img8442The annual All Caribbean charteryacht show was held Nov 3 to 11, 2001. Held for four days in Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands and continuing for four additional days in Crown Bay, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, this is the largest show and display of charteryachts in the world.

Attended by charteryacht agents from all over the world, these shows had over 160 agencies represented. On display were over 200 fully crewed charter yachts from 41 feet to 150 feet in length. Sailing yachts, catamarans and motoryachts were all represented. Most Caribbean "bareboat" firms also had a presence at the show.

The show schedule included many social and educational events in addition to the viewing and inspection of the yachts. These included seminars given by the local tourist boards, The US Coast Guard and various experts in Caribbean travel and Internet technology. Social events included the Captain's Blender Contest, A Taste of the Virgins held at the Fort Christian Museum, and a variety of cocktail parties and banquets. One of the most popular events is the "Roving Cocktail Party." Held on most of the yachts on display, it is the one evening where the vessels are open for agents to sample the cuisine and hospitality of the yachts. It offers a chance to see the crews do what they do best without the burden of showing the yacht for the inspections that take place each day.

Of course the main purpose of the show is for charteryacht agents to inspect and get to know the vessels that stand ready to host charter guests. Agents can see the exact cabin configuration, note the exact layout of each yacht, and inspect the abundance of watertoys offered by each vessel. As important as this might seem, it is the ability to meet and talk to the crews that is paramount. It is these hospitality professionals that are so important to the outcome of a charteryacht holiday. Crews come from all over the world and are in all age groups. It is the job of the charteryacht agent to match the client to the right yacht and crew. Which crew is best becomes an important question in a crewed yacht charter. An older, experienced crew? A younger, more active crew? One that specializes in family parties? One that specializes in honeymoons? A truly gourmet and classically educated chef? A yacht and crew that offers scuba and/or scuba instruction? And the list goes on. Clients count on the knowledge of the agents to insure the match of guest to yacht and crew is the correct match.

Port Yacht Charters is proud to have attended for the tenth straight year. Led by Ken Hecht, this Port Washington, NY agency is one of the largest in North America. Having booked almost 5,000 charters to day, this is an agency that knows the yachts, crews and all of the ins and outs of a successful charteryacht holiday. According to Mr. Hecht sailing catamarans have experienced tremendous growth over the years. Ten years ago about five of the 200 yachts in attendance were "cats." Now almost 70% are this type of vessel. Most of the large catamarans are from France or South Africa. These two countries build three quarters of all cruising catamarans.

There are still plenty of mono-hulls in the fleet. From traditional designs to the most modern and sleek, for many the catamaran will never replace the thrill of mono-hull sailing. For those who want the most in luxury and style a motoryacht might be the choice. Opulent and luxurious is the standard on such yachts and they often have much larger crews than the sailing vessels.

The show is also the starting point for charteryacht industry marketing efforts. The various groups and organizations work on the many marketing plans utilized by all. From national advertising campaigns, to the production of joint marketing materials and brochures, it is an opportunity for experts to work together to promote what has been called by the press, "The World's Greatest Vacation Secret." A charteryacht holiday is a little known travel product. Even less known is the fact that it costs the same as any other better vacation. Perfect for families, small groups, honeymooners or even corporate events, it is a holiday that will be remembered forever by all.

For more information contact Ken Hecht, Port Yacht Charters at 800-213-0465 or go to: www.portyachtcharters.com Both travel agents and potential charter guests are encouraged to call.