San Diego is moving up the luxury ladder. Not only is San Diego ranked one of the top five richest cities in the nation, according to a 2007 U.S. Census Bureau survey, but YachtFest San Diego organizers say the city's influx of high-end hotels, fine dining restaurants and new mega yacht facilities will further entice yachting enthusiasts to sail toward America's Finest City.

Recognized as the West Coast's premier boutique yacht show, YachtFest '08, presented by San Diego Marine Exchange, will open the international yacht show season at San Diego's Shelter Island for the ninth straight year, from September 11-14.

YachtFest offers what larger shows don't - an intimate glimpse inside some of the world's most luxurious floating vessels that range in size from 60 to well over 120 feet. The wave of affluence in San Diego has YachtFest organizers anticipating greater interest in builder, charter, fractional and brokerage yachts, plus luxurious "toys" that accommodate the sea cruising lifestyle.

"Over 26 miles of new super yachts, with an average length of 165 feet, are being constructed in over 25 countries as we speak," says Doug Sharp, of Sharp Design and the YachtFest Board Chair, "and YachtFest San Diego is the foremost place in the Western United States to buy, sell or charter one of these premium yachts; not to mention one of the classiest venues to step aboard an ultra-sleek mega yacht."

More than $60 million worth of boats, yachts, super yachts, electronics, engines, luxury cars and other accessories from major international manufacturers will be on display and for sale at Shelter Island Marina and the Island Palms Hotel. In addition to previewing yachts, attendees can check out the newest in yachting products and gain exclusive access to luxury goods.

"San Diego is becoming increasingly popular as a mega-yacht destination and homeport, thanks to efforts of local boatyards, brokers and the Port of San Diego," said Diane Fraser, a yacht charter broker with Fraser Yachts. "In addition, the quality of product on display at YachtFest rivals that of the shows in Ft. Lauderdale and Monaco, but the setting is more intimate and relaxed."

The four-day show will spotlight dozens of these seafaring mini-mansions, which in past year's have included such buffo boats as the Status Quo, a 142' new build from Richmond Yachts; the 115' Thomas Spirit motor yacht and winner of YachtBroker.com's 2004 "Mega Yacht of the Year" award; and the Barchetta, a 157' Christensen, tri-deck motor yacht.

YachtFest will be open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.