ICE’24 Recap

ICE'24 Recap

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.

 

ICE'24 Recap

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

Direct flights to ICE

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.

 

Direct flights to ICE'24

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?

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.

ICE in Amsterdam - Charter Novak Croatia

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!

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.

International Charter Expo 2024, Amsterdam

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

ICE Industry Trends

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.

ICE'24

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.

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!

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. 

ICE'23

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!

Investors in the yacht-charter industry

Investors in the yacht charter

Why are Investors in the yacht-charter industry coming to Vienna?

The future of the charter industry is fueled by investors and charter management. This is why from 8th to 9th of November all investors who are interested in new investments and ones who know how to profit from the yacht-charter industry will come to the ICE’19, Vienna. 

There is no place on the planet where an investor, private or corporate, can find all the relevant shipyards and nearly all fleet operators in the world. Each of them will be at ICE’19, offering different business models of asset management, i.e. charter investments. Here, investors can find assets and proper management to ensure a safe and productive investment.

How the yacht-charter industry is becoming more interesting for investors?

Out of 100 million tourists who visit the Mediterranean every year, less than 1% are sailing on charter boats. The yacht-charter industry has been growing for 50 years and still does not meet demand. The value of the charter yacht, though depreciating, is held high by the unyielding demand. The steady returns and high re-selling value after 5-7 years generate yields up to 8%!

Investors lounge at International Charter Expo

The Investors lounge at International Charter Expo – ICE’19 is special area for investors where they can get:

• Portfolio of 50+ investment strategies
Personal meetings with fleet managers
• Review of past booking statistics
• Review of all available yacht models
Personal advisors on the spot

Your personal ICE advisor will present a range of investment plans by international fleet operators as well as various yachts in various countries, available in 2020. At your request, personal meetings will be organized with the charter operators and/or yacht suppliers.

It is time to add charter investment to your portfolio.

Contact us to reserve your place at ICE’19 Vienna: investors@yachtmaster.hr, +385 1 3377 978
ICE is accessible by invitation only.

35+ new Fleet Operators

investors-lounge

Already 35+ new Fleet Operators registered!

ICE brings the first batch of NEW charter companies for you to meet in person and make some business!

Ask new partners everything you ever wanted to know about the destinations where they operate, about boats they own.. you will immediately get answers to all your questions.

At the top of it all, they will provide you with content and promo materials that is original and straight to the point.

Adria Catamaran – Croatia
Aquanaut – Netherlands
Balearic Yacht Club – Spain
Barcando Charter – Italy
Blue Dream Charter and Service – Italy
Boomerang Sardinia Sailing Charter – Italy
Carloforte Sail Charter – Italy
Chillax Yachting – Greece
Christianna Yachts – Greece
Clipper Stad Amsterdam – Netherlands
Crystal Sea Yachting – Greece
Discovery Yachting – Greece
EOLIAN SAILING – Italy
Euroyacht – Croatia
Exadas Yachts – Greece
Feel Yachting – Croatia Charter – Croatia
Gulet Holiday – Croatia
imbat yacht – Turkey
Iris Yachtcharter – Spain
Magic Sailing Charter – Italy
Mistral Sailing – Italy
Naveda Colombia – Colombia
Navigate Travel – United Kingdom
Olympic Yachting Shipping – Greece
Omegasail – Greece
Phoenix Yachting – Austria
Puresailing Yachting – Greece
Q-Yacht – Croatia
Sail and Experience – Italy
San Blas Sailing – Panama
Stadler Yachting – Croatia
Solis Charter Group – Greece
South Aegean Yachting – Greece
The Catamaran Company – USA
Ximula Sail – Singapore

and many more to come very soon…

Turnover in Billions for Agents

Turnover in Billions for yacht charter

Crewed and luxury yacht rentals have spiked in the last few years, as the world’s rich and corporate clients queue up to enjoy the yacht chartering extravagance. 

The bareboat charter market is booming as well; the number of sailing yachts, motor yachts and cruising catamarans has exploded. 

Yacht rental market is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 6.5% from 2015 to 2020, according to the research carried by Future Market Insights. Furthermore, crewed and bareboat yacht rental market, which was worth €35 Bn in 2014, will be worth € 51 Bn by 2020.

By Future Market Insights, in bareboat charter in 2015 for agents turnover was 400M, and predictions are that turnover for 2019 will be 514M!

ICE is focused on the bareboat segment; including the whole bareboat fleet and parts of the crewed and luxury segment. This bareboat segment is responsible for only a part of the world’s yachting turnover but, at the same moment, it includes about 90% of the yachts and the workforce in this industry.

Because ICE is B2B, companies are not represented by hostesses and hired help, but by owners and upper management. 

This makes it a unique gateway to a new market for any visitor or exhibitor; a large and growing industry ready to be accessed.

turnover agents

Top Greek Charter Island Profiles

TOP GREEK CHARTER ISLAND PROFILES

Unrivaled natural beauty, breathtaking landscapes and beaches with crystal clear waters? Yes, Greek islands sound like heaven on earth! Sailing in one of the Greek sailing areas make one in a time experience and they are definitely on top of sailing bucket list of any charter clients. To make the most of their experience make sure to get to know popular sailing islands in every detail. Here’s just a tiny bit of everything there is to know:


Lefkas

About: Lefkas aka Lefkada is known for its spectacular scenery and it has one of the most stunning beaches in Greece with white sands and turquoise Ionian sea. It’s one of the few Greek islands which you can drive onto and it has become a mecca for outdoor adventures: sailing, mountain biking, windsurfing, hiking and snorkeling.

