The Bulgarian Association of Boating Industry (BABI) Established and Accepted as a Member of the European Boating Industry (EBI) at boot Düsseldorf

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Elica Yard, together with LZ Yachting 1991, Crooze Yachts Bulgaria, and Dream Sea Yachting, has officially established the Bulgarian Association of Boating Industry (BABI), which has been accepted as the 30th member of the European Boating Industry (EBI).

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EBI members met in person for their first General Assembly of 2025 during the boot Düsseldorf exhibition. The newly formed Bulgarian association was presented by its President, Kaloyan Radulov, who is also co-founder and managing director of Elica Yard.

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Robert Marx, President of EBI, commented:
"We are pleased to welcome the Bulgarian Association of Boating Industry into the EBI family. Their membership reflects the growing importance of the recreational marine sector in Bulgaria."

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The creation of BABI is a natural outcome of the efforts of several Bulgarian companies that have launched their own luxury yacht brands on the international market in recent years. Manufacturers, brokers, charter companies, and equipment importers have united to strengthen the boating industry in Bulgaria.

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"By encouraging investment in the yachting sector, defending the interests of Bulgaria’s recreational marine industry, and promoting the exchange of information, best practices, and technical expertise between members and partners, we believe Bulgaria is on the threshold of long-term success in this promising market," said Radulov.

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The association’s main goal is to establish Bulgaria as a new hub for high-quality yacht building in Europe, working closely with local authorities and entrepreneurs to expand the global presence of Bulgarian yacht brands. The industry is expected to deliver significant benefits to both the Bulgarian and wider Balkan economies.

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Developing a strong network of suppliers, subcontractors, and importers is key to enhancing the competitiveness of yachts produced in Bulgaria. The association also aims to promote yacht tourism and make boating a preferred leisure activity among Bulgarians.

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"Bulgaria stands on the verge of leaving a lasting mark in the world of yacht building. There's much work ahead, but with ambition, talent, and ingenuity, we can create a sustainable legacy of exceptional yachts that rival the best in the global industry," emphasized Radulov of Elica Yard, which recently unveiled its new luxury power catamaran brand, Omaya Yachts.

Dimitar Panayotov, CEO of LZ Yachting 1991 – a leading name in Bulgaria’s luxury yacht segment and a pioneer in sustainable luxury – added:
"It is both an honor and a great responsibility for us to contribute to the creation and growth of the Bulgarian Association of Boating Industry. We will invest all necessary resources, experience, and connections to establish it firmly."

Gabriela D. Petrova, co-founder and COO of Crooze Yachts Bulgaria, a company producing electric luxury yachts, said:
"At Crooze Yachts Bulgaria, we believe in the power of partnerships to achieve sustainable and meaningful growth, advancing business, lifestyle, and education. As founding members of BABI, we are focused on building a competitive local environment through the application of European and global models and trends."

Ivelina Topalova, CEO of Dream Sea Yachting – a marine services company specializing in sales, charters, purchases, and yacht management – stated:
"Our vision is to develop Bulgaria as a hub for innovation and high quality in the global yacht industry. By building local expertise, manufacturing world-class yachts, and fostering international cooperation, we believe we can turn our country into a recognized leader in yacht building. Together, we can make this dream a reality and create a legacy for future generations."

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About Elica Yard

Elica Yard is a pioneering Bulgarian shipyard dedicated to building high-quality power catamarans for clients worldwide. Combining production expertise, advanced design, and a drive for innovation, the company recently launched Omaya Yachts – a line of modern, spacious, and efficient motor catamarans. As a founding member of BABI, Elica Yard stands out with its forward-looking approach, rooted in family manufacturing traditions and a committed team of international professionals. By integrating proven technologies and customer-focused service, Elica Yard aims to elevate the global reputation of Bulgarian shipbuilding and foster cooperation, sustainable success, and growth in the industry.

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About LZ Yachting 1991

LZ Yachting 1991 is a leading name in Bulgaria’s luxury yachting sector, known for its extensive experience, innovation, and commitment to high quality. With over three decades in the industry, the company specializes in yacht sales, brokerage, and charter services, offering unmatched support to discerning clients. It is the official distributor of renowned brands such as Princess, Bavaria, Zodiac, Dufour, Grand Soleil, and Nautitech. As a sustainability pioneer, LZ Yachting collaborates with forward-thinking brands like Crooze Yachts and Omaya Yachts.

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About Crooze Yachts Bulgaria

Crooze Yachts Bulgaria is an innovative company redefining the yachting industry by combining luxury with sustainability. Dedicated to developing yacht building in Bulgaria, the company actively promotes innovation, builds strategic partnerships, and supports education in the field. Driven by values of sustainability and quality, Crooze Yachts Bulgaria Ltd offers exceptional craftsmanship and premium customer service. The company's first model – the EZ 28 – embodies this vision with electric propulsion, an intuitive infotainment system, and eco-friendly solutions, forming a modular platform for a variety of activities.

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About Dream Sea Yachting

Dream Sea Yachting offers comprehensive marine services, specializing in yacht sales, charters, acquisitions, and management. With extensive experience in the yachting industry, the company continues to grow and diversify, providing a full suite of services including boat and catamaran sales, chartering, marina equipment, marine installations, yacht insurance, registration, and specialized transport for vessels from 10 to 60 feet by land and sea. Dream Sea Yachting actively participates in international forums and exhibitions, contributing to innovation and progress in the global yachting community.

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About European Boating Industry (EBI)

European Boating Industry (EBI) represents the recreational boating sector in Europe, covering all related industries such as boatbuilding, equipment manufacturing, marinas, and services. The sector is a key contributor to the European economy, comprising over 32,000 companies—primarily SMEs—providing more than 280,000 direct jobs. EBI's mission is to support and promote sustainable boating and marine tourism #MadeInEurope.
More information: www.europeanboatingindustry.eu

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