Blog Archives

ICE’24 Recap

November 22, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

From November 13-15, the International Charter Expo (ICE) gathered over 600 companies from 55+ countries at EXPO Greater Amsterdam, marking its most successful event yet. The relocation to Amsterdam enhanced accessibility and supported the expo’s growth, drawing praise for its organization and networking opportunities.

Many new and interesting yacht charter companies from exotic destinations in Asia and also the Netherlands came as first-timers. As ICE relocated to Amsterdam, there was a significant increase in companies from Greece, Italy and Turkey. There was also a significant increase in the presence of international press.

The quality of the event was underlined through never before seen pre-sales: over 150 booths have been reserved for ICE’25.

What makes ICE so recognizable and efficient are the pre-arranged meetings with participants through our matchmaking app, Handshake. Handshake enables meeting scheduling up to a month before ICE. The number of organized meetings over these three days exceeded 25,000, the highest yet.

Verónica Ordóñez from Oniric Safari Cruises (Equador): „ We got a lot of new information that will help us improve our business. ICE helped us get new contacts, people are very interested in Galapagos as a destination and it’s great because we can share what we offer to everyone here.“

At ICE we had the Investors Lounge where charter companies and businesses could offer various management programs or investment options to various investors as we see that companies are looking for financial support/partners too. Overall we feel that this ICE has helped many businesses see that some of the issues were and how to work on them for a better future.

International Charter Expo 2025 will be held in EXPO Greater Amsterdam from November 12-14, 2025.

Direct Flights and Exclusive Accommodations for ICE’24

June 20, 2024June 19, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

Unlike any other event, the International Charter Expo stands out for its unique blend of networking opportunities, industry insights, and business growth. This year, we’ve chosen Amsterdam as the new location for ICE, not only because it’s a vibrant and well-connected city, but also because it offers numerous advantages for our attendees.

One of the main benefits of hosting ICE in Amsterdam is the affordability and connectivity of flights, ensuring easy and efficient travel for all attendees. Flights to Amsterdam are generally cheaper than flights to Zagreb, making it a cost-effective option for your visit to the expo.

In addition to affordable and well-connected flights, we have secured special accommodation options at competitive prices at two best hotels in Hoofddorp (Hotel City).

The airport is conveniently located approximately 15 minutes from these hotels and around 30 minutes from the ICE venue. This proximity ensures a seamless travel experience, allowing you to focus more on your event participation and less on transit.

We have organized everything to make your attendance as smooth as possible. All you need to do is register to secure your spot!

Furthermore, choosing direct flights to Amsterdam offers significant environmental and practical benefits. Direct flights reduce fuel consumption and emissions, which lowers the overall environmental impact compared to flights with transfers. We look forward to welcoming you to a seamless, efficient, and environmentally responsible event in one of Europe’s most exciting cities.

How to Boost Your Bookings Next Season Without Heavy Discounts?

June 5, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

As the peak season hits, many charter companies face fewer bookings than expected. Offering last-minute, deep discounts might be tempting, but is it the best approach? While it can fill schedules quickly, it can harm the industry long-term. Read more about how to attract more clients without cutting prices.

The Downside of Deep Discounts

Offering discounts, especially on bareboat charters, can devalue the service and set a precedent for future seasons.

Customers may expect lower prices in the future, making them less willing to pay full price. This affects your profits and creates a market expectation for cheap deals.

Instead of focusing on discounts, here are some effective strategies to boost your bookings:

Expand Your Network of Brokers and Central Agents:

Connecting with new brokers can open up a lot of opportunities. They have extensive networks and can bring in clients who might not have otherwise found your services. Attending industry events is a great way to meet potential partners.

Visit International Charter Expo

The International Charter Expo (ICE) is known as the largest and most effective trade show in the industry. Why is that? ICE offers the ability to schedule meetings in advance using our custom-made matchmaking software. This software allows you to find companies and arrange meetings up to a month before the event. You can have up to 51 meetings in 3 days.

Many brokers and central agents attend ICE, continuously seeking new charters for their clients. This opens many opportunities for the upcoming season to have boats booked with minimal discounts.

