How To Elevate Your Yacht Search On The Global Yacht Show Circuit
Whether you are looking to enter the yachting world, looking for an upgrade, or to see what's on the charter scene, a yacht show offers you the ultimate experience. Spanning the globe, these impressive events provide the best insight into the current yacht market and the perfect opportunity to make informed decisions when looking for your next yacht to buy or charter.
From debut launches to new technology and developing trends, the shows are ideal for discussing all elements of the yachting world through face-to-face interactions with industry professionals. While digital presence is essential today, nothing can replace physically touring a boat firsthand and speaking to those in the know.
However exciting and full of opportunities these shows can be, it is fundamental to pre-plan and prepare before attending a yacht show. Here, we have put together IYC's tips and tricks on how to navigate your next yacht show experience effectively:
Think Ahead
No matter where you head, whether Cannes, Monaco, Fort Lauderdale, or Singapore, meticulous pre-planning is key to a successful international yacht show experience. Before you step onto the docks, think about what exactly you are looking for and take time to define your requirements.
It is essential to consider crucial factors such as the yacht's size, facilities, amenities, intended cruising destinations, and your budget. These decisions and clarity will help your consultant narrow down the options and focus on the best yachts for you, ensuring you have the best shortlist and that your time at the show is used most efficiently and effectively.
The Consultant Advantage
Engaging a trusted sales or charter consultant can elevate your yacht show experience from mediocre to great. Our expert IYC consultants are your personal guides at a yacht show, facilitating access to the yachts for sale and charter and providing invaluable insight into each yacht's history, pricing, and market positioning.
Your consultant will create the shortlist based on your preferences and ensure each yacht visit is personalized and enjoyable. Consultants are also privy to the latest market trends and may have access to exclusive deals available only during the show. A consultant saves you time and money no matter what you are looking for at a yacht show.
On The Day
Your consultant will help you familiarise yourself with the event's layout to avoid aimless wandering and schedule viewing appointments at the best time of day. Although it is crucial to have a plan, maintain some flexibility to accommodate any unexpected discoveries or further opportunities. While yacht shows are glamorous events, comfort should always be a priority.
Opt for smart-casual attire that allows for easy movement when touring multiple yachts. Comfortable, slip-on shoes are essential as you will go up and down numerous flights of yacht stairs and decks throughout the visits. Many of the global yacht shows take place in warm, sunny climes; therefore, dressing in light and breathable fabrics is useful. Ticking off stylish yet practical, make sure you have various sun accessories to hand, such as hats and sunglasses.
Etiquette And Engagement
While you may be there to explore potential purchases, you will be a guest on each yacht you board; therefore, respecting the yacht and the crew's instructions while onboard is important. If you find a yacht you like, your consultant can arrange a more in-depth viewing or sea trial at a later date. Always ask relevant and thoughtful questions that may help sway your decision.
A yacht visit can be your opportunity to gain deeper insight into each yacht's unique features, performance, capabilities, and maintenance requirements.
Beyond The Yachts
As well as the stars of the show, multiple exhibitors from around the world showcase a range of yacht-related accessories, tenders, and toys at the shows. It can be interesting to pursue these areas when thinking about what to equip your new yacht with, or perhaps you already have the yacht and are looking for additional features to add.
Many yacht shows feature seminars and panel discussions led by industry experts. These can provide valuable insights into market trends, new technologies, and the future of the yachting world. Take advantage of these and ask your consultant for further details. Yacht shows also host some of the most exclusive hospitality VIP events during the show's duration; from exclusive performances to fine dining lunches and after-show parties, there will be lots on offer ready for you to enjoy between your yacht visits.
Rest And Reflect
As your time at a yacht show draws to a close, take time to reflect on the experience. Chat with your consultant and discuss the pros and cons of each yacht you visit to help you narrow down your options and plan the next steps.
Yacht shows are hosted in yachting hubs such as the French Riviera, Florida, and Dubai, to name a few, so it may be worth considering an extension of your stay for a day or two after the show to enjoy the travel experiences on offer. Taking a few extra days is also a great chance to experience the local yachting scene and arrange a short luxury yacht charter to get a taste of the lifestyle and relax after the hustle and bustle of the event.
Future Visits
Each yacht show has its own unique features and will present various yachts and brands. If you don't find what you are looking for at one show, another may have the right yacht. Staying in communication with your consultant is essential to maximize your experience and to arrange future yacht visits.
If you are looking to attend a yacht show, contact our expert consultants to find out where the IYC fleet will be featuring next.