Today, June 23, will be marked by the official opening of the 2014 Newport Charter Yacht Show. Representing one of only six luxury yacht charter-focused shows in the world, the event will open its doors to charter yacht brokers as well as industry VIPs for four days, running at the Newport Yachting Center in downtown Newport, Rhode Island, from Monday, June 23 to Thursday, June 26, 2014.
In its 32nd year, the event explores the many avenues of luxury chartering in New England and invites charter professionals and discriminating consumers (attending with brokers) to tour a selection of exquisitely appointed sailing and motoryachts, ranging in size from 80 feet up to the superyacht length of 150 to 225+ feet.
“We have 27 yachts currently registered, with many fitting the criteria for being superyachts and all of them available as a unique vacation platform in the region this summer,” said Newport Exhibition Group Show Director Nancy Piffard, adding that there is also a record number of brokers and agents signed up to attend and a host of new events to keep them busy. “This year is ramping up to be our best show yet. I cannot thank our sponsors and supporting partners enough, as none of this would be possible without them.”
Piffard added that the Government of St. Maarten/Port of St. Maarten is showing its support by sponsoring the Newport Charter Yacht Show’s USSA/Welcome Reception on Monday, June 23 (6-9 p.m.). The Caribbean Island is a prime charter destination and New England’s counterpart for cruising during the winter months. The sound of steel drums will emanate from the main show tent as guests and St. Maarten representatives enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
“The delegation of St. Maarten is delighted to attend the Newport Charter Yacht Show,” said Mark Mingo, Chief Executive Officer of the Port of St. Maarten. “This will be our first time attending the event, and we look forward to highlighting what St. Maarten has to offer the charter industry.”
Prior to the show, on Sunday, June 23 (6-8 p.m.), the Newport Shipyard, Engineered Marine Coatings and Baltimore Marina Centers will host the Captain and Crew Briefing/Happy Hour in the Hospitality Lounge, sponsored by West Marine Megayacht Supply. United Yacht Transport will add to the fun with its “Signature Cocktail” available at both receptions.
A complimentary continental breakfast will be served daily (8-10 a.m.) in the main show tent, provided by Marsh Private Client Services.
On Tuesday, June 24 and Wednesday, June 25 crewmembers onboard participating yachts will entertain guests with the show’s Crew Competitions, sponsored by Sevenstar Yacht Transport/DYT Yacht Transport and Private Yacht Vacations magazine. The series of contests will put the participants’ hospitality and culinary skills to the test.
On Wednesday, June 25 (6-9 p.m.) show attendees are invited to an Industry Happy Hour, hosted by CD Consultants and Yachts International Magazine.
Several shoreside exhibits are also part of the event mix and include industry-focused seminars and a vibrant “Yacht Hop.”
Supporting Partners to-date are the American Yacht Charter Association, Come Sea U.S., U.S. Superyacht Association, Florida Yacht Brokers Association, Yacht Insider’s Guide and AvPorts- Quonset Airport. Active Interest Media’s Power & Motoryacht and Yachts International magazines are the official Media Partners.
IGY Marinas is the Lanyard Sponsor. G Travel – USA is the show’s Exclusive Crew Travel Supplier, Team One Newport is the Captains Bag Sponsor. Bridge Liquors is the Beverage Sponsor.
Charitable Partner Announced
The Newport Exhibition Group has chosen the Boys & Girls Club of Newport County as the official charitable partner of the 32nd Newport Charter Yacht Show. The organization’s mission is to inspire and enable young people (ages 5-18) to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.
Over the last 50 years the non-profit has brought quality programs to children and youth in Rhode Island. Currently, it provides mentoring, academic programming, athletic activities and warm meals to its 1,700 members.
The non-profit will have an exhibit in the hospitality tent throughout the week and will be selling tickets to its fundraising event, the Boys & Girls Club Yacht Rendezvous, scheduled for August at the Newport Shipyard.