ICOMIA Podcast

Wade Pearce | Asia Working Group | Southeast Asia Yachting Conference

ICOMIA — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 10:10:27 +0000

This episode explores how the ICOMIA Asia Working Group is addressing fragmentation across Southeast Asia’s yachting ecosystem. Wade Pearce shares insights on aligning marina standards, improving cross-border collaboration, and strengthening industry communication. With infrastructure largely privately owned and regulatory frameworks inconsistent, the discussion highlights the need for unified data, standard operating procedures, and stronger government engagement. Ahead of the Southeast Asia Yachting Conference 2026, the conversation underscores how collaboration, market education, and shared platforms can unlock sustainable growth, improve client experience, and accelerate investment across emerging Asian marine markets.

Key Points

Fragmentation limits growth across Southeast Asia marine markets
Standardisation and data-sharing key to industry maturity
Collaboration drives long-term commercial and ecosystem value

EliteMarinas supports the marina series on the ICOMIA Podcasts.

Robert Parton | President of British Marine | ICOMIA Podcast

ICOMIA — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 15:14:36 +0000

In this ICOMIA Podcast episode, Ben Taylor speaks with Robert Parton, owner of Aqueduct Marina and President of British Marine, about the evolving economics of inland waterways. From building a 150-berth marina into a fully integrated, one-stop canal boat hub, to successfully lobbying government on business rates reform, this conversation explores the commercial realities behind UK inland marine infrastructure.

They address funding pressures on the Canal & River Trust network, the impact of canal closures on tourism and boat sales, and why industry associations remain critical for policy influence. For marina operators, investors, and marine trade leaders, this is a timely discussion on resilience, investment strategy, and protecting a national leisure asset.

Key Points:

Marinas must diversify to remain commercially resilient.
Collective lobbying protects marine businesses from policy risk.
Canal infrastructure funding underpins long-term industry growth.

EliteMarinas supports this series of ICOMIA Podcasts.

Opening Spain's Waters to Everyone

ICOMIA — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 08:07:57 +0000

From superyachts in Palma to traditional fishing boats in the Balearics, Spain’s marine landscape is diverse and world-class - yet its nautical culture is still evolving. In this episode, Fernando from ANEN shares why hosting the ICOMIA Congress is a milestone for Spain’s marine sector, and how the organisation is working to make boating accessible beyond the millionaire stereotype. We explore strategies to attract new audiences, particularly younger generations seeking experiences over ownership, and how charter, boat clubs, and flexible access models can fuel industry growth. With unmatched cruising grounds, strong connectivity, and a global spotlight, Spain is positioning itself for a more inclusive and vibrant marine future.

Key Points

Shifting boating from ownership to experience-based access.
Positioning Spain as a global marine destination.
Building nautical culture to drive long-term participation.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now on the ICOMIA Podcast.

Global Marina Leaders Converge in Venice

ICOMIA — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 08:04:07 +0000

The ICOMIA World Marina Conference returns for its 14th edition - this time in Venice. In this episode, organisers Roberto and Alberto explain why this three-day event is regarded as an accelerator for the global marina industry. With over 500 delegates, it offers a rare opportunity for decision-makers to gain strategic insights on sustainable infrastructure, technological innovation, market trends, and regulatory adaptation. Beyond the conference hall, attendees will tour marinas across the Venetian lagoon - a UNESCO site - to see best practices in action. Whether your focus is investment, operations, or policy, this event provides the platform to build partnerships and access the latest thinking shaping marina development worldwide.

Key Points

Global collaboration drives sustainable marina growth and investment.
Networking sparks high-value partnerships and industry innovation.
On-site marina tours deliver real-world operational insights.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now on the ICOMIA Podcast.

Coatings, Regulation & Training Innovation

ICOMIA — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 07:58:52 +0000

Ben Taylor speaks with Matt Anzardo from AkzoNobel to explore how coatings innovation, regulatory foresight, and workforce training are shaping the future of the marine industry. From navigating complex biocide and VOC regulations to driving sustainable product development, Matt reveals how AkzoNobel leverages ICOMIA collaboration to influence policy, accelerate R&D, and elevate application standards globally. The discussion also examines the role of the new Yacht Paint Application Center and virtual reality training in tackling skills shortages, streamlining processes, and improving quality outcomes. For decision-makers, this episode offers clear insight into the intersection of compliance, performance, and talent development - and why getting it right drives both environmental and commercial success.

Key Points

How regulation shapes coatings R&D and market readiness
Why VR training is a game-changer for marine trades
The commercial benefits of global industry collaboration

🎧 Listen to the full episode now on the ICOMIA Podcast.
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