tourism Yachting Strategy 2026-2030 focused on positioning the Pacific as a world-class and sustainable yachting destination.
The strategy – developed through extensive consultation with Pacific governments, maritime authorities, private sector operators and local communities – provides a coordinated framework to grow the Pacific’s yachting industry.
SPTO chief executive Christopher Cocker said the Pacific Tourism Yachting Strategy represented a bold step towards diversifying tourism niche segments and economy, while ensuring growth remained inclusive, sustainable and community focused.
“By working together across the region, such as with MDF, we can strengthen the Pacific’s appeal to yachts and superyachts, showcase our unique cultures and environments, and create lasting opportunities for Pacific communities,” Mr Cocker said.
MDF-Fiji country director Kelera Cavuilati said the yachting industry had traditionally not received much attention or recognition for its economic contribution in the Pacific – job creations, supporting tourism businesses and generating income for coastal and outer-island communities.
“This strategic document will now see SPTO take the lead role in promoting the Pacific as a premier global yachting destination and supporting a coordinated approach to sector development, raising awareness of its economic contribution, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and identify opportunities for investment and growth,” Ms Cavuilati said.
By working together, she said Pacific countries could attract more yachts, unlock greater investment and ensure tourism growth delivered lasting economic opportunities. The SPTO Strategic Plan 2025-2029 is built around five pillars, including: marketing development and promotion; policy, regulation and infrastructure; private sector and SME development; sustainability and community benefits; and regional coordination and partnerships.
