Foreign Customer Support Program
More and more foreigners are discovering the wonders of cruising Japan, and that represents both a challenge and an opportunity for Japanese marinas (including Umi no Eki, or Sea Stations) and fishing ports. Foreign cruisers represent a welcome source of new revenue for marinas and an economic boost for fishing ports, but they also pose linguistic and cultural challenges for local staff.
Konpira Consulting has therefore developed a Foreign Customer Support Program to help Japanese marinas and fishing ports attract and communicate effectively with the increasing number of foreign cruisers coming to Japan.
Components of that program include:
- Reviewing moorage and other policies and recommending changes to help the marina or fishing port best serve foreign cruisers;
- Developing an English-language website or an English-language PDF for inclusion in a Japanese-language website;
- Preparing an English-language handout to give to a foreign cruiser providing information about the marina or fishing port and introducing nearby facilities and sightseeing attractions;
- Making and/or checking English-language forms, signs, and other materials;
- Replying to English-language emails, such as those requesting moorage reservations, inquiring about facilities, and asking about haul-out and repair services;
- Handling English-language telephone inquiries and providing telephone-interpretation assistance;
- Providing emergency support for foreign cruisers, such as for a medical crisis or a boat-related emergency.
- Promoting the marina or fishing port in overseas media.
Cost
The cost of the Foreign Customer Support Program varies depending on the specific needs and size of the marina or fishing port. In general, though, there is a modest annual retainer, a fixed fee for certain services, and hourly charges for other services.
Other Services
Drawing on both the management and cruising experience of Konpira Consulting founder Kirk Patterson, we are also available to help managers review and enhance their marinas' operations. Please contact us for more information.
Got Questions?
Contact us for more information on our support programs. Feel free to write in English or Japanese.