The 19th annual Monaco Yacht Show was held September 23rd through the 26th. An estimated 30,000 people arrived over the three-day event, making it one of the busiest in recent memory in terms of foot traffic. However, this years show seemed to feature fewer businesses in attendance and fewer big yacht unveilings.

The lack of big-budget releases can be due to the economic downturn finally forcing even the rich and famous to tamp down their spending habits. It can also be to avoid negative publicity. Some publications love nothing more than to rail against the owners and companies of the newest and most lavish yachts, especially in times like these. It sells papers.

However, the event was far from a bust. An estimated 500 companies participated to showcase their latest offerings to the world of yachting. Not only do the companies have a welcoming and eager platform to unveil their latest builds, but it also gives them an opportunity to whet the appetites of potential buyers by divulging news and plans of future builds.

The Monaco Yacht Show has always stood atop the list of global luxury yacht shows, and this year wasn't an exception.

In the Superyacht category, featuring world-class luxury yachts of 25 meters to 90 meters, over 100 ships were on display for the fans to witness. There were also 40 brand new builds to behold in the harbor, making for some great eye candy.

Some of the highlights included the release of the new Icon 62. The Icon 62 instantly turned heads. This 62-meter custom Superyacht was originally pitched and sold at the 2006 Monaco Yacht Show. It arrived this year ready to go for the lucky buyer, and all in attendance were absolutely floored by its style and breathtakingly large size.

The new Chrisco by CNB was also launched. Although not as large as the Icon build, Chrisco still managed to leave onlookers in awe due to its construction. This 30-meter ship features a composition body of carbon balsa vinylester, making it super lightweight and incredibly strong. Whats most impressive about Chrisco, however, is that its a sailing ship not an engine-powered yacht.

During a show of this caliber, it doesnt take a Superyacht to draw massive attention. At the German Frers stand, guests could look at the incredibly lifelike plans of yachts and also witness what was for sale.

The show was everything a yacht lover would expect from Monaco. There were impressive builds, new designs, slues of tours on state-of-the-art ships, and plenty of other attractions. But perhaps the most appealing aspect to some is the perks of attending.

BMW provides courtesy cars for the guests, and the casino supermarket is in close vicinity. Monaco, located at the southernmost tip of France, just across from northeastern Italy, is also a beautiful location with plenty of history and countless sights to see.

2009s show was certainly a success; and even though fewer businesses were in attendance, the Monaco Yacht Show isnt losing any steam. 2010s show is expected to be even larger.