Tips on sailing: East side of the Ionian islands with fewer waves and fair wind sailing is suitable for the beginners. The Maistros fair-weather-wind is usual in July and August and it rises in the afternoon and usually dies at sunset. Towards the west of the Ionian islands and south of Kefalonia, winds and sea can be more demanding.

Top 3 things to do:

  1. Visit the Dimossari waterfalls in Nidri
  2. Egremni Beach – one of the best beaches in the Mediterranean
  3. Try paragliding above Lefkada

Charter Meetup fleet operators bases: Bleyachting, White Sails, AF Yachting, Fyly Yachting, Crystal Sea Yachting, Pure Sailing, DYC, Istion Yachting

Corfu

About: Corfu or Kerkyra is bound up with the history of Greece from the beginnings of Greek mythology. The island is famous for its large amounts of olive trees. There are about 4 thousand. 3% of the worlds olive oil comes from Corfu. It is also an island with a record number of beaches, calculated at about 119. Old Town of Corfu is a UNESCO world heritage site.

Tips on sailing: A favorite destination for mariners, the Diapontia islands north of Corfu are ideal for diving and fishing. Make sure to include the island of Ithaca, home of the hero Odysseus, on your route.

Top 3 things to do:

  1. Visit – Mouse island or Pontikonisi as the locals call it, at the entrance of Gulf of Halikiopoulos, in front of the airport runway, along with the neighboring Vlacherna.
  2. Visit – Canal D’Amour, Sidari
  3. Try Greek food at Ambelonas: Vineyard, Restaurant & Corfu Cooking Class

Charter Meetup fleet operator bases: Summer Sail, Isalos Yachting, Dream Yacht Charter, Istion Yachting

Paros

About: Páros, located at the heart of the Cyclades is one of the best-loved holiday destinations in Greece. Historically, it was known for its fine white marble. Breathtaking landscapes, endless sandy beaches with azure blue waters are easy to fall in love with. Moreover, the island has a lot to offer and therefore keeps you entertained all the time.

Tips on sailing: When sailing in the Cyclades make sure to visit one of many beautiful secluded anchorages. Along with all routes, spectacular scenery and ancient archaeological sites are nearly everywhere. In high summer it can be very breezy thus sailing conditions are not suitable for beginners, but rather for experienced sailors. The best time for sailing is from May to June and from September to October.

Top 3 things to do:

  1. Visit Panagia Ekatontapiliani – one of Greece’s most important Byzantine monuments
  2. Visit Golden Beach, considered by many to be one of the best beaches in Greece for water sports
  3. Piso Livadi – the main port to embark on sailing adventures over the Small Cyclades islands or to Antiparos

Charter Meetup fleet operators bases: Vastardis Yachting, A.F. Yachting LTD, Flyly Yachting, Dream Yacht Charter

Kos

About: Kos island, located on the southeastern side of the Aegean Sea is one of the most popular destinations in Greece. It is one of the most visited islands of the Dodecanese islands group having both tourist and secluded spots to keep away from crowded places. With tall palm trees, crystal sandy beaches, beautiful landscapes and archaeological sites from ancient times Kos is simply top holiday destination.

Tips on sailing: Breezes in the Dodecanese are often gentle and favorable for sailors. In the summer the prevailing wind is the Meltemi blowing from the NW-W. As this sailing area is close to Turkish national waters, be aware of your coordinates to prevent any unexpected problems.

Top 3 things to do:

  1. Try greek food at restaurant Agios Theologos
  2. See Antimachia Castle at its best, try to get there as the setting sun casts its warm glow over the battlements
  3. Go bird watching – hundreds of flamingoes spend the winter in the balmy Alyki wetlands, near the village of Tigaki, offering a spectacular sight

Charter Meetup fleet operators bases on Kos: Nomicos Yachts, Fyly Yachting, Dream Yacht Charter, Istion Yachting

Skiathos

About: Skiathos, a Greek island in the northwest Aegean Sea, is part of the Sporades archipelago. Famous for the lush greenery, exotic beaches and vivid atmosphere it’s among favorite destinations for youth and also families. The most popular exotic beaches are Koukounaries, Banana, Agia Paraskevi, Kanapitsa and more. From Skiathos island, tourists can make day trips to Skopelos and Alonissos.

Tips on sailing: during the summer months the Meltemi is weaker in the Sporades region. Approaches to the island are straight-forward with no dangers.

Top 3 things to do:

  1. Eat At The Famous Windmill Restaurant
  2. Visit Lalaria Beach
  3. Go Scuba Diving – one of the highlights is Poseidon Cave, with its small red-tinted corals.

Charter Meetup fleet operators: Istion Yachting, Dream Yacht Charter, Pure Sailing, Sea Novels, Fyly Yachting, A.F. Yachting LTD

There is more to Greece than the mainland. To find out everything on sailing the Greek islands visit Charter Meetup Athens 2019 in April. It’s a B2B charter weekend that enables international charter brokers to refresh their Greek charter knowledge and master their bookings in Greece. Firstly, through sailing area presentations made directly from 30 most distinguished Greek fleet operators become an expert on sailing in Greece, meet all of them in person during B2B speed dating and at top of, visit Lavrion, Alimos and Kalamaki marina in an organized tour. Apply for Charter Meetup Athens here.

Interested in participating at Charter Meetup Greece in April? 

LEAVE US YOUR EMAIL AND WE WILL SEND YOU MORE INFORMATION!

Only a few more spots are available!