YachtFest Makes a Splash on San Diego's Shelter Island

Friday, 18 September 2009

YachtFest 2009, which has been called the West Coast’s premier boutique yacht show,is underway at San Diego’s Shelter Island. Visitors from around the world come to San Diego to take advantage of opportunities to tour elegant yachts ranging from 48- to 156-feet.

The largest superyacht, Piano Bar, was the 2008 winner of YachtFest’s 2008 Best in Show award-and of course there is a piano on board.

There are more than $60 million worth of yachts docked at the Island Palms Hotel and Marina at 2051 Shelter Island Drive, offering a glimpse of luxurious décor, antiques, art, and the latest technical advancements in marine equipment.

“YachtFest is the foremost place in the Western United States to buy, sell or charter a premium yacht,” said Doug Sharp, chairman of the YachtFest board and a yacht designer.

San Diego was recently named the “new super-yacht capital” by CNN News. Yachting is a significant and growing business for San Diego.

“We recognize the economic impact that superyachts have on our region, and wholeheartedly endorse the efforts of the San Diego Superyacht Association to attract more superyachts to San Diego,” said Stephen P. Cushman, chairman of the Board of Port Commissioners.

Last year the Port added eight Mediterranean mooring berths at the North Embarcadero to serve the increase in superyachts visiting here.

The Port of San Diego contributed $10,000 to the YachtFest event.

YachtFest will run through Saturday, September 19, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, September 20, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ticket prices vary. For more information, please visit yachtfest.com or call Integrated Sports Marketing at 858-836-0133. General access tickets start at $34.

YachtFest sponsors include San Diego Marine Exchange, Landmark Aviation, Sharp Design, Fraser Yachts Worldwide, Driscoll Boat Works, Wright & L’Estrange, Marine Group Boat Works, Bartell Hotels, Shelter Island Marina and Knight & Carver.

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