yachting

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.

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.

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.

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!

At boat shows, people often want to meet specific individuals or companies, but those potential partners are often busy with other appointments. As a result, attendees often spend their time waiting or aimlessly exploring the show, simply wasting their time until they can potentially meet with the individuals they want to connect with.

It’s common for the meetings we want to not happen because of time or disorganization.It is precisely because of such situations that we have ensured ICE to be highly effective for everyone. We aim for all to be maximally productive during these three days.

When it comes to ICE, we took that really seriously and created a solution because we know how disappointing it can be. We want all our attendees to have the most productive 3 days.

Unlike most boat shows, ICE provides a sophisticated matchmaking software that helps attendees connect with each other. Browse through other participating companies, check out representative profiles  and pre-arrange B2B meetings to optimize time. This can save hours of aimless wandering and waiting like at other boat shows. ICE is well-known for its efficient approach to conducting meetings.

September was reserved for visits to the largest and most exclusive boat shows, Cannes Yachting Festival and Monaco Yacht Show. After the impressions from these two extraordinary boat shows settled, it’s time for our overall impression.

Cannes Yachting Festival

First on the list was Cannes, and the ICE team went to explore Port Canto, Port Vieux and invited many new companies to ICE. All exhibitors in Port Canto and a significant number of exhibitors in the Vieux Port got their sample of our exclusive Icebreaker magazine.

During the two and a half days we spent in Cannes, we managed to have over 40 meetings, made much easier by the excellent organization of the boat show, which allowed us to easily connect with other exhibitors and visitors.

Our main focus was on the Crewed & Luxury sector, so we spent most of our time in the Brokerage Section of the show. For every Crewed & Luxury exhibitor who met with us, we prepared special invitations to ICE to enhance our expo with their presence.

In addition to meeting new exhibitors, we also took the time to socialize with our long-standing exhibitors and partners.

What particularly impressed us at the Cannes Yachting Festival was the hospitality of the exhibitors and the exclusivity of the yachts we had the opportunity to witness. It was certainly a special boat show that will remain in our memory, and we look forward to returning to it.

ICE Extras are additional benefits and opportunities that enhance the efficiency of this B2B Expo. They help create a comfortable working atmosphere while presenting exhibitors and potential partners in the best possible way. ICE’s goal is not only to create new business opportunities, but to connect people and to establish long-lasting relationships.

We arrange everything – turn key booths

ICE is the only show which makes turn-key booths for all exhibitors. If you purchase graphics through ICE organizers, you don’t need to worry about their printing and setup. If you also order furniture, ICE organizers bring them and they will already be waiting for you too.

Graphics

Graphics visually represent your company and help potential partners locate you easily. Through graphics, you showcase the highlights of what you offer and what sets you apart from others, ensuring a more attractive booth appearance. Did you know that all graphics designs are printed on DISPA boards which are then recycled after the expo?

Icebreaker

Icebreaker magazine is an exclusive B2B magazine intended for the yacht charter industry where you can advertise your products and services. It is distributed to all companies at ICE, and at international yacht shows such as the Monaco Yacht Show and Cannes Yachting Festival. The number of advertising spots is limited, so don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to advertise to all yacht charter businesses. If you are interested contact us on info@internationalcharterexpo.com.

When it comes to choosing the perfect accommodation for your visit to the International Charter Expo in Zagreb, Hilton Hotels are an exceptional choice. Booking your accommodation at Hilton Hotels in Zagreb through the dedicated links on the ICE website not only guarantees preferential prices but also unlocks a lot of benefits.

What are some of the benefits of staying at our recommended hotels? 

Exclusive Offer
We’ve arranged an exclusive offer to ensure you get the most out of your accommodation budget. Hilton hotels are known for their exclusivity and comfort. Make your reservations right away for a memorable experience that will make your stay pleasant. Keep in mind – ROOMS ARE LIMITED. 

Networking
We want to make sure you get the most out of ICE and be productive. That’s why it’s a great idea to stay in the same hotel as other expo attendees. One of the significant advantages is the opportunity to network with other participants. Eating breakfast together or driving to the expo is a great way to have insightful conversations, share ideas, and build valuable professional relationships. These interactions can prove to be very beneficial, leading to potential collaborations and partnerships.

