Blog Archives

New Charter Destinations for Travel and Tour Agencies

June 9, 2025 by Info Yachtmaster

Expand Your Portfolio with New Destinations at ICE

Tour Operators and Travel Agencies know how difficult it can be to wow your clients with the quality and wide range of your offerings. This is especially true if you include new charter destinations in your offerings, where both you and your clients expect perfection and luxury. To ensure you have reliable partners for such high-level service arrangements and maintain your brand’s reputation, it is essential to meet them in person. That is what ICE’25 is for!

The International Charter Expo (ICE) brings together the entire yacht charter industry. Brokers, travel and tour agencies, fleet operators, central agents, suppliers, and yacht owners come together to build partnerships, find new opportunities, and expand their businesses.

As a tour or travel operator, ICE’25 is your chance to meet top charter fleets, brokers and agents from popular sailing destinations such as Croatia, Greece and Italy, as well as more exotic locations like Norway, Zanzibar and the UAE. Expand your offerings with new charter destinations to match your clients’ evolving travel needs. You can learn more about new charter destinations and sailing in general, all in one place.

Meet the People Behind the Boats

What sets ICE apart is its emphasis on pre-arranged, efficient meetings. Participants can schedule B2B meetings up to a month in advance using the Handshake 2.0 app, enabling them to plan their agendas and maximize networking opportunities before the event begins. This approach led to over 25,000 meetings during the ICE’24.

ICE’25 will be held in Amsterdam from 12–14 November this year. Travel and tour agencies, join us and let’s talk about new charter destinations and sailing.

Superyacht Village at ICE’25

June 6, 2025June 5, 2025 by Info Yachtmaster

The International Charter Expo is coming back to Amsterdam this November and it promises to be the biggest and best edition yet. One of the main highlights this year is the new Superyacht Village, a special area focused on crewed charter yachts and the luxury sector of the industry.

The Superyacht Village brings together professionals who work with crewed yachts over 24m LOA, with a high-season charter rate starting at €85,000 per week. This includes central agents, charter brokers, suppliers/vendors, and shipyards. It is a great place to build new partnerships, present your services, and meet the right people in a focused and professional setting.

ICE expo is a B2B event, designed specifically for yacht charter professionals. The format is based on pre-scheduled 1-on-1 meetings between brokers, central agents, and suppliers. This makes ICE one of the most efficient and productive events in the industry – like no other! Exhibitors and visitors create a meeting schedule in advance via our special custom-made Handshake App, making sure every minute of the event is used for real business.

This year, many new companies are joining ICE for the first time, especially in the superyacht sector. As interest in crewed charters continues to grow, ICE’25 is the perfect place to explore new business opportunities.

The Superyacht Village is supported by Ankor Software, the official sponsor. Ankor Software is also offering to cover 50% of the participation costs for first-time visitors and exhibitors in the Superyacht Village, making it even easier for new companies to join and benefit from the event.

If you work with crewed yachts, ICE’25 is a great chance to connect with key people in the industry. The Superyacht Village takes ICE to another level, making sure the superyacht world gets the attention it deserves.

Join us in Amsterdam from November 12 – 14, and be part of the future of luxury charter at ICE’25.

5 key points – why ICE is not just another boat show

June 2, 2025May 27, 2025 by Info Yachtmaster

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 600 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 600 companies from more than 50 countries attending ICE’25, 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’25 in Amsterdam.

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 superyacht 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.

In summary, ICE is not just another boat show, but a trade show that offers unique and valuable benefits to its attendees. By attending ICE, you can leverage its matchmaking software, complementary approach, convenient schedule, wide scope of participants, and connections that matter. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this dynamic and essential event for the yacht charter industry. Register now and see you at ICE this November.

How do ICE broker passes provide the best value for money?

May 26, 2025May 20, 2025 by Info Yachtmaster

Yacht Shows Can Get Expensive

Boat show season is one of the busiest times in the yacht charter industry. With events taking place in Greece, Italy, Turkey, the South of France, and other destinations, attending multiple shows can quickly become expensive for brokers. That is why the ICE broker pass stands out.

How ICE Pricing Compares

When comparing prices across major yacht shows, the International Charter Expo offers the most competitive rate. While passes for other events often exceed €200 per person, ICE provides access to all three days for just €150. Until June 1st, this pass is available at a reduced rate of €120. In addition to the affordable pricing, the ICE broker pass includes full event access, a profile on the Handshake matchmaking app.

Network with 250+ CAs and Fleet Operators

That means direct access to over 250 international CAs and fleet operators, along with 150 suppliers and shipyards. You can book meetings with anyone you want, plan your schedule ahead of time, and make the most of every minute. And when you need a break, you can get free coffee in lounges throughout the expo. Everything is set up to help you stay focused and make the most of your time.

If you’re planning to attend, now is the best time to register. The discount is available until June 1st. Use code BROK20 for the special price.

A Decade of International Charter Expo

May 15, 2025May 13, 2025 by Info Yachtmaster

This year, ICE turns ten. What started as a simple idea to bring the yacht charter industry together in one place has grown into something much bigger. Over the past decade, the International Charter Expo has become a space where deals are made and business partnerships begin. Looking back, it’s not just about numbers or venues. It’s about the people, the conversations, and the community that has formed along the way.

It all began in 2015 in Opatija, Croatia. The very first ICE welcomed 290 companies from 30 countries. It was small, but full of ambition. The goal was simple: bring the yacht charter world under one roof. People showed up. Ideas were exchanged. And it felt like something worth building on.

By the next year, we had to do it twice. In 2016, ICE was held not once but two times. The second edition was even called TwICE. That year, 354 companies from 36 countries gathered in Zagreb. In 2017 and 2018, we were back in Zagreb and kept growing year by year. In 2017, 368 companies from 43 countries joined us. In 2018, we reached 370 companies from 43 countries. Each year brought more meetings, more relationships, and a stronger sense of community. In 2019, ICE moved to Vienna and welcomed 473 companies from 43 countries.

In 2020, before everything changed, we planted trees in Zagreb. Each tree represented a company that had joined us in Vienna the year before. It was a symbolic moment of gratitude and sustainability. And then, when in person events were no longer possible, we went online. ICE 2020 became our first digital edition. It wasn’t the same, but it kept people connected. We stayed digital in 2021 too, making sure business could continue even in uncertain times.

Returning to Zagreb in 2022 felt like coming home. That year, 512 companies from 43 countries joined us in person again. The excitement of being together was unmistakable. In 2023, we remained in Zagreb and welcomed 589 companies from 53 countries. Then came 2024 and with it, a new city. ICE moved to Amsterdam and welcomed 607 companies from 55 countries. In just three days, more than 25,000 B2B meetings took place.

Now we are looking ahead to ICE 2025, set to take place this November in Amsterdam once again. And while we are proud of how far we have come, we are even more excited about what is next. Because ICE has never just been about events. It has always been about people coming together with a shared passion and a drive to move the industry forward.

To everyone who has been part of this journey so far, thank you. You’ve helped shape what ICE is today. Here’s to the next ten years!

ICE’24 Recap

November 22, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

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.

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

June 20, 2024June 19, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

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.

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?

June 5, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

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.

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!

May 22, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

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.

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

May 15, 2024May 14, 2024 by Info Yachtmaster

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.

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.

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.