The Gulf's mega-rich are paying for multi-million-dollar super yachts in cash despite ongoing global financial turmoil, a luxury boat dealer has told 7DAYS ahead of next week's Dubai International Boat Show.
While the rest of us navigate through choppy financial waters, Erwin Bamps - chief operating officer at Ajman-based yacht firm Gulf Craft - says he is busy trying to add helipads to his customers' boats so they have a place to park their helicopters.
He spoke as seafarers from across the world are setting sail for the 20th anniversary boat show - and they are ready to splash the cash.
Bamps told 7DAYS his company plans to launch a new 41m super yacht with a gold-coloured hull at the boating bonanza - and that when it comes to the high-end luxury market, business is booming.
Asked whether the global financial crisis was causing the yachting set to curb their splurges and downgrade, Belgian Bamps said: "No, we find they're buying two boats."
"Recession or no recession, we are growing. The rich are still eating a decent breakfast."
This year's Dubai International Boat Show is set to showcase some 430 vessels - with the most luxurious costing a wallet-busting Dhs50 million.
While Gulf Craft's 41m yacht is as yet unnamed, Bamps, who said that the super-rich often pay for their multi-million boating purchases in cash, was willing to reveal one new, unique feature - an
on-board elevator.
Bamps divulged he also wants to add one extra special addition to a future top-of-the-range edition - a helicopter platform.
"It'd have to be a minimum size otherwise it'll look like an oil rig," he said.
Bamps said Gulf Craft's biggest sale was a Dhs61 million vessel that was bought by a Gulf national.
He added: "There's no limit to how big we can go.
"At the end of the day we are talking about toys - and people want to play. They don't want less than they have in their villa or palace - they want more."
The Dubai International Boat Show is being held from March 13 to March 17 at the Dubai International Marine Club, Mina Seyahi.
© 7Days 2012