Key differences between Hilton Hotels
All are amazing hotels and you cannot go wrong with either hotel, however in a quick glace, these are the main differences to help you choose:

Canopy – Closest to the city center 
Link: https://eventsathilton.com/show/64380a06b62d05a8fbea8a16

Double Tree – Has a spa and a pool
Link: https://eventsathilton.com/show/64380910b62d05a8fbea89fa

Garden Inn – Best prices
Link: https://eventsathilton.com/show/64380969b62d05a8fbea8a08 

Is there such a thing as too many benefits?

The International Charter Expo as the largest B2B Yacht Charter Expo offers endless networking opportunities for Brokers and Agencies, Central Agents, Yacht owners, Fleet Operators and Suppliers. 

Yes, we’ve said it many times already and we cannot emphasize it enough – with many new companies on the market, it is very important to network and meet new business partners in an efficient way. 

Have you noticed that yachts still have many gaps this season, discounts are increasing and it is harder to find new clients to charter the available yachts?

Keep on reading and check out the key advantages of why your business should be coming to Zagreb this December. ICE can help solve your problems. 

Networking

ICE brings together 1500+ industry professionals from 50+ countries in one place. This facilitates networking opportunities, fostering collaboration, and building valuable business relationships. All company decision makers come to ICE – so should you. Meet the agents you need to increase your bookings and fill in the gaps.

B2B Meetings

Unlike no other yacht charter show, meetings at ICE are pre-arranged using a custom made matchmaking software – Handshake. Check out representative profiles before arranging meetings and make your time at ICE efficient. Did you know that you can have 17 arranged meetings per day per person. Each meeting is half an hour which is more than enough for a detailed but quick meeting.

Market Research & Trends

Get an overview of the current market trends, consumer preferences, and emerging technologies in the yachting industry. Assess the market demand for specific products/services and gather feedback directly from your business partners. Find solutions to the problems you might have. 

Media Coverage

ICE attracts significant media attention (local and international): journalists, bloggers, influencers, and industry-specific publications. Exhibitors have an opportunity to gain media exposure, have their yachts and products featured in news articles, interviews, and reviews, which enhances brand visibility. All visibility is good visibility. 

Fun & Relaxed

ICE is not just business-oriented – it is VERY well known for organizing the best ICE ROCKS parties. Parties at B2B expos provide a platform for networking in a relaxed setting. Many business partnerships and deals have arrisen from having a glass of wine with people who you have never met before. 

It’s the most wonderful time of  year

Business should not be the only reason for visiting Zagreb. Advent season is a wonderful time to visit the city and enjoy the best Christmas markets. Live concerts, Christmas lights, gastronomy, and other attractions will for sure make it worthy of coming. 

This list can go on and on… 

If you’re looking for an effective way to connect with the global yacht charter industry, we have your back. Boat shows are not the only option. In fact, ICE (International Charter Expo) offers many significant advantages. Have a read at the 5 key points why ICE is not just another boat show, but a must-attend trade show for the yacht charter industry.

Matchmaking Software

Unlike most boat shows, ICE provides a sophisticated matchmaking software that helps attendees connect with each other. Browse through other participating companies and representatives, check out their profiles, pre-arrange B2B meetings, and optimize time and opportunities. This can save hours of aimless wandering and waiting like at other boat shows.

Complementary Approach

ICE and boat shows are not mutually exclusive. They are complementary. While most boat shows focus on in-water displays of yachts, ICE focuses on bringing together over 550 companies and their representatives in one place. Meet decision-makers, booking managers, and central agents, as opposed to boat shows, where you meet yacht agents and yacht crew. 

Schedule

ICE is open from 9 am to 6 pm, which allows you to plan your own time and take a break for lunch without closing the entire expo as it is at other boat shows – lunch break). This flexible and efficient schedule ensures that you can maximize your time and minimize your stress during the event.

Participants

With over 550 companies from more than 50 countries attending ICE, you can expect a diverse and rich mix of participants. Connect with international small and big businesses and different types of yachts and services. Whether you’re looking for bareboat or crewed & luxury yachts, you’re sure to find them at ICE.

Connections that Matter

ICE’s main focus is on connecting people and businesses that matter. More and more bareboat brokers nowadays want to meet and connect with crewed and luxury companies, and vice versa. Easily connect with both types of companies and build relationships that can last for years. It’s not just about buying and selling, but about building trust and collaboration.