Have a glimpse of the top ten largest yachts in the world courtesy of Boat International.

1. ECLIPSE 162.5m (533’2″) – After five years of intensive design, development and construction, Eclipse left the Blohm + Voss yard in Hamburg on the 9th December 2010, to formally take her place as the largest superyacht in the world. Managed by Blue Ocean Yacht Management, Eclipse features a diesel-electric propulsion system with generators powering rotating Azipod drives, dramatic exterior styling and a stunning interior design by London-based Terence Disdale Design, which has been responsible for all aspects of aesthetic design and layout, including the superstructure design, deck layouts, interior design and construction supervision.

Her accommodation includes an owner’s deck of 56m in length and facilities for up to 92 crew and owner’s personal staff. Her interior boasts hundreds of custom finishes exclusively developed for this project, while her deck areas include a 16m swimming pool, the largest on any yacht, whose base can be raised to transform the area into a dance floor. The yacht can also accommodate three helicopters, one on each of the two helipads and the third in a storage hangar below the fore deck.

Eclipse was voted Motor Yacht of the Year at the World Superyacht Awards in 2011.
* Builder / naval architecture: Blohm + Voss
* Exterior styling / interior design: Terence Disdale

2. DUBAI 162m (531’6″) – Originally commissioned by Prince Jefri of Brunei, the project was suspended in 1998 with just the bare hull and partially complete superstructure. It was eventually sold to the Dubai government, and is now the royal yacht of Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum.

Dubai accommodates 24 guests and features a swimming pool, a cinema, a disco, a gymnasium, a landing platform for a Blackhawk helicopter and a garage for the yacht’s submarine.

Dubai was featured in volume 23 of The Superyachts book
* Builders: Blohm + Voss / Lürssen (2003) / Platinum Yachts (2006)
* Naval architecture: Blohm + Voss / Lürssen
* Exterior styling: Andrew Winch
* Interior design: Platinum Yachts

3. AL SAID 155m (508’6″) – Shrouded in secrecy, little is known about this huge, beige-painted yacht that was formerly codenamed Sunflower by her builder, Lürssen. Named Al Saïd at her launch, she was delivered to her owner, the Sultan Qaboos bin Sa‘id Al Saïd of Oman, in March 2008.

She has six decks and features a helipad, a cinema and a concert hall that can accommodate a 50-strong orchestra. Her majestic interior, classically panelled in wood, offers huge entertaining and reception spaces and can accommodate 65 guests. She is reported to have a complement of 150 crew. Her home port is Muscat, Oman.
* Builder / naval architecture: Lürssen
* Exterior styling: Espen Øino
* Interior design: Redman Whiteley Dixo

4. PRINCE ABDULAZIZ 147m (482’4″) – Commissioned in 1984, the 5,200-tonne Abdulaziz serves as the Royal Yacht for King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, who inherited her from the late King Fahd. She was built in 1984 by the Danish yard Helsingor Vaerft to a design by Maierform at a reported cost of $184m, an enormous sum at the time. Her interior, designed by the late David Hicks, who was renowned for his dramatically colourful work, blended ancient and modern. She was fitted out in Southampton, England.

One notable interior feature is the large lobby on her main deck which is said to be designed to mimic that of the Titanic. Her home port is Jeddah, where she is berthed beside the King’s palace. Latterly renamed Prince Abdulaziz, her accommodation includes a fully equipped hospital, a mosque and a cinema. The yacht is manned by a crew of approximately 65. Rumours that her onboard systems include surface-to-air missiles and an underwater surveillance system are unconfirmed.

Now showing her age, she is likely to be replaced in the near future. The yacht was refitted in 1987, 1996 and 2005.
* Builder: Helsingør Værft
* Naval architecture: Maierform
* Interior design: David Hicks
* Former names: Abdulaziz

5. EL HORRIYA 145.7m (478′) – Originally built for the Ottoman governor of Egypt, Khedive Ismail, this historic yacht was present at the opening ceremony of the Suez Canal in 1869, when she was used to receive visiting dignitaries. She was lengthened by 12.1m in 1872, when her paddle wheels were removed, and by a further 5.2m in 1905. Her last major rebuild was in 1950.

El Horriya was the Egyptian representative at the Bicentennial Fleet Review in New York harbour in 1976, after which she slipped into disrepair while being used as a museum ship. In 1992 a major effort was put into making her seaworthy enough to travel to Italy for the Christopher Columbus Fleet Review. She now serves as the Presidential Yacht but is seldom seen in public. She is usually berthed in Alexandria, where she is cared for by the Egyptian Navy, which lists her as a training ship.
* Builder: Samuda Brothers
* Former names: Mahroussa

6. AL SALAMAH 139.29m (457′) – Built by a consortium of Howaldtswerke Deutsche Werft (HDW) in Kiel and the Lürssen shipyard in Bremen, Germany, Al Salamah is often referred to as Mipos, the code name used during the construction of this most secret of yachts. Mipos was short for ‘Mission Possible’, a statement proved correct by her delivery in 1999.

