It’s Wednesday already and about time I posted the Abu Dhabi Yacht Show round up. Before you contemplate what happened to my Monday and Tuesday this week, I must state that I was not lost in a post-show sand/party-storm. I thought it would be better writing from my UK desk today, having returned to Heathrow yesterday.



I, along with many of our industry colleagues, was shocked to be informed that during the ADYS Mrs Castro, wife of the prolific yacht designer Mr Tony Castro, had passed away. The entire team at SuperYacht World would like to take this opportunity to offer our sincere condolences to Mr Castro and his Family.



At the start of the ADYS the Interior Minister and Abu Dhabi family member passed away, which led to three days of mourning within the region. Many of the Sheiks decided not to visit the show until the last day out of respect. Never the less, all of the invited VIP guests were able to visit the world’s leading super yacht builders, charter companies and brokers during the three days.



The show organisers were under immense pressure to deliver a very special event and we should be aware that the venue was changed at the last moment. Last year’s venue was abandoned for Yas Island and the organisers had no part in the changes.



This year’s show was certainly spread over a wide area and I was aware of complaints regarding logistics, air conditioning etc. With this in mind the Show organisers will strive to absorb the list of problems and ensure that next year’s show has a seamless presentation.



I and many of the exhibitors completely understand the importance of having a Super Yacht Show in this extremely exciting region. We must all now look at the positives taken from this year’s show and I am sure business was conducted on site. Without doubt I will receive quantifiable documentation in the days ahead from across the globe and I will share the facts at a later stage.



Oh, the rain on the last evening was truly amazing, driven by a wind that came from out of the blue. The accompanying lightning show certainly made up for the lack of fireworks on the opening night! ME



Next, SYW will be at the Antibes Yacht Show from the 8th to the 11th of April 2010