The recent Thailand International Boat Show 2026 (TIBS) proved to be an ideal showcase for Thailand Privilege Card, an exclusive visa programme under the charge of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) offering long-term residency visas. It was the third year that an ensemble of staff from the firm participated in the show to exhibit membership packages.
Hosted at Phuket Yacht Haven Marina, this event stands as Southeast Asia’s largest yacht and superyacht gathering, bringing together a range of marine and luxury lifestyle-centric companies to present their latest products, advanced innovations, and bespoke services.
Attendance during TIBS 2026 illustrates Thailand Privilege’s focus on enticing discerning, high-spending audiences, while affirming Phuket’s expanding role in Thailand’s shift from a temporary tourism hub to a destination progressively oriented towards extended stays.
Positioning Phuket as a Superior Retreat for Prosperous Travellers
Phuket welcomes millions of visitors each year, drawn to its distinctive, natural landscapes and superb connectivity along with infrastructure plans that include a vital airport upgrade featuring a private jet terminal aimed at serving ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs).
K. Manatase Annawat, President of Thailand Privilege Card, who can be seen in the photo below, believes Phuket is extending beyond an esteemed holiday enclave into a maritime and strategic portal, and that the Thailand International Boat Show offers an epic platform to welcome high-value patrons, investors, yacht owners, and coastal pursuits enthusiasts.
He also revealed the company hopes to target prospective customers seeking to settle in Phuket on a permanent basis, highlighting the idyllic island’s mix of multicultural radiance, complemented by its “Sea, Sand, Sun” cachet that continues to attract inspired voyagers.
As the country’s leading yacht expo, the Thailand International Boat Show debuts a subtly curated portfolio of luxury yachts, marine services, waterfront residences, and world-class lifestyle brands alongside seaside restaurants, entertainment, and social spaces intended to promote both networking and leisure for industry professionals and the general public.
Now in its fourth edition, the exhibition has become a powerful force in elevating Phuket’s standing among the region’s top markets for coastal tourism and high-end travel, drawing thousands of visitors each year — counting over 6,000 during the 2026 instalment alone.
Beyond showcasing nautical excellence, the occasion demonstrates the nation’s ambition to beckon international residents, especially business leaders and investors, encouraging prolonged stays in Thailand while supporting broader efforts to secure talent and capital.
The Membership Scheme Shaping Thailand’s Luxury Living Vision
Thailand Privilege Card is a government-owned entity responsible for providing long-term visas to foreigners pursuing residency within the Land of Smiles through five membership categories that unlock authorized stays lasting from five years to more than two decades.
Members can access a superb array of personalised services, including airport assistance provided by Elite Personal Assistants (EPA), admission to exclusive lounges, and excellent concierge support intended to enhance everyday living. Additional privileges encompass accommodation, transportation, entertainment, healthcare, and investment opportunities.
Key source markets include China, Taiwan, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France. The programme, which currently serves about 40,000 enrollees, is forecasting 10–20 per cent growth this year, with approximately 2,000 located in Phuket.
To further enhance its footprint in Phuket, Thailand Privilege has partnered with a network of prestigious service providers, creating outstanding lifestyle experiences. These include five-star hotel packages in Phuket and nearby areas, along with travel arrangements such as airport transfers, car and motorbike rentals, and a host of health and wellness benefits.
In addition, members based in Phuket and Phang Nga receive exclusive access to 90-day reporting support, as well as proactive assistance with bank account opening and driver’s license applications, designed to simplify administrative processes and facilitate daily life.
For more details about the Thailand Privilege membership scheme, interested parties can head to the official website or visit its Facebook Page for the latest updates. Alternatively, those requiring further information may call the company’s team directly at 02-353-4000.
