This is certainly not the best of times to be a yacht broker. It's definitely a slow market, but I don't think too much should be read into this announcement. I was down in Lauderdale in the early 90's when you couldn't give a boat away. This isn't that.
St. Augustine is a beautiful city. In fact it's one of my favorites to stop at when I'm transporting. However it's not really known as a megayacht port and it is the mid-range (35'-70') boat sales that are being hit hardest by the lackluster economy. Florida as a whole is also being hit hard by the mortgage crisis, and add to that that it's getting to be late in the season for Florida activities (The snowbirds are already heading north), and it may simply be time to start casting your eyes toward the northern shows & cruising.
My understanding is that this was to be a new venue. I think that if they reorganize and plan for an earlier show date next year it will all work out. Personally, I really enjoy that town and would love another excuse to swing by a certain restaurant for their great burgers (They have other terrific foods, but I'm what I call a gormet's nightmare)and music and a certain corner bar for some good camaraderie. (Don't want to plug by name or I'll need a reservation 2 days in advance
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