She has a length of 139.29m, a massive beam of 23.50m, and is reported to have a top speed of 21.5 knots. Both the interior design and the exterior styling are by the London-based Terence Disdale Design. Al Salamah is owned by Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia, son of the late King Fahd, Governor of Riyadh. He is Saudi Arabia’s Defence Minister and the nation’s Crown Prince. Al Salamah was refitted by Lürssen in 2007.
* Builders: Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft / Lürssen
* Naval architecture: Lürssen
* Exterior styling / interior design: Terence Disdale

7. RISING SUN  138m (452’9″) – This vessel’s Japanese-style name is sufficient clue that she was built for Larry Ellison, co-founder and CEO of Oracle. In 2006 he sold half ownership to media mogul David Geffen who bought the remaining half in 2010.

Reported to have originally cost of more than $290 million, rumour has it that Rising Sun’s length was extended by some 18m during construction (her project name was LE120, rather indicating an original length of 120m) to ensure she was larger than the 126.2m Octopus belonging to Microsoft’s co-founder, Paul Allen.

Rising Sun was built in Germany and launched in the autumn of 2004. She made her first appearance in the Mediterranean in the summer of 2005. Her five decks, which contain 8,000 square metres of living space, include a gym, a cinema, an extensive wine cellar and basketball court, plus accommodations for 16 in the owner’s party. One of her tenders is a catamaran whose main function is to carry the yacht’s 4×4 vehicle ashore.
* Builder: Lürssen
* Naval architecture: Jon Bannenberg
* Interior design: Laura Seccombe

8. SERENE 133.9m (439’4″) – Built for a Russian owner under an extreme blanket of secrecy, Serene, the first yacht from Fincantieri, the large Italian commercial shipyard in Muggiano, Italy, was launched in September 2010 with completion, blue hull paint and sea trials in 2011.

She is the largest yacht ever launched in Italy and features more than 4,000 square meters of interior space among seven decks, plus two helipads and a hangar. She reportedly carries a 100-metre submersible. Her builder’s next project is the 140 metre Victory.
* Builder: Fincantieri
* Naval architecture / exterior styling: Espen Oeino
* Interior design: Reymond Langton

9. AL MIRQAB 133.2m (437′) – Diesel-electric powered yacht Al Mirqab was at one time better known as Project May, a name that cloaked her identity during a build that was carried out in strict secrecy under the supervision of Kusch Yachts in the Peterswerft Shipyard in Wewelsfleth, Germany. She is propelled by five 2,800kW generators that power two electric motors driving conventional shafts and a centrally positioned azimuthing electric pod drive located beneath the hull.

She is reported to have a top speed of 20 knots and a cruising speed of 18 knots. The yacht accommodates 36 guests and is run by 45 crew. The central feature of the accommodation is a grand staircase that floats through four floors, with three of its sides made from hand-cut crystal panels. The centre of the well is occupied by a suspended glass artwork commissioned from the Seattle-based artist Dale Chihuly.

Al Mirqab won the coveted Motor Yacht of the Year award at the World Superyacht Awards in 2009 and Best Interior Design in the motor yacht category for her Andrew Winch-designed interior. She belongs to Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani.
* Builder: Kusch Yachts
* Naval architecture: SDC / Kusch Yachts
* Exterior styling: Tim Heywood
* Interior design: Andrew Winch

10. OCTOPUS 126.18m (414′) -  This is the most recently built yacht of Paul Allen, one of the founders of Microsoft, who also owns the 92.38m Tatoosh and the 60.6m Méduse.

Octopus features a helicopter pad and garage aft and can also accept a second helicopter on the bows. A novel facility of her design is her internal dock, which, opening from her transom, runs forward through the yacht, allowing a 20m submarine and a tender of similar size to float into their storage positions. Once secured, the water is pumped out, leaving them resting on chocks.

The yacht has a permanent berth in the International Yacht Club Marina in Antibes, where her owner acquired the largest dock by buying the 55.78m superyacht Hanse together with its berth – he kept the berth and immediately sold Hanse, which has now been renamed Insignia.
* Builder / naval architecture: Lürssen
* Exterior styling: Espen Oeino
* Interior design: Jonathan Quinn Barnett / Sam Sorgiovanni

REF: http://www.boatinternational.com/yachts/the-register/top-100-largest-yachts/?utm_source=Adestra&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Top+100&utm_campaign=February+2012+BI+Newsletter&pg=1

Introduction and History:

Miami is considered as the boating capital of the world. With its location having Intracoastal Waterway and Biscayne Bay, Miami is just a short sail away from the marvelous beauty of the Florida Keys. One of the four biggest boat shows in the world is being held here annually – the Miami International Boat Show.

