This year’s PYA Christmas Ball took place at the Martinez in Cannes and welcomed esteemed guests from across the yachting industry.

With a night packed full of entertainment and networking, the 2023 PYA Christmas Ball brought together international yacht crews, captains of industry and leading institutions for an evening of celebration after a year of exciting developments in yachting.

Set in the ballroom of the Martinez, guests arrived in style for the themed masquerade evening with a photocall capturing the elegance and fashionable attire of this year’s attendees. A host of media interviews also took place on the sidelines of the event. Following a drinks reception, the evening got underway with a gourmet dinner followed by dancing and live music into the early hours of the morning.

Christophe Bourillon, CEO for the PYA said, “It’s been a tremendous year of change for the yachting industry and we are delighted to have been able to welcome guests from around the world in Cannes for our annual Christmas Ball gala. In addition to being a festive event, the setting offered many opportunities for bilateral discussions.”

Ksenia Kokoshkina, Crewing Manager for The Crew Network added, “We truly enjoyed another PYA ball! It was a success. Great networking opportunity, amazing venue and meals this year were exceptional. Thank you very much for your time organising this beautiful event!”

“Thank you to the PYA for organizing a splendid Christmas gathering, bringing together the Seascope Team for our festive work celebration. From entering the impressive Martinez, elegantly dressed in glamorous attire, balancing in our high heels, into a tastefully decorated dining room, where we enjoyed delicious cuisine, an endless array of drinks, and an incredible band that kept us on our feet dancing until we were ready to drop,” said Sophie Sevier, Director for Seascope France.

Adrien Rizzi, Business Development for Riviera Radio in Monaco said, “I would like to thank all the team at PYA for organising such a fantastic Christmas ball at the Martinez! It was a perfect moment for connecting with colleagues and celebrating the end of the year together in style. Can’t wait for next year’s edition. Thanks again!”

As in previous years, the PYA also unveiled its special Christmas ball raffle, offering a number of exciting prizes and unique experiences for lucky winners of the 2023 draw.

This year’s event could not have been made possible without the generous support of our sponsors including Fort Insurance, whose contribution enabled the PYA to make this year’s ball an extra special occasion.

We also want to thank this year’s guest of honour, the Italian Yacht Masters, an association which aims to promote and develop activities related to seafaring and boating.

With the impact of our industry being felt around the world, we are coming up to the end of the calendar year, and what a year it’s been. We wish everyone a Happy Christmas and we look forward to seeing you again in the New Year!

Christmas Ball Sponsors

This year’s event could not have been made possible without the support of our sponsors. Learn more about their important work below and be sure to consider collaborating with them for your future projects and events:

Premium Yacht Sponsor: Fort Insurance

Fort Insurance is an Independent Superyacht Insurance Broker. They are committed to finding their clients the best possible cover at the most competitive prices. Their team of industry-leading experts combines decades of experience allowing them to help you choose the insurance policies suited for you by doing a thorough assessment of your specific needs.

Their global panel of insurers allows them to find the best solutions available in the insurance market, whether it’s in continental Europe, Lloyd’s of London, the Americas, the Middle East or Asia.

Burgess

Founded in 1975 and now with 14 offices worldwide, Burgess is the global superyacht industry leader, uniquely specialising in yachts of over 30m (100ft). Renowned for its professional yachting services, the company leverages its expertise to guide clients through every aspect of the yachting experience, including sale and purchase, new construction, charter and operational yacht management.

Nautech Group Shipyard

Founded in 1998 in Marseille, Nautech is one of the oldest shipyards in France, dedicated to the refit and repair of luxury yachts and superyachts.

The foundations of Nautech in Marseille were laid in 1998 when the opportunity was taken to create a refit and repair Shipyard at a location of strategic and commercial importance. Marseille has the most westerly drydocks in the South of France and is a genuine centre of maritime maintenance operations. Over the years, Nautech has continued to expand.

Nautech has developed a loyal superyacht clientele who are looking for convenient and flexible shipyard services in the South of France and the Caribbean.

MYBA

MYBA, The Worldwide Yachting Association is an internationally renowned professional organisation, founded in 1984, whose Members are involved at all levels within the Superyacht Industry. Members of MYBA are widely represented in all fields of brokerage, charter, technical management and construction of large yachts.

GWS

Global Wine Solutions are the leading supplier of fine wines and spirits to the yachting industry, with offices in all the major yachting hubs worldwide. They understand the unique requirements of the superyacht community and have an unwavering commitment to excellence, an extensive global network of suppliers and producers, and a passionate team of experts who can curate a portfolio of wines that rival the most exclusive cellars in the world.

Christmas Ball 2024

Next Year’s Christmas Ball will take place on 6 December and return to the Martinez in Cannes. Stay tuned for more details when tickets become available.