The Italian yachting hub of Viareggio will once again play host to the Versilia Yachting Rendezvous from May 10-13 and the line-up looks set to build on the success of last year’s inaugural event.
Yards already confirmed as exhibitors include Azimut-Benetti Group, Ferretti Group, Sanlorenzo, Apreamare, Baglietto, Canados, Cantieri di Sarnico, Cerri Cantieri Navali, Codecasa and Perini Navi. Meanwhile, Fincantieri will be making its Versilia debut and Bertram is the first overseas yard to be represented at the show. The list of superyachts on display has yet to be released, but the average length is expected to be in excess of 30 metres. Last year’s line-up included the 54.8 metre CRN motor yacht Atlante and the 46.3 metre Baglietto fast planing yacht Lucky Me.
The maxi RIB sector will also be well covered, with the likes of Sacs, Magazzù and Technorib all set to display models at the show. More than 170 key yachting brands are due to exhibit, including the likes of Volvo Penta, Furuno, Besenzoni, Novamarine, Videoworks and Opacmare.
Speaking last week Paolo Borgio, exhibition manager of the Versilia Yachting Rendezvous, said, "The objective is to continue to grow, and we have all the elements we need to reach it. We have recorded an increase in the request for spaces by exhibitors coming from all over the world. That is why we needed to extend the exhibition offer, also occupying the docks of the marina, which will ensure a larger number of vessels in the water.”
Spread over a total area of 110,000 square metres, the 2017 Versilia Yachting Rendezvous was hailed as a success after attracting more than 18,000 visitors, but the organisers Fiera Milano are not resting on their laurels.
Improvements for 2018 include relocated ticket offices, more extensive WiFi coverage and a new floating live music stage. Other highlights include an opening party for exhibitors on May 10 and an art exhibition on May 12.
Finally, the Versilia Yachting Rendezvous 2018 will benefit from extended opening hours, with visitors invited to linger until 7:30pm on May 10-12 and until 6pm on May 13.