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2009 USSA Captains Briefing Returns to Newport for 4th Year

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Newport, RI —July 15, 2009— In the tradition of the Captains Briefing held annually in St. Maarten each January, the U.S. Superyacht Association (USSA) returned for the fourth year to kick-off the Newport Spring Charter Show with another Captains Briefing & Reception on Tuesday, June 23, 2009.

As before, the Newport Captains Briefing was held on the afternoon, prior to the opening of the show. Not only were the captains and senior officers of large vessels in the area invited, but also regional marine industry leaders and superyacht businesses. Sponsored by USSA members, Rybovich Shipyard & Marina and Professional Captain’s Services, the event provided a venue for dialogue, updates and networking among superyacht professionals.

“For the first time, Billy Smith (Trinity Yachts) seemed less than optimistic about new builds,” commented John Mann (Bluewater Books & Charts) who moderated the Captains Briefing. “As the Vice Chair of our Board, the USSA has long relied on Billy for his global perspective of the superyacht industry. He’s encouraged by the strength of the repair and refit business and affirmed the important role, of the charter fleet & businesses, in creating new superyacht buyers. Many guests become owners.”

Kristina Hebert (Ward’s Marine Electric) presented some important national updates from Washington, D.C. Kristina, just recently elected to the USSA Board of Directors, will Co-Chair the Advocacy Committee for the USSA. She gave updates on Longshoreman Insurance, the Clean Boating Act and the availability of federal grant monies for the marine industry. After questions and answers, over 70 attendees and USSA members adjourned for networking, music and raffle prizes. The reception grew as the Crew Party from the Newport Spring Charter Show joined.

The next Captains Briefing & Reception will be on Friday, October 30 at Bahia Mar, during the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

The U.S. Superyacht Association (USSA) is a non-profit trade association, whose stated mission is to protect and promote the uperyacht industry of the United States. Membership is open to businesses and individuals having a bona fide U.S. presence and activity in the U.S. superyacht industry.