A new lease of life for Bulgarian yachting
At the first General Assembly of the European Boating Industry in 2025, held at Boot Düsseldorf, the Bulgarian Boating Industry Association (BABI) was officially presented. Founded by Elica Yard, LZ Yachting 1991, Crooze Yachts Bulgaria and Dream Sea Yachting, this structure brings together manufacturers, brokers and specialized service providers. Its main objective: to promote Bulgarian know-how in the nautical field.
Bulgarian shipbuilding: an emerging market
Bulgaria aspires to become a new European hub for yacht building. With companies such as Elica Yard, which recently launched its Omaya Yachts range of luxury catamarans, the country has the necessary foundations to compete with more established nations. Creating a strong supply chain and strengthening local skills are among the association's priorities.
Supporting the local and regional economy
BABI also aims to stimulate the regional economy by uniting the boating industry. The sector could generate value-added jobs in the Balkans, while attracting foreign investment. This momentum benefits both manufacturers and service companies such as Dream Sea Yachting, which specializes in yacht management and sales.
A commitment to sustainability
Several founding members, including Crooze Yachts Bulgaria, emphasize the importance of sustainability. Their flagship model, the EZ 28, is an electric boat featuring environmentally-friendly technologies. This positioning reflects a growing trend towards more eco-responsible practices in the boating industry.
European integration and international cooperation
By joining the EBI, the Bulgarian association is part of a European cooperation dynamic. Membership enables the association to benefit from a network of expertise, to exchange best practices and to carry collective weight in defending the sector's interests in Brussels.
Promoting yachting to Bulgarians
In addition to its international ambitions, BABI intends to develop yachting in Bulgaria. Improved accessibility and the enhancement of the Bulgarian coastline could encourage more citizens to take an interest in this activity, which is still marginal in the country.
