Category Archives: Yachting news

Yachting Industry News

FLIBS 2024: Showing Up Stateside For Sustainability 

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is fast approaching and will be held from 30 October to 3 November in the sunshine state of Florida. As Boatbookings plans for FLIBS 2024, there’s a shift in the air. Sustainability has been moving further up the agenda for the stateside show, but this year, even more so. We’re excited to see this focus on eco-friendly practices and innovations. 

Here we discuss what FLIBS 2024 will have to offer for the environmentally conscious boat charter world: 

Green Technologies 

This year’s FLIBS is set to showcase even more sustainable technologies that are revolutionizing the yachting industry:

  1. Electric and Hybrid Propulsion Systems: Many boat builders are presenting vessels with electric or hybrid engines, significantly reducing carbon emissions and fuel consumption.
  2. Solar-Powered Energy: From air conditioning to lighting, solar panels are being integrated into yacht designs to power onboard systems sustainably.
  3. Advanced Waste Management Systems: New technologies for treating and recycling wastewater and solid waste onboard are being highlighted, minimizing the environmental impact of extended charters.
  4. Sustainable Materials: From recycled teak alternatives to eco-friendly antifouling paints, sustainable materials are being showcased from various suppliers. 

Eco-Friendly Charter Options

For those looking to book their next yacht charter, FLIBS 2024 is offering even more greener crewed charter options, for example: 

  • Yachts equipped with the latest green technologies
  • Charter companies, like us, committed to sustainable practices
  • Information on eco-friendly itineraries and destinations
  • Opportunities to offset the carbon footprint of your charter – you can also do this using our carbon footprint calculator. 

Our team at  Boatbookings will be at the show, contact us to find out more. 

Educational Seminars and Workshops

FLIBS 2024 is not just about showcasing technology; it’s also about education. Throughout the event, you’ll find a series of seminars and workshops focused on sustainable yachting:

Wednesday: 

  • Marine Widlife (Convention Center) 
  • From Dock to Destination, Apps Transforming Boating (Convention Center)
  • Guardians of the Reef Project (Convention Center)

Thursday: 

  • The Yachting Community’s Criticla Role in Ocean Conservation (Superyacht Village) 
  • Long Term Savings with Electric Watercraft (Convention Center) 

Friday: 

  • A New Way to Play – Protecting our Ocean Playgrounds (Superyacht Village) 

Saturday: 

  • Innovative Partnership for a Sustainable Blue Economy (Superyacht Village) 

These sessions offer valuable insights for both industry professionals and yacht enthusiasts looking to make more environmentally conscious choices.

Sustainable Catering and Events

Even the social aspects of FLIBS are continuing on the agenda from last year, offering a range of conscious catering options: 

  • Locally sourced, sustainable seafood at catering events
  • Biodegradable serving ware and minimized single-use plastics
  • Water refill stations throughout the venue to reduce plastic bottle usage
  • A “zero waste” initiative for all official FLIBS events

The Conservation Connection

FLIBS 2024 is also partnering with several marine conservation organizations to raise awareness about ocean health:

  • Interactive exhibits on marine ecosystems and the impact of climate change
  • Virtual reality experiences showcasing underwater habitats
  • Opportunities to contribute to local and global marine conservation efforts

As a boat charter company committed to ocean conservation and greener charter options, we’re particularly excited about these partnerships and the awareness they’ll bring to our industry.

Looking to the Future

The focus on sustainability at FLIBS 2024 is more than just a trend – it’s a glimpse into the future of yachting. As regulations tighten and consumer demand for eco-friendly options increases, the innovations we see today will become standard practice.

At Boatbookings, we’re committed to being at the forefront of this green revolution in yachting. We believe that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand, and we’re excited to offer our clients charter experiences that provide unforgettable memories and contribute to our oceans’ health.

Join Us at FLIBS 2024

Whether you’re a seasoned charterer or new to the world of yachting, contact us to meet us at the show to discover how you can enjoy the luxury of a yacht charter while minimizing your environmental impact. See you stateside! 

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How the America’s Cup Technology Will Revolutionize Eco-Friendly Yachting 

Often hailed as the ‘Formula 1 of sailing’, the America’s Cup is at the forefront of sailing innovation. This year’s Cup has seen some incredible boating and cutting-edge technology pioneered. At Boatbookings, some team members were lucky enough to witness some of the action in last week’s finals in Barcelona. 

We are in awe of the technology and innovation and are excited to share some of our findings from witnessing the competition’s development. 

