What you missed in Antigua

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Welcome to Yacht Charter Market, the weekly newsletter dedicated to the world of yacht charter.

In today’s newsletter:

• Top story: What you missed at the Antigua Charter Yacht Show

• Charter updates: Fraser, Parsifal Yachting, Cecil Wright, Worth Avenue Yachts and IYC

• Destination spotlight: Barbuda ☀️

• Post of the week: @iycyachts shared an Antigua show recap reel!

TOP STORY

What You Missed at the Antigua Charter Yacht Show

The 62nd Antigua Charter Yacht Show wrapped up this week, with many yachts already heading straight into their next charters. The show delivered a vibrant mix of informative presentations, exclusive networking opportunities, in the Caribbean backdrop that makes Antigua such a standout location. From 4 to 9 December, industry professionals explored 59 yachts docked at Falmouth Harbour, Nelson’s Dockyard, and the Antigua Yacht Club Marina, including 48 superyachts.

“One of my favourite parts of any yacht show is the opportunity to connect with industry professionals, and the Antigua Charter Yacht Show was no exception. From deepening these relationships to touring standout vessels such as Kensho and CC-Summer, and engaging in thought-provoking panels on the future of yachting, the week was filled with highlights that showcased the very best of the industry,” shared Halle Scott, Global Charter Specialist at The SuperYacht People.

“Gaining insights directly from industry experts not only provides a competitive edge but also equips us to consistently deliver exceptional, tailored experiences to clients around the globe,” she added. “As a broker, it is particularly valuable to spend quality time with the crew on board their yachts to gain a better understanding of how they operate together, as this insight cannot be fully captured through crew profiles and photos online. The show also highlighted emerging trends in charter, ways to incorporate marine conservation, and emphasised collaboration and discovery across the industry,” concluded Halle Scott.

A Memorable Kick-Off

The much-anticipated Antigua Sundowners Evening, hosted by Superyacht Charities on 8 December, kicked off the week in style while raising funds for GILM Inc. This sold-out event, held at the stunning Boom Restaurant & Bar, combined live music, raffles, and entertainment, setting a vibrant tone for the Antigua Yacht Show. The Superyacht Charities Foundation brought its distinctive transatlantic energy to the gathering, drawing a mix of show attendees and local yacht businesses for a relaxed evening infused with Caribbean charm. Guests enjoyed delicious barbecued dishes and an eclectic soundtrack from the SYC DJ, blending local and international beats to create a lively atmosphere.

The event encouraged attendees to embrace the spirit of the evening by dressing in their most colourful outfits. With a focus on inclusivity, ticket prices were kept low, allowing guests the flexibility to decide their own spend at the cash bar. Funds raised supported GILM Inc., an organisation dedicated to protecting Antigua & Barbuda’s fragile coastal and marine ecosystems for future generations. A premium raffle added to the excitement, offering exceptional prizes and further boosting the fundraising efforts for this meaningful cause, making the Sundowners Evening a highlight of the Antigua Yacht Show.

The following evening, guests were able to enjoy a Caribbean Supper at the Copper & Lumber Store Hotel in Nelson’s Dockyard. Sponsored by MYS Worldwide Yacht Services USA, the event showcased a live steel band, an Antiguan cultural performance including limbo and fire dancing, as well as a live DJ.

Fleet Highlights and Onboard Showcases

During the week, each yacht showcased its unique character through guided tours, themed events, and exceptional hospitality. Notable highlights included a 1920s-themed evening aboard the 65.4-metre Benetti yacht Triumph and a disco party aboard the 75.5-metre Oceanco yacht Wheels, among many others, where crews demonstrated their creativity and enthusiasm.

Another highlight was the Day Onboard SuRi, hosted by Camper & Nicholsons. Guests enjoyed a refined dining experience in the company of Captain Tony, before trying out the 63.4-metre Halter Marine yacht SuRi’s impressive selection of water toys. The signature Piña Colada cocktail was hailed by guests as the perfect way to end the day.

West Nautical recently hosted an exclusive sailing day aboard the award-winning 35-metre Cantiere Delle Marche yacht Stellamar, giving invited guests the opportunity to sample the extraordinary charter experience, as well as a guided tour of the vessel to explore her luxurious design and impressive features. “The crew were not only highly professional but also warm, friendly, and fun,” shared Riejanneke Niesert, YachtEye product manager. Guests sailed to a stunning bay with turquoise waters, enjoying a playful word game inspired by the name “Stellamar” and explored the yacht’s spacious sundeck, stylish interiors, and thoughtful details.

The day was filled with adventure, as guests took full advantage of Stellamar’s extensive toy collection, including seabobs, fliteboards, and kayaks. Relaxation followed with time in the Jacuzzi and savouring panoramic views from the sundeck. The experience was elevated by a delicious breakfast and signature Kiwi Mojito, capped off with a gourmet lunch prepared by the onboard chef. “The yacht exceeded all expectations, but the standout feature was the incredible crew who made it truly unforgettable,” Niesert added.

Culinary and Design Excellence

The 24th ACYS Concours de Chef and Tablescaping Competitions celebrated the artistry of yacht crews. This year’s theme, The Art of Charter: An Immersive Culinary and Sensory Voyage, inspired exceptional displays of skill and creativity. Event coordinator Chef Elizabeth Lee expressed her admiration for the participants, stating, “The competition level was incredibly high, with chefs and interior crews collaborating to create unforgettable experiences. Every participant demonstrated exceptional talent and creativity, making it a true showcase of excellence.”

