New Splash in Event Planning At the Intersection of Sea & Sky.

Looking for a way to shake up those snoozy office meetings? Trying to find a refreshing alternative to host the company party? Tired of entertaining clients at the same old restaurant? There's a new trend afloat in California business that you may want to know about. Companies large and small are finding that holding their functions aboard a luxury yacht is an exciting and affordable way to liven the senses and let your attendees feel valued. No matter the occasion, this "floating" venue is the perfect solution to your event planning needs.

The immediate benefit of moving your event to a yacht will be seen in your attendance. People rarely turn down an event on a yacht. That mandatory meeting once seen as an inconvenience is suddenly a noteworthy reward. For business people traveling from other parts of the country, an event on the water is a powerful draw. Instead of trying to figure out when they can skip out to see the local sights, your attendees will be treated to a continuous change of scenery while your meeting takes place. There are no phones or other interruptions on a yacht. Once your event is underway, you'll have a captive audience that is relaxed and refreshed and you're guaranteed that no one will try to duck out at lunch.

The surprising element of holding an event on a yacht is the reasonable cost. A meeting on the water often prices out about the same as those held in conventional hotel meeting rooms. Another unexpected benefit is the ability of some charter companies to accommodate large groups that may seem destined for some stuffy "land locked" banquet room. Hornblower Cruises & Events, for example, has over 26 yachts in their fleet and can host groups of 2 to 1,000 guests on one vessel. So for both groups big and small, the charter option becomes a viable, and exciting, solution to event planning needs.

What would at first seem to be the greatest drawback of this type of meeting - seasickness - isn't a problem. Almost all of the charter companies along the West Coast cruise calm harbors and waterways so guest comfort is never in question. California's moderate climate practically guarantees fair weather. For any foul weather, most charter yachts have climate-controlled decks for added year-round comfort. Whether it's a beautiful California afternoon or a rare chilly day, your guests will be none the wiser inside their climate controlled charter vessel.

Many business people are surprised at the quality of food on board today's charter yachts. From a simple breakfast to an exquisite four-course dinner, you'll not be disappointed. Most ships have full galleys and professionally trained chefs that prepare fresh hot meals for you and your guests right on board.

Most charter companies staff professionally trained event planners to make sure that your event is handled flawlessly. This "all in one" planning makes putting an event together very simple and allows you to concentrate on the content of your event.

Whether it's for client entertaining, company holiday parties, employee incentives or a forum for selling your product, an event on the water is one of the best ways to guarantee a great turn out and create lasting memories among all in attendance. So make your next event a splash and host your next meeting, seminar, conference, training session or party aboard a yacht.

Kevin Lorton is Promotions Manager for Homblower Cruises & Events' Los Angeles/Orange County region.