Greece

Angel Yachts Co.

The 56-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3998" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seakid II56.0m (183'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2013">Seakid II</a> has completed an extensive refit by the Greek design studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5964" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AMK Architecture & Design (Company)">AMK Architecture &amp; Design</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/322604/image/large-97319a2cea20780f9392bcb39816547e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/322604">The refit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3998" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seakid II56.0m (183'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2013">Seakid II</a> took place at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6089" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Papilas Yacht Yard (Company)">PAPILAS Shipyard</a> in Perama, Greece and infused a contemporary European sensibility into the yacht’s interiors, replacing her previous Asian-inspired style.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235505/image/large-7d5aa8328943ecd4694af755d78138de.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235505"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/362141/image/large-aaae31a1308c6aa7cb5c324f609d38b0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/362141"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3998" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seakid II56.0m (183'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2013">Seakid II</a>&nbsp;interiors before (above) and after (below)Commissioned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7924" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angel Yachts Co. (Company)">Angel Yachts</a>, the 2023-24 project saw <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5964" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AMK Architecture & Design (Company)">AMK Architecture &amp; Design</a> blend aesthetic sophistication to create “a holistic design lens that serves both aesthetic intent and operational purpose.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235510/image/large-1bee3ce1e2dd2ed9873bc56c9408fcb1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235510"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/362140/image/large-65692cc1ecbef1c83a346b158e8a1d96.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/362140"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3998" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seakid II56.0m (183'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2013">Seakid II</a>&nbsp;interiors before (above) and after (below)All guest areas, including her six suites, were reimagined with neutral palettes, rich materials and custom finishes. Guest suites now feature newly upholstered headboards, curated textiles and refined lighting schemes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/362143/image/large-6677f12e0289bbd342788e387718d867.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/362143">The main deck saloon saw walnut veneer introduced to elevate the original light wood finishes, complemented by bespoke furniture and a redefined dining arrangement. A retractable 75” display, dual buffets with textured white surfaces, mirror-polished stainless steel and marble tops further enhance the visual depth of the space. Ivory leather wall panels and mirrored vertical insets complete the layered, contemporary look.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/362147/image/large-b21a21177df6876d22ba4b9ef820a096.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/362147">A prominent highlight is her new central staircase, which spirals elegantly around a glass elevator. Off-white rich textured wall coverings and coordinated carpeting establish a sense of visual continuity between decks. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235494/image/large-cac4784a9ee86a3b7ccd1dd5ae2947b0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235494"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/362144/image/large-7fb741e52630206041932fdad9d7d2f3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/362144"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/362145/image/large-824e975b36dfd9135dc128d25cecbd50.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/362145"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3998" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seakid II56.0m (183'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2013">Seakid II</a>&nbsp;interiors before (above) and after (below)<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5964" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AMK Architecture & Design (Company)">AMK</a> also revitalised key outdoor areas, including the sundeck Jacuzzi, beach club and gym, creating inviting zones for relaxation and socialising. "Our goal was to reimagine the identity of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3998" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seakid II56.0m (183'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2013">Seakid II</a> through a holistic design lens," concluded the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5964" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AMK Architecture & Design (Company)">AMK</a> team. "We approached the refit as a complete reinvention, shaping every detail to align with the expectations of today’s luxury charter guests."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/362148/image/large-ce1b43d4c4b3dbff568b11183239be98.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/362148"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3998" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seakid II56.0m (183'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2013">Seakid II</a> was built in 2013 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> and featured interior and exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2490" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Central Yacht (Company)">Central Yacht</a>, with naval architecture penned by her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti Yachts</a>. She can sleep up to 12 guests across a six stateroom layout, as well as a crew of 15.

Seakid II: 56m Benetti yacht completes extensive refit

The 56m Benetti motor yacht Seakid II has completed an extensive refit by the Greek design studio AMK Architecture & Design. 

56m Benetti motor yacht Seakid II completes extensive refit

Yachts attending the Mediterranean Yacht Show 2025

We take a look at the largest yachts attending the 10th edition of largest crewed yacht charter show in the historic port of Nafplion.

