Spain

Nautipaints Group

As the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/315" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mediterranean Superyacht Forum - 2026">Mediterranean Superyacht Forum</a> (MSF) returns to Palma de Mallorca next week, its evolution reflects a wider shift in how the superyacht industry approaches collaboration, strategy and long-term growth. Hosted by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balearic Marine Cluster (Company)">Balearic Marine Cluster</a> (BMC), the forum continues to move beyond the traditional conference model, placing meaningful interaction at the centre of its agenda.At the core of this transformation are the small group sessions (SGS), a structured and highly participative format designed to turn industry expertise into tangible outcomes. Bringing together around 20 professionals per session, these discussions are not simply about exchanging ideas, but about building frameworks, strategies and shared understanding that can actively shape the future of the Mediterranean yachting sector.“The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/315" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mediterranean Superyacht Forum - 2026">Mediterranean Superyacht Forum</a> was never conceived as another conference,” says Pedro Suasi, Cluster Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balearic Marine Cluster (Company)">BMC</a> and Founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/315" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mediterranean Superyacht Forum - 2026">MSF</a>. “It was designed as a space where the industry can slow down, listen to itself, and work collectively on the challenges that truly matter.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388016/image/large-b0117b9d605c5e2721837f76721aebf6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388016">From conversation to actionable insightThe introduction of SGS reflects a deliberate move away from passive formats and towards a more engaged, outcome-driven structure. Each session is carefully curated around one of three strategic pillars: 1. Destination Strategy, 2. Business Strategy and 3. Commercial Strategy. These three pillars help ensure that discussions remain focused on the most pressing issues facing the industry today.Unlike traditional panel discussions, these sessions are designed to foster genuine dialogue. Participants are encouraged to challenge assumptions, share first-hand experience and collectively develop structured conclusions. With up to three hours dedicated to each session, there is both the time and the space to explore complex topics in depth.“Panels inform, but interaction transforms,” Suasi explains. “This year’s Forum is designed to ensure that every voice in the room can actively shape the discussion.”The outcome of each session is not left abstract. Instead, every group works towards a defined result, whether that is a strategic framework, a diagnostic tool or a roadmap for future action. These outputs are then fed into the Forum’s Think Tanks on Day 2, where insights are synthesised and expanded upon at a broader, industry-wide level.This structured approach ensures that ideas generated within smaller groups do not remain isolated, but contribute to a collective narrative capable of driving real progress.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/383493/image/large-c123f173504eb91125282cbb660aba1d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/383493">Tackling the industry’s most pressing themesAcross the three strategic pillars, the SGS programme addresses a wide spectrum of topics, reflecting the complexity and interconnected nature of the superyacht ecosystem.Within Destination Strategy, discussions range from analysing the true economic and social impact of yachting , led by Kerry Allerton, Business Development Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6309" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Evolution Yacht Agents (Company)">Evolution Yacht Agents</a>, to rethinking how destinations can evolve into fully integrated yachting hubs, led by Isabel Martínez, Commercial Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8799" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IPM IMG Marine Group (Company)">IPM-IMG Marine Group</a>. Sessions will also explore long-term preparedness through forward-looking exercises such as “Designing for 2036”, led by Camille Lopez, the Founding President of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7108" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="HY-Plug (Company)">Hy-Plug</a>, as well as the importance of strengthening collaboration across Mediterranean destinations to create a more cohesive regional network, led by Jessima Timerberlake, Senior Sales Manager at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a>.These conversations are particularly timely. As regulatory pressures increase and public scrutiny around yachting intensifies, destinations are being challenged to clearly articulate their value proposition while adapting to future demands. By developing structured narratives and readiness frameworks, participants can contribute to a more unified and credible positioning of the sector.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/383495/image/large-e8d771f80e4a062edb85e7416701ee0c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/383495">The Business Strategy pillar shifts focus towards the operational backbone of the industry, with a strong emphasis on the refit ecosystem. Topics include building a connected digital culture, which will be led by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7941" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MB92 Group (Company)">MB92</a>’s IT and Digitalisation Director Rubén Carmona, addressing talent management in labour-intensive environments, led by Paul Grüni, Production Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/211" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros de Mallorca S.A. (Company)">Astilleros de Mallorca</a>, and ensuring business continuity beyond founder-led structures, led by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints</a>’ Deputy General Manager, Joan Salom.These discussions