The 4th Olympic Yacht Show, held from October 10-13 at the picturesque Olympic Marine in Lavrio, was a resounding success, bolstered by perfect weather conditions. This year's event attracted over 20,000 yachting enthusiasts, who gathered to explore more than 130 boats from various categories, including motor yachts, sailing vessels, catamarans, dayboats, performance boats, and RIBs. Notably, the show highlighted the craftsmanship of Greek shipyards, further establishing them as a significant draw for yachting enthusiasts across Europe.
The diversity of boats showcased was complemented by expert guides, who provided insights into each vessel. The rising number of international visitors underscored the Olympic Yacht Show's growing prominence within the global yachting community, making it a vital networking platform for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. The inclusion of foreign shipyards and businesses in this year's show demonstrates the event's evolution into a valuable meeting point for yachting industry stakeholders.
Gerasimos Gerolimatos, the organizer of the Olympic Yacht Show, emphasized its vital role in promoting the yachting sector. "The Olympic Yacht Show has become the number one market tool and a fruitful communication platform. This year, it returned bigger and richer in content, spotlighting several premieres on both European and global levels," he remarked. Gerolimatos also mentioned that the exhibition promotes not only sea tourism but also adds significant value to Greece's economy.
This year's event featured more than 90 exhibitors representing over 400 brands. Companies from abroad, many participating for the first time, expressed their satisfaction with the show's success, with many already securing spots for the next edition.
The opening ceremony saw a convergence of Greece's political and business elite, including Gerolimatos, George Prokopiou, owner of Olympic Marine, Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Stefanos Gikas, and Minister of Tourism Olga Kefalogiannis, among other dignitaries. Additionally, the ceremony honored industry leaders with awards for their contributions to yachting. Notable recipients included George Prokopiou, Vassilis Apostolopoulos, and Atalanta Marine, with the awards sponsored by ZOIS EFSTATHIOU S.A.
In support of the event, EKO returned as the major sponsor for the second consecutive year, affirming its commitment to Greece's leading in-water show. The Olympic Yacht Show 2024 was graciously supported by government entities and various organizations, including the GNTO, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping.
Credits: Olympic Yacht Show