Shiptek 2008

Three days of Shiptek 2008 show came to an end. Actually two days of conference and tradeshow with the last day (today) spend at the backwaters of Punnamada kayal.

The event was inaugurated by Noboru Ueda, Chairman of ClassNK on 29th morning. Following the introduction were lot of paper presentations. However, since there was not enough time alloted to each person, very few of them could actually convey all what they wanted to in the stipulated time. Or it was that they could not condense the essence of the paper in this time.

Unlike other marine exhibitions or trade shows, there were very few stalls, less than 20 in number. That is understandable considering that it is the second such event and first in Cochin. Maybe geographic location was the reason. Having said that one thing that clearly came out of the event was that India is going to be a player in the shipbuilding (and to an extent conversion) scene and Cochin is going to be one such hot spot.

30th night was a gala event and I was surprised (along with many others) to understand that Sohan Roy and his Aries Group has diverse interests ranging from furniture to Hollywood movie production (quoted from Voyages, their 10th year anniversary magazine). I admire the versatility in the man to pursue such eclectic tastes.

Over all it was a nice event; for a startup company and a person relatively new to this field (in India) it was a great opportunity to meet some important decision makers in this part of the world in the marine industry.

Dubai boat show 2008

Just came back this morning after visiting Dubai boat show - the definitive show of the middle-east and South Asia. One had to be here to realize the vision and of the government (rulers) of UAE, especially Dubai.

The hot topic of the show was the development of the Dubai Maritime city; to be built near Palm Jumeira. Already over 100 companies have expressed interest to be a part of the city.

Some of the best yachts were at the show. All the leading brands - Ferretti, Azimuth, Aicon, Princess, Sunseeker and a whole lot of others. One genuine concern about the yachts and the so called guides (girls) are the absolute ignorance about the yachts (in question) or the company they are representing at the show. Except many being just an attraction to lure people to stall, I found most of them redundant. Why we need gorgeous babes when there are such sexy boats! Maybe companies can save money on this.

Lots of equipment suppliers, and other service providers were there. Two solar boat were in the show - promising future ahead for that area.

All in all this was a great show. For all those who missed it this time, make sure you catch up next year.