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Palma's International Boat Show; a showcase for the industry and a platform to lobby the government
Palma's 28th annual boat show begins on Saturday and runs until 8th May. Located in the city's old harbour, the show pulls enthusiasts and members of the trade from across the continent. This year's show includes a floating exhibition with 320 boats, many in the growing ‘super yacht' sector. On land there will be a further 700 boats, plus 300 exhibitors showcasing their goods and services.
More than 25,000 boats have permanent moorings across the Balearic Islands and some 51,000 boats visit the archipelago each year. And this number could be set to increase in the future. Currently, any boats visiting the islands, or indeed mainland Spain, are subject to a matriculation tax of 12% of the value of the boat. The tax, only applicable in Spain, is blamed for curbing the growth of the charter business and pressure is mounting for the Spanish government to scrap it.
Earlier this month the President of the Majorcan chamber of commerce, Joan Gual de Torrello, raised the issue with the congress of deputies in Madrid and the Balearic Euro MP took the matter to the European Commission. He believes the tax on non-Spanish flagged yachts is against the EU's principles of free trade and the free movement of people.
And now the yachting community plans to add its voice to the cause in a very public display. During the boat show they plan to share their frustrations at what they believe to be an unfair tax by blowing their horns at midday each day for one minute.