Since its debut in 1942, this event captures the interest of more or less 3,000 boats & 2,500 exhibitors. The exhibition of world’s leading marine industry companies are in a wide array of products and services. From the newest powerboats, state-of-the-art engines, hi-tech sailboats up to the pieces of marine accessories, everything is in a one-stop event which allows professional buyers worldwide to witness and choose the best.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) trade group is the one spearheading the important trade show in marine industry. Visitors get their look of the latest trend in the industry.  This also creates a benchmark in the field especially in creating the sailboats as the main season of selling approaches.

The Venue:
This spectacular event is held in three separate venues; two in Downtown Miami, and the other in Miami Beach.

 * The Miami Beach Convention Center  – 1901 Convention Center Drive  Miami Beach, FL 33139
This is South Florida’s largest convention facility. It features more than one million square feet of contiguous exhibit space and is only two blocks from beautiful beaches, one block from Lincoln Road—filled with shops and restaurants—and near the nightlife that South Beach is famous for.

 * The Sea Isle Marina and Yachting Center – 1635 N. Bayshore Drive Miami, FL 33132
Check out the world’s most impressive fleet of powerboats-in the water! Browse the docks. Board over 300 sportfishing boats, cruisers, high-performance boats and yachts. The marina offers easy access for demo rides!

 * The Miamarina at Bayside – 400 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, FL  33132
See hundreds of sailboats in-water including the largest selection of multihulls which you will find anywhere!  Add in the best selection of the latest and greatest in sailing accessories available and it’s a show you can’t afford to miss!

The Date:
This 4-day annual event will be on February 16 – 20, 2012.

The Highlights:
This is really a big show as it highlights various happenings in 3-different locations.

The “Big-Game Room Seminar” and “Fred-Shed Seminars” will run throughout the 4-day event featuring well-respected people in marine industry. Topics such as  “Global Warming, Our Changing Oceans”, “Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing”, “Sea Surface Temperatures”, and “Fishing in South Florida” are yet to discuss.

The “Boat Buyers Toolkit” is one of the most anticipated events. Recreational & professional buyers are on eye on these unique and quality boats. This is their chance to select & compare a wide variety of boats, talk to experts, dealers and manufacturers and best of all, take advantage of special deals and incentives — including the best prices of the season — all at one time.

The come backing “Dive & Travel Harbor” brought by the U.S. Dive Shows offers one-stop shopping for all of your dive and travel adventures. Book your next dive trip, see the latest in dive gear, join a local dive club, and see exhibits from the best diving destinations in the world—all in one convenient location.

You should not also miss other event such as “Big Game Room”, the Contest plus the Giveaways and the captivating Photos & informative Videos and a lot more…

REFERENCE:
http://miami.about.com/od/sportsrecreation/a/miamiboatshow.htm
http://www.eventcrazy.com/Miami-Beach-FL/e
http://tradeshow.free-press-release.com
http://www.marinecouncil.com/Tradewinds/MCNov2003.pdf
http://miami.eventguide.com/annual_events_overview.html
http://www.cnbc.com/
http://www.miamiboatshow.com/attendees/venue/default.aspx
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miami_International_Boat_Show
http://www.miamiboatshow.com/

U.S. Top Yacht Stories:

a. Merrill Stevens shipyard in Miami re-opened under new ownership

• - Date Company Acquired: June 2011
• – Buyer: David E. Marlow, of Marlow Yachts
• - New Name: Marlow Merrill-Stevens
• - Sold Price: $6.6 Million
• - Company Location: Miami River

b.  Trinity Yachts launched its largest yacht to date. 74 meters

• - Date Launched: November 10, 2011
• - Title: The Largest American Built Superyacht to Launch in 2011
• - Name: New Horizo
• - Length Over-All: 73.8m (242ft)
• - Max Beam: 12.2m (40ft 9in
• - Draught (Half Load): 3.5m (11ft 6i
• - Displacement (Trial Load): 1,488L
• - Propulsion: 2 x 2,575hp Caterpillar 3516B H
• - Max Speed: 15.5 knot
• - Range: 4,000nm @ 13 knots
• - Fuel: 243,092L (64,218 US gals
• - Owners/Guests: 14 in seven cabin
• - Crew: 18 in nine cabi
• - Naval Architecture/Exterior: BMT Nigel Gee/Trinity Yachts
• - Interior Design: Evan K Marshall
• - Classification: ABS Maltese Cross A1 Yachting Service, AMS, MCA over 500 IGT
• - Construction: Steel/Aluminiu
• - Builder/Delivery: Trinity Yachts/2012

c. Derecktor Shipyards in Connecticut closed

• - Company Name: Derecktor Shipyards
• - Location: Bridgeport, Connecticut
• - Date of Temporarily Close: September 2011
• - Reason of Closing: Poor Economy
• - Employee: 266 people (at its peak)
• - Harbor Facility: 23-acre Bridgeport Harbor facility

