St. Thomas will welcome charter brokers, crews and marine vendors to the 2026 USVI Charter Yacht Show from November 14 to 17 at Yacht Haven Grande. The Virgin Islands Professional Charter Association is organising the event to highlight the region's charter yacht sector.
Three crew competitions will take centre stage. Research shows that 72% of travellers are more likely to visit an award-winning destination, and nearly 85% say awards influence their travel decisions. The competitions aim to give charter vessels a competitive edge in attracting clients.
On Saturday, November 14, Vendor Night will open with the Mixology Competition from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Crews will prepare original cocktails using Dorado Tequila, the show's official sponsor, with entries capped at 15. Judges' Choice and People's Choice awards will be presented. Dorado Tequila will supply the spirit and VIPCA will provide ice; crews must bring remaining ingredients and equipment.
The CYBA Designer Water Competition takes place Monday, November 16. Under the theme "Natural Local Remedies," crews will create and name a flavoured water using natural, preferably local and organic ingredients. Entries will be judged on taste, presentation and creativity, with an emphasis on reducing single-use plastic by serving drinks in reusable glasses.
New this year, "The Art of Entertaining" expands beyond traditional tablescaping to encompass the full aft-deck dining area. Crews will set a table for six and decorate the surrounding space with island-inspired elements under a "Welcome to the USVI" theme. Judging runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on November 16.
A selection of power and sailing vessels will be on display, including the 2026-built 50-foot Aquila 50 Ocean Kitty, the first sailing Aquila to join the charter market. The 28-foot-beam catamaran seats up to 12 at an aft-cockpit table and includes a dedicated bar.
Registration for crew competitions closed on October 19. Further details are available at usviyachtshow.org.
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