US Superyacht Association's Captains Briefing mixes fun and learning

by Julie Katz on 7 Feb 2014 The US Superyacht Association (USSA) concluded its ninth Annual Captains Briefing in St. Maarten with a new social format and energy that proved to be even more popular with the captains and senior crew. With representatives from nearly 50 superyachts and 50 USSA industry partners participating in this annual event, the USSA’s marketing message of 'Come SEA U.S.' was heard by many.

'We really enjoyed the new format,' said Captain Mike Poulin of the M/Y Limitless. 'It allowed us even more time to network with U.S. industry representatives and strengthen those relationships over the two days.'

'The revised format was a huge success,' said Captains Briefing Chairman Tim Davey. 'Captains and senior crew were introduced to the subject experts and this allowed them to discuss topics that were important to them with the right people. This, combined with the golf tournament, awards dinner and the cocktail party provided for tremendous networking for all concerned.'

The Golf Outing, held at the Mullet Bay Golf Course, provided a fun day for a group of captains and industry out on the links. Teams participated in a two-man scramble format that allowed for a lot of interaction between crew and industry. 'This event was a fun bonding experience for all of us,' said Justin Mann, VP of Bluewater Books & Charts. 'We had a blast sharing clubs and dodging course hazards.' While everyone who participated came out a winner, the winning twosome consisted of Captain Mike Poulin of M/Y Limitless and Dean DuToit, president of National Marine.

St. Maarten Prime Minister Claudine Williams Wescot addressed the visiting industry and yacht representatives during the closing cocktail party at the Castaways with a warm welcome and a statement of support. 'We recognize the tremendous impact the superyacht industry has on our island and we are happy to have you all here,' she stated.

'St. Maarten has been a terrific host island over the past nine years and we look forward to continuing the support of the island and their private yacht guests under our new format in the years to come,' said Davey.

For additional information on how to attend or be a sponsor for the 10th Annual Captains Briefing, please contact: Kitty McGowan at 954-972-8666 or info@usssuperyacht.com.

The U.S. Superyacht Association (USSA) is a non-profit trade association incorporated in 2006, whose mission is to protect and promote the superyacht industry of the United States and act as its voice. For more information, visit our website at ussuperyacht.com or call 800-208-5801.