Middle East Top Yacht Story

a.  ADM Shipyards Launches 6th Largest Yacht in the World

• - Vessel Name: Yas
• - Builder: ADMShipyards
• - Location: Port Sayed, Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
• - Length Over-All: 141m (462′ 7″)
• - Length at Waterline: 132m (433′ 1″)
• - Beam: 15m (49′ 3″)
• - Draft (min): 4.20m (13′ 9″)
• - Draft (max): 4.30m (14′ 1″)
• - Date Launches: November 2011
• - Owners/Guests: 60
• - Crew: 56
• - Max Speed: 26.0 knots
• - Cruising Speed: 23.0 knot
• - Range: 5,000 nm

Europe Top Yacht Story
a.  Giancarlo Galeone New CEO of Ferretti

• - Date: May 2011
• - Succeeded: Salvatore Basil

Asia-Pacific Top Yacht Story
a.  Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association opening Asia Pacific region to Superyachts

•  - Website: http://www.apsuperyacht.org/
•  - Mission: Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association (APSA) is a non-profit association fully incorporated in Hong Kong in April 2011.
• - No of Members:45

REFERENCES:
http://www.bizjournals.com
http://www.charterworld.com
http://thetriton.com
http://www.yachtingmagazine.com
http://www.tradeonlytoday.com
http://www.marlowexplorer.com
http://www.charterworld.com
http://www.yachtbuilderinternational.com
http://www.superyachttimes.com
http://www.yachtforums.com
http://www.workboat.com
http://www.ct.com
http://thetriton.com
http://www.ctpost.com
http://www.tradeonlytoday.com
http://blog.jameslist.com
http://www.superyachts.com
http://blog.jameslist.com
http://www.businessinsider.com
http://www.asia-pacificboating.com
http://www.apsuperyacht.org
http://www.charterworld.com

1. National Marine Suppliers
2800 South West 2nd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33315

National Marine Suppliers is a world wide yacht support group providing the most professional service and on time reliability in the world. We are truly the worldwide choice for megayacht owners, captains and crew.

2. Lester’s Diner
250 W. State Road 84, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315

Lester’s Diner opened in the late 1960s and has been a landmark ever since, especially in the wee hours after the bars and clubs have closed. Catering to all manner of South Florida denizens, Lester’s offers a large menu of classic American diner fare with a Greek influence. Omelets, gyros, Greek salad, club sandwiches, baked moussaka and homemade pastries are served daily. Moreover, it’s the quirky mix of customers and old-school servers that make it a one-of-a-kind stop on the local dining circuit.

3. Hydraulic Supply Co.
2601 Southwest 2nd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315-3115

Hydraulic Supply Company has over 64 years (1947) experience as a full service Fluid Power specialty distributor of hydraulic & pneumatic components and systems, hose, fittings and connectors, electronic systems, and accessories. Our primary focus is Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, the Caribbean and Central America.

1. Nelson’s Dockyard National Park
The naval dockyard was once the home of the British fleet during the Napoleonic Wars, and it was also the headquarters of Lord Horatio Nelson from 1784 to 1787 (yes, the park is named after that Nelson). There are restaurants, cafés and shops aplenty, the Dockyard Museum, where Nelson’s telescope and tea caddy are on display, and a library, with plenty of original documents of Caribbean naval history.

2. Shirley Heights
Wear some comfortable shoes and make the hike from English Harbour in the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park to the summit of Shirley Heights. On a clear day, the panorama (located approximately 492 feet above sea level) affords views of the southern island of Guadeloupe and the active volcano Montserrat.

3. Devil’s Bridge
The Devil’s Bridge is a natural limestone arch located in eastern Antigua, near Indian Town. Travelers like to walk across the bridge, take photos of the view, or brave the blast from one of the devil’s natural blowholes (natural sea caves that blast sea water and air during certain weather conditions).

4. Hawksbill Beaches
The Devil’s Bridge is a natural limestone arch located in eastern Antigua, near Indian Town. Travelers like to walk across the bridge, take photos of the view, or brave the blast from one of the devil’s natural blowholes (natural sea caves that blast sea water and air during certain weather conditions).

5. Dickenson Bay
Dickenson Bay is considered the premier beach of the island’s 365. That’s because Dickenson offers a little for every type of beachgoer. Dickenson Bay is also one of the more accessible Antiguan beaches (there’s a nearby taxi stand if you’re not staying in one of the area hotels) and there are plenty of umbrellas and beach chairs available to rent. Local vendors have set up kiosks for a little light souvenir shopping, and there are also a handful of moderately priced eateries in the area.