In the Concours de Chef competition, Chef Leny Belin from Wheels took the top prize for yachts over 55 metres. Chef Hamish Dean from the 55.4-metre Turquoise yacht Holdin My Own and Chef Thean Labuschagne from the 62-metre VSY yacht Sealion earned second and third place, respectively. In the category for yachts between 38 and 55 metres, Chef Mikhailo Chekan from the 40.51-metre Cantiere Delle Marche yacht Nuri claimed first place, followed by Chef Ryan Weymouth from the 46.2-metre Delta Marine yacht Pisces in second and Chef Sam Dux from the 40.54-metre IAG yacht Serenity in third. For yachts under 38 metres, Chef Tom Rider from the 37.11-metre Numarine yacht Oculus secured the top spot, with Chef Casey Strickland from the 23-metre Aeolus and Chef Graham Dutton from the 33-metre Fifi taking second and third.

In the Tablescaping Competition, Chief Stewardess Emily Birkett from Wheels won in the over 55-metre category, with Chief Stewardess Doreen Sullivan from the 95-metre Lürssen CC-Summer and Chief Stewardess Nadine Coronado from Sealion in second and third. In the 38 to 55-metre category, Chief Stewardess Kirsty Mead from the 48.85-metre Mondomarine yacht Oceanos took the top spot, followed by Chief Stewardess Josipa Lozo from Pisces and Chief Stewardess Rachel Bradley from Adventure. For yachts under 38 metres, Chief Stewardess Cathleen Botha from Oculus came first, with Chief Stewardess Chene Nel from Aeolus in second and Chief Stewardess Kathryn Creighton from Fifi in third.

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A Festive Farewell

The victors of the Luxury Treasure Hunt event, during which the crew had the opportunity to showcase their investigative talents and teamwork, were announced at the end of the week, with the crew of SuRi taking first place, followed by the crew of Sealion and Sea Owl.

A stunning sunset at Shirley Heights Lookout, accompanied by steel drums and reggae music, perfectly encapsulated the spirit of Antigua and concluded the week on a high note. The week then concluded with the ACREW DJ Competition at the ACYM After Show Party on 8 December, held at the Dow’s Hill Interpretation Centre. Crew members demonstrated their musical talents and celebrated together, with Alpha Nero taking home the prize. The Pirates of the Caribbean-themed evening was filled with music, food, and entertainment, providing a celebratory end to the show. The Antigua Charter Yacht Show 2024 left attendees inspired and ready for the upcoming season, reaffirming its place as a cornerstone of the global charter calendar.

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LATEST CHARTER UPDATES

New CA: Maverick

IYC welcomed the 50.2-metre Maverick to their global charter fleet, available through Senior Charter Manager Heather Hatcher. Built in 2022, this Mangusta yacht accommodates 12 guests across 6 staterooms, with 11 crew.

• Rates start at  $295,000 per week + expenses.

• Learn more here

Destination: Asteria

Worth Avenue Yachts is offering an Antarctic adventure aboard the 49.5-metre Asteria this winter or in Mozambique and Madagascar for summer 2025. Designed for exploration and luxury, this Anastassiades & Tsortanides yacht offers 6 staterooms for 12 guests, with additional space for two adventure guides.

• Rates start at €250,000 per week + expenses.

• Learn more

New CA: Amiatatu 

Fraser has welcomed the new 24-metre Sunreef catamaran Amiatatu to their fleet. Available for charter from Palma next summer, highlights include a sundeck bar, a dining area, and a Jacuzzi surrounded by sunpads.

• Rates start at €85,000 per week + expenses.

• Read more

Special Offer: Wind Of Change

Parsifal Yachting is offering one extra day free on all 7-day charters onboard the 29-metre Brooke Marine yacht Wind of Change. This classic sailing yacht, refitted in 2018, accommodates 6 guests in 3 staterooms and is available in Athens, Greece.

• Rates start at €24,000 per week + expense during the low season

• Rates start at €27,000 per week + expense during the high season (summer)

• Learn more

Destination: Mes Amis

Setting sail on a world tour in 2024/2025, the 44-metre Fitzroy yacht Mes Amis will visit destinations like the Caribbean, Curaçao, Cartagena, San Blas, Ecuador, and French Polynesia. Available through Cecil Wright she is accompanied by the 15-metre La Petite Amie chase boat with no added costs for the additional vessel.

• Rate start at €125,000 per week.

• Explore Mes Amis

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DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT

Barbuda

Nestled in the Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, Barbuda is renowned for its unspoiled beauty and exclusivity, making it a prime destination for superyacht charters. Known for its pink-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and abundant marine life, the island is a haven for those seeking tranquillity and natural splendour.

Barbuda boasts over 17 miles of pristine coastline, with Low Bay and Princess Diana Beach among the must-visit spots for sunbathing and snorkelling. Codrington Lagoon National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to the world’s largest colony of frigatebirds, offering guests a unique birdwatching experience. While the island is less developed than others in the region, its untouched charm is a key draw, with superyachts typically anchoring near sheltered bays.

The high season spans from December to April, with warm, dry weather, while the low season from May to November sees occasional rain and fewer crowds. Year-round, the surrounding waters teem with vibrant coral reefs and marine species such as parrotfish, turtles, and rays, perfect for divers and snorkellers.

On land, a day trip could include exploring the Darby Cave, a natural sinkhole surrounded by lush vegetation and rare bird species. Guests can immerse themselves in Barbuda’s cultural heritage through local music and dance performances, often staged during village festivals. Artisanal crafts such as woven baskets and pottery make for unique souvenirs, with workshops offering hands-on experiences.

Culinary highlights include lobster and conch, often freshly caught and served beachside. The laid-back Uncle Roddy’s Bar & Grill is a favourite for its seafood dishes paired with stunning ocean views. Barbuda’s blend of seclusion, natural beauty, and cultural authenticity ensures a memorable superyacht charter experience in this Caribbean paradise.

POST OF THE WEEK

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