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The 11th MEDYS gets underway in Nafplion

The world’s largest crewed yacht charter show is officially back.

Against the timeless backdrop of the Port of Nafplion, the 11th Mediterranean Yacht Show (MEDYS) has made its highly anticipated return, more captivating than ever before. Celebrating its 11th edition, this milestone event continues its legacy as the global leader in crewed yacht charters, reinforcing Greece’s position at the heart of the international yachting industry.

An impressive opening day

The 11th edition of the Mediterranean Yacht Show commenced with a strong sense of energy and purpose, as hundreds of yacht brokers from around the world gathered in Nafplion. Along the port, an exceptional line-up of the finest yachts operating under the Greek professional licence was on display, offering a comprehensive showcase of the very best the industry has to offer. The opening day provided the ideal setting for inspections, meaningful connections, and high-level networking, setting the tone for a dynamic and successful edition ahead.

Shaping the future of Greek yachting

As the day progressed, attention turned to the historic Vouleftiko building for a high-level policy discussion organised by the Greek Yachting Association (GYA). The session focused on Marine Protected Areas and Anchoring, key issues for the sustainable development of yachting in Greece. Held under the auspices of the Ministries of Environment and Energy, Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, and Tourism, the discussion brought together institutional leaders and industry stakeholders, including Evangelos Kyriazopoulos, Secretary General of Ports, Port Policy and Maritime Investments of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vasiliki Koutsoukou, Secretary General for Tourism Policy and Development, and the President of the Greek Yachting Association, Ioannis Kourounis.

Marking the official opening

Following the discussions at Vouleftiko, the energy returned to the waterfront for the official Opening Ceremony. Set against the backdrop of the port, the ceremony brought together prominent figures from both the public and private sectors, underscoring the strong institutional support behind Greece’s dynamic yachting industry. A ceremonial red ribbon cutting marked the official inauguration of the show, signalling the beginning of this year’s edition in a moment of shared celebration and significance. The ceremony featured welcome addresses and remarks by distinguished representatives of the industry and government, including Olga Kefalogianni, Minister of Tourism, Dimitrios Ptochos, Governor of the Region of Peloponnese, Dimitrios Orfanos, Mayor of Nafplion and the President of the Greek Yachting Association, Ioannis Kourounis, highlighting the importance of the event and its continued contribution to the global yachting landscape.

An exclusive welcome at Bourtzi Castle

The day’s events culminated in an evening to remember, as the Welcome Reception was held for the very first time at the iconic Bourtzi Castle. Set against the storied backdrop of this sea-bound landmark, the event offered a truly unique setting that captured the spirit and heritage of Nafplion. Bringing together delegates and industry leaders in an atmosphere of elegance and ease, the evening provided the perfect opportunity for meaningful networking and connection. Guests enjoyed live music, while the night sky was transformed by an impressive drone show, illuminating the harbour in a striking, contemporary tribute to the scale and significance of this year’s event.

The momentum continues on day 2

As the show moves into its second day, the programme continues with a dynamic schedule of private briefings, yacht inspections, and high-level networking opportunities for international brokers. The port of Nafplion once again becomes a hub of activity, where business meets experience in a setting defined by excellence. A central highlight of the day is the much-anticipated Chefs’ Competition, where the theme ‘The Greek Tomato: Reimagined’ takes centre stage. Celebrating creativity, heritage, and innovation, the competition underscores the increasingly vital role of world-class gastronomy in shaping the modern luxury charter experience.

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