Trina Howes, our charter broker has just returned from the Antigua Yacht Show, representing CharterWord with her fellow broker colleagues, Amanda Brilliante, Martha Lukasik, Colin Srivastava and Charter Director Nicolas Benazeth. After having inspected the attending yachts for the coming season, she was very pleased to report that the fleet has never looked better and that, despite the hurricanes Irma and Maria that devastated a huge part of the region in September, the Caribbeans are looking forward to a great season with majority of the destinations being back to normal and services up and running.
Antigua Yacht Show 2017 – Photo Nick Benazeth/ CharterWorld.com
Full feedback on the Antigua Yacht Show by Trina Howes
It is promising to be an exciting season with some brilliant yachts and crews competing for charters. The hurricanes have definitely caused some hesitation in bookings and for that reason, there is still some great availability for prime dates, including the coming Christmas and New Year holidays, Spring Break, and Easter.
Amongst the most impressive yachts and those that stood out at the show are GLADIUS, QUITE ESSENTIAL, CALMAO, THALIMA, NERO, REFLECTIONS and FAR NIENTE.
Aboard the luxury charter yacht NERO at Antigua Yacht Show 2017 – Photo CharterWorld.com
“The captains and crews were very enthusiastic about getting more charters and I couldn’t count the number of times I was told “we are willing to do deals” and “bring us offers.”
Charter Broker Trina Howes aboard a superyacht with a crew member at the Antigua Yacht Show 2017
If you are unsure whether to charter this year, know that the Caribbean needs you and that 2018 is The Year to go! The anchorages in the BVI are all pretty much back to normal and the snorkelling and diving sites have not been affected. In fact, it may be better to charter this year, as there will be fewer bareboats in the region, leaving you with amazing uncluttered cruising grounds and a truly relaxing holiday. While some of the establishments may be closed or only partially open, there is no reason to not to embark on a crewed luxury yacht charter and be pampered by your crew, including personalised meals, so you have all you need at your feet while enjoying the pristine surroundings.
Antigua in the Caribbean – Photo CharterWorld.com
St Barts is carrying on as usual with a lot of the New Year’s Eve parties planned. Jimmy Buffet will give a free concert in Gustavia on the 27th of December, and Le Ti and Bagatelle will have NYE parties with shows, as well.
A large number of yachts will also be chartering in the Grenadines this season so it’s a great opportunity to explore a location that normally carries expensive delivery fees, without the delivery fees.
Antigua Yacht Show 2017 – Photo credit CharterWorld.com
Spring Break is also approaching on the agenda, so if you are thinking about going to the Caribbean please give me a call or contact me through our website. 2018 is the year to get a great deal and CharterWorld is always happy to discuss and show you the best itineraries for your chosen destination.
