The event that has been held annually since 1961 marks the beginning of the
sailing season in the Caribbean and is a must for those who love yachting
The Antigua Yacht Charter Show features the best yachts in the world each year: some sixty boats from 50 to 231 feet or more. The exhibition also includes motor, sailing and multihull yachts.
The sailing show takes place around Antigua's historic Nelson's Dockyard, drawing boaters from North America, Europe and the Caribbean islands.
Antigua can be reached via flights from some of the world's major city airports and there is a wide variety of hotels and villas within walking distance of the maritime exhibition. Such is the case of the Admirals' Inn and the Gunpowder Suites which are located in the Nelson's Dockyard area, with four historic buildings dating back to the 18th century.
In its 2021 version, the event was held in a reduced way due to the impact of the pandemic, but the organization announced that this year's edition will once again show the magnitude and luxury of the boats as it has been doing since its inception. .
Antigua Charter Yacht Show
Among the proposals of the show is the chance to do networking through the Hospitality Desk that is located in the Hotel Copper & Lumber Store in Nelson's Dockyard. There those interested can register and obtain information about the exhibition such as schedules, guides and maps of the docks. The yachts can be visited, although in many cases a prior reservation is required.
From the organization they explain that the main objective of this show is to create a suitable environment for professionals in the yacht charter industry to make contacts, strengthening the relationships forged over the years and establishing new ones to create business opportunities.
The event also has space for entertainment and social events. Among the highlights is the gastronomic themed contest “El Concours de Chef” where the culinary skills and the design of the tables in charge of the different crews are shown.
In addition, for several years the show has supported different charitable organizations through donations from the organizers and attendees.
The 22nd Annual Chef and Table Decorating Contest
This year the contest will focus on the yacht guest experience. For this reason, the owners of the boats that are for rent were asked to present what they offer to their guests while they dine on board.
The idea of the competition is to showcase the amazing equipment on the boats participating in the show to give them visibility and maybe potentially increase their bookings. “We would like to encourage crews to work together and compete with their talent in the industry. We inspire as many yachts as possible to participate in a fun and relaxed atmosphere, giving everyone an equal chance to shine,” the organizers said.