More than 3,000 superyacht fanatics turned up for a three-day presentation of the luxury yachting lifestyle at the first edition of the Singapore Yacht Show (SYS). As Asia’s first dedicated superyacht show, SYS marked the region’s ambitions to become the ‘third destination’ for the global cruising fleet – a sentiment echoed by Andy Treadwell, managing director of organizers Informa Yacht Group (IYG).

“All the team, including our partners, sponsors and exhibitors have worked hard and collaboratively to make this a successful show for all. Furthermore, it is the foundation of Singapore’s future and leadership in driving the superyacht industry in this fantastic region.  We are already working towards 2012 and we have great plans for a show to really impress!”

Held at Sentosa Cove’s ONEº15 Marina Club, the preview event attracted more than 30 superyacht builders, brokers and suppliers.

More than just yachts, the Singapore Yacht Show was about all that the yachting lifestyle has to offer. Besides real estate and car deals, the organizers had a series of social events up their sleeves. While a glamorous gala dinner was held at Capella Hotel on Friday, Saturday evening was buzzing with numerous parties on board the yachts, giving VIP visitors the opportunity to fully experience the yachting lifestyle.

“It is an excellent achievement for the first show. With all the interest I expect to see the show grow immediately bigger and attract many more superyachts next year,” said Philippe Chettou, Director of Phuket-based Alpha Superyachts. “Owners are a little tired of the Mediterranean and Caribbean, and I’m sure the wonderful Asian smile and service will attract significant numbers of the superyacht community to this region in the very near future.”

Bart Kimman of Northrop & Johnson said: “This is quite simply the best yacht show we have ever been to. The number of seriously interested people was quite staggering. We had seven brokers here and they were all completely flat out from start to finish. We have 175 qualified leads and several deals under negotiation – it’s incredible for a first-time show!”