Early rumblings from the Venice International Boat Show are indicating that 2010 will be a good year for the Italian super yacht industry.

Statistics from the Research and Intelligence Division of BMps show the average rate of growth forecast for 2010 - 2012 to be 5%.

With the Venice boat show due to begin on March 18, many dealers will benefit from a ripple effect caused by a reduction the Croatian government's decision to tax on luxury items last August.

Lorenzo Pollicardo, who runs the The Nautical Saloon in Venice, said: "There is a strong interest in the boating operators along the entire Dalmatian coasts, associated with the recent investments in new marinas like Montenegro.

"The Italian north east market is now registering positive demand especially in the super yacht charter industry. Venice is really proving itself as the most qualified Yacht Hub for the whole East Med," he added.

SuperYachtWorld, 12 March 2010