6. St. John’s Saturday Morning Market
Many head straight from the cruise ship dock to Antigua’s Heritage Quay or Redcliffe Quay shopping centers, but insiders know where the real deals are: The Saturday Morning Market on Market Street in St. John’s. Antiguan vendors come selling the gamut, so be prepared to barter for souvenirs, fruits and vegetables, and tropical flowers.

7. Galley Bay Beach
Galley Bay Beach has the best surfing waves, plus it’s a must-see for animal lovers. Sea turtles often leave their eggs here to nest (several times a year, but most frequently in summer). Bring your camera and plan a nighttime visit: you just might see the baby turtles hatch.

8. Betty’s Hope
Betty’s Hope was the first sugar plantation on the island. It’s no longer a working mill, but it is a standing monument to Antigua’s role in British colonial history, plus it’s a competent museum on the lives of Antiguan slaves during the mill’s most profitable production years. You can also enjoy a stunning view of Pares Village, St. John below.

9. Cathedral of St. John the Divine
First founded in 1681, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine is on its third iteration. It’s been destroyed twice by earthquakes and rebuilt from the ground up. The current version has been standing since 1845, but just to be on the safe side, plan your visit for a clear day with little chance of weather.

10. Half Moon Bay
You’ll have to put a little effort into visiting one of the most breathtaking beaches of Antigua, as easternmost Half Moon Bay is far away from just about everything. The trip is worth it, though, for windsurfers, surfers and avid snorkelers, or if you just like beautiful scenery.

~ http://travel.usnews.com/Antigua/Things_To_Do/
~ http://www.yachtworldcharters.com/

Christmas is a festive and joyful time in the Caribbean. Each island has its own traditions and way of celebrating the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy local festivals, meet locals and tourists in bars and restaurants or simply lie on the deck of a sailboat and gaze at a million stars. There is something for everyone…and all in the carefree, easy Caribbean style.

In Carriacou there is the famous Parang Music Festival. This annual event is one of the most beloved in the Caribbean and attracts fantastic musicians.

In St. Vincent, there are caroling competitions and what is known as the Nine Morning Celebration. Celebrations start early every morning (4 am!) and include sea bathing, street parades, vendors selling everything imaginable, and lots of singing and dancing.

In Mustique, on New Year’s Eve, there is a famous party with two bands and celebrities galore at Basil’s Bar. Right after Christmas is the famous Blues Festival at Basil’s Bar.

In Antigua, there is a Christmas Masquerade Party at the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda. On Christmas Day, there is a Champagne Celebration in Nelson’s Boatyard at the Antigua Yacht Club. Locals and tourist gather to listen to live bands, quaff champagne and enjoy the colorful, festive atmosphere. Proceeds benefit the Hourglass Foundation Charity.

In St Maarten there is the “Lighting Parade”, a show of Christmas costumes in the streets of Grand-Case. On the following day there is the Annual Christmas Lights Competition and Christmas Eve, dancing, dining and Midnight Mass. On New Year’s Eve, the Réveillon de la Saint Sylvestre, there is a festive celebration with noisemakers, balloons, and late-night dancing at hotels and restaurants.

In Guadaloupe, there is a Jazz Festival in mid December in Pointe a Pitre, on Christmas Eve, Midnight Mass with French and Creole carols and on Dec. 28, the Young Saint’s Day Parade for children carrying Christmas toys

In Martinique, there is a Rum Festival at the St. James Museum in Sainte Marie. There is also a Christmas Caroling Festival in Saint Joseph Tourists can join locals in celebrating Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve and festive dining and dancing at hotels and restaurants on New Year’s Eve.

On Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands (BVI), on New Year’s Eve there is the grand daddy of all New Years parties at Foxy’s Bar and Restaurant where hundreds of boats lash themselves together and the harbor is turned into one large floating party. This celebration is said to be one of the three best places to be in the world on New Year’s Eve, along with Times Square and Trafalgar Square!

~ http://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/christmas_caribbean.php

2.) Bahamas

The Bahamas are a perfect yacht charter destination in most every way, offering clear turquoise waters teeming with marine life, gorgeous beaches on hundreds of coral islands, quiet anchorages, renowned ports, and a swashbuckling history that dates from Columbus times. The Bahamas are both incredibly accessible but also a world apart. You`ll love the soft sands, sheltered sailing, and secluded coves in the clear, coral reef waters.
~ http://www.boatbookings.com/yacht_charter/bahamas_charter.php

3.) Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is the jewel in the crown of SE Asia yachting. It has everything you could possibly imagine to produce a fantastic yacht charter vacation: amazing scenery, pristine beaches, spectacular diving and snorkeling, and warm, safe cruising waters almost all year round. And we have a wide variety of Phuket Charter Yachts to meet every need.
Direct international flights bring you to within 30 miles of your yacht, ready to help you explore world-class locations such as Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island, Phi Phi, the Similan Islands and many more.

