The Tribune

By FAY SIMMONS

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

A BROKER yesterday voiced optimism that the first-ever Bahamas Charter Yacht Show will draw more focus to this nation’s rising potential as a boating destination.

Paul Flannery, the International Yacht Brokers Association’s chief operating officer, said the event had already become the largest of its kind in the Caribbean given the number of vessels and yacht brokers present.

“We’re excited about the show. It’s our first show here. We have 47 boats and almost 100 brokers registered, which is the largest show in the area. The expectations are that we bring more attention to the opportunities here in The Bahamas to charter some of the finest yachts in the world,” he added.

The inaugural Bahamas Charter Yacht Show is being held through a partnership between the International Yacht Brokers, Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) and the Ministry of Tourism. It is being staged at four major New Providence marinas - Bay Street Marina, Nassau Yacht Haven, The Pointe and Hurricane Hole Superyacht Marina.

The event aims to show showcase to brokers, yacht charter firms and boaters the variety of experiences they can enjoy in The Bahamas. Mr Flannery said: “Clients can come in from all over the world, base here in Nassau and travel to the beautiful Out Island experiences that are available up in the Abacos, through Eleuthera, down in the Exumas, and down further into the Out Islands of Cat Island, Crooked [Island], Acklins, Long Island and Rum Cay.

“So there’s a lot of adventure, a lot to be seen, a lot to do. And it’s super easy to get here. So that’s why we’re inviting people to see what it’s all about.” Event sponsors include Graycliff, Baha Mar, Nassau Yacht Haven and Margaritaville. Mr Flannery said: “The businesses that recognise the value of the charter industry have been very, very supportive of the show.

“We also have representatives in from all over The Bahamas on the different islands and the marinas there, so we have great participation from all around the islands.”