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AYCA Educational Seminars at the upcoming Newport Charter Yacht Show

May 23, 2013

The American Yacht Charter Association (AYCA) is delighted to announce the continuation of its Educational and Informative Seminars, organized as well as sponsored by the AYCA during the Newport Charter Yacht Show. This year’s show will be running from June 17-20.

2013 Keynote speaker - Jennifer Grace

2013 Keynote speaker - Jennifer Grace

The AYCA Seminar—which will be held on Wednesday, June 19 in the Sunset Tent at the Newport Yachting Center—includes a full breakfast at 7:30 am and the seminar from 8:00-11:00 am.

Brian Butler, AYCA’s Marketing/Motivational Segment Speaker in 2012, returns in 2013 as Emcee. Hay House Author and Executive Dream Producer, Jennifer Grace, is the 2013 Keynote Speaker. AYCA is delighted to announce her motivational topic: “Directing Your Destiny: How to Become the Writer, Producer, and Director of Your Dreams”

Two other seminar segments are offered as well: “The Charter Voice,” a panel of captain/crew/charter professionals addressing “What Would You Do If…?” questions related to our industry; and, MTN Satellite Communications will bring everyone up to speed on the latest in communications on board yachts in their discussion of, “VSAT for Charter Agents, Managers, and Captains.”

The cost of the Seminar is $30 per person if paid in advance by 6/15/2013, or $40 per person after 6/15/2013 or paid at the door. Checks can be made payable to: AYCA, c/o Sandy Carney, Sanderson Yachting, 223 Wapping Road, Portsmouth, RI, 02871. Or, you can pay via Credit Card/Pay Pal and here is the link: SEMINAR . Please RSVP to Sandy, sandy@sandersonyachting.com to let her know that you will be attending.

At the current time, the AYCA Newport Seminar is generously sponsored by: Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association (MYBA), ISS-Global Marine Travel (ISS-GMT), Boat International Media/Charter Fleet, National Marine Suppliers and Florida Yacht Brokers Association (FYBA). Additional Sponsorship opportunities are available at $500 per company.

ASMEX 2013: Day 1

May 23, 2013

This year’s Australian Superyacht and Marine Export conference (ASMEX) started on Tuesday, May 21, hosting Australian industry figures, as well as international supporters. The attitude was one of cooperation and the mood was determined, focused and sharp as the Australian superyacht industry planned its future steps on the first day of the conference.

ASMEX 2012

ASMEX 2012

The central theme of the day was cohesion; working together as a country to overcome legislative brakes on forward momentum, working together as a nation to open up new markets and share insight on the best approach in doing business with them, and working together as a region to bring superyacht visitors to Australia, New Zealand and the greater South Pacific.

After the official opening by AIMEX president, Richard Chapman, MaryAnne Edwards, chief executive of AIMEX and Superyacht Australia took to the floor to give her members the crucial information they need to break into the lucrative – and neighbouring – Asian markets. But not with the intention of grabbing new consumers.

As Erwin Bamps, COO of Gulf Craft, pointed out later in the day, Asian markets may be growing exponentially but that growth is an improvement on markets that were very small to begin with. Growth is great, but it’s not enough (at present) to make up for the lag in European markets.

Instead, what Edwards urged the Australian industry to do was explore whether offshore markets – she cited Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand – and explained that information was the key to unlocking opportunity in the region. Those opportunities include a dramatically lower minimum wage than in Australia and tax benefits, but making a strategic move offshore, she stressed, could only be successful if a company had carried out due diligence in identifying the risk factors in operating in each new market.

Other topics covered today included the effect each global market has on the Australian industry, strategies to better partner with New Zealand to achieve greater clout in the international arena and marketing strategies in a new media environment.

The real take away from the day though, is that Australia is in prime position to move forward and take up her place on the world superyacht industry stage.

New Zealand Superyacht Day in San Francisco, September 7, 2013

May 23, 2013

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, in partnership with participating companies, Alloy Yachts, Events Clothing, Fitzroy Yachts, McMullen and Wing, as well as Southern Spars, are delighted to introduce the New Zealand Superyacht Day, to be held on the first day of the 2013 America’s Cup, September 7, in San Francisco. The event will provide a unique possibility to engage with and gain insights from the best yacht builders in the industry, comprising world-renowned superyacht designer, Ed Dubois of Dubois Yachts.

