WILLEMSTAD – The Fair Trade Authority Curaçao (FTAC) has received three merger notifications from companies operating in the maritime tourism sector. These involve mergers, acquisitions, and share transfers that impact the boat trip market to Klein Curaçao. 

Key Transactions in the Industry 

On December 9, Klein Toerisme B.V. (Mermaid) reported a merger with Miss Ann Boat Trips & Rentals B.V.. As part of the agreement, Klein Toerisme will acquire the assets and certain liabilities of Miss Ann, along with all outstanding shares of the company. Both businesses specialize in all-inclusive luxury day trips to Klein Curaçao. 

Another notification, received on December 2, concerns Blue Finn Charters B.V., which has signed a conditional agreement to acquire the assets of Stevie Bravo Entertainment B.V., operating under the name Breeze Adventures. Blue Finn Charters currently operates four vessels, while Breeze Adventures has two charter boats. Both companies offer day trips to Klein Curaçao among other services. 

On December 23, Klein Toerisme B.V. also filed a notification regarding the acquisition of Densa B.V.'s stake in Irie Adventures B.V. This deal gives Klein Toerisme control over Irie Adventures, which, in addition to boat trips to Klein Curaçao, provides tourist excursions by land. 

FTAC's Role and Market Oversight 

The FTAC is currently reviewing these transactions to determine whether they fall within the scope of Curaçao's competition regulations. However, the authority does not have the power to block mergers or acquisitions but is responsible for registering and publicly disclosing them. 

These developments signal significant changes in the maritime tourism industry, potentially reshaping competition in the popular boat tour sector to Klein Curaçao.