recognise a critical reality: sustainable growth in the superyacht sector depends not only on market demand, but also on the industry’s ability to professionalise, innovate and attract skilled talent. By examining areas such as digital integration and workforce strategy, the SGS aim to provide practical tools that businesses can apply directly within their operations.The influence of external capital is also a key theme, and will see Gloria Fernández, the M&amp;A Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8800" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="I-Deal Consulting (Company)">i-Deal</a> lead the discussion. As private investment continues to reshape the yachting landscape, understanding how to balance growth, control and long-term value creation has become increasingly important. Through structured analysis, participants will explore how companies can adapt to this evolving financial environment while maintaining strategic clarity.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/383494/image/large-933b1bdbd29e539d81081d33fddef330.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/383494">In the Commercial Strategy sessions, attention turns to how companies position themselves within the superyacht value chain. These discussions aim to demystify the commercial process, from defining the true ‘product’ of marinas and shipyards to understanding the complex decision-making dynamics between owners, captains and management companies, led by Antonella della Pietra, Managing Partner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1850" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="BWA Yachting (Company)">BWA Yachting</a>.Equally important is the focus on sales strategy, a session that will be led by Ione Astondoa, COO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/412" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astondoa S.A. (Astilleros) (Company)">Astondoa</a>, as well as owner experience, led by Francisco Villalobos, VCP Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4262" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="D-Marin (Company)">D-Marin</a>. By identifying high-impact actions and clarifying who shapes perception at each stage of the yacht lifecycle, participants can develop more targeted and effective approaches to growth. The result is not only stronger commercial performance, but also improved alignment across stakeholders, ultimately enhancing the owner journey.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340801/image/large-05c98524da27c7331a578995c9bf1670.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340801">A format built on listening and collaborationOne of the defining characteristics of the SGS programme is its foundation in industry input. Rather than imposing topics from the outset, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balearic Marine Cluster (Company)">BMC</a> has worked closely with stakeholders across the Mediterranean to identify the issues that matter most. “Rather than imposing topics, we listened to the industry first,” Suasi notes. “The agenda is a direct reflection of real concerns coming from the Mediterranean superyacht ecosystem.”This consultative approach reinforces the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/315" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mediterranean Superyacht Forum - 2026">Forum</a>’s role as a platform shaped by its participants. It also ensures that discussions remain grounded in real-world challenges, increasing the likelihood that proposed solutions will be both relevant and implementable.By bringing together a diverse mix of professionals - from shipyards and marinas to designers, brokers, investors and owner representatives - the SGS create an environment where multiple perspectives can converge. This diversity is essential in an industry where decisions are rarely made in isolation and where collaboration often determines success.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/340809/image/large-4dfc84a13dc25589b7ab130636880e51.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/340809">Building momentum for the MediterraneanThe emphasis on interaction is not simply a matter of format; it reflects a broader recognition of what the industry needs at this moment in time. Faced with evolving regulations, sustainability pressures and shifting client expectations, the superyacht sector must move beyond fragmented thinking and towards greater alignment. “The Forum exists because the industry needs a place where dialogue is not performative, but productive,” Suasi adds.By creating structured opportunities for collaboration, the SGS aim to bridge gaps between different segments of the industry and foster a more cohesive approach to shared challenges. The expectation is that this will lead not only to stronger strategies, but also to new partnerships and initiatives that extend beyond the Forum itself.As the Mediterranean continues to position itself as a leading global yachting hub, this kind of collective thinking becomes increasingly important. Strengthening the region’s competitiveness requires more than individual excellence; it demands coordinated effort, shared vision and a willingness to engage in open, constructive dialogue.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/303470/image/large-5caff6355fcf4c8bb5fe159ca515b061.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/303470">Looking aheadThe Small Group Sessions represent a significant step forward in how industry events can deliver value. By combining focused discussion with clearly defined outcomes, they offer a model for turning expertise into action.As <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/315" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mediterranean Superyacht Forum - 2026">MSF</a> continues to evolve, its commitment to participation, relevance and tangible results sets it apart within the superyacht calendar. For those attending, the opportunity is clear: to contribute not just to conversation, but to the frameworks and strategies that will shape the future of the Mediterranean yachting sector.In Palma this April, the message is simple: the future of yachting will not be decided on stage, but around the table.