NZ Superyacht Day


Set against the stunning backdrop of San Francisco amidst the excitement of the 34th America’s Cup, US superyacht owners, owners representatives, captains and designers are invited to attend a unique one-day program demonstrating the innovative and award-winning New Zealand superyacht industry.

The day will begin with a breakfast featuring guest speaker Ed Dubois, among other leading superyacht regatta specialists,leading marine innovation experts, and demonstrations of the future of the New Zealand superyacht industry. Breakfast will be followed with the opportunity to watch the first day of the race on the water with a complementary kiwi craft beer tasting and barbeque.

Club Marine Australian Marine Export and Superyacht Awards 2013 Winners

May 22, 2013

Organized by the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) as well as Superyacht Australia, this year’s Club Marine Australian Marine Export and Superyacht Industry Awards were just announced at the Industry Gala Dinner in Sanctuary Cove, Queensland, Australia.

2013 Club Marine Austrailan Marine Industry Export Superyacht Award Winners

2013 Club Marine Austrailan Marine Industry Export Superyacht Award Winners

VEEM Limited won the prestigious ‘Exporter of the Year’ award, ‘Best Marine Industry Marketing Strategy’ award and the ‘Most Innovative Marine Industry Exported Product or Service’ award. Other winners included M-Tech (Marine Technologies), Aurora Global Logistics, Riviera Australia and Muir Winches. John Muir was awarded the Marine Export & Superyacht Industry Champion and inducted into the Australian Marine Export and Superyacht Industry Hall of Fame.

Based in Western Australia, VEEM Limited has been the outstanding award recipient of the evening recognized for the success of their innovative products. VEEM Limited has maintained their strong and strategic export performance plan as well as expanding their product range. They have adapted to the current market by investing in technological development maintaining a successful delivery of competitive products to the market.

VEEM won the ‘Most Innovative Marine Industry Exported Product’ award with the release of their new innovation the VEEM Gyro. The VEEM Gyro range features four models. The range has been developed specifically for the superyacht market. With a vacuum enclosed flywheel, market leading electronic control technology and advanced materials engineering, the VEEM Gyro range is the first modern gyro solution offered to the superyacht industry.

Mark Miocevich VEEM Ltd Managing Director with The Hon Bob Baldwin MP Shadow Minister for Tourism Regional Development AIMEX President Richard Chapm

Mark Miocevich VEEM Ltd Managing Director with The Hon Bob Baldwin MP Shadow Minister for Tourism Regional Development and AIMEX President Richard Chapman

John Muir was awarded a combined Marine Export & Superyacht Industry Champion Award. John is internationally renowned and respected within the Australian superyacht industry, having made a significant impact and contribution. John Muir is the director of the prestigious Muir Winches. John has been working with Europe’s most reputable and prestigious superyacht yards for many years and through this experience has developed an impressive export strategy which sees exports accounting for 65-70% of the Muir Winches business in 2013.

M-Tech (Marine Technologies), Queensland manufacturers of a full range of marina service pedestals, were awarded Winners of the ‘Best Marine Industry Export Performance – small business category’. M-Tech specialize in the manufacture of innovative marine and leisure utility equipment and accessories, not only supplied within Australia, but exported all over the world.

The ‘Best Marine Industry Export Performance – medium business category’ and ‘2013 Superyacht Industry Business of the Year – Service Provider’ were awarded to Aurora Global Logistics. Aurora Global Logistics are the leading specialists in international yacht logistics transport. Aurora is the exclusive Australian agent for Peters & May, the world’s largest international yacht logistics company and Dockwise Yacht Transport (DYT). Aurora provides a full marina to marina service.

The ‘Best Marine Industry Export Performance – large business category’ award was awarded to Riviera Australia. The iconic Australian boat builder has built more than 5000 new boats in its 33 year history and currently exports 14 different models across three ranges; Flybridge, Sport Yacht and the new SUV series. The company’s dealer network has continued to expand with new dealers being drawn to the Riviera brand because of the company’s resilience over the past five years and the continued international sales success that Riviera has enjoyed.