Explore New Destinations

Expanding your offerings to new and exciting destinations can attract a different clientele. Every year, an increasing number of brokers and central agents attend ICE to discover new charters and destinations to offer their clients.

By focusing on expanding your network, visiting industry events like ICE and exploring new destinations, you can attract more clients and ensure long-term success. Embrace these strategies to fill your bookings and make new season your best one yet.

Record-Breaking Registrations for ICE’24!

May 22, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

International Charter Expo, Amsterdam,250 companies

250+ PARTICIPANTS AND STILL COUNTING

We are thrilled to announce that the first six weeks of registrations for ICE’24 have been extraordinary. With over 250 companies already signed up, this year’s ICE is set to break all previous attendance records, making ICE’24 our most significant and impactful expo yet. Here are some reasons why you should register and take part in this year’s ICE’24:

With more than 250 companies already registered, ICE’24 provides a platform for networking. Here you can find the list of companies that are already registered.

Our matchmaking app allows you to pre-arrange meetings with registered companies in advance. This feature ensures that you maximize your time at the event, focusing on the connections that matter most to your business.

This is your opportunity to network with C-levels and business owners in the yachting industry, whether your goals are to create new partners or present your products or services.Participating in ICE’24 offers significant exposure for your brand. By being part of ICE’24, you position your company in the yachting industry and showcase what you offer.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of International Charter Expo 2024 in Amsterdam. Secure your spot today!

Trends in Yachting Industry in 2024

May 15, 2024May 14, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

Game rooms and sustainability: what trends are facing the yachting industry?

A recent report by Fortune Business Insights stated that the global luxury yacht market size is projected to grow to $8.75 billion by the end of 2024. Half of the year has passed by and we see some new trends reaching their full potential. Whether it is eco-friendly solutions or new tech designs, the yacht industry has been booming since January.

Some of these trends are going to be presented in Amsterdam at the International Charter Expo. Each year ICE hosts a larger number of representatives from various fields of the yachting industry. So let’s take a look at some trends that the industry is facing and what can be expected from this year’s expo.

Despite the interior design trends fluctuating between seasons, specialists have found a way to integrate design trends into cabins so that they remain fashionable and classic for many years to come. A new trend that emerged is ‘auxiliary’ cabins like showcasing collectible dishes in a china pantry near the kitchen or dining area, according to an article by Boat International. Entertainment rooms are becoming increasingly popular considering the resurgence of game rooms. It is also predicted that this year we will see a rise in the popularity of private and open-plan deck layouts, which we can see on many of the yachts represented at ICE’24.

We have to talk about sustainability. The topic that gained its popularity in the last few years, has finally reached a level where industry is taking action. Shipyards and manufacturers are trying to find sustainable solutions to limit the impact on the environment. But they are not the only ones making changes, Yacht crews are trying to contribute to the conservation of marine ecosystems by adopting non-toxic cleaning solutions.

Smart technology advancement has transformed yacht operations by providing real-time monitoring and management of all the systems. The usage of artificial intelligence came into the yachting industry, one of the new things we noticed lately is integrating AI for improved efficiency.

The industry is trying to minimize the usage of diesel-fueled engines and shifting towards using materials that focus on the circular economy. This is where ICE steps in. Sustainable event planning is our way of taking responsibility and minimizing our carbon footprint. For ICE24’ in Amsterdam, we decided to make environmentally conscious changes to fulfill our sustainability strategy.

Slight increase in prices and high increase in quality at ICE’24!

May 15, 2024April 9, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

ICE'24 at Amsterdam is a huge step forward for ICE!

International Charter Expo is moving from Zagreb to the exciting city of Amsterdam! This change is a huge step forward for ICE, as we embrace the vibrant atmosphere and world-class amenities that Amsterdam provides.
With this transition comes adjustments, particularly in pricing. We’ve carefully considered the inflation of prices coming with a shift of expo to Amsterdam, ranging from an increase of 37% to a staggering 500% in some cases.

As a result, we’ve implemented a modest average price increase of 15%. Moreover, we’re excited to announce that we’ve doubled down on enhancing the quality of our offerings. By investing in top-notch venues, services, and experiences, we’ve elevated the value proposition of the International Charter Expo by 100%.

