The European and global associations of the recreational boating industry join the UN World Tourism Organization as affiliate members. Nautical tourism will now be at the core of the biggest international tourism organisation, further increasing opportunities for outreach to governments in promoting the benefits of the sector and sustainably growing going forward.

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is the United Nations agency responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism. Based in Spain, it has 159 member states and over 500 affiliate members. UNWTO promotes tourism as a driver of economic growth, inclusive development and environmental sustainability and offers leadership and support to the sector in advancing knowledge and tourism policies worldwide.

At the 118th session of the UNWTO Executive Council in mid-May, European Boating Industry (EBI) and the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) were accepted as affiliate members, becoming important partners of UNWTO. This position will catapult the nautical tourism sector into the spotlight of tourism organisations at global level.

The common aim of both associations is to promote nautical tourism as a major tourism option that offers growth opportunities for communities and regions, sustainable solutions and make the entire tourism industry fit for the future. This membership will support the industry through valuable opportunities for learning, sharing of information, and new partnerships.

The two associations will share the membership, with EBI leading on issues for the European Region and ICOMIA on other global regions. The official membership is held by EBI, but be shared based on the long-term partnership agreement and excellent collaboration between both associations.