Anchored in resilience: The Antigua Charter Yacht Show

When Antiguans woke up on the 3rd of October to the news of the devastating fire that took place during Tropical Storm Philippe and ravaged the Antigua Yacht Club at English Harbour, not only was the whole country naturally shocked at the news, but it seemed impossible that one of the biggest events in the island’s annual calendar, the Antigua Yacht Charter Show, would be able to take place just two months later.

The blaze engulfed the main business complex at the Antigua Yacht Club Marina, which housed the Marina Office and other restaurants and service providers. Although, unfortunately, many people lost their businesses and livelihoods, the yachting community, just like the rest of the people of the twin islands, always bounce back and makes the seemingly impossible possible.

Indeed, remarkably, almost two months to the day later, the Antigua Charter Yacht Show took place, continuing and even bettering the legacy of its preceding 61 successful events. Today, it is a major, world-renowned event, although it had much humbler origins when, back in the 1960s, it was simply a small gathering organised by a group of yacht brokers.

The 62nd edition of this premier event for the world’s finest yachts once again heralded the commencement of the Caribbean and Antiguan yachting season. Spanning six days, brokers from across the globe have unparalleled access to a range of spectacular superyachts, enabling them to explore these vessels’ exquisite designs and facilities as well as meet their captains and crew. Such interactions equip brokers with invaluable insights to cater for their affluent clientele seeking to rent a superyacht over the season.

The 62nd edition of this premier event for the world’s finest yachts once again heralded the commencement of the Caribbean and Antiguan yachting season.

There truly cannot be a better backdrop for these magnificent yachts than the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nelson’s Dockyard Marina, Falmouth Harbour Marina and the Antigua Yacht Club Marina. This terrain is not only spectacularly beautiful, but it also offers an ideal geography for yachting enthusiasts.

This year’s show had over 60 registered yachts, over 200 charter brokers and a host of yacht support companies and media. Some of the biggest names in the business jet into Antigua for this event full of business opportunities, networking and some serious deals going down.

The buzzing social programme is another of the reasons why this event is one of the highlights of the Caribbean sailing and yachting calendar.

The welcome party this year changed location to the spectacular Clarence House, built in 1804 for the Navy Commissioner and a location for visiting dignitaries. Broker lunches, evening yacht hops, activity days and barbeques to the tropical sound of a steel pan band complete the non-stop fun for those visiting the event, providing more opportunities for mingling.

The Concours de Chef is also one of the event's highlights and is one of the most respected culinary contests in the charter industry. This year marks the 23rd anniversary of the event, and it focuses on global cuisine with an emphasis on sustainable products.

The event's success is only the beginning, as the superyacht season is anticipated to be one of the busiest yet. Marinas, including Falmouth Harbour, have undergone improvements, meaning that even the largest vessels can be accommodated. Superyacht tenders are also increasing in size, which has led to the construction of a new tender dock.

There is good reason why the Antigua Charter Yacht Show is still running after 62 years. Not only is it one of the premier events in the Caribbean yachting and sailing calendar, showcasing some of the most incredible yachts in the world in a sublime historic location, but attendees also get the chance to enjoy everything beautiful Antigua offers. There is no doubt this event will run and run. Here’s to the next 62 years!

To find out more, visit www.antiguayachtshow.com

Photocred: Ted Martin