B2B matching software will be available as a mobile app this year, with extra capabilities such as real-time chat and many more novelties that will outperform our prior B2B matchmaking software, making engaging with fellow industry professionals easier and more dynamic than ever before.

In a commitment to sustainability, we’re proud to introduce textile graphics for booth displays. Not only are these graphics visually stunning, but they’re also reusable and recyclable. After the exhibition, simply pack them up and take them with you, minimizing waste and maximizing convenience.

These novelties represent just a glimpse of what awaits you at the International Charter Expo in Amsterdam. Our commitment to delivering exceptional value and quality remains steadfast.

We’re confident that the move to Amsterdam, with its enriched offerings and experiences, will provide attendees with an even more rewarding and enriching experience.

Thank you for your ongoing support, and we look forward to welcoming you to Amsterdam for the International Charter Expo!

Our Journey Towards an Environmentally Friendly ICE

May 15, 2024April 3, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

We aim to reduce our environmental impact by selecting eco-friendly materials and practices.

Let’s take a look at some of the key initiatives that are making this year’s ICE at the EXPO Greater Amsterdam even more sustainable:

Reusable carpet tiles: One of the most innovative aspects of ICE’24 is the use of carpet tiles that can be reused at future exhibitions. By choosing carpet tiles, we’re not only reducing waste, but also ensuring that resources are used efficiently across multiple events. This simple change reflects our commitment to minimizing our carbon footprint.

Recycled graphics: Our graphics are not only eye-catching, but they’re also environmentally conscious. We’ve chosen graphics made from recycled materials, including fabrics from previous events. This not only reduces waste, but also gives our graphics a unique story to tell. For those who want to take their graphics with them, the added benefit is that they’re lightweight and easy to transport, making them a sustainable addition to any home or office. Their compact size means they fit seamlessly into any luggage.

Eco-Friendly catering: We believe that good food should never come at the expense of the environment. That’s why our catering services prioritize eco-friendly options, including paper cups and wooden utensils. By minimizing single-use plastics and opting for sustainable alternatives, we’re promoting a greener future.

Venue in a greenhouse: Our choice of venue is all part of our sustainability strategy. By hosting the event in an ex-greenhouse, we’re taking advantage of natural light and reducing our reliance on artificial lighting. In addition, the greenhouse provides natural insulation, helping to regulate temperature and minimize energy consumption.

At the end of the day, our goal isn’t just to host a successful ICE – it’s a part of the way to a more sustainable future. We invite you to join us on this journey towards environmental responsibility and to experience firsthand the positive impact of sustainable event planning.

Together, we can make a difference – one event at a time!

ICE’24 in Amsterdam

May 15, 2024March 26, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

The best place to network, collaborate, and grow your business.

The International Charter Expo (ICE), recognized as the world’s largest B2B yacht charter expo, is delighted to announce that it will be held in the vibrant city of Amsterdam from 13-15 November 2024. This move underlines ICE’s commitment to providing an unrivaled experience for exhibitors and attendees by responding to the overwhelming demand for more space and improved accessibility.

With over 600 of the world’s most prestigious companies and more than 1,500 industry decision-makers from all over the world expected to attend, ICE’24 promises to be an exceptional gathering of key players in the yacht charter industry. ICE is the best place to network, collaborate, and grow your business, whether you’re a Central Agent, Yacht Owner, Broker, Fleet Operator or Supplier.

Similar to previous years, the ground floor was dedicated to bareboat charters which were present the biggest number so far.

ICE’24 in Amsterdam will feature a wide range of crewed yachts, showcasing the growing trend towards personalized luxury experiences in the charter industry. With numerous Central Agents and Brokers representing these yachts, attendees can discover tailored charter solutions to meet their client’s preferences and needs.

What makes ICE so recognizable and efficient are the pre-arranged meetings with participants through our matchmaking software. The matchmaking software allows scheduling meetings up to a month before ICE, giving everyone enough time to prepare for meetings and explore possible partners. The number of pre–arranged meetings at ICE’23 in just three days exceeded 20,000 and broke all the previous records.

