Matchmaking software – Handshake

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.

 

At least one matchmaking software per company is mandatory. One account is only 40€ which is an amount worth investing in. Meetings are 30 minutes which allows up to 17 meetings per day. In total one representative can have 54 meetings. We recommend more than one matchmaking software account per company to have more meetings since the number of representatives this year is the biggest so far!

Last year there were over 12,000 meetings and there were many great deals made.

“Handshake really helped us organize everything in advance and make the best out of our time at ICE. The time slots of 30min were enough to allow us to present our services and listen to other exhibitors to potentially create new partnerships.”
– Nausys, Croatia

If you haven’t already, make sure to register for ICE and purchase accounts for the majority of your team. Handshake is available.

ICE team at the Cannes Yachting Festival and Monaco Yacht Show

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.

 

Monaco Yacht Show

After Cannes, the Monaco Yacht Show is next. Unlike Cannes, only our CEO Tino attended Monaco.

Tino had pre-arranged meetings with various top international crewed companies and prepared an exclusive VIP invitation to ICE for our exclusive Crewed & Luxury sector. Primary focus was to showcase the exciting new Crewed & Luxury sector at ICE, and we couldn’t be happier with the outcome. During the show, Tino engaged in numerous productive meetings and networking opportunities with industry representatives. 

“The Monaco Yacht Show was a spectacular event. It was well organised and perfectly executed. The variety of yachts and yacht-related hardware was impressive. The layout was visitor-friendly and the connections via shuttle worked very well. It’s worth the trip and a must-go for all yachting professionals.” 
– Tino Prosenik, CEO

The level of interest and engagement at the Monaco Yacht Show by companies such as Bluewater, Burgess, Denison, Edmiston, Cecil Wright, Fraser, IYC, Northrop & Johnson, Ocean Independence, Peter Insull’s, Y.CO has set a high bar for ICE, and we are confident that this year’s ICE will be bigger and more exclusive than ever before.

The super yachts left the biggest impression due to their grace and exclusivity. The Baglietto T52 model, 52m in length, stood out for its sustainability combined with exclusivity, creating a whole new dimension in the yachting industry. The 80m Leona from the Bilgin 263 series was particularly striking with its design and unique color. We were delighted to see the Virtuosity yacht, which belongs to the SanLorenzo 57 Steel series, showcased by our premium exhibitor,  SanLorenzo.

Inspired by these boat shows and their exclusivity, we returned to Zagreb more motivated than ever to create the best ICE event yet. We will be happy to come again next year.

Extra Offers at International Charter Expo

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.

Matchmaking software

ICE is well-known for its efficient approach to conducting meetings. Meetings are 30 minutes which allows up to 17 meetings per day. The matchmaking software enables pre-scheduled meetings at specific times with desired decision makers. In total one representative can have 54 meetings. We recommend more than one matchmaking software account per company to have many more meetings since the number of representatives this year is the biggest so far!

Furniture

In order to facilitate the most functional and comfortable meetings at your booth, we provide furniture such as tables, chairs, sofas, TVs, decorative plants etc. Don’t stress about bringing your own, we have got you covered.

Ice Rocks Party

Just like in previous years, this year the exclusive Ice Rocks Party will take place on the first night. The Ice Rocks Party presents an excellent opportunity to connect with businesses in a more relaxed setting – engage in meaningful conversations, forge valuable relationships, and unwind after the day’s events. This year the party will be exclusive with a limited number of spots – so once we announce it, don’t wait too long to purchase your tickets.

The advantages of staying at Hilton Hotels

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 

Advent in Zagreb
Visiting Zagreb during the Advent season is a great opportunity to explore the city and experience the magical atmosphere of Zagreb during this time of year. Zagreb becomes a magical destination during the Advent season, adorned with beautiful Christmas decorations that captivate visitors. It has warm and enchanting Christmas markets with concerts, food and drinks, that invites everyone to immerse themselves in its joyous atmosphere. It is an unforgettable experience for all who visit Zagreb.

Please note that there are limited hotel rooms available for ICE participants, so please reserve your room early to ensure a comfortable stay. 

We look forward to seeing you at ICE!

Benefits of attending ICE’23

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… 

ICE is actually no other than a platform for the yacht charter industry where businesses connect, represent yachts to agents, make new business deals, sell yachts and other interesting supplies, gather market insights, and explore new business opportunities. 

Be a part of ICE’23 in Zagreb and feel the #ICEperience. Season 2024 and 2025 should be the focus for your business, and ICE is here to help you grow.

5 key points – ICE is not just another boat show

ICE'23 - boat show differences

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.


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 December.

8 Billion Euro Industry is Getting Together in Croatia: Hundreds of Super-Yachts to be Presented in Zagreb

INTERNATIONAL CHARTER EXPO

The exclusive yacht charter B2B trade show ICE (International Charter Expo) is reaching new records in this year’s edition, where hundreds of prestigious crewed yachts from all over the world will be represented at the Zagreb Fairgrounds. From December 6th to 8th 2023, Zagreb will become the united place of the elite yacht charter industry, valued at 8 billion euros.

B2B MEETINGS

Executive directors of yacht charter companies, central agents of crewed luxury yachts, most relevant brokers and agencies, as well as suppliers will have the opportunity to network with new business partners and exchange ideas. Meetings are scheduled in advance through proprietary matchmaking software, which increases the efficiency of a highly attended expo like ICE.

NOVELTIES & SECTORS

The most attractive part of the expo is the growing Crewed & Luxury sector, where 800 prestigious yacht models worth over 1 trillion euros in seasonal rentals will be presented this year. In addition, fleet managers will have the opportunity to present their investment programs to investors at the Investors Lounge, with the aim of expanding their fleets through new business collaborations.

– I cannot emphasize enough how important ICE has become to the yacht charter world. ICE gathers 1500+ decision makers from 550+ companies, all focused on networking and building new business relationships. ICE is everyone’s gateway to the yacht charter industry, crewed and bareboat, and we invite all to register and join this truly unique trade show – said Antonija Hajman, the head of ICE organization team.

GROUP RESERVATION AT HILTON HOTELS

The growing interest of charter companies in networking with business partners, as well as the growth of ICE itself, is evidenced by the fact that the Yachtmaster Group has made the largest number of group reservations at Hilton hotels in Zagreb. In addition to the traditionally full DoubleTree by Hilton Zagreb and Hilton Garden Inn, this year visitors to the expo will also be booked at the Canopy Hotel by Hilton. This way, nothing is left to the care of the expo participants, so they can focus on achieving their business goals at the fair.

For the eighth year in a row, visitors to this exclusive three-day event put their trust in the hands of the Yachtmaster Group, which ensures high organizational standards. Applications for ICE are open from April 12, 2023, with a time-limited early-bird discount, and more information can be found on the official website and social media.

We look forward to seeing you at ICE!