By SHEIK DEAN
The ANZ Sail Fiji 2014, an off-shore ocean race, will be a substantial foreign exchange contributor for Fiji, scheduled for June 7 from Auckland to Fiji.
Port Denarau Marina Limited managing director Nigel Skeggs it is likely to generate $300,000 for our economy for the two-week period.
He made the comments as ANZ Fiji pledged $20,000 its sponsorship agreement in the past week.
Mr Skeggs said: “A survey was conducted after the successful completion of the ocean race in 2010, with figures amounting around $160,000 contributed towards the Fijian economy from the participation of 15 yachts.
“With almost double the amount of yachts taking part this year, we are expecting to see substantial contributions of more than $300,000..
Twenty eight boats from Australia and New Zealand have expressed their interest to compete in this event with organisers optimistic to attract a large racing and cruising contingency.
“The yachts coming in also attract families and friends with more earnings in the tourism industry,’’ Mr Skeggs said.
He says an average spin for yachts coming in stands at $32,000.
“These yachts also contribute to communities when they go out for cruises to the outer islands after the ocean race.”
Opportunity to showcase
And for Mr Skeggs, this is an ideal opportunity to showcase Fiji and also to showcase what Fiji has to offer and how the yachting industry has grown over the years.