Association of Boat Charter formed in Singapore

The Association of Boat Charter Singapore (ABCS) has been formed, with the organisation declaring a vision to ‘develop a professional network of charter boat operators dedicated to the promotion of marine tourism, sustainable business practices and industry dialogue in Singapore’.

The association was announced in early August and already has 35 companies signed up as members. Quek Wee Teck is the inaugural President of the inaugural ABCS committee and is supported by Ang Chee Boon (Vice-President), Minqi Wong (Secretary) and Andy Soo (Treasurer).

The ABCS’s mission statement is: “Encourage and foster professionalism, integrity and standard operating through the support of training, resources and industry best practices. Act as a liaison for the Singapore charter boat industry with government agencies and other industry bodies to ensure members are supported with accurate information and
assistance.”

The association plans to focus on dialogue with government agencies and provide a single clear point of contact; create an industry transformation roadmap to develop a marine tourism plan; establish a career path for employees; provide training for crew to meet industry standards; develop an industry-wide insurance plan; and ensure consumers feel secure in terms of safety and price.

“The Singapore charter boat industry has grown exponentially over the past five years and in many ways it has become one of the most important business types in the pleasure craft industry in Singapore,” said Wade Pearce of Singapore Marine Guide, who assisted in the creation of the association.

“Our last count was 64 operators and around 85 charter boats. The industry offers over 1,000 jobs and millions of dollars in revenue for businesses.”

www.abcs.sg