On 12 November, EBI and ADAC co-organised a breakfast debate in the European Parliament, hosted by MEP Nikolina Brnjac, on how the EU can strengthen the policy framework for water-based tourism and recreational boating. The discussion brought together policymakers, industry representatives and consumer organisations, with a focus on the future EU Sustainable Tourism Strategy and the Industrial Maritime Strategy.

Speakers included MEP Nikolina Brnjac, Andreea Staicu (Head of Tourism Sector, EU Commission), and several Members of the European Parliament from different political groups and countries. The exchange highlighted the growing relevance of water-based tourism, including marinas, charter and boating, within Europe’s tourism ecosystem and the need for clearer frameworks and investment to support sustainable growth.

A strong consumer perspective was provided by ADAC, which underlined the importance of a coherent EU approach that supports sustainable mobility on water and addresses practical barriers for users, including end-of-life boat disposal, harmonised boating licences and technological openness in propulsion. From the industry side, Marc Diening (CEO, PPF Nautical) stressed the role of private investment supported by clear EU policies and realistic decarbonisation targets, while EBI President Robert Marx highlighted the sector’s economic footprint and the link between nautical tourism, European manufacturing and local jobs.