The Antibes Yacht Show marks the beginning of the new Mediterranean yachting season. The first major boat show of the season took place in Europe’s largest marina – Port Vauban in Antibes.

Antibes needs no introduction – it is the homeport of some of the world’s largest private yachts including Roman Abramovich’s 86m Ecstasea, Eugene Shvidler’s 113m Le Grand Bleu whilst Paul Allen’s 126m Octopus is a regular visitor to the harbour.

Dedicated to the brokerage and charter of larger yachts, the event showcased about 150 of them both motor and sailing with some state-of-the-art technology and experienced craftsmanship. We spent some time discovering the exhibitors and selected a handful that really got our attention. Here’s who has made the list:

K&K Superyachts (Monaco) provides uniquely personal solutions for superyacht owners in the areas of management, brokerage and charter, construction and refit. Website: kk-superyachts.com

Med Yacht Services (Sanremo) operates all over the Mediterranean offering first-class yacht services including yacht clearance, bunkering, provisions, VIP transportation, concierge, technical assistance and anything in between. Website: medyachtservices.com

Modena Motors (Cannes) is the official Ferrari and Maserati dealer of the French Riviera also offering on demand luxury car rental with delivery to any local hotel, port or airport. Website: modena-motors.fr

Monaco Boat Service (Monaco) is the exclusive Riva dealer for Monaco and France since 1959 with full service facilities in Monaco. Website: riva-mbs.com

Ocean Independence (Antibes) with 15 offices worldwide, the company provides a sound advice on all aspects of owning, buying selling, building and managing luxury yachts. Website: oceanindependence.com

Riviera Sea School (Antibes) providing training to some of the most prestigious superyachts on the water today, the school offers both leisure and professional RYA training including powerboat, jet ski and motor cruising Website: rivieraseaschool.com

Aqua Marine (Cap Ferrat) is a maritime agency specialising in brokerage, charter and management with offices in Beaulieu, Cap Ferrat, Moscow and Fort Lauderdale. Website: www.aquamarine.fr

Competing with the Antibes Yacht Show was Antibes Art Fair (running until 23rd April 2012) not only for attention but also for the parking, so here’s our big tip for the next show: instead of fighting for the parking in Port Vauban or the old town, head straight to Fort Carré and enjoy your complimentary boat shuttle. You will arrive to the show in style walking the red carpet all the way to the ticket office. Voilà!