The largest yachts attending MEDYS 2025

The 60-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/515" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Idyllic59.4m (194'11&quot;)Benetti SpA2008">IDyllic</a> belongs to a fleet of yachts managed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7924" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angel Yachts Co. (Company)">Angel Yachts&nbsp;</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7924" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angel Yachts Co. (Company)">Company</a> (AYC), which are fully dedicated to charter. With three 70-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/570" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Admiral (Company)">Admiral</a> yachts currently under construction by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">The Italian Sea Group</a>, the project aims to create one of the largest fleets of purely commercial yachts within the 60-metre-plus range.The Captain of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/515" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Idyllic59.4m (194'11&quot;)Benetti SpA2008">IDyllic</a> , Nikos Psallidas, was sought out by the management company, with whom he has developed a deep working relationship. In this interview, he discusses this unprecedented project and the importance of finding the right crew for such an undertaking.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/345039/image/large-ea1cd8e3220034c1834619319498b790.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/345039">Can you tell me more about this unique project?Our vision at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7924" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angel Yachts Co. (Company)">AYC</a> is to centre the design around the human experience – whether that’s the guests or the crew. We recognise that for guests to have an amazing experience, they need to be served by an amazing crew. We want crew members who are not only competent but also have character, “Φιλότιμο” (filótimo, in English can be described as a sense of honour, integrity, and selfless duty), special skills, and who speak excellent English. Ideally, they should speak a second or even a third language.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/311330/image/large-d89debaad2e8f9631727154e2b96c132.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/311330">We currently have two yachts: the motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/515" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Idyllic59.4m (194'11&quot;)Benetti SpA2008">IDyllic</a>&nbsp; and the 60-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3998" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seakid II56.0m (183'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2013">Seakid II</a>. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/515" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Idyllic59.4m (194'11&quot;)Benetti SpA2008">IDyllic</a> is purely commercial and has been for the last three years. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3998" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Seakid II56.0m (183'9&quot;)Benetti SpA2013">Seakid II</a> has also entered the commercial sector after a major refit last winter, with her last guest being Kevin Hart for his birthday celebration.The plan is to charter the yachts all year round because we believe that we can indeed run double seasons year after year. Although we can achieve a lot with a single season due to the newness of the yachts and aggressive marketing, our long-term goal is to achieve more than 20 weeks of charter annually.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/322604/image/large-97319a2cea20780f9392bcb39816547e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/322604" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">What can you share about the current state of the fleet?Three more yachts are currently under construction at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5565" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Italian Sea Group (Company)">The Italian Sea Group</a>'s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/570" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Admiral (Company)">Admiral</a> shipyard. They are three 70-metre yachts, almost identical, although we are changing the style of each yacht, offering different themes, colours, and interior aesthetics. One will be more minimal, and another more contemporary, to offer options to our guests. Since the fleet will be similar in length and capacity, the owners wanted each to have its own unique character.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240215/image/large-a8178e6cb8004e92fa37d47df7f13c1c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240215">The first hull is nearly complete, and the yachts are being built in parallel. The first yacht is scheduled for delivery around mid-2026, the second at the beginning of 2027, and the final one by mid-2027, as per the builders’ contractual obligations.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240214/image/large-f0432e2b170de681c718b82e502f07fe.