Superior were recognized with a High Commendation for the category ‘Best Marine Industry Export Marketing Strategy’. Superior manufactures a variety of marine berthing systems, industrial flotation and accessories for commercial, domestic, private and government clients. Superior’s motto is based upon work – play – life. The Superior brand consistently value trust, personal service, speed and reinforcement of a key message that they ‘know water’. This strategy has enabled Superior to focus on strategies for new industries for new products, in addition to their traditional recreational marine lines.

Muir Winches took out the prestigious ‘Superyacht Industry Business of the Year – Manufacturer’ in 2013. Muir’s complete range of anchor windlasses, anchoring systems and deck equipment is exported to more than 40 countries across the globe. Muir has a strong reputable brand globally within the superyacht industry.

Sponsors of the 2013 Awards scheme include Major Sponsors; Club Marine and supporting sponsors; Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

2013 Club Marine Australian Marine Export & Superyacht Industry Awards:

2013 Australian Marine Industry Exporter of the Year
Winner – VEEM Limited

Most Innovative Marine Industry Exported Product
Winner – VEEM Limited

Marine Export & Superyacht Industry Champion
Winner – John Muir

Best Marine Industry Export Performance (Small Exporter)
Winner – M-Tech (Marine Technologies)

Best Marine Industry Export Performance (Medium Exporter)
Winner – Aurora Global Logistics

Best Marine Industry Export Performance (Large Exporter)
Winner – Riviera Australia

Best Marine Industry Export Marketing Strategy
Winner: VEEM Limited

Highly Commended: Superior

2013 Superyacht Industry Business of the Year (Service Provider)
Winner – Aurora Global Logistics

2013 Superyacht Industry Business of the Year (Manufacturer)
Winner – Muir Winches

Australian Marine Export and Superyacht Industry Hall of Fame
Inductee: John Muir

MIA conducts its first ever marina course in Taiwan

May 21, 2013

The Marina Industries Association (MIA) recently delivered its first ever marina operations course in Taiwan. The two day course was organised in partnership with Vincent Kuan, a Keelung based yacht dealer from YuYue Yacht Co.

MIA Course Participants in Taiwan 16-17 May 2013

MIA Course Participants in Taiwan 16-17 May 2013

There were 34 participants in the course from marinas, yacht dealerships, government and property developers. The syllabus included a detailed analysis of the marina industry both locally and overseas and there was a strong focus on the practical aspects of marina operations.

In the past year Taiwan has placed more importance on developing its marina and boating industry and is therefore seeking to educate marina managers and government officials in the marina industry.

MIA President Andrew Chapman said the course had been a resounding success and it demonstrated the commitment within Taiwan to strengthen its marina and wider recreational boating industries. “Throughout the two day course there was a high level of participation and enthusiasm. Vincent Kuan is to be congratulated for his excellent work. The success of the course provides a sound platform on which to sustain and grow the marina industry in Taiwan”.

As a result of the positive course feedback, discussions are already underway to conduct further marina courses and to establish a range of linkages between the Taiwanese industry, related government agencies and the MIA.

New rotating show schedule for International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX)

May 20, 2013

In order to increase accessibility for attendees as well as exhibitors across the U.S. and internationally, the International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) unveiled a new rotating show schedule. The event will take place in Louisville, Kentucky in 2013; Tampa, Florida in 2014; Louisville in 2015; and Tampa in 2016.

IBEX

Alternating between Louisville and Tampa offers enormous benefits to marine industry professionals. Both cities are easily accessed travel hubs and the rotation between a southern location and a central location allows more professionals to attend. A rotating schedule also creates more location-specific social and networking opportunities, which show organizers anticipate will increase attendance.

“Louisville continues to be an excellent location for IBEX, but there are two major geographic areas in the USA where about 80 percent of boatbuilders in North America reside,” says Anne Dunbar, IBEX show director. “Rotating between these two cities is ideal for our dedicated IBEX attendees, and for all those marine professionals who have been unable to attend.”

