Indonesia Aims to Increase Tourism by Cutting Import Tax on Superyachts

By Rebecca Bradbury 15 August 2016

The government of Indonesia is working on a plan to cut the import tax on yachts in order to boost tourism in the archipelago, according to a ministry official.

The import tax for yachts in Indonesia currently reaches 75%, but Tourism Deputy Minister Sudirman Saad revealed at a recent press conference in Batam that new proposals are being drawn up by the ministry to decrease the taxation amount.

Regulations concerning private jets and helicopters will also be relaxed, and they will soon be able to land in tourist destinations across the island-chain.

These changes to policy follow other government initiatives brought in to increase the number of foreign yachts visiting Indonesia such as the construction of new marinas in tourism hotspots.

Likewise, earlier this year, sweeping law changes made to the framework of the Yacht Clearance Process reduced the costs of bringing a yacht to Indonesia as well as making the process faster and more streamlined.

Asia Pacific Superyachts, the leading superyacht agency in the Asia and Pacific region, worked heavily alongside the government in order to make these major changes, and have been in partnership since 2008, striving to establish Indonesia as a true yachting destination.

beautiful view of the Rajat Ampat Islands in Indonesia

vibrant underwater life in Raja Ampat islands, Indonesia

colourful fish in crystal clear waters of Indonesia

Indeed, the largest archipelago in the world, Indonesia is seen as the ultimate getaway for those discerning yacht-goers looking for an exotic, diverse and unique charter vacation.

Cruising grounds include the Raja Ampat Islands, dubbed as ‘the last paradise on earth’ due to its collection of 1,500 small islands, cays and shoals that remain untouched by man as well as its status as one of the most bio-diverse marine regions in the world.

Other highlights include Komodo, home to the legendary Komodo dragons, and its beautiful neighbour Flores.

There is also a growing collection of charter yachts available such as the 51m/167ft luxury phinisi ‘Dunia Baru’ and 50m/164ft luxury phinisi SILOLONA, both crafted by the native Konjo Boat Builders using traditional methods while meeting modern standards of safety and luxury.

Other offerings include the world-class 51m/167ft expedition yacht ‘Northern Sun’ from Naraksaki Shipyard and the 50m/165ft motor yacht SAPPHIRE, delivered by Trinity Yachts in 2009.