Held at the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) from March 5-9, more than 780 exhibiting brands and companies participated in the show; 126 of these were new exhibitors. Over the five days 11 global and 20 regional launches took place, notably KaiserWerft’s launch of a 30m (99ft) yacht and Sanlorenzo’s launch of a 40m (131ft) yacht. UAE-based manufacturer Gulf Craft also revealed at the show that it had started the construction of a new Majesty 155 superyacht, which at 47m (155ft) will be the yard’s largest build to date.
The superyacht community benefitted from the cohesion of the newly established ‘Super Yacht Experience’, organised by the Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss), which had exhibitors collected together in floating booths on the water. It was hoped that the move would encourage more footfall and most of the exhibitors SB spoke to were pleased with the development, and felt it had been successful, although some stands seemed busier than others.
The show had a laid back but busy feel with exhibition-goers showing a healthy amount of curiosity towards the various craft on show. SB was told that although many exhibitors had stayed away the last two years, there appeared to be a renewed enthusiasm for the show, with many returning. When asked, SB was given largely positive feedback to the show. Christina Fagioli of Mondo Marine revealed, «The quality of the potential clients is good. This investment is absolutely positive.» Meanwhile Julia Clas of KaiserWerft commented, «Dubai is one of the best shows. We’ve had lots of good quality clients through the stand.» At Fincantieri, one of the busiest stands of the Super Yacht Experience, Marco Francesco Mazzu commented, «The show has been in line with expectations. We’ve had a continuous flow of clients.»….(http://www.ibinews.com, 13 March 2013)
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