“The new rotation between Louisville and Tampa was unanimously and enthusiastically supported by the IBEX planning committee, which is chaired by Bill Watters, president of Syntec Industries,” notes Thom Dammrich, president of NMMA. “As a result of the rotating location, IBEX will bring new products, new programs, a new location, and new excitement to the marine industry every year.”

The IBEX 2014 Show will be held at the Tampa Convention Center, a world-class event space. Located on the waterfront, the facility is within walking distance of many hotels, fine restaurants and attractions, including Tampa’s Riverwalk, a popular pedestrian byway. The Convention Center features indoor and outdoor space, and boasts Sail Pavilion, a 360-degree waterfront bar and performance venue.

Not only is the Tampa Convention Center located on the water, it offers a broad expanse of docks and slips that are just steps away from the Convention Center. IBEX attendees will be able to experience live demonstrations of emerging new products and technologies. Dock space will be available to all IBEX 2014 exhibitors, but space is limited.

If being interested in reserving dock or in-water exhibit space in Tampa at IBEX 2014, it is advised to contact Tina Sanderson, tina@ibexshow.com or Kate Holden, kate@ibexshow.com for more information.

Upcoming Show Dates & Locations:
 September 17-19, 2013, Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY
 September 30–October 2, 2014, Tampa Bay Convention Center, Tampa, FL
 September 15-17, 2015, Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY
 October 4-6, 2016, Tampa Bay Convention Center, Tampa, FL

Rolex Capri Sailing Week Volcano Race 2013 to kick off tomorrow

May 17, 2013

The last preparations are in full swing for tomorrow’s race start at this year’s Rolex Capri Sailing Week Volcano Race. To last until 24 May, the event will welcome an international fleet of Maxi yachts to the Tyrrhenian Sea for nine days of exciting competing, as well as an amazing social programme.

Dockside ambiance in Gaeta - Photo by Rolex Kurt Arrigo

Dockside ambiance in Gaeta - Photo by Rolex/Kurt Arrigo

Composed of four segments, the Rolex Capri Sailing Week Volcano Race promises challenging conditions for the 14 participating Maxi yachts. Representing Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States, the fleet eagerly awaits the alluring combination of inshore and offshore racing, set against some of Italy’s most iconic destinations.

“Capri is one of the most beautiful places in the world,” confirmed Sir Peter Ogden, owner of the Mini Maxi yacht Jethou, overall winner of the 2012 event and likely to be one of the frontrunners in 2013. “For sailors it combines onshore glamour and Rolex hospitality with challenging sailing conditions. In particular, the offshore Volcano Race presents a host of tactical issues, depending on wind speed and variability in direction.”

Caol Ila (Sui) in preparation for tomorrow's race - Photo by Rolex Kurt Arrigo

Caol Ila (Sui) in preparation for tomorrow's race - Photo by Rolex/Kurt Arrigo

Thomas Jungblut, permanent tactician aboard superyacht Y3K, agreed with Ogden that capricious wind conditions in the area are known to upset the formbook. In 2012, Y3K was the second fastest boat on the water, a result the crew is aiming to better in 2013. “Due to varied winds and sailing conditions, sometimes the smaller or bigger yachts will have a big advantage or disadvantage,” said Jungblut. “Certainly there is no lack of tension among the fleet.”

In an effort to outperform this season’s competition, sailing yacht Y3K was optimised over the winter, configured with a more powerful mainsail, and, a deeper keel for increased stability and speed on the water. The crew has also undergone a four-day training session in La Ciotat, France to prepare for the challenges ahead. “The mix of races requires a variety of tasks, especially extremely good crew handling,” added Jungblut, emphasising the spirited contest expected within the fleet.

Dockside ambiance in Gaeta - Photo credit to Rolex/Kurt Arrigo

Dockside ambiance in Gaeta - Photo credit to Rolex/Kurt Arrigo

Ogden also confirmed the race’s reputation as being competitive and capable of surprises: “You can never prepare for everything and you have to adapt as the race develops.” He does offer some useful advice to newcomers; “The winning formula is easy: you just have to sail better than everybody else.”