~ http://www.boatbookings.com/yacht_charter/phuket_charter.php

4.) Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are a group of Spanish Islands, just off the northern coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. The islands are blessed with vast sandy beaches full of reefs, capes and bays.
The Canary Islands provide you with the best possible conditions for sailing in any size of boat. And you will often sail accompanied by whales and dolphins, an unforgettable spectacle of nature.
Whether you choose Tenerife, a universe of marked contrasts, secret bays with exotic black volcanic sand, and long golden beaches, or La Palma a haven of peace and a paradise for the senses, known as the `Isla Bonita` (Pretty Island) because of its spectacular natural landscapes, you will definitely have the time of your life while sailing in this side of the world.

~ http://www.boatbookings.com/yacht_charter/canaries_charter.php

source: http://www.boatbookings.com/yacht_charter/Christmas_Yacht_Charter.php

Introduction and History

Antigua is the home of yacht charter, having been founded here in 1949 when the first charters began sailing from English Harbour. The island is now the geographical and yachting centre of the Caribbean, and often the first port of call for yachts crossing the Atlantic from Europe.

The Antigua Yacht Show, arguably the Caribbean’s largest yachting event, will take centre stage this year when it opens its doors on December 4th. The show, which is held in first-class marinas in both the English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour to the south of the island of Antigua, offers yachting enthusiasts the final chance to check out what is happening in the world of motor yacht sales this year.

More than 100 super yachts will be presented at the show, which will for the first time ever in its 50-year history run over six days in Nelson’s Dockyard Marina, the Antigua Yacht Club and Falmouth Harbour Marina.

For more info visit: http://www.antiguayachtshow.com/generalinfo.php

Activities Includes:
- Yacht’s Open
- Welcome Dinner Party
- Falmouth Harbor Night Yacht Hop
- Antigua Yacht Club Marina Night Yacht Hop
- Concours de Chef Prize Giving
- Experience Antigua – Sail Day
- CREW BASH – The ACYM

For a blow by blow schedule please refer to: http://www.antiguayachtshow.com/schedule.php

REFERENCES:
http://www.ypigroup.com/yacht-events/antigua-yacht-charter-show.htm http://www.justluxe.com/luxecalendar/boating-events/event-1605944.php http://blog.fraseryachts.com/2011/10/24/destinations/the-antigua-yacht-show-2011

Palladium offers a range of integrated solutions for all aspects of megayacht management & control, including SiMON monitoring control and alarm, Simon C DVR camera for ship’s security, Simon Anywhere with broadband Internet access, Apollo entertainment and concierge systems. Not to be outdone Palladium’s Electrical Division designs and develops its state-of-the-art Titan electrical switchboards and provides a full range of yacht electrical engineering services for shipyards around the world.

Since 1991, Palladium Technologies has been at the forefront of applying state-of-the-art hardware and software technologies to meet the complex monitoring and control requirements of modern megayachts.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES:

The flagship product, SiMON, has won widespread acclaim throughout the industry for its depth of integrated yacht monitoring and control capabilities, its rich user graphics and its ease of use. This has also extended to the 2009 DAME award winning application iSiMON which runs on the iPhone and/or iTouch products.  Palladium’s most recent Apple application is SiMON 2 which has just recently been awarded the “Most Innovative Product” DAME award along with a “Special Mention” in the Marine Software Category” at the METS in Amsterdam!  Designed for the iPad, SiMON 2 uses the WiFi technology to communicate with the newly designed SiMON 2 controllers. The controllers interface to the ships critical equipment, such as engines, generators, bilge, tanks, batteries, AC electric, doors, etc.

They offer a wide range of fully integrated solutions that encompass all aspects of megayacht management and control, including broadband Internet access, yacht monitoring and alarm systems, electrical switchboards, custom helm panels, glass bridge design, ship’s security systems, entertainment systems and concierge services throughout the yacht.

Services include design, engineering and documentation for all aspects of the superyacht’s electrical system, including switchboards,  AC and DC circuits, monitoring, alarms, control software and emergency panels, with automated load management and balance. Their solutions meet ABS and other major classification society standards.

Unique in the industry, our integrated megayacht solutions have been designed and developed by engineers with extensive seagoing experience and an intuitive understanding for the needs of the yacht’s owner, captain, guests, engineer and crew.

WEBSITE: http://www.palladiumtechs.com/

REFERENCES:
http://portal.metstrade.com/marketplace/mypage/information.asp?mypageid=5419
http://www.palladiumtechs.com/about
http://www.palladiumtechs.com/products

The prestigious Hermitage Amsterdam is set to present a stunning selection from the Flemish art collection of the St Petersburg Hermitage.

With some 75 paintings and 20 drawings, the exhibition will include many masterpieces by the three giants of the Antwerp School, Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck and Jacob Jordaens, alongside the work of well-known contemporaries.

