Yachting is a small but growing part of Tonga’s nautical tourism market and represents an important opportunity to diversify Tonga’s tourism sector. Yachting tourists typically stay longer and spend more than other types of tourists, and frequently visit remote regions and communities that do not usually benefit from general tourism. There is a lack of data on the yachting industry in Tonga. Market Development Facility (MDF), the Tonga Ministry of Tourism (MOT) and the Tonga Tourism Authority (TTA) have collaborated to complete the first independent economic impact assessment of Tonga’s yachting industry.

The yachting industry has the potential to become a significant source of foreign exchange and a driver of tourism growth for Tonga. This would require combined efforts by the government, businesses, communities, and regional organisations. This study recommends 7 different activities to support the growth of the yachting industry in Tonga.