December 2024 saw diYachting head to the Antigua Charter Yacht Show. Initially we had planned to present both Saideira and The Idler but they were delayed so will be in attendance next December instead.
As a result, Lizzie and I were able to check out a lot more boats, here I will discuss some of our favourites from the 4 days.
A real highlight for us was hearing about the ways in which crews have been incorporating more environmentally conscious practices on board. Antigua has been home to the Designer Water Competition since the competition began so the number of single use plastic bottles on display has been vastly reduced. Not only that but many of the interior teams were boasting bio-preserved flowers which is a novel creation using real flowers that have been specially preserved to last up to a year. We loved them so much we’ve shared the idea with all of our crews!
What was hot on board?
Literally and metaphorically saunas were incredibly popular as were plunge pools. We are yet to see a cryo chamber on board, we wonder who will be the first…
Pianos, is there a greater status symbol than a grand piano on a boat. Black Pearl and Sealion were host to the two most striking pianos and both need to be seen to be believed.
Some of our favourites are listed on our website so you can find their rates and locations listed at the attached links Aeolus and The Blue Dream . What we loved about these two was that they were some of the smallest yachts in the show yet delivered spectacularly in the competitions. Aeolus placed 2nd in the chef and tablescaping and came in first for the Designer Water Competition whilst the Blue Dream came in 2nd. There were no size categories for the water competition and it was incredibly competitive so both crews performed spectacularly.
The first yacht we stepped aboard was Nuri, and it set the bar high, the crew’s warmth made us feel right at home and they were ready and raring to go from the moment the show started. The yacht itself was beautifully presented, with a sense of calm luxury throughout. One of the highlights was the chef competition, where Nuri took first place in their size category.
Our favourite in the show was Adventure, a yacht that struck the perfect balance between modern luxury and classic elegance, and the recent refit gave the yacht an even more polished look. . The crew member who showed us around had a great sense of humour and clearly loved working on board. Though they didn’t take first place in tablescaping here, Adventure pulled out all the stops and came in 3rd.
Come Together was a yacht that left a lasting impression. From the sleek, minimalist design to the impeccable presentation of every inch, this vessel stood out. Every corner of the yacht seemed perfectly in sync with the whole concept of effortless luxury.
FiFi, might not have seemed massive from the outside, but stepping aboard, we were surprised by how spacious it felt. The open plan saloon made it feel even more expansive, and the layout was both functional and luxurious. Despite its more compact size, it earned 3rd place in both the chef competition and tablescaping, proving that great things really do come in all sizes. The canapé we sampled was so tasty we were thrilled the chef did well in the competition.
As sailing yacht lovers, Asahi was an absolute highlight. This Perini Navi masterpiece stands the test of time with its modern yet timeless interior design. . Asahi was impeccably maintained, and the crew all had longevity on board. Plus, for those with a passion for watersports, this yacht truly excels, offering endless opportunities for adventure on the water.
Triumph lived up to its name. It was a stunner in every sense of the word, from its luxurious design to the incredible crew. We were treated to an unforgettable party on board, complete with fantastic canapés and a lively atmosphere. It’s the kind of yacht that knows how to throw a great event while making you feel utterly pampered.
Stepping aboard Black Pearl was nothing short of awe-inspiring. This legendary yacht is a true icon, with its sleek, futuristic design and cutting-edge technology. Seeing her in person was an experience we won’t forget. Every inch of Black Pearl felt like it was built for both elegance and adventure, and it was an absolute privilege to witness this famous vessel in all her glory.
We had the pleasure of spending time aboard Holdin’ My Own, where the crew’s hospitality was unmatched. They invited us to sit down for a coffee, which gave us the opportunity to really get to know the captain and the crew. This yacht is the perfect choice for those seeking a comfortable yet luxurious charter experience. With a second-place finish in the chef competition, it was clear that Holdin’ My Own doesn’t just offer great service—it delivers a truly gourmet experience.
Maverick stole our hearts with its breathtaking infinity pool on the foredeck, offering a tranquil spot to relax while enjoying the endless horizon. The design is well thought through with the master shower boasting a skylight via the flybridge jacuzzi.
With its confident styling and thoughtful design, Sealion was a standout. The yacht’s clean lines and luxurious interior made it clear that it had been carefully crafted for both aesthetics and versatility. It was also a crowd favorite in both chef competitions and tablescaping, finishing 3rd in both categories.
Sea Owl was an absolute joy. The interior design was whimsical, playful, and downright fun. It’s one of those yachts that doesn’t just cater to adults—it appeals to the child in all of us. Every room seemed like an adventure waiting to happen, and we couldn’t help but smile at the clever design choices that made it feel more like a floating playground than a traditional yacht.
Finally, Bold, a yacht that defines the phrase “ultimate adventure vessel.” This yacht has everything: from a helicopter pad to spaces that convert seamlessly for whatever the day’s adventure demands. If you’re looking for a yacht that’s ready to go anywhere and do anything—whether it’s a tropical escape or an arctic expedition—Bold is the vessel you want. There’s even Teppanyaki on board, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
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