For nearly four decades, superyacht owners and industry representatives have gathered for an event putting philanthropy alongside the yachts themselves. This November 6 and 7, the tradition continues, with the Boys & Girls Clubs Yacht Rendezvous returning to South Florida.
Taking place at Pier Sixty-Six in Fort Lauderdale, this is the 37th edition of the annual event. The Yacht Rendezvous is the largest gathering of yachts for a charitable cause, regularly attracting upwards of a dozen. It’s additionally one of the primary luxury-yachting events in North America. It attracts yacht owners, philanthropists, and industry professionals from around the United States, all supporting Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County.
The event, raising tens of millions each year, has always supported those specific youth clubs, too. The Yacht Rendezvous traces its roots to Rick and Rita Case, South Florida automotive entrepreneurs and civic leaders. Already having ties to the local clubs, in 1988 Rick Case joined with Ken Denison, then with Broward Marine, to create the first gathering. They invited yacht owners to a weekend in Cat Cay in The Bahamas to raise money for the charity. At the time, four Broward County clubs existed. Today, 18 clubs address academic, social, emotional, and physical needs for more than 2,330 children ages 6 to 18 daily. The clubs further help prepare them for careers.
“The Rendezvous has grown into a powerful national tradition that bridges world-class luxury with life-changing philanthropy,” says Chris Gentile, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. “The extraordinary generosity of our fleet owners, sponsors, and attendees directly funds safe places, mentorship, and workforce programs for thousands of young people who need us most every day.”
This year’s Yacht Rendezvous opens with a Friday evening yacht hop, with an all-white cocktail attire theme. A variety of superyachts will welcome attendees for tours at Pier Sixty-Six. Saturday shifts the setting to the black-tie Yacht Rendezvous Gala. During the evening, silent and live auctions will feature exclusive luxury experiences, custom jewelry, and tailored travel packages. Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and inspirational motivator Mike Posner is performing as well.
Yacht registration, sponsorships, and VIP packages are currently available through the Boys & Girls Clubs Yacht Rendezvous website.
In the coming weeks, Megayacht News, a media sponsor, will have a video interview with the event chairs for more on why the superyacht community continues to support the cause.
Boys & Girls Clubs Yacht Rendezvous yachtrendezvous.com
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