Qatar emerging as major luxury yachting destination: Gulf Craft CEO
<p>DOHA: Qatar’s rapidly expanding maritime infrastructure, growing interest in luxury yachting and transformation of waterfront destinations are strengthening its position as a major boating and marine tourism hub in the Gulf, according to Gulf Craft Chief Executive Officer Erwin Bamps.</p> <p>Speaking to <em>The Peninsula</em> on the sidelines of the Qatar Boat Show 2026 at Old Doha Port,…
Doha, Qatar - The rapidly developing maritime sector in Qatar is solidifying the nation's status as a top luxury yachting destination in the Gulf, according to Erwin Bamps, CEO of Gulf Craft. Speaking at the Qatar Boat Show 2026, Bamps noted the country's transformation from a fishing-focused industry to a thriving yachting hub.
Bamps highlighted major waterfront projects like The Pearl Island and Old Doha Port, which have turned marinas into leisure, hospitality, and tourism destinations. He emphasized that marinas are now the heart of the city, where people spend their weekends, rather than mere boat parking areas.
The CEO attributed this shift to changing waterfront lifestyles across the Gulf, creating opportunities for seamless connectivity between yachting destinations in the region. Gulf Craft is collaborating with governments and industry stakeholders to promote interconnected maritime destinations, enabling yacht owners to cruise across Qatar, the UAE, and other Gulf countries.
At the show, Gulf Craft unveiled eight new yachts and boats, including three premieres, showcasing their commitment to innovation and product diversification. The collection featured the Majesty 120 superyacht, two new leisure power catamarans, and a passenger vessel designed for the expanding tourism and hospitality sectors.
Bamps explained that the Majesty 120 exemplifies the company's engineering prowess, sophisticated interior design, and craftsmanship. He emphasized the growing appeal of boating as a multigenerational family activity, with customers often buying yachts for themselves, their parents, and their children.
The CEO also underscored the importance of Gulf Craft's partnership with Gulf Yachts in Qatar, focusing on customer support, after-sales services, and promoting boating as a lifestyle. Looking ahead, Bamps highlighted comfort, spacious interiors, and innovative layouts as key priorities in yacht design. He noted that modern customers expect yachts to offer the same amenities and convenience as their homes, including advanced kitchens, entertainment systems, and comfortable living spaces.
Written by urgent.news from The Peninsula Qatar's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
