Diamond Celebrations: 60th Annual Antigua Charter Yacht Show

Showcasing the world’s finest yachts is no mean feat, particularly considering the ramifications that the pandemic has had on the events calendar of the yachting industry over the past eighteen months. Last year, for the first time in the event’s history, the Antigua Charter Yacht Show was cancelled due to the pandemic, so this year there is added pressure to deliver on this diamond celebration. 

However, Antigua has risen to the occasion and has introduced particular governmental regulations to keep the stunning island paradise as safe as possible. Face masks are to be worn in all public areas and incoming travellers will be asked to present a negative PCR test on arrival that can be no more than 7 days old. Additionally, there is no need for fully vaccinated travellers to quarantine on arrival.

Despite added regulations, the camaraderie that the event produces year after year is certain to retain visitors. Chairman of the event Paul Deeth is noted to have said: “The unique and friendly atmosphere is unrivalled”. Adding “it’s a great opportunity for brokers to mingle and do business in the sunshine”. 

Already registered to attend the show are a plethora of brokerage companies including: Oyster, Northrop & Johnson, and Y.CO.

The spectacular weather and scenic surrounds of English and Falmouth harbour, in which the show takes place, are an enormous pull for superyachts to return to the show each year. Running from the 4th to the 9th of December 2021, the five day event gives visitors ample opportunity to discover each of the charter yachts included in the show. Plus, it offers show guests the chance to explore the elegant and historic colonial buildings of the district which includes the UNESCO World Heritage Sight: Nelson’s Dockyard - a stunning example of an 18th century dockyard and the only working Gerogian dockyard in the world. 

An invitation only event, the highest level of professional security and excellent standards are maintained for the duration of the show. The casual island ambiance and relaxed attitude of Antigua is not reflected in the security and privacy of this much sought after yachting event. 

Show director Ann Marie Martin echoes the positive attitude of Paul Deeth. She states: “This year, Antigua celebrates 60 years of serving the charter industry; we also celebrate 60 years of the establishment of Nelson’s Dockyard as a heritage site.” She adds, “We look forward to you, our yachting partners, making this diamond jubilee yacht show a most memorable one.”

This year’s event promises to be one with a difference as organisers claim that the Antigua Charter Yacht Show 2021 will honour the success of the past whilst embracing the future of yachting. Those yet to add their vessel to the growing number already signed up can take advantage of early bird registration which offers a 40 percent discount up until August 31.