EXUMA, Bahamas, 22 June 2022 – Twenty-three of the world’s leading yacht brokers are exploring The Exumas this week on a familiarisation trip to promote the island destination to yachting clients. The four-day familiarisation trip (20 – 23 June) is organised by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (BMOTIA) in collaboration with ACREW, the Ministry’s international partner for the yachting industry.

During the four-day trip to Exuma, yacht brokers, along with other influencers such as charter brokers, captains, chief stewardesses and pursers, will have the opportunity to explore hidden gems and participate in unique experiences that the island has to offer.

On hand to welcome the visiting yacht brokers at the official cocktail and dinner reception held on Monday, 20 June, at 7 p.m., at February Point Resort were the Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (BMOTIA) and Latia Duncombe, Acting Director General of Tourism.

Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper said:

“We are pleased to have 23 top brokers from the United States, Europe and the United Kingdom, who are all here to experience the beauty, diversity and hospitable people of Exuma. We are foreseeing by 2025, there will be a 5% growth in overall yacht business, proving this event to be a timely one for all stakeholders. As The Bahamas is officially open for business, we view partnership with ACREW as key to a successful economic rebound, providing exposure for our 16 major islands.”

ACREW is an organisation focused on creating connections between leading charter brokers and beautiful getaway destinations to provide top of the line experiences for yachting clients. ACREW previously held a familiarisation trip for yacht brokers to several Bahamian Out Islands, and now, for its second edition, has chosen Exuma as its premier destination.

Latia Duncombe, Acting Director General of Tourism echoed Deputy Prime Minster Cooper’s sentiments, “The Ministry of Tourism is delighted to share in such a momentous occasion with ACREW and visiting yacht brokers. As we navigate this post pandemic era, we are poised for an influx of maritime visitors to our waters to have an authentic Bahamian experience.  We want all brokers, captains and chief stewardesses to explore, not only the Exuma Cays but also Exuma’s mainland for a true understanding and appreciation of what we have to offer.”

Highlights of the yacht brokers’ itinerary through The Exumas will include feeding the iguanas, swimming with the pigs, a tour of Staniel Cay Yacht Club, lunch at Lorraine’s in Black Point and Dive Thunderball Grotto, and a catamaran excursion to Stocking Island for eats, entertainment, games, live DJ and feeding the stingrays.

The Ministry plans to organise familiarisation trips for yacht brokers in February 2023 and June 2023, focusing on Eleuthera and Abaco, with the continued support of Association of Bahamas Marinas and ACREW.

For more information, visit acrew.com.