Organised by the International Maxi Association, in collaboration with the Yacht Club Gaeta EVS and the Yacht Club Capri, racing officially begins tomorrow, Saturday 18 May, with a 100 nautical-mile offshore circuit that leads participants from Gaeta, past Ponza and Ventotene, to a finish on the iconic island of Capri. Two days of inshore racing will follow off Capri before the start of the fourth and final race, the Rolex Volcano Race, on 22 May. The Rolex Volcano Race is composed of a 300 nautical-mile journey around the UNESCO-protected Aeolian islands north of Sicily, with a start and finish in Capri.

Title Sponsor Rolex’s involvement in the Capri Sailing Week dates back almost a decade, while this is the third running of the Rolex Volcano Race.

British Marine Federation (BMF) Marina Conference 2013 attended by international marina professionals

May 17, 2013

Having started at the scenic Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott on Wednesday, May 8, this year’s 9th edition of annual British Marine Federation (BMF) Marina Conference was attended by marina professionals, coming from all over the world. The event was sponsored by Walcon Marine.

Robin Walters, founder of Walcon Marine, awarded the Honorary Certified Marina Professional in recognition of his dedication and contribution to the industry

Robin Walters, founder of Walcon Marine, awarded the Honorary Certified Marina Professional in recognition of his dedication and contribution to the industry

The Conference welcomed many delegates some coming from as far as Brazil and the US with others from Turkey and Europe, was opened by Nicola Walsh, CMM UK and European Chairman, in which she expressed her hopes that ‘new ideas and tips’ would be imparted and that everyone would leave ‘inspired’.

Derek Williams, Director of The WOW! Awards, gave the first talk of the conference which focused on heightening employee engagement. Sarah Dhanda, Senior Federation Director of the BMF spoke on the subject of ‘how to generate enthusiasm for boating and watersports’. Sarah touched upon taking inspiration from the BMF’s American and Australian counterparts on attracting a larger and wider audience. The Yacht Harbour Association’s (TYHA) Manager, Gareth Turnbull and Mieke Veugels CMM discussed how to capitalise on marina staff and how to create favourable first impressions and retain customers.

A field trip was organised to BMF member, MDL’s Cobb’s Quay Marina, situated in Poole Harbour. Conference attendees were given a tour of the impressive facilities of this 1090 berth marina followed by a visit to Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) College, one of the highlights being a visit to the multi-million pound lifeboat simulator.

Certified Marina Manager (CMM) and Certified Marina Professional (CMP) presentations included Jon Pridham, Managing Director of Cowes Yacht Haven receiving his CMM Certificate, the 314th CMM certificate awarded. Robin Walters, founder of Walcon Marine, was awarded the Honorary Certified Marina Professional in recognition of his dedication and contribution to the industry.

A popular new addition to the conference was the  breakout sessions which gave delegates the chance to attend three out of four talks of their choice, the subjects included Hiring Top Performers, Legal Challenges, Marketing – Capitalise on Opportunities and Environment – Best Practise, Legislation and Resources.

Emanuele Rinaldi CMM, Director of ESEAR Marina Management Solutions & TYHA World Assessor, who attended the conference said: “The 2013 Marina Conference has been absolutely useful. It is good for meeting people and catching up with the world’s best marina professionals each year. The content of the talks and the speakers have been excellent. I really enjoyed the conference and I think that every year the content is better. The annual Marina Conference is an event that can’t be missed!”

Nicola Walsh commented, “A lot of passion was demonstrated by the key players in the industry, and this was apparent to the delegates. With updates on targeted topics via presentations and workshops I left the Marina Conference feeling inspired and armed with new tips, ideas and contacts, ready to play a more effective part in the marine industry.”

The BMF’s Sarah Dhanda said: “The BMF Marinas Conference was, as always, a fantastic event for Marina Managers and professionals. The inclusion of an industry field trip and topical breakout sessions this year ensured that the conference remained relevant to all those attending. We were delighted to welcome an increased number of International delegates including several from Brazil.”