Mediterranean Superyacht Forum small group sessions

The Mediterranean Superyacht Forum returns to Palma next week, hosted by the Balearic Marine Cluster.

Shaping solutions through dialogue: Inside the Mediterranean Superyacht Forum’s small group sessions

After starting life as Nautipesca Can Miguel, Mallorca’s first yacht chandlery in 1971, the family-run <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints Group</a> now spans superyacht painting and refinishing, hull and tank maintenance, marine supplies and, as of this year, scaffolding and containment.Following a recent spate of heavyweight refit projects – including the 107-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl</a> and the 88-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/51" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Perini Navi (Company)">Perini Navi</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a> – CEO Toni Salom talks us through the company’s planned move towards new builds, how COVID-19 pushed it to embrace e-commerce, and how the tide has turned on electrostatic spray guns.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380414/image/large-911dac448433c9012e7f3db83f59a51a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380414"> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints Group</a>&nbsp;is a family affair. How important is that to you?&nbsp;I saw the growth of the yachting industry in Mallorca from a few small fishing boats in the early 1990s to the huge yachts we have today. In recent years, my children, Maena (General Manager of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5656" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautichandler (Company)">Nautichandler</a>) and Joan (Deputy General Manager of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints</a>) are already starting to be group’s driving force. I’m still the CEO, but the company now has a third generation in the business, and I feel extremely proud of that.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380418/image/large-bf99ecbee31532cf69e84c0e21c98448.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380418"> How are you looking to grow the business going forward?&nbsp;To increase our business, we need to target the new build sector and the idea is to have an established position in the market within the next three years by consolidating our presence on mainland Spain, in the South of France, and northern Europe.&nbsp;Over the last 20 years, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints</a> has completed more than 250 full refit paint projects in 13 different locations, which reflects the scale and reliability of our operations. As part of a three-year strategic plan, we aim to continue expanding all four divisions of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints Group</a> beyond Mallorca, while also developing our presence in the new build sector. This year, for example, we began collaborating on the construction of a 25-metre catamaran in Spain, a project that represents the direction in which we’re heading.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380415/image/large-d70ca96b4e5c5df903de32712dc3a5b2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380415">What is the biggest obstacle you’ve faced while growing the company?&nbsp;COVID-19, without a doubt. We were lucky because my team managed to support each other and adapt during some very difficult moments, and come out stronger on the other side. It also gave me an inspirational idea. I was sitting at home and noticed that Amazon drivers were some of the only people working, and this inspired me to develop the e-commerce side of our supply business, which today is a key part of the group: a platform with worldwide shipping, from which we have already delivered to over 70 countries.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/380416/image/large-a1e1e5cfe029a7f6879addf91b1f431a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/380416">What have been the major technological developments you’ve seen in your sector over the past 50 years? In general, we’re still working with the same products we’ve always worked with, although the quality of these have certainly improved over time. For example, primers have been developed that contain more solids to fend off corrosion. The choices available have also expanded – you can now choose from a huge array of different paint colours, for example, and we also have our own machines in-house to mix the paint ourselves.&nbsp;Another major change has been our adoption of electrostatic spray guns, which we started using around five years ago. These are a great tool because they help us to really reduce our wastage. &nbsp;A few years ago, we were hesitant about training our guys in how to use them because clients were demanding that we use conventional airspray guns instead. Now it’s the total opposite. Beyond these specific examples, our focus is on the continuous incorporation of new developments and innovations that enhance efficiency, safety, and quality across all our projects.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/371067/image/large-40d8bcc9d32f0e0a1aba45f43d96019e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/371067">Finally, what have been the most memorable or complex yacht projects you’ve worked on to date?&nbsp;The most complex was probably the tank treatments we recently did for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Black Pearl106.7m (350'1&quot;)Oceanco2018">Black Pearl</a>. We carried them out with the boat in the water, which nobody had ever attempted before. We had to strictly control the humidity and all of the environmental conditions, and passed all of the pipes through the boat itself, which was unusual. We also had to factor in the very real risk of explosion, which meant there was a lot of pressure around the project. Overall, though, it was a very successful project.&nbsp;Again, with the work we did on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maltese Falcon88.0m (288'9&quot;)Perini Navi2006">Maltese Falcon</a>, we were working in very complicated conditions. We completed the work in Italy in winter between November and April, so it was very rainy and windy at the time. Both were brilliant projects for us and helped show the industry what we’re capable of.This article was first published in <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine/how-to-build-it-issue-9-download" target="_blank">issue 9 of How To Build It</a>. You can read all the articles from this edition <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine/how-to-build-it-issue-9-download" target="_blank">here</a>, and stay up-to-date with all previous editions <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/magazine" target="_blank">here</a>.

Nautipaints Group CEO Toni Salom interview

Georgia Tindale sits in a conversation with Nautipaints CEO Toni Salom.