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240214">The boats are designed to be versatile. The general idea is that they will accommodate 12 guests across seven staterooms. They may appeal more to younger people due to their modern and minimalistic style. However, they are interesting and enjoyable for a broad range of clients.With back-to-back charters, the crew will need to be highly committed and skilled. What do you look for in an applicant?Rotation is the way forward. We’ve discussed this many times with the management of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7924" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angel Yachts Co. (Company)">AYC</a> and know that eventually, it’s the only viable option. Fourteen weeks is already very demanding and takes a big toll on everyone. To perform at the highest level, we need to be as rested, relaxed, and happy as possible. It is essential to find a balance between family life and yachting life. So, eventually, I think rotation is the only solution. But the most important thing is to have the right crew.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/322603/image/large-2036880aa0ae77ff6b3e2f31fd452dc5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/322603">It’s all about ethos. You see, there are many people ready to enter the industry if we guide them properly. Since we now have quite a few crew members who have been with us for many years and have the skills and ability to share their knowledge and experience with the younger ones, we feel we already have a strong foundation to start building on. I can see the challenge because, in a very short period, we will need to have at least 50 new crew members.Can you tell me more about the process for selecting and nurturing crew?Currently, with two platforms, we focus on retaining our most valuable members. Our company values loyalty and hard work. We prioritise good character, good attitude, and ambition. If you are a hard worker, if you’re good at your work, if you respect your job, you will stay with us forever. We invest in people.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240216/image/large-5dbf2caf5e0c2c76c7f20a2a1248d28d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240216">There is a large pool of people with skills suitable for the industry, and it’s our responsibility to attract them and show them the way. We will start by recruiting the top graduates from our nautical academies, focusing on those who excel. We are looking around, discussing with people, and actively recruiting. Soon, we plan to offer shorter, rotational contracts, employing people all year round, giving them security and the knowledge that they are with us for the whole year and the years to come. This way, we can train them, see if we are on the same page with them, and aim to recruit at least a third of our crew in the next year.Can you tell me about management’s involvement?<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7924" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angel Yachts Co. (Company)">Angel Yachts</a> Managing Director Mr. Dimitris Angelakos is the man behind this new project. For recruitment, our crew manager conducts the initial interviews, then I provide feedback. If a candidate is promising, Mr. Angelakos conducts a thorough interview to assess their enthusiasm and fit. He is interested in understanding the person beyond just their skills and experience. He wants to understand the person’s ethos and enthusiasm.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/345040/image/large-a476e8308c58d7276c1ca121332ebe25.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/345040">The crew is very important to our managing director. He values both the person and their skills and genuinely cares. He follows every little thing that is happening on board in a discrete way. This has created a respectful and mutually committed relationship. For instance, after a long charter, he allowed the crew extra time to enjoy themselves – a gesture I had hoped for. He wants to let the crew have fun and enjoy a portion of the experience that they offer to the guests. I would like to add, the thought behind rotational crew with all-year-round employment is Mr. Angelakos’ idea in order to create secure jobs.Is the intention to prioritise the hiring of Greek crew members?So far, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7924" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angel Yachts Co. (Company)">AYC</a> has maintained a 90 percent Greek crew by deliberate choice, not by chance. We are committed to having a predominantly Greek crew, occasionally including a Filipino petty officer, deckhand, or stewardess. Fortunately, Greeks have a strong tradition in philoxenia (hospitality) and the tourist industry. Most of us speak good English as well. This decision reflects Mr. Angelakos’ love and respect for Greece, its history, and its people. One of the primary reasons for this commitment is to provide jobs for Greeks who aspire to excel.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/240232/image/large-294f226eaf7f5e193678a365f95caab5.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/240232">We are not building three yachts solely to make money but to provide safe employment within Greece; if profit were our only goal, the owners would have stayed in other industries, which they have been part of for many successful decades. While they aim to keep as many Greeks as possible, they are also realistic. If we cannot find Greeks meeting the required standards for the existing and future yachts, we will hire from other nationalities. Ultimately, our goal is to provide the best service possible and make a significant impact on Greek and, eventually, worldwide yachting.This article was first published in the <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" target="_blank">YachtCharterMarket Newsletter</a>, the weekly newsletter on all things charter, on August 14, 2024. <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" target="_blank">Visit the website</a> to read past editions, or <a href="https://yachtchartermarket.com/" target="_blank">subscribe</a> to never miss an issue.

