A SOUTH Korean firm has tapped Cebu-based marine vessel builder Seals Boatyard Inc. for the construction of luxury yachts to answer the maritime travel demand amid the tourism boom in the North East Asian nation.
Jeju Sea World, based in Jeju Island in South Korea, recently signed a build contract with Seals, with the vessel targeted for delivery by 2023.
A 14-meter Catamaran yacht will be the first luxury yacht to be built by Seals Boatyard for Jeju Sea World.
South Korea is said to be recognized as a developing destination in the yacht charter business. With the growing number of tourists who visit South Korea, especially Jeju Island, demand for marine tourism is rapidly increasing, a trend that is also seen in the Philippines.
Noting the growing tourism market, Jeju Sea sees opportunities in the promising maritime tourism market that led it to expand and tap the Cebu company to build its yachts.
“The scenic route with the rising sun that blazes on the far-off horizon dyes the sea red and fascinates viewers with breathtaking views of natural wonder, which has attracted both tourists and residents at Jeju Island. And the growth of the maritime industry that looks promising made us feel excited about expanding our operations and to have yachts built,” Jeju Sea chief executive officer (CEO) Hong Chol said.
For his part, Seals CEO Doyle Figueras said this is just the first of the five catamaran yachts they are building for the Korean firm.
“Moreover, we are thrilled to represent the Philippines in the international maritime industry as a reliable marine vessel builder and we would be proud to say that it will be Filipino made with international standard quality vessels,” he said.
This development, he said, creates more job opportunities for Cebuanos in the boat building industry.
Catamarans have gained rising popularity, while the yachting market is gaining momentum globally.
Seals is a local boat builder with a shipyard situated in Luyang, Carmen, northern Cebu.