Foiling

One of the most visible innovations from the America’s Cup is the foiling technology. Today, we literally see the boats flying above the water – a game changer for efficiency. By reducing drag, foils allow boats to achieve higher speeds with less energy input. While our greener hybrid and electric yacht fleet may not yet do this, many modern designs incorporate partial foiling or foil-assisted hulls to significantly reduce fuel consumption. 

Lightweight 

The need for speed in this competition has led to the development of incredibly durable yet lightweight materials. Once exclusive to high-end racing, carbon fiber has infiltrated the luxury yacht-building sphere. These lighter boats need less energy, leading to reduced fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions. Additionally, these materials boast a longer life span, therefore reducing the environmental impact of yacht production and disposal. 

Smart Power 

America’s Cup teams need to maximize every bit of energy onboard. Advanced battery technologies are now used to create more efficient hybrid and electric propulsion systems for leisure boating. 

Sail Design & Efficiency 

The aerodynamic advancements in America’s Cup sail design are also revolutionary. Modern sail designs for sailing yacht charters mean more wind power and less time motoring, reducing fuel consumption and increasing the pleasure of enjoying a yachting vacation under sail. 

Hydrogeneration 

Hydrogeneration is one of the most exciting technologies to emerge from recent America’s Cup campaigns. By using propellers to generate electricity as the boat moves through the water, teams can replenish their batteries without using fossil fuels. This technology is now being adapted for yachts, allowing boats to generate clean energy while under sail, reducing reliance on generators and shore power.

Advanced Planning 

The sophisticated weather prediction and routing software America’s Cup teams use is trickling down to the charter market. These systems allow captains to plot the most efficient courses, taking advantage of winds and currents to reduce fuel consumption. For charter guests, this means a more eco-friendly journey and often a more comfortable one, too, avoiding rough conditions.

Beyond The Tech 

It’s not just about the boats – the America’s Cup has also promoted sustainable practices in yacht maintenance and operation. From environmentally friendly anti-fouling paints to biodegradable cleaning products, many green initiatives pioneered by racing teams are now standard in the charter industry.

Thanks to the America’s Cup technological advancements, the future is exciting for more eco-friendly yachts, such as our greener-crewed charter catamarans. We are excited to witness the remainder of the Cup and the finals in the next couple of weeks. Contact one of our Boatbookings team to hear more about greener technologies and our fleet. 

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Boatbookings Top 5: Eco-Conscious Charters For Winter Boating Vacations

As the seasons change, the winter months offer a unique opportunity to explore some of the world’s best yachting destinations. These worldwide locations increasingly embrace sustainable practices, enabling you to enjoy a yacht charter with a lower environmental impact. 

At Boatbookings, we love helping our clients take advantage of some of the best cruising grounds while minimizing their carbon footprint; here are our favourite five:

The Bahamas 

The Bahamas is a perfect cruising spot for the Caribbean winter boating season, especially for our green crewed charter catamarans, thanks to the shallow anchorages ideal for catamarans. The archipelago boasts easy access from the US, and because of its pristine beauty, the islands are committed to protecting its biodiversity and marine life. Habacoa Marina will launch here in 2027; the new marina in South Abaco will integrate sustainable technologies and use environmentally responsible materials, and an important focus will ensure a connection to the island’s beauty. 

Antigua

Antigua is another iconic winter cruising destination. This Caribbean island has 365 beaches, one for each day, dotted along its vast coastline. Snorkeling and scuba diving are ideal activities on a boat charter, where you can enjoy the vibrant coral and marine life with minimal impact. The Cades Bay Marine Park is one of the best spots for hanging out with the island’s marine life. Above the water, where the Caribbean’s most iconic sailing race is held, the week-long yacht regatta, Antigua Sailing Week, is one of the island’s most notable events and is perfect for a sailing yacht charter. 

Indonesia 

The year-round summer here is putting Indonesia on a lot of charter yacht radars, gaining more popularity. There is endless adventure and exploration within these incredible islands on a winter yachting vacation. At the heart of the coral triangle, Indonesia is home to incredible marine life where the Indian and Pacific oceans meet. The Raja Ampat islands in eastern Indonesia are some of the world’s most biodiverse marine regions and are a UNESCO-protected site. The Marine Protected Area (MPA), here, means that illegal fishing and destructive tourism are managed to minimise the environmental impact. Another boating hotspot here is Lombock, the surfing haven – a perfect spot to try out a watersport that has minimal impact on the marine ecosystem. 