Building a Superyacht Charter Fleet with IDyllic Captain, Nikos Psallidas

The Captain of IDyllic, Nikos Psallidas, discusses building a superyacht charter fleet.

YachtCharterMarket: IDyllic captain Nikos Psallidas on building a superyacht charter fleet

Following a successful first day at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/232" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gulf Superyacht Summit - 2024">Gulf Superyacht Summit</a>, day two provided more insightful topics and discussions from expert panellists. The previous day also gave attendees the opportunity to network and connect with colleagues from across the industry in a Networking Dinner at Bar Du Port.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340245/image/large-4cc83781fbc10f08731e79142dce8353.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340245">You can catch up with everything that happened during <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/62156" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Everything you missed from Day 1 of the Gulf Superyacht Summit 2024 (2024-12-05 13:30:00 +0100)">day one of the Gulf Superyacht Summit here</a>.&nbsp;Day two included a welcome coffee event in the morning, before attendees and panellists took their seats for the first discussion below.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340246/image/large-4f57cd53c74444489f773e1105fee4f5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340246">10:00 - 10:40 - Future of Marinas<ul><li>Dean Smith, Chief Commercial Officer at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4262" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="D-Marin (Company)">D-Marin</a></li><li>Oliver Rees, General Manager at M Marinas</li><li>Wyndham Tops, Senior Director of Marine and Marina at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7759" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Red Sea Global (Company)">Red Sea Global</a></li><li>Richard Haws, Head of Strategy at Smart Marinas</li><li>Katrina Poore, Assistant Vice President, AVP Marina</li></ul>This panel examined the region’s expanding marina infrastructure, focusing on both the opportunities and challenges associated with this growth. Discussions centred on whether these marinas can achieve full occupancy as functional hubs for yacht owners, or if they primarily serve as aesthetic enhancements to larger real estate projects.Dean Smith emphasised the importance of commercial strategies and creating marinas that are financially viable in the long term. Oliver Rees highlighted operational challenges, particularly in ensuring facilities meet the expectations of international yacht owners. Wyndham Tops addressed sustainability, sharing insights on how Red Sea Global balances luxury development with environmental preservation. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340248/image/large-47f8a09ab21093124b82c020b0c7887a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340248">Richard Haws explored innovative solutions for smart marina management and strategies to maximise usage, while Katrina Poore discussed the integration of marinas into luxury developments, noting the growing appeal of waterfront living to developers and buyers alike.The panel concluded with a consensus that the region's marina developments must be thoughtfully planned and strategically managed to ensure they serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, aligning with the broader vision of regional growth and sustainability.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340247/image/large-6a8913d7cf602fd9fcff070a2e9d700f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340247">10:40 - 11:05 - Building a 42-metre underwater superyacht<ul><li>Erik Hasselman, Commercial Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1535" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-Boat Worx B.V. (Company)">U-Boat Worx</a></li></ul>During this presentation Erik Hasselman, Commercial Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1535" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-Boat Worx B.V. (Company)">U-Boat Worx</a>, showcased the company’s groundbreaking advancements in underwater yacht technology. Known for its reputation in creating innovative projects, the Middle East served as an ideal backdrop for presenting <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1535" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-Boat Worx B.V. (Company)">U-Boat Worx</a>’s vision of a next-generation underwater yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340273/image/large-2ccbce43d377f95d4ef96f07de19cdf9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340273">Hasselman detailed how this revolutionary concept combines cutting-edge submarine technology with luxury yacht design, offering owners and guests an unparalleled underwater experience. He explored the technical and engineering challenges of building such a vessel, emphasising how <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1535" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="U-Boat Worx B.V. (Company)">U-Boat Worx</a> leverages Dutch expertise to overcome these complexities.The discussion also touched on the growing appeal of unique and experiential features in the luxury yachting market. Hasselman explained how underwater yachts align with the region’s drive for innovation and ambition to deliver world-leading projects. Attendees gained insights into the design, functionality and potential applications of this innovative yacht, which is poised to redefine underwater exploration and expand the boundaries of luxury travel.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340254/image/large-f33429b50575c060a28a97119e77b63f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340254">11:45 - 12:20 -Insights on new wealth from other luxury markets (yachting, planes, cars &amp; real estate)<ul><li>Liberty Jones, Senior Vice President, Luxury at Frame Publicity</li><li>Daniella Budden, Co-Founder and Partner of Forté Aviation Consultants FZCO</li><li>Charlie King, Partner at Allsopp &amp; Allsopp Group</li><li>Michael Breman, Sales Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen Yachts</a></li></ul>This panel explored how evolving client demands are shaping the approaches of industries such as yachting, private aviation, luxury automobiles, and real estate. Charlie King began by emphasising the significant changes seen in both clients and products, driven by shifting preferences and expectations. Liberty Jones added that personalisation is now paramount, particularly in the Middle East and Gulf regions, where luxury brands must tailor their approach to better resonate with local consumers.Daniella Budden provided insights into the private aviation sector, noting stark regional differences. In Europe, smaller jets are often preferred by CEOs for quick business trips, while in the Gulf, larger jets prioritising comfort dominate the market. She also highlighted the regulatory constraints in the Gulf that limit spontaneous jet travel. Meanwhile, Michael Breman discussed how the yachting industry targets a much smaller group of UHNWIs compared to other luxury markets, requiring a highly focused strategy. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340264/image/large-a318dc6a8f5735a707e873fbf4b9ebbd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340264">Collaboration emerged as a recurring theme. Liberty emphasised the importance of working across industries and tapping into multigenerational wealth, particularly among younger clients. Charlie shared examples of successful partnerships with jewellery and watch brands, moving away from traditional open-house events towards experience-based collaborations. Daniella identified untapped potential between private aviation and yachting, given their shared client base. Charlie also highlighted his private office initiative designed to better serve UHNWIs.The discussion turned to how each industry maintains trust in highly competitive markets. Daniella stressed the importance of relationship-building, while Liberty highlighted the Gulf’s shifting preference from ostentatious displays of wealth to understated luxury. She suggested art collaborations as a way for the yachting industry to create synergies with other sectors. Michael noted that while yachting can learn from the mechanics of other luxury industries, shipyards often operate with much smaller budgets.Finally, communication tools were briefly discussed, with panellists agreeing that WhatsApp has become a primary method of client engagement, preferred over traditional email for its immediacy and convenience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340265/image/large-9885ba85f1bd1cf160f338aa2256d66b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340265">12:20 - 13:00 - Dimitris Angelakos on Building a Yacht Charter Fleet<ul><li>Dimitris E. Angelakos, Managing Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7924" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Angel Yachts Co. (Company)">Angel Yachts</a></li></ul>Dimitris Angelakos’ provided valuable insights into the distinctions between private and commercial yachts and the challenges of managing a successful charter business. Angelakos began by sharing his personal background and cultural influences, setting the stage for his approach to yacht charter management.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340268/image/large-80a5898471fb3eaf7b4adfb2898c99ce.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340268">A key focus of the discussion was the need to clearly differentiate private yachts, designed to meet the specific requirements of individual owners, from commercial yachts intended for charter use. Angelakos emphasised that commercial yachts must cater to broader market needs and be optimised for generating revenue. Drawing on his experience managing merchant ships, he discussed how lessons from the commercial shipping industry could be applied to the leisure yachting sector.Angelakos also explored the business potential of yachts, viewing them not just as assets for leisure but as viable commercial ventures. He addressed the practical considerations of making a charter fleet profitable, stressing the importance of professional crew management. According to Angelakos, a well-trained and experienced crew is essential for delivering the high standards of service that charter clients expect, thereby ensuring repeat business and long-term success.<img src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/340269/image/large-9e9fc0cee2376c5984af362e554aca7a.jpg?X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&amp;X-Amz-Credential=AKIA52TLVJASOPFTPHWY%2F20241209%2Feu-west-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&amp;X-Amz-Date=20241209T155429Z&amp;X-Amz-Expires=900&amp;X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&amp;X-Amz-Signature=f76d89f015b2ec5f4b79dba2febc200aa22403da1c355bdb1938861932b6b17f" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340269">14:30 - 15:30 - The Red Sea Opportunity<ul><li>Rayan Bukhari, General Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hill Robinson (Company)">Hill Robinson</a></li><li>Txema Rubio, Commercial Director, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7941" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 Group (Company)">MB92 Group</a></li><li>Vienna Eleuteri, CEO Senior Advisor at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7269" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Saudi Red Sea Authority (Company)">Saudi Red Sea Authority</a>&nbsp;</li><li>Bahi Naguib, Operations Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7369" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Felix Maritime Agency (Company)">Felix Maritime Agency</a></li></ul>This panel explored the growing opportunities to develop the Red Sea region and surrounding areas into a premier winter yachting destination, with a focus on the ambitious projects underway in Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Discussions highlighted the potential for these developments to reshape the yachting calendar and attract international attention.Rayan Bukhari from Hill Robinson outlined the operational challenges and opportunities associated with establishing a reliable winter yachting destination. Txema Rubio of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7941" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 Group (Company)">MB92 Group</a> discussed how infrastructure improvements in the region could support superyacht servicing and maintenance, boosting the appeal of the Red Sea for long-term cruising.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340256/image/large-11cb5b9c6f6a502762052f87751457f7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340256">Vienna Eleuteri from the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7269" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Saudi Red Sea Authority (Company)">Saudi Red Sea Authority</a> highlighted the importance of sustainability, emphasising how Saudi Arabia’s developments aim to balance luxury tourism with environmental preservation. Lastly, Bahi Naguib of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7369" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Felix Maritime Agency (Company)">Felix Maritime Agency</a> discussed logistical considerations for establishing the Red Sea as a seamless yachting hub, including customs and cruising permits.The panel concluded with a shared optimism about the Red Sea’s potential to become a top-tier winter yachting destination, leveraging its strategic location, ambitious projects and focus on innovation and sustainability.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/319920/image/large-04abaf583e400f324d9b145b24624fbd.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/319920"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/332007/image/large-faf6d80dca3c2ee05f20bec3aeabac03.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/332007">

Gulf Superyacht Summit 2024: A full summary of day 2

Following a successful first day, we take a look at everything that happened during day two of the Gulf Superyacht Summit 2024.