2. Houseboat Museum, Amsterdam: Home and afloat.

In Amsterdam, houseboats are living spaces just like any other (although being shorter than 1 metre 80 is a requirement for living comfortably within). The founder of the Houseboat Museum (Woonbootmuseum), Vincent van Loon, decided to open his own boat to the public in response to the numerous questions of curious tourists as to how one lives on a houseboat. The “Hendrika Maria” welcomes visitors all year round: come and discover everyday life on this rather special kind of floating home.

3. Swan Lake – ballet – A magical tale.

Swan Lake is a magnificent work which is known and loved all over the world, the score composed by Tchaikovsky, with a libretto by Vladimir Begichev. Based on an old German legend, this particular piece was performed for the first time in 1877 at the Bolchoï Theatre in Moscow (directed by Semen Riabov, choreography by Julius Reisinger).

4. Boat trip on the canals of Amsterdam – Sightseeing on the water.

What would Amsterdam be without its numerous canals?
Several different companies offer boat trips aorund the waterways of the city. Whether you choose a daytime trip or a romantic evening boat ride, you will undoubtedly be charmed by the city from this angle.

At night time, dining boat trips are on offer, where you can taste some classic local dishes while you admire the lights of the city slipping by. That’s not all, however. Candlelight boat trips are also an option, for a truly romantic ambiance.

5. Hermitage Amsterdam – Cultural alliance.

Set up in the Amstelhof, a historical complex inAmsterdam, theHermitage Amsterdam is the leading branch of the prestigious Russian state museum, theHermitage of St. Petersburg. Inaugurated in June 2009, the museum extends over 107 000 m². Apart from the various exhibitions it offers, the Hermitage Amsterdam is also a permanent centre for events such as dinners, concerts and conferences.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:

1. Dam square

The Dam is the very centre and heart of Amsterdam, although there are arguably prettier sights in the city. As an historical site however, it is fascinating and worth taking the time to appreciate. The Dam has seen many historical dramas unfold over the years, and was for example, the reception area for Napoleon and his troops during the 1808 take-over of the city. The impressive history of the square is well documented in the Amsterdam Historical Museum.

2. Amsterdam’s canals
The number of canals have led Amsterdam to become known as “The Venice of the North”. And thus, a trip to Amsterdam is not complete without a boat cruise. A canal tour can be both fascinating and relaxing by day and enchanting and romantic at night when many of the houses and bridges are illuminated. The four main city center canals are Prinsengracht, Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Singel.

3. Leidseplein (square)

The Leidseplein or Leidse-square is one of Amsterdam’s most popular centres for nightlife. With many restaurants, clubs, coffeeshops, cinemas and theatres in the area, the Leidseplein is vibrant and colourful. On warm summer evenings, tourists and locals alike take advantage of the pubs’ outdoor seating for a long, lazy drinks with friends. Street musicians, jugglers, fire-eaters and other performers liven up the square, often till the early hours.

4. Red Light District

Beer and party atmosphere, sex for sale, and limitless people-watching. The stores are full of hardcore videos, magazines and sex toys. The Red Light District is somewhat of a sexual amusement park and often not taken too seriously by the hordes of tourist who frequent it. The famous red window lights are striking against the quaint, old canal houses and even the fairy lights that line the bridges at night are coloured red. Although it is generally considered to be a very safe area, care should still be taken when walking through the quieter streets of the area. There is a strict “no photography” policy.

5. Van Gogh Museum

This modern museum houses some 200 paintings and 550 sketches showing Van Gogh in all his moods. This biggest in the world collection, combined with hundreds of letters by Van Gogh, and selected works by his friends and contemporaries, form the core of the museum’s collection.

REFERENCES:

• http://www.amsterdam.info/sights/top10/
• http://uk.eurostar.com/uk/travel-to-the-netherlands/travel-to-amsterdam/exhibitions/-rubens-van-dyck-and-jordaens-flemish-paintings-from-the-hermitage-exhibition-ide-65218441
• http://uk.eurostar.com/uk/travel-to-the-netherlands/travel-to-amsterdam/exhibitions/houseboat-museum-amsterdam-visit-ide-50918510
• http://www.amsterdam.info/sights/
• http://uk.eurostar.com/uk/travel-to-the-netherlands/travel-to-amsterdam/attractions/hermitage-amsterdam-idp-4171871
• http://uk.eurostar.com/uk/travel-to-the-netherlands/travel-to-amsterdam/discover/boat-trip-on-the-canals-of-amsterdam-ide-60818257
• http://uk.eurostar.com/uk/travel-to-the-netherlands/travel-to-amsterdam/shows/-swan-lake-ballet-ide-69818842

“Marine Equipment Trade Show is an exhibition of equipment, materials and systems for the international marine leisure industry organized by Amsterdam RAI in association with the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA). It expects around 1,320 exhibitors for this year. The exhibits range from propulsion, navigation, fittings, communications and safety equipment to furniture, construction materials, electrical installations, clothing and marine paints and coatings. In addition, there will be product groups bunkering and fuelling, crew management, repair and refit, yacht transport.” ¹

History of METS ²

METS, now universally acknowledged as the world’s leading leisure marine trade event, was first held in 1988 as a unique showcase for trade-only visitors to learn about new and proven marine products.

