Passport to Table Design: A World of Elegance

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The Best Tablescaping Competition invites Stewards and Stewardesses to showcase how thoughtful design and presentation can transform a dining space into an unforgettable experience. Rather than highlighting individual elements, participants are encouraged to create a cohesive concept that blends atmosphere, aesthetics, and flow into one harmonious setting.

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This year’s theme, “Passport to Table Design: A World of Elegance,” invites candidates to draw inspiration from one country of their choice. Each tablescape should capture the essence, culture, and distinctive style of that nation, expressed through color palettes, textures, materials, tableware, florals, and overall ambiance.

From the timeless sophistication of France and the refined minimalism of Japan, to the vibrant charm of Morocco, the romantic elegance of Italy, or the sun-drenched beauty of Greece, competitors are invited to translate national identity into a seamless and elegant dining experience.

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Judging Criteria for the Tablescaping Competition

 

Evaluation based on a points system, following the criteria outlined below:

 

•⁠  ⁠Appearance and presentation: visually appealing

•⁠  ⁠Creativity: innovative use of the competition theme

•⁠  ⁠Overall appeal: originality and creativity

 

The Jury will vote each assortment on the basis of the aforementioned criteria.

 

Registration to Participate

• Please note that we can only accommodate twelve (12) yachts in each yacht category.

• In the event that we receive more than twelve (12) entries, a draw will be conducted, and the final entries will be announced one week prior to the show.

• All entries must be registered by 12 PM on Sunday, April 19th, 2026.

• If registrations exceed 12 per category, a draw will be held on Tuesday, April 21st to determine the final participants. Any chef is welcome to attend the draw.

• The judging panel will consist exclusively of participating brokers.

• All tables are required to remain fully set and presented on both days of the competition.

• Any number of crew members are invited to take part in the Best Tablescaping Competition.

• Participation in the Chefs’ Competition is not required in order to enter the Best Tablescaping competition.

 

Competition Categories

The annual Tablescaping Competition of the EMMYS Yacht Show will take place as follows:

The competition is divided into two categories, based on the daily charter rate of the yacht.

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EMERALD Category

For yachts with a daily charter rate in high season up to 4.999 euros / day.

Date: Friday 08/05/2026

Time: 10:00 – 18:30

 

DIAMOND Category

For yachts with a daily charter rate in high season of 5.000 euro / day and above.

Date: Saturday 09/05/2026

Time: 10:00 – 18:30

 

Scoring System

Best Tablescaping will be evaluated using a points-based system.

Each judge will award a score from 1 to 5 points.

If a contestant has already achieved 15 points in total, judges may grant a Star Distinction, equivalent to 5 additional points.

The maximum possible score for this prize is 30 points.

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