Phuket remains major marine, luxury lifestyle destination in Asean

*SINGAPORE and Phuket lead the way in Asean's marine and luxury lifestyle market, according to Andy Dowden, event adviser for the upcoming inaugural yachting*

Published: 2026-03-14 18:09 UTC Event date: developing

Phuket continues to hold its place as a leading marine and luxury lifestyle destination in Southeast Asia, with strong growth in high-end yachting and property investment, according to organisers of the upcoming Phuket Rendezvous event. The announcement comes as the island prepares to host the inaugural Phuket Rendezvous at the Royal Phuket Marina from January 4 to 7, which will take over from the long-running Phuket International Boat Show (Pimex).

Andy Dowden, event adviser for Phuket Rendezvous and former co-founder of Pimex, said that Phuket and Singapore are currently at the forefront of the ASEAN region’s marine and luxury lifestyle market. He noted that the sector is seeing ongoing expansion, fuelled in part by increasing interest from Chinese and Russian investors who are purchasing both yachts and property. While it remains challenging to estimate the exact value of the market, Dowden highlighted that Phuket alone features four marinas for more than 1,000 yachts, with an additional 500 to 1,000 visiting yachts each year.

Dowden explained that Phuket remains a preferred base for yacht owners due to its direct air connections and appealing cruising grounds. “Certainly the number of millionaire-plus customers is increasing rapidly, especially in Singapore. However Phuket remains the favoured location for cruising and often as a base for the yachts, given the varied direct access by air,” he said. Many yacht buyers are also investing in villas, further boosting the local real estate market.

Traditionally, most yacht buyers at Thailand’s Pimex have been Western, but Dowden observed that there has been a recent uptick in demand from Asian buyers as well. This shift reflects broader trends in the region, where luxury and marine markets are diversifying and expanding.

For Phuket’s residents and tourism sector, the continued growth of the marine and luxury lifestyle industry brings significant economic benefits. Events such as the Phuket Rendezvous are expected to attract high-spending visitors, support local businesses, and enhance the island’s reputation as a luxury tourism hub. The event will feature a full programme of yachting activities, fashion shows, art exhibitions, food and wine tastings, and business networking opportunities, making it a focal point for both industry professionals and the public.

Organisers have confirmed that the Phuket Rendezvous will become an annual event each January, ensuring ongoing opportunities for local involvement and international exposure. With Asia Rendezvous Pte also planning to launch a similar event in Penang next year, industry observers will be watching to see how these developments further shape Phuket’s role in the regional luxury market.

Source: https://www.nationthailand.com/life/30329325