Key global buyers to attend ASMEX 2013

May 16, 2013

Key global distributors as well as agents are descending on the Gold Coast for this year’s ASMEX (Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference), starting next week.

ASMEX_2013

Supported by the Gold Coast City Council international buyers are flying in from China, the United Arab Emirates, Taiwan, South Africa, USA and Europe to attend the conference staged immediately prior to the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

And their attendance is good news for local business. They’re attending specifically to research the capabilities of the Australian marine export and superyacht industries, look at new innovations within the Australian marketplace and develop strong business relationships

The conference kicks off on the Monday 20 May, with a cocktail party sponsored by Sevenstar Yacht Transport and designed to provide plenty of opportunity for Australian industry figures, and global guests alike to discuss the following days’ programmes. It’s the first of a plethora of relaxed networking opportunities over the two day conference.

One of the most anticipated of these is the Industry Gala Dinner on Tuesday evening where the 2013 Club Marine Australian Marine Industry Export and Superyacht awards will be announced. The same dinner also marks the celebration of AIMEX’s 15 years as a successful trade association.

The conference is shaping up to be an invaluable source of market information for businesses looking to hone their strategy in the coming year. The Hon Bob Baldwin will address the conference on Wednesday morning, discussing the Opposition’s strategy for the marine industry.

Conference organisers AIMEX and Superyacht Australia work to drive business for the Australian marine export and superyacht industry sectors. The two bodies are confident that ASMEX, the key industry conference of the year, will generate more business for attendees by organizing strategic networking functions and insightful conference sessions.

“The elaborate conference programme features speakers from home and abroad offering expert advice on how to overcome issues and utilize opportunities within the current market. The international speakers will cover a broad range of topics that will specifically allow companies to understand how to identify global opportunities. International speakers will cover industry market updates from Europe, the UAE, Asia, New Zealand and South Africa,” says Victoria Smith, AIMEX and Superyacht Australia operating manager.

Ensuring crucial data is accurately gathered on key points to drive decision making and services provided for the industry, handheld voting devices will be used once again. Giving every conference attendee the channel through which to share their opinion, the handheld voting devices also mean industry players can cast anonymous votes on key points that will effect the market’s future.

ASMEX is strongly supported by high calibre sponsors including platinum sponsors Pantaenius Yacht Insurance, official sponsors tourism Australia, Gold Coast City Council and Business Gold Coast and media partners Ocean Media and Superyacht Business. The welcome cocktail party is sponsored by Sevenstar Yacht Transport, and supporting sponsors include MTU Detroit Diesel, Queensland Government, Aqualuma LED Lighting, Muir Winches, Events Clothing VEEM Gyro, Robert Oatley Signature Wines and Palm Products.

A very successful inaugural Singapore ‘APS Captains Party’

May 15, 2013

The first Singapore APS Captains Cocktail Party was sponsored and hosted by Asia Pacific Superyachts Singapore GM Scott Walker, following a great success of this year’s Singapore Yacht Show. The event was held at the Red Lantern Lounge on the rooftop of the Fullerton Bay Hotel.

The Fullerton Bay Hotel in the beautiful Asian yacht charter destination - Singapore

The Fullerton Bay Hotel situated in the beautiful Asian yacht charter destination - Singapore

Attended by a host of yacht crews from the show along with captains visiting Singapore at the time, yachting expert and long time Singapore resident Captain Scott in planning ahead, reported: “We had a great night at a fantastic place and we look forward to more gatherings like this in future years!”

The Captains enthusiastically agreed the Red Lantern Lounge was a fantastic venue as they viewed the spectacular panoramic views over the Singapore CBD skyline and Marina Bay precinct at one of the newest- and best- rooftop bars in Singapore. The luxurious hotel and rooftop bar is adjacent to the historic Clifford Pier on the Marina Bay waterfront in central Singapore. The bar takes its name from the original Chinese description for Clifford Pier – ‘Red Lantern Pier’.

The pier was the landing point for immigrants arriving in Singapore in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Red lanterns were used as a guide for the Captains… hanging from the pier and lighting the way for seafarers. Now, a century later, the site of the ‘Red Lanterns’ was once again the place for captains of international vessels to meet!

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