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Island extolled for superyacht market

The luxury yacht Arabella - among the high-end vessels that descended on Bermuda for the America's Cup (File photograph)

Bermuda has been highlighted as a destination for superyachts in a magazine appearing in high-end hotels.

An article in the Autumn edition of JamaqueParadis magazine details the surge of superyacht visits during the America’s Cup — and the efforts to make the island an ideal port for the luxury vessels.

The story says that the Bermuda Tourism Authority had received “overwhelmingly positive feedback” from superyacht owners and captains.

The article states: “The marina facilities were reported as well equipped with knowledgeable staff, the Hamilton Princess Marina had resoundingly high reviews and a temporary dock space during the staging of the America’s Cup at Hamilton Harbour on Front Street was also popular.

“Owners were particularly appreciative of the privacy that Bermuda offers, a lifestyle of understated luxury where residents respect the privacy of high net worth individuals.

“Captains say they discovered the ease of moving around the island and they were pleasantly surprised by the distinctively different experiences available in the ports of Dockyard, Hamilton, and St George’s.”

Kevin Dallas, the BTA CEO, was quoted as saying: “We’re very pleased with the way the island responded to the largest number of superyachts ever to gather at one event. Bermuda was well organised and well prepared. That’s only half the goal though.

“Our true aim is to make sure superyachts visit Bermuda again and again. While we came through with high marks during the America’s Cup we want to come in with high marks year-round.”

The story also quoted an unnamed “high net worth individual” who said: “I’ve travelled to the Caribbean hundreds of times but I’d never really thought of Bermuda before now.

“I look forward to returning”.

The magazine is now in hotel rooms throughout the Caribbean, including St Regis, Four Seasons and Rosewood resorts.

Glenn Jones, director of public and stakeholder relations with the BTA, said the article will help to spread the word about Bermuda as a sailing destination.

Mr Jones said: “The 35th America’s Cup undoubtedly put Bermuda on the map of the superyacht community. About 100 superyachts made the trip, spending money on products and services delivered expertly by Bermudian businesses.

“Thanks to niche publications like JamaqueParadis many more superyacht owners and captains will read about what they’re missing out here in Bermuda.

“While we plan to continue targeting titles that speak to the superyacht audience, media exposure isn’t enough. There are a few things Bermuda needs to do in the regulatory and legislative spaces to be more attractive to superyachts.

“That’s why this issue was one of five post-election priorities for the Bermuda Tourism Authority. We’re working with the government, and other agencies like BDA, to capitalise on this positive superyacht momentum in the immediate wake of America’s Cup.

“Slowly progress is being made, and as long as we get things right, small businesses across the island stand to benefit the most.”