THIS YEAR’S new-look Yachts Miami Beach featured a higher proportion of large yachts as it made a concerted move towards the high-end sector, charging entry for the first time in the show’s 29-year history.
29th Yachts Miami Beach; February 16-20, 2017
THIS YEAR’S new-look Yachts Miami Beach featured a higher proportion of large yachts as it made a concerted move towards the high-end sector, charging entry for the first time in the show’s 29-year history.
Efrem ‘Skip’ Zimbalist III, President of Show Management, which produces and co-owns Yachts Miami Beach, said the five-day show was refining its focus.
“In terms of mix, we saw an increase in the proportion of yachts 50ft and larger as exhibitors took advantage of the more targeted, upscale show atmosphere,” he said. “The attendance exceeded our expectations in both quality and quantity.”
Spanning more than a mile along Collins Avenue, the show’s new layout highlighted its picturesque, waterfront location along Indian Creek Waterway and featured seven entrances.
For the first time, guests arrived at the show aboard water taxis, connected to new parking locations. Foot traffic was redirected from the sidewalk along Collins Avenue to the show’s network of new floating docks.
Yachts were arranged in dedicated new and brokerage sections, while a VIP Experience ticket – added for Thursday, Friday and Saturday – included access to a floating, air-conditioned VIP lounge featuring a premium open bar, gourmet food, a spa and a concierge to arrange appointments onboard yachts.
IYBA President Gary Smith said: “Yachts Miami Beach was another great event, as it has been for 29 years running. Overall, the restructuring of the venue seems to be a positive move for all concerned.”
For the second year, the show included the invitation-only Super Yacht Miami display, featuring 28 superyachts at Island Gardens Deep Harbour on Watson Island.
Italy’s Azimut Benetti Group displayed 21 yachts ranging from 10-63m, including the Verve 40 and Azimut 66 Flybridge. The Group sold the fifth unit of the Grande 35 Metri and unveiled the concept of the Benetti Now series.
Ferretti Group, also of Italy, displayed 17 models from 27-92ft across its Ferretti Yachts, Pershing, Riva and Custom Line brands, including the American premieres of the FY450 and Riva 88’ Domino Super.
