The 2023 USVI Charter Yacht Show: A Spectacular Display of Maritime Excellence
A Caribbean Gem: St. Thomas Shines at the Yacht Show
St. Thomas, recognized by Caribbean Journal as the ‘Hottest Yachting Destination in the Caribbean,’ lived up to its title at the 2023 USVI Charter Yacht Show. Over 70 boutique-style charter yachts graced Yacht Haven Grande St. Thomas, offering a glimpse into the upcoming season’s offerings to 140 brokers from across the globe. The show’s bustling activities, from the Marine Vendor’s Expo to cultural showcases, highlighted the US Virgin Islands’ maritime allure.
Governor’s Vision for Maritime Tourism
Governor Albert Bryan, Jr. of the U.S. Virgin Islands emphasized the significance of the maritime industry to the region. His commitment to nurturing and promoting this sector mirrors the islands’ natural splendor and rich marine resources.
Mark Your Calendars: Upcoming Yacht Shows
2024 will see the return of the USVI Charter Yacht Show from November 8-11 and the launch of the Virgin Islands Boating Expo (VIBE) from May 10-12, showcasing leading charter brokers and yacht manufacturers.
A Showcase of Elegance and Variety
The show’s boutique fleet ranged from sleek 42-footers to majestic yachts over 105 feet, encompassing both power and sail options. Each yacht, with its unique crew, promised bespoke vacation experiences, far from the ordinary.
Broker and Crew Insights
Charter yacht brokers and crews shared insights into the industry’s rewarding nature, emphasizing personal connections and unique guest experiences. Captains and chefs from award-winning yachts like ‘Koru,’ ‘Emysa,’ and ‘Xandros’ discussed their approach to providing unparalleled services.
A Testament to Resilience and Growth
The USVI charter yacht industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, evolving into a significant economic force. The show’s success is a testament to the region’s status as a top maritime destination, offering unique, customized crewed yacht vacations.
Acknowledging Sponsors and Winners
The event’s success was bolstered by strong sponsor support, with luxurious prizes and awards celebrating the best in various categories, from mixology to culinary prowess.
Looking Ahead: A Season of Promise
The 2023 USVI Charter Yacht Show set the stage for a promising season ahead, reaffirming the region’s position at the forefront of Caribbean yachting. With plans underway for future events, the US Virgin Islands continue to captivate the global yachting community.
For more information and to stay updated on future events, visit usviyachtshow.org and VIPCA.org.
A Glimpse at the Winners
2023 USVI CHARTER YACHT SHOW COMPETITION WINNERS
Best Yacht in Show – 50’ & Under
Winner: Koru, Crew: Findlay Mack, Cara Whiteman
Runner Up: Oceana, Crew: Umberto Genovese, Lindsey Montgomery
Best Yacht in Show – 51’-60’
Winner: Emysa, Crew: Bastian Tromp, Sarai Ben Ari
Runner-Up: Atlas, Crew: Brynn Moultrie, Rosie Jones
Best Yacht in Show – 61’ & Over
Winner: Xandros, Crew: Mayon Hight, Elizabeth Hight, Sam Middeke
Runner-Up: The Peddler, Crew: Arnold Heins, Jenna Smit, Mariaan Odendaal, Daniel Cohn
Best Crew in Show
Overall Winner: Josh Ryan, Gustavo Ryan, Yacht: Valentina
Overall Runner-Up: Brynn Moultrie, Rosie Jones, Yacht: Atlas
Best Crew Honorable Mentions:
Keagan Steyn, Olivia Boyd, Yacht: Huntress
Umberto Genovese, Lindsey Montgomery, Yacht: Oceana.
Dustin Bumgardner, Alli Bumgardner, Yacht: La Sirena
Cocktail Mixologist Competition – Grey Goose Vodka – 2023
Winner: Zara Browne, Yacht: Ocelot
Runner Up: Hugh O’Brien, Yacht: Serena
Cocktail Mixologist Competition Captain Morgan Rum – 2023
Winner: Dustin Bumgardner, Yacht: La Sirena
Runner Up: Abby Garner, Yacht: Hulya
Culinary Competition – 2023
Overall Winner: Paula Milovac, Yacht: Barefoot Retreat
1st Place: Sara Hogan, Yacht: Liquid Zen
2nd Place: Belinda Jane Bentley, Yacht: Mystic
3rd Place: Julia Ray, Yacht: Shangri-La
CYBA Designer Water Competition – 2023
1st place Ripple
2nd place The Peddler
3rd place Hülya
The 2023 USVI Charter Yacht Show celebrated the best in the industry, with yachts like ‘Koru,’ ‘Emysa,’ and ‘Xandros’ winning top honors in their respective categories. The ‘Best Crew in Show’ accolade went to ‘Valentina,’ and culinary excellence was showcased by chefs from ‘Barefoot Retreat,’ ‘Liquid Zen,’ and others. For a full list of winners, visit the official website.