ICE is a special opportunity to increase brand awareness, generate leads, and open up new growth opportunities – regardless of the level of business experience or the stage of one’s entrepreneurial journey.

The last event, held on December 6–8, 2023 in Zagreb, ICE’23 broke all prior records. The considerable development of the Crewed & Luxury sector, which recognized the importance of this occasion, was especially noteworthy. More than 400 crewed yachts were represented, some longer than 50 meters, thanks to the efforts of Central Agents and Brokers. The event is expected to be even more spectacular this year in Amsterdam, offering attendees never-before-seen possibilities and experiences.

Early bird registration discounts for ICE Amsterdam will be available soon for a limited time.

Everything you need to know about ICE

May 15, 2024January 15, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

The International Charter Expo – ICE was created more than a decade ago, as a place in which the owners/operators/central agents would meet with the brokers once a year.

ICE is the only place in the world where yacht charter professionals can meet each other on a global scale, without the distraction of yachts and clients. They meet to make new connections, to open new collaborations, to forge new partnerships and sometimes, friendships. Over 2,000 professionals, from over 50 countries, representing almost the entire global yacht charter market, are going to meet in Amsterdam from 13th to 15th November 2024.

ICE has changed locations every couple of years in order to ensure its international, even global character. With every move it has created a larger following. Amsterdam, the travel hub, the proverbial center of the world, is going to host a global network of central agents and retail brokers in the business setting of EXPO Greater Amsterdam.

With the help of a matchmaking app, over 20,000 meetings are going to be pre-arranged before the actual event. Every CEO, every fleet or charter manager, every broker, is going to be able to find and contact just the one individual or company he/she needs to meet.

ICE has been consistently growing, mainly because it is the most productive and cost-effective B2B yacht charter event on the planet.

ICE’23 – Uniting Global Yachting Industry Leaders in Zagreb

May 15, 2024December 18, 2023 by Info Yachtmaster

From December 6th to 8th, the International Charter Expo (ICE) – the largest business to business (B2B) expo in the yachting industry, was held at the Zagreb Fairgrounds. Participants were divided into three sectors: suppliers, CAs or fleet operators, and brokers/agencies, making it easier for representatives to be more effective in finding potential partners.

Over the course of three days, more than 1,500 representatives from over 500 companies spanning over 50 different countries (including Greece, Norway, Seychelles, Thailand, Australia, Italy, Hungary, Spain, Belgium…) gathered to hold business meetings and meet with their business partners and friends. The number of new participants was notably high this year, with 120 new companies deciding to come to Zagreb and visit ICE.

Particularly noteworthy were the visits from the Ambassador of the Turkish Embassy in Zagreb, H.E. Yavuz Selim Kiran, the Head of the Office for Trade and Economy of the Greek Embassy, Mr. Michail Charokopos, Ms. Sandra Di Carlo, Director of the Italian Trade Agency in Zagreb, and Isabelle Castaldi, Economic and Commercial Attaché from the Italian Embassy, along with representatives from the Slovak Embassy.

What makes ICE so recognizable and efficient are the pre-arranged meetings with participants through our matchmaking software, Handshake. Handshake allows scheduling meetings up to a month before the ICE, giving everyone enough time to prepare for potential meetings and explore possible partners. The number of pre – arranged meetings over these three days exceeded 20,000, the highest yet.

Similar to previous years, the ground floor was dedicated to bareboat charters, while the gallery was reserved for crewed and luxury fleets, a section considerably larger than in previous years. Central agents and brokers represented more than 400 crewed yachts, some reaching lengths of over 50 meters. Particularly noteworthy were the yachts from companies like Goolets, Master Charter, Touch Adriatic, Feel Yachting, and FX Yachting.

Due to ICE’s expansion and growing international interest in visiting this expo, ICE’24 will be held in Amsterdam because it offers larger space and easier accessibility.

To make ICE more pleasant, exhibitors’ booths were again adorned with graphics made from DISPA material, which is eco-friendly and entirely recyclable. All 9000 square meters of carpet were donated and utilized because we care about the environment and strive to leave minimal waste after such an event.

We want to thank each and every one of you for trusting us and being part of ICE. See you in Amsterdam!