Greece, with its azure waters and historic coastline, has long been a dream destination for yachting enthusiasts worldwide. From the enchanting isles of the Aegean to the picturesque ports of the Ionian, Greece offers an unparalleled yachting experience, steeped in rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. As a premier destination for luxury yachting, Greece continues to attract yachts and industry professionals from all corners of the globe, solidifying its status as a top maritime hub.
Held annually in the historic port city of Nafplion, the Mediterranean Yacht Show (MEDYS) has established itself as a cornerstone event in the luxury yachting calendar. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the 9th edition of MEDYS proved the event’s growth and significance. As the world’s largest crewed yacht charter show, MEDYS has become a vital platform for industry professionals to connect, share knowledge, and showcase their finest yachts and services.
The 9th Mediterranean Yacht Show, held from April 27th to May 1st, 2024, was a resounding success, drawing 102 registered yachts and 760 industry professionals from 30 countries. The event kicked off with a grand opening ceremony, where Mr. Michael Skoulikidis, President of the Greek Yachting Association, highlighted the show’s decade-long journey and its pivotal role in promoting Greek yachting. Distinguished guests, including Elena Rapti, Deputy Minister of Tourism, and Dimitris Ptochos, Governor of the Peloponnese region, graced the event, underscoring its importance.
Among the various activities, the Chefs’ Competition stood out, with yacht chefs crafting exquisite dishes featuring local oranges as the main ingredient. One of the yachts in our lineup, AFRICA I, actually won the competition, showcasing its culinary prowess. This year’s judging panel included Michelin-starred chefs George Papazacharias and Luca Piscazzi, adding a touch of culinary excellence to the proceedings. Additionally, the event featured numerous social gatherings, from elegant cocktail soirées to themed parties, enhancing the networking opportunities for attendees and providing a vibrant backdrop for business and pleasure.
One notable aspect of this year’s MEDYS was its focus on sustainability and innovation within the yachting industry. Exhibitors showcased the latest advancements in eco-friendly yachting technologies and practices, highlighting the industry’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. The show also included a series of workshops and panel discussions on topics ranging from sustainable tourism to advancements in yacht design and maintenance, further solidifying its status as a thought leader in the maritime world.
The dynamic combination of luxurious yacht displays, culinary, and industry-leading innovations made the 9th Mediterranean Yacht Show an unforgettable event, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of the global yachting calendar.
IYC: A Dominant Force at MEDYS 2024
One of the most significant exhibitors at this year’s show was IYC, which showcased an impressive fleet of 23 meticulously selected yachts. From the start, IYC made its mark with a cocktail soirée at the Valaora Restaurant, setting a sophisticated tone for the event. Throughout the show, IYC hosted a series of exclusive gatherings, including serene yoga sessions aboard ALAYA and a vibrant Greek Gods Party on MIA ZOI, creating memorable experiences for all attendees.
IYC’s yachts, including notable names like SANJANA, MELI, and TIMBUKTU, welcomed a steady stream of visitors, offering luxurious onboard experiences. The culinary delights served during lunches and dinners aboard various IYC yachts were a highlight, with the Greek Gods Party aboard MIA ZOI becoming the talk of the show.
The 9th edition of MEDYS not only maintained its reputation as the world’s largest crewed yacht charter show but also set new records in terms of participation and engagement. The presence of industry giants like IYC, along with the enthusiastic turnout of exhibitors and visitors, highlighted the show’s pivotal role in the yachting industry. The event’s success is evidence of the resilience and dynamism of Greek maritime tourism, further establishing Greece as a global yachting powerhouse.
The 9th Mediterranean Yacht Show was a celebration of excellence in the yachting world, showcasing the best of Greek maritime hospitality and luxury. As the event continues to grow, it promises to further elevate Greece’s status in the global yachting community. The success of MEDYS 2024 sets a high bar for future editions, ensuring that Greece remains at the forefront of the luxury yachting industry for years to come.
