The day that you have all been waiting for has finally arrived! FLIBS 2014 was a complete success, combining innovation and technology with some of the most stunning yachts in the world. After extensively critiquing the very best crewed motor yachts available for charter in the world, the Boatbookings Brokerage team bring you some of their highlights from this year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Whether it was helping raise awareness for breast cancer, taking refuge from the rain and meeting the outstanding crew on WATERSHED II, or being blown away by the incredible SWAN, the Boatbookings Team are even more inspired to help you plan your next charter!
The Boatbookings Top Yacht of the Show goes to the highly sought after 60m Benetti SWAN. The 2009 build is in excellent condition after her refit in 2013; she appears brand new and would fool even the most discerning charter client! We particularly enjoyed the contrasting interior in the salon and dining room, which combined the finest Italian furniture with playful table settings and artwork. The overall layout was well thought out, with maximum emphasis on the accommodation and entertaining spaces.
The master stateroom features its very own private al fresco seating area on the bow, the perfect place for a private breakfast with your loved one. The guest accommodation spaces are decadently appointed, in particular the VIP off the skylounge and the two queen staterooms. Whether you are a first time or seasoned charter guest, you will be blown away by her expansive deck spaces which are ideal for entertaining, al fresco dining, partying and taking in the magnificent views of the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Charter Broker Allison was a big fan of the sundeck and the jacuzzi area.
The Boatbookings Top Crew of the Show goes to Brian, Maggie and Arnando from WATERSHED II. This iconic President 87 crewed motor yacht features a unique tri-deck layout, offering unparalleled space for a yacht of her size. If you are looking for a charismatic can-do American captain, a very talented chef and the friendliest service where no demand is too much trouble, WATERSHED II is the perfect yacht for you. You know that you have a great crew when you have repeat clients who decided to attend this years FLIBS and chartered the yacht while it was in the show!
The first day of the weekend saw the annual National Marine party, which is renowned for being one of the best parties in the yachting industry. As it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Fort Lauderdale, this year’s theme combined pink with superheroes. The spirit and atmosphere was celebratory, with the added benefit of all funds raised going straight to breast cancer awareness charities. If you looked hard enough, you would have seen the familiar faces from popular reality TV show Below Deck dancing the night away!
FLIBS 2014 started the busy Caribbean winter yacht show season, as the 33rd Annual BVI Yacht Charter Show starts today. Our Brokers will be there to review the very best crewed catamarans for your charter next year. We would highly recommend heading down to the US and British Virgin Islands next March to celebrate spring break with your friends and family. Follow Boatbookings on Twitter to hear all the action first!