Charter Meetup – most productive networking conference have arrived to Sicily
From the 9th to the 11th of April, the stunning Capo d’Orlando Marina in Sicily welcomed 15 international brokers, 20 Italian fleet operators, and suppliers for an incredible B2B conference called Charter Meetup.
We saw over 50 boats which included 20 monohulls and over 30 catamarans. The biggest number of catamarans were Bali and Lagoon catamarans. In total, there were over 100 speed meetings held.
Here’s a recap of the 2025 Meetup in Italy to give you a sense of what you can expect next year:
1. | WELCOME RECEPTION
What better way to kick off a networking event than with a friendly meet-and-greet to create a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere?
After arriving at the sunny Capo d’Orlando Marina, our participants settled into their charter yacht cabins. Then it was time to get together for a welcome reception at the Sestante Marina Motel, Capo d’Orlando. With stunning views of the marina, good music, catering, and a few drinks, we have created the perfect atmosphere for casual networking and a great start to the three day conference.
2. | FLEET OPERATOR’S PRESENTATIONS
Experienced Italian fleet operators presented all there is to know about sailing conditions in Sicily, Sardinia, the Amalfi Coast, Elba Island and the Aeolian Islands. Topics included: the main bases, high season buoy prices, geography, sailing season and meteorology.
International Brokers had the chance to see the whole perspective of sailing in Italy and to learn more about each charter company, in order to be prepared for the following speed dating meetings. We ended the presentations with a fun quiz about sailing in Italy. Congrats to Lora from Spartivento on the first place!
After these insightful presentations, Ankor Software gave a clear and helpful presentation, showing how their service works and how it can benefit the participants.
3. | B2B SPEED DATE MEETINGS
The energy was high as our B2B speed meetings began, one of the most fun and useful parts of the Meetup. Brokers met with local Italian fleet operators in quick 10 minute talks, moving from table to table and getting to know everyone.
Even in a short time they talked about a lot, the bases, the boats, what is included in the service, insurance, trip plans and more. It was a great way to learn, ask questions and build strong connections for the season ahead.
4. | MARINA TOURS
Marina tours were one of the most exciting moments of the Meetup, giving participants a chance to see everything first-hand. During our organized visits to Marina Portorosa and Marina Capo d’Orlando, brokers and suppliers were welcomed on board by local charter companies. This was the moment in which everything from the meetings came to life.
Seeing over 50 boats up close, meeting the teams, and getting a feel for what each charter offers made all the difference. This was the perfect way to bring the whole idea together and give everyone a clear and complete picture of what to expect — a great way to highlight the full experience.
5. | DINNER SPONSORED BY SEALOGY
As the sun set behind the decks of the yachts in Marina Capo D’orland, participants gathered at the Sestante Marina Motel for an Italian dinner with a view. The dinner of traditional Italian specialities was kindly sponsored by Sealogy and provided another opportunity for casual networking.
6. | PROMO SAILING WEEK
Why don’t expirience sailing on Sicily first hand? Italian charters offered a promo week for international brokers to charter a boat for free. You can take this opportunity to sail with one of the fleet operators for a week. Some used it to have an early family vacation, while others organized a business trip to learn about the local charter services.
A big thank you to everyone who took part in this year’s Charter Meetup. We are already looking forward to the next one.
