The European Boating Industry (EBI) has expanded its network and appointed a new leadership team during its recent General Assembly, held in Hamburg. The event brought together representatives from across Europe’s recreational boating and marina sectors to discuss industry developments, policy priorities and future strategies.
The assembly marked the addition of two full members: ACAP APICAN, representing Portugal’s recreational nautical industry, and Fédération Française Ports de Plaisance, representing French marinas. With the new entries, EBI now comprises 32 members across 21 European countries.
Fernando Sá, President of ACAP APICAN, commented: “The Nautical Division of ACAP represents companies in the recreational nautical industry, trade and services in Portugal. Being a member of the EBI is an important step to achieve our objectives, such as solving the problems of recreational boating and helping this sector grow.”
Guillaume Nardin, General Delegate of Fédération Française Ports de Plaisance, added: “The French Federation of Marinas (FFPP) is delighted to join the European Boating Industry as a new member. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to shaping a sustainable future for the yachting and marina sector across Europe.”
In addition, the Slovenian Marine Industry Association (SMIA) has rejoined EBI under the leadership of Matjaž Murko, President and CEO of MennYacht Group. Murko commented about the renewed collaboration: “We are truly delighted to see SMIA rejoin the EBI community and look forward to building a strong and forward-thinking partnership.”
Council elections were held during the General Assembly, resulting in the appointment of Robert Marx (VMWD, Germany) as President for a two-year term. Anne-Marie Bouweraerts (Nautibel, Belgium) will serve as Vice-President and Treasurer, alongside Jean-Paul Chapeleau (FIN, France) as Vice-President.
The newly formed Council includes Jordi Carrasco Abad (ANEN, Spain), Mirek Hajdukiewicz (POLBOAT, Poland), Jeroen van den Heuvel (HISWA-RECRON, the Netherlands), Ana Calic (CEA, Croatia), and Jarkko Pajusalo (FINNBOAT, Finland). Fabio Planamente (Confindustria Nautica, Italy) was appointed as the Council’s special representative for the large yacht sector. Piero Formenti (Confindustria Nautica, Italy) stepped down from his role as Vice-Chair.
Robert Marx noted: “Hamburg’s rich maritime heritage offered the perfect setting for this year’s Assembly. We are delighted to welcome ACAP-APICAN and Fédération Française Ports de Plaisance into our growing family. As I begin my new two-year mandate as president, I look forward to working with the newly elected council to drive forward EBI’s core priorities—supporting sustainability, growth and industrial competitiveness in our sector.”
Throughout the event, attendees discussed trade dynamics, sustainability and policy developments affecting the sector. Topics included economic resilience, evolving consumer expectations and strategies for strengthening Europe’s internal market.
EBI represents the recreational boating and nautical tourism industry at the European level. Its members span multiple subsectors, including boatbuilding, engine and equipment manufacturing, refit and maintenance services, marinas and yacht harbours, dealerships, rental companies and water sports operators.
