Jordi Carrasco, who until now has been the manager of Real Club Náutico de Calp, has been appointed managing director of the National Association of Shipping Companies (ANEN). It assures that the sector has great growth potential in the province.
Unlike most activities, the shipping industry experienced a golden age that coincided with the pandemic.
It really did. There were many people who were interested in water sports as it is an outdoor activity with little contact. It was safe fun and this is reflected in the exponentially increasing boat registrations. Although there are factors that work against us, such as economic uncertainty, supply crisis or cost increases, what needs to be done now is to consolidate this growth. In any case, I am optimistic because the industry has shown its resilience in this context.
What position does the province of Alicante occupy?
Alicante has everything to lead the industry at the national level. The Balearic Islands will always be ahead because we are talking about an archipelago with kilometers of coastline. But I insist that our province is in a privileged position due to the quality of its facilities, the power of companies and its extraordinary waters for navigational exercises. In fact, in high season, almost 100% of the moorings are full, so the aim is to move towards a de-seasonalization that has already been achieved, first and foremost, thanks to foreign tourism.
Does it have the capacity to grow with saturated anchorages in the summer season?
Yes, expansion facilities exist, although complex. However, it is possible to work on the restructuring of ports to expand the area of the water table, as well as through the authorization of dry marinas. Relations with the Administration are also very positive at the moment, as the Coastal Law opens the door to new concessions.
What can be the contribution of maritime activities to the provincial economy?
Maritime tourism is already of significant importance, based on the fact that it contributes to de-seasonalization and generating added value. The beaches are already there and have spectators, but people are looking for more activities for their holidays and sailing is gaining followers.
However, it is a type of tourism that has a reputation for being privileged…
It’s something unrealistic. People aren’t surprised at how much a caravan can cost, and instead, boats that can be had for a similar price become the center of attention. There are options here for everything from eight-foot boats to just about anything.
Is everything good relations with the Administration?
We have demands that reduce our competitiveness, such as the registration tax applied only in our country in Europe. In fact, whoever buys a boat here pays double tax because there is also VAT. So we’re looking at how we can remove this tax burden and at the same time seek some form of compensation so that we can continue to contribute to the public coffers.