Sri Lanka sets sail towards marine tourism within Q1: SLTPB Chief

SLTPB Chairman Chalaka Gajabahu 

SLTPB Managing Director Nalin Perera

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) Chairman Chalaka Gajabahu said the country is poised to embark on a journey to position as a premier destination for marine tourism, with plans put to be implemented before the end of the first quarter. 

Recognising the untapped potential of Sri Lanka’s marine tourism sector, he underscored the unique advantage as an island nation but lamented the lack of active promotion and necessary infrastructure development in this domain.

Assuring proactive measures, Gajabahu revealed that the Ministry has crafted a comprehensive plan for marine tourism in 2024, awaiting completion of regulatory reviews before implementation within the first quarter. 

“This strategic blueprint encompasses tourism investments, equipment, transportation and infrastructure development,” he added.

He noted that they have partnered with the Sri Lanka Navy to enhance water-related activities and instil confidence in water-based endeavours. 

In January, Tourism Minister Harin Fernando unveiled ambitious plans to position Sri Lanka as a premier marine tourism destination in 2024. He also highlighted the potential in tapping into the market segment of rich Indians with yachts, particularly those currently anchored in Dubai. 

“The rich Indians are parking their yachts in Dubai marinas at a very high cost. This augurs well through this year’s plan of promoting marine tourism. The potential development areas identified include Trinco, Galle, and the Colombo Port City,” he said.

Noting that the introduction of a new tax regime prompted the Ministry to propose a tax rebate for boats, jet skis and related equipment, Fernando said plan is to incentivise marine tourism promotions and accommodate the industry.

SLTPB Managing Director Nalin Perera said they are in the process of clearing barriers to marine tourism, including leisure activities on yachts. 

Yacht cruise operators have earlier complained that a specified International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) requirement by Sri Lanka’s Directorate of Merchant Shipping which was not demanded by countries like Thailand or Red Sea nations was blocking ‘live aboard’ cruises.

Perera said the classification has been finalised now. “Previously, we did not have proper classification criteria for marine tourism. Now we are in the final stages and seeking assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on few areas to complete the process,” he explained.