Ed Hamilton, Ed Hamilton & Co.
The Caribbean and Mediterranean seasons are driven by different parameters even in good years, but this summer was complicated further by the economy. Now that the United States is experiencing a financial upswing, we have seen a huge surge in bookings for the Caribbean season, which looks like it will be successful particularly for smaller- and mid-sized yachts up to 80  feet. We are currently seeing none of the problems we were experiencing at the start of the Mediterranean season back in the spring. Christmas and New Year’s are already heavily booked. Anyone interested in these dates should contact their broker now.
    We are seeing just as many megayachts coming to the Caribbean this season as in years past, which is a good indication of confidence. Additionally, most mid-size yachts are finding they don’t need to offer discounts for February, March, and April, although a few are currently offering specials left over from the summer, so again, the best advice for this winter is to book now.
    While it could initially be disappointing that the days of discounting quality Caribbean boats might be over, in the big picture, the increase in business means a healthier charter fleet, which in the end benefits everyone.


Karen Kelly, Nicholson Yachts
We are seeing an increase in Caribbean charter bookings over this time a year ago for the coming winter charter season, rather than the numbers of last-minute bookings we were seeing during this past summer season in the Mediterranean and last winter in the Caribbean.  
    In addition, the airlines have been offering very good fares to the Caribbean, which is encouraging the advance bookings.  Many yachts are still offering specials or price reductions, so there are good deals to be had—but certainly not as many as we have seen in the past year.  
    Now is a great time to plan that winter getaway while the selection of yachts is still good, with many yachts and airlines offering good values.

Missy Johnston, Northrop & Johnson Worldwide Yacht Charters
We believe that the winter season in the Caribbean will be busier than the summer season in the Mediterranean, and certainly far busier than the winter season in the Caribbean last winter.  
    I think that consumer confidence is stronger, and given the present worldwide financial situation, many yacht owners have yet again not raised their rates from two years ago. Some discounts also continue, which offers attractive pricing.  And, there is still very good availability on great charter options, both power and sail.  
    We are certainly receiving more charter inquiries for the Caribbean this fall than last year, particularly from the family groups that are looking for school break vacations.