The Maldives

Another one of Boatbooking’s favorite winter charter destinations is the Maldives. The peak season is between December and March; during this time, the water visibility is great, and the perfect time to visit the islands. On a yacht charter in the Maldives, you can experience some of the world’s best beaches and underwater world. The archipelago is leading sustainable travel, with new standards for marine tourism to ensure boating here has a lower environmental impact. 

Thailand 

Thailand is an incredible yacht charter destination in southeast Asia, with plenty of adventures to be had. Known for its warm hospitality, beautiful beaches, and fantastic food, Thailand is a great spot to cruise. You can enjoy elephant trekking through Krabi’s National Park, scuba diving in Ko Tao, or the UNESCO anchorages of Similan and Surin Islands. Phuket, the yachting hub in Thailand, advocates for a more sustainable boating sector, with the Royal Phuket Marina prioritizing sustainable initiatives. 

Escape the colder months with one of these destinations perfect for adventure or relaxation, and charter one of our greener charter catamarans to have less impact on the environment. Whether you are looking at heading to the Caribbean, the South Pacific, or the Indian Ocean this winter, there is a boat charter destination ideal for your next vacation. To find out more, contact the Boatbookings team today. 

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How Are Electric Yachts Redefining Luxury Boating?

The luxury boating industry is witnessing an increasing shift and transformation to electric. Electric yachts are redefining what it means to travel in luxury while respecting our environment on a boat charter. At Boatbookings, we are proud to be at the forefront of this revolution, offering our clients the opportunity to experience the future of yachting through our fleet of greener crewed charter catamarans. 

The Electric Revolution 

Interestingly, the concept of electric boats is not new. In the 1880s, the River Thames hosted a fleet of electric rental boats complete with charging stations. However, electric boat usage declined with the rise of petrol and diesel engines, boasting higher speeds and ranges. Today, with growing environmental concerns and rising fuel prices, we are seeing a resurgence of electric boats. 

The electric boats on the market today have encompassed huge advancements in battery technology, electric motors, and renewable energy sources, driving their expansion and evolution. Innovations in motor efficiency and hull design continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable boating. 

An Electric Experience 

When you step aboard one of our electric or hybrid yachts in our fleet, you will still find all the luxuries you would expect from a high-end boat charter: spacious cabins, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, gourmet chefs, and attentive crew. The key difference lies in the propulsion systems. Electric yachts utilize advanced battery systems and electric motors, eliminating the need for fossil fuels. This shift not only reduces carbon emissions but also results in a quieter, smoother sailing experience. 

Environmental Benefits

The environmental benefits of electric boats are profound. With zero carbon emissions, these boats eliminate harmful exhaust gases and do not release pollutants directly into the water, contributing to cleaner air quality and reducing air pollution. The absence of onboard fuel storage also significantly reduces the risk of oil and fuel spills. 

An Improved Ride 

The benefits of electric propulsion extend beyond environmental considerations. Electric boats offer silent operation at lower speeds, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the vacation. Without vibration and noise, they create a smoother, more relaxing experience, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the beauty of the ocean. 

Aligning With Goals 

Choosing an electric yacht for charter also supports global efforts to reduce carbon footprints. As we become increasingly conscious of our environmental impact, especially in the luxury sector, electric boats offer a way to enjoy a luxury experience without compromising sustainability. 

The Future 

Ongoing technological advancements are opening up new possibilities for electric propulsion, both in new models and in retrofitting existing vessels. These innovations are helping mitigate environmental issues by reducing harmful emissions and minimizing water pollution. Over time, this will also lead to substantial cost savings and an even more enhanced boating experience. 

At Boatbookings, we are committed to offering our clients the best of both worlds: uncompromising luxury and environmental responsibility. Our fleet of greener crewed charter catamarans represents the cutting edge of sustainable yachting technology. Contact one of the Boatbooking teams to discover how you can charter one of our yachts while contributing to a better future for our oceans. 

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The Top Restaurants and Bars on the Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast Caprisi Salad
Caprese salad anyone?

Our selection of the best places to eat, drink, and soak in the Amalfi Coast for Summer 2024

We’ve released our insider’s guide to the best Restaurants, Bars, and Beach Clubs on the Amalfi Coast, including Capri, Positano, and Sorrento. These have been compiled based on feedback from our team and charterers and are all worth a visit!

Antipasti, Pasta, Pizza, Dolce, Limoncello, Enjoy!

https://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/Top_Bars_Restaurants_and_Beach_Clubs_of_Amalfi.php

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