Within five years METS had grown to 520 exhibitors, three-quarters of whom came from outside the Netherlands, and had seven further national pavilions (Denmark, Italy, Sweden, Finland, France, the Netherlands and Canada). By year ten (1997), Germany and Norway had set up pavilions and exhibitors numbered 700 (80% from overseas).

In 2002, as METS turned 15, the exhibitor level was 830 and, appropriately, there were 15 national pavilions as Turkey, Australia, New Zealand and Spain had by this time signed up. In 2003, the Composite Pavilion was added and, in 2005, the SuperYacht Pavilion.

AS METS has grown, space at the RAI halls, Amsterdam, has been at a premium. From 1994 onwards, METS took over the Park Hall in addition to the Delta and Holland halls to accommodate 600 plus exhibitors but the biggest change arose in 2005 when the entire event moved to the bigger Europe complex at RAI.

METS owes much to the ongoing support of marine industry associations around the world and, in particular our partner, the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA). It is a member of the International Federation of Boat Show Organizers (IFBSO).

General event information – METS 2011 ³

Organizer: METS incorporating the SuperYacht Pavilion 2011 is organized by Amsterdam RAI.
Venue: Amsterdam RAI – “Amsterdam RAI is the largest convention centre in the Netherlands. The venue offers eleven multi-function exhibition halls (87,000 sq m) and 22 congress rooms. Only 15 minutes away from Schiphol International Airport and featuring its own train station, Amsterdam RAI benefits from excellent accessibility. The RAI is surrounded by good hotels, restaurants and bars, while the city centre with its attractive canals, pavement cafés, tourist attractions and entertainment facilities is just ten minutes away by public transport. Our aim is to offer both visitors and exhibitors an inspiring experience!” ⁴

Opening: Tuesday 15 November at 08.00 hours. Exhibitors and invitees only.
DAME Award: 132 entries in 2010
Number of exhibitors: 1,320 (of which 151 SYP) in 2010
Floor area: 52,000 sq m
Pavilions: 15 national pavilions, Marina & Yard Equipment, Composite and SuperYacht Pavilion
Parallel event: Global SuperYacht Forum

Seminars & Conferences: ⁵
November 14: – ICOMIA’s 1st International Hybrid Marine Propulsion Conference
November 14 to 16: – Global Super yacht Forum
November 16: – NMEA 2000 The Open Industry Networking Standard for the Novice
- NMEA 2000 ConnectFest
- NMEA Transducers
November 16 – Workshop on new Technologies organized by ICOMIA and EB magazine
November 16 – Marine Generator Vibration Seminars from Cummins Onan
November 16 – Marine Applications of Lithium lon Batteries Today
- What is New in Marine Composite Applications
- Propeller Selection and Sizing
Admission charge: For visitors not in possession of an invitation card or a pre-registration, the admission charge is € 200.00 per person, including VAT.
Website: www.metstrade.com

Some of the exhibitors:

“English Braids will be exhibiting a comprehensive product range including Dyneema and Aramid at the Marine Equipment Trade Show in Amsterdam. “  ⁶

 “November 15-17th, AC Marine exhibits yet again at Mets in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. At the booth Linda Soleil, Joke van Beusekom and Christian Bøhme will be present. We are looking forward meeting all of our existing and future customers at our booth 01.302.” ⁷

SuperYacht Pavilion 2011 incorporated by METS ⁸

The international business platform for superyacht professionals. If you’re a regular at SYP / METS then you know about the highlights of the world’s biggest and best attended leisure marine equipment show. We look forward to welcoming you back!

REFERENCES:
1 – http://www.a-n-t.net/upcoming-events/marine-equipment-trade-show-mets/
2 – http://www.metstrade.com/nl/en/pages/history.aspx
3 – http://www.metstrade.com/nl/en/Pages/exhibitioninformation.aspx
4 – http://www.metstrade.com/nl/en/pages/abouttherai.aspx
5 – http://www.metstrade.com/nl/en/Pages/seminars.aspx
6 – http://www.englishbraids.com/Exhibitions-Events/mets-marine-equipment-trade-show-2010.html
7 – http://www.acmarine.dk/news/ac-marine-exhibits-mets-november-15th-17th-2011-booth-01302
8 – http://www.superyachtpavilion.metstrade.com/nl/en/pages/general.aspx