Zhoushan, an island city in East China's Zhejiang province, publishes instructions on how to promote the healthy development of the yacht industry. [Photo/WeChat account: zjzsqdxq]

Zhoushan, an island city in East China's Zhejiang province, recently published instructions on how to promote the healthy development of the yacht industry, local media reported on Aug 24.

The policy came in response to a three-year action plan by Zhejiang to construct 10 major island parks issued in March. Zhoushan is included in the plan.

Island tourism mainly relies on transportation and tourism products, and in recent years, Zhoushan has launched several tourism products involving things like island hopping and water planes. However, it still doesn't have many yacht-related tourism products.

"At present, we are working on more detailed programs and promoting the construction of third-party management platforms, including a yacht club," said Xu Hai, deputy director of the municipal bureau of culture, broadcasting, tourism, and sports.

Xu added that Zhoushan also plans to construct home ports, bases, and wharfs for yachts.

At present, Zhoushan is home to hundreds of yachts, but with no consistent standards, it is difficult to use them for tourism purposes.

According to the newly-published instructions, the municipal bureau of culture, broadcasting, tourism, and sports will establish a Yacht Industry Association to offer yacht operators professional guidance.

He expressed full confidence in the development of the yacht industry in Zhoushan.

"As the yacht industry becomes more standardized, yacht tourism will not be limited to just sea fishing and sightseeing," noted Xu, adding that yachts could become a part of everyday life and young people may even be able to throw parties or drink on yachts.