Why ACYS is the ultimate networking event for charter professionals

December in the Caribbean sees the global yachting community turn its gaze toward the historic shores of English Harbour, Antigua. The Antigua Charter Yacht Show kicks off the Caribbean yachting season in style!


 3rd August 2026

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Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Nelson’s Dockyard - a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in maritime history - the show offers a unique blend of heritage, culture and high-level business that simply cannot be replicated elsewhere.

ACYS, which runs from 4th-9th December each year, represents the ultimate strategic advantage for charter professionals. Over the six days, English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour are transformed into a vibrant hub of influence. Our show provides a rare, hands-on opportunity for brokers to step aboard the world’s most magnificent vessels - from graceful sailing yachts to opulent motor yachts - to personally vet the crews and amenities that will define their clients' experiences. 

The show’s unparalleled ability to foster deep-rooted partnerships is amongst its many highlights. From the informative Captain’s Briefings and the celebrated Concours de Chef to an elegant array of social events and informal dockside connections, the show is designed for interaction. It is here that marine vendors, brokers and press/media forge the relationships that underpin a successful season. 

Bringing people together

Bringing brokers, captains, marine vendors and the global yachting press together in one location, the show creates an epicenter of expertise that is unmatched in the Caribbean.

For professionals, this "all-in-one-place" format is a huge advantage. It allows charter brokers to step away from their screens and onto the decks of an incredible variety of yachts. This first-hand experience is vital; it’s the only way to truly explore a yacht’s layout, feel the atmosphere and meet the crew who will deliver the guest experience to your clients.

Beyond the inspections, the show provides many opportunities for networking. Whether it’s vendors showcasing the latest marine innovations to captains or the press capturing and reporting the season's newest trends, the synergy encourages lasting partnerships. By uniting every aspect of the yachting world, the show ensures that every professional involved is aligned, informed and connected, ready for the new season.

Real-world deals and partnerships

By gathering the industry’s most influential players in one area, the show transforms English Harbour into a place where high-value contracts are secured and partnerships are cultivated.

For charter brokers, the show is a critical vetting ground. Walking the docks allows them to view an array of yachts and experience the crew’s service and the condition of each yacht first-hand. This physical presence builds the trust necessary to sign six-figure charter agreements on the spot. When a broker meets a captain and samples the chef’s menu, they aren't just networking, they’re performing the due diligence required to close a deal with confidence.

Furthermore, the event facilitates essential B2B partnerships between marine vendors and yacht management. From technical suppliers to luxury provisioners, vendors have direct access to the decision-makers who keep the fleet running. These face-to-face interactions often result in season-long service contracts. In an industry where reputation is everything, the show provides the platform needed to turn a handshake into a long-term commercial partnership.

Fantastic networking and social opportunities

The show is renowned for its networking and social opportunities - that’s why it was historically called a Meeting rather than a Show, as it’s the chance for industry professionals to meet and mingle, discovering what everyone has to offer. 

The show is the ideal place to explore what’s on offer for the 2026/27 Caribbean yachting season and build working relationships and partnerships with the people and suppliers that best suit your requirements.

The show provides the following opportunities to network:

  • Breakfast events

  • Concours de Chef & Yacht Table Design and Service Competitions

  • Yacht viewings

  • Informative Hour Sessions

  • Evening events including the Welcome Dinner, Marina Nights and After Show Party

A few words from some of the brokers who attended last year…

“I think Antigua is the best charter yacht show in the Caribbean because it showcases the best yachts that the Caribbean has to offer for charter.”
Hannah, Epic Yacht Charters

“The best things about the Antigua Show are the yachts on display and the local hospitality - warm, welcoming and easy.”
Funz, IYC

“I love coming to Antigua because the yachts are beautiful, the people are great and the vibes are on-point.”
Adriana, Kensington Yachts

“Coming to the Antigua show is great, as every year seems to be better and better with better quality yachts and fantastic crews. And it’s always wonderful seeing old friends as well.”
Greg, Northrop & Johnson

“I love the variety of boats that are offered here to tour. It’s just amazing and what really stands out is that so many of them do a dual season. So, not only am I touring these boats for my clients for the Caribbean, but also for the Mediterranean. And it’s really great to know that I can tour these and trust what I’m putting my clients on. And where else is better than Antigua? Nothing, we love it!"
Robin, Chillaxin' Charters

Get in touch…

If you have any questions about the show, please get in touch. Or if you’re ready to book, register here - remember to book and pay for your place by 31st August to get 10% off your registration fee!

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