Members of European Boating Industry (EBI) came together in person for the first General Assembly of 2025. The assembly provided a vibrant platform for networking, discussing the industry’s most pressing challenges and opportunities, as well as future prospects.
Robert Marx and Kaloyan Radulov at boot Düsseldorf
A key highlight was the approval of membership of the Bulgarian Association of Boating Industry (BABI) as EBI’s newest member. This addition marks a significant step forward, both for EBI, which now can count 30 members, and for the Bulgarian nautical sector and its needs. The inclusion of BABI strengthens EBI’s representation across Europe and highlights the continued growth and cooperation within the industry.
Elica Yard, LZ Yachting 1991, Crooze Yachts Bulgaria and Dream Sea Yachting are the founding members which have established the Bulgarian Boating Industry Association. Its creation was a natural progression, given the recent efforts by several local companies to introduce their own luxury yacht brands to the international market. Manufacturers, brokers, charter companies, and yacht equipment importers have united to strengthen Bulgaria’s yachting industry.
The association’s main objective is to position Bulgaria as a new high-quality yacht-building hub in Europe, working alongside local authorities and entrepreneurs to increase the presence of Bulgarian yacht brands on the global stage. This industry is expected to bring significant benefits to both the Bulgarian and Balkan economies in the future. Developing a strong supply chain of suppliers, subcontractors, and importers will be vital to bolstering the competitiveness of Bulgarian-made yachts. The association also aims to encourage yachting as a popular leisure activity for Bulgarians.
Robert Marx, President of the EBI, stated: “We are delighted to welcome the Bulgarian Association of Boating Industry into the EBI family. Its membership reflects the growing importance of Bulgaria’s recreational boating sector and this partnership will enhance our efforts to promote sustainable growth, foster innovation, and strengthen cooperation across the industry.”
The President of BABI, Kaloyan Radulov, shared: “By driving investment in the yachting sector, advocating for the interests of Bulgaria’s recreational marine industry, and facilitating the exchange of information, best practices, and technical expertise among members and partners, we believe Bulgaria is well on its way to long-term success in this promising market.”