Nautipaints Group's CEO Toni Salom on family legacy and business growth beyond refit

From the glistening hulls of Mediterranean icons to the precision-applied coatings on explorer yachts far afield, the name <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints Group</a> has long been synonymous with excellence in superyacht paint refinishing. With operations spanning nearly fifteen locations worldwide – from Palma and Barcelona to Genoa and La Ciotat – the company has built a reputation for delivering refined, resilient finishes that mirror the expectations of the most discerning clients.At its core, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints</a> remains dedicated to the meticulous craft of paint refinishing and refit services – a discipline the group has elevated through obsessive attention to quality, a commitment to artisan-level techniques, and an ever-expanding suite of specialised underwater and surface treatments.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/364996/image/large-14645fda20fd74013bb9e3865f38de5f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/364996">Quality control as a cornerstone“A paint project is like a journey,” remarks <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints</a>’ CEO Toni Salom. “With well-defined waypoints guiding us towards a flawless finish.” It’s a philosophy rooted not in marketing flourish, but in decades of field-tested refinement. As Head of Quality Marc Sáez explains, the company ensures uniform excellence across its bespoke projects by marrying the finest materials with rigorously standardised procedures and continuous evaluation.“Every project begins with a tailored assessment of the yacht’s conditions,” Sáez notes. “We select the most suitable materials from trusted manufacturers, then implement a controlled process with monitoring technologies that track everything from paint adhesion and layer thickness to environmental conditions like temperature and humidity.” At every step, critical inspections are carried out – ensuring that the aesthetic and technical standards remain uncompromised.This meticulous approach is adapted fluidly to the complexities of modern yachting materials. Whether working on aluminium, wood, steel or composite hulls, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints</a> begins with comprehensive surface cleaning and preparation, before applying material-specific primers under optimised conditions. Intermediate layers and final topcoats follow with surgical precision, subject to multiple layers of inspection, adhesion testing, and – ultimately – owner or client approval. <iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z76QbPuhrAM?&amp;wmode=opaque" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>Global reach, local artisanship<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints</a>’ central hubs in Palma and Barcelona serve as the operational nexus for a fleet of mobile teams, allowing the group to respond nimbly to projects across Europe and beyond. Whether in Finland, Port Tarraco or Marseille, the delivery remains consistent – the same level of precision, the same signature finishes.To date, the company has completed over 250 full or partial paint projects in the last twenty years, treated nearly 600 hulls with premium antifouling applications in the last ten years, and worked on yachts up to 123 metres in length. These figures, while impressive, reflect a broader truth: that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints</a>’ systems, skills and commitment scale effortlessly, regardless of yacht size or setting. Recent highlights include a paint project aboard the iconic 88-metre Maltese Falcon, one of the world’s most recognisable sailing yachts.This scale is matched by internal structure. “Our approach is built on three pillars,” explains Joan Salom, Deputy General Manager and third-generation member of the Salom family. “Quality control, project management, and planning.” The group offers shipyards and owners comprehensive transparency, from robust tender documentation and crystal-clear specifications, to a well-defined planning strategy led by a dedicated Project Manager.It’s not just about executing well – it’s about minimising friction for all parties involved. “Refit is a collaborative effort,” says Salom. “The less uncertainty we bring to the process, the more confident our clients become. We ensure that each stage – from quotation to completion – is handled with clarity and control.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/364999/image/large-4c3cccf38dca910ab3a5ff8340176e2b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/364999">Underwater expertise and future-proof innovationWhile superstructure work remains at the heart of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints</a>' operations, the group has also honed specialist services beneath the waterline. These include complex antifouling applications – completed on yachts up to 123 metres – as well as protective treatments for tanks up to 117-metres in length. The underwater division also specialises in water jetting technology, offering powerful yet precise surface preparation tailored for modern hull materials and coatings.Tank treatment and protection are a cornerstone of this underwater offering, performed with the same commitment to technical excellence and safety as topside work. From bilges and grey water tanks to fuel and ballast systems, these services are handled with rigorous attention to environmental and structural factors.Supporting all of this is a forward-looking training ecosystem. Staff at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints</a> are routinely upskilled through manufacturer-led sessions and internal development programmes, ensuring the team remains aligned with the latest product evolutions and application techniques.As the industry continues to shift – embracing new materials, sustainability mandates and ever-more complex designs – <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautipaints Group (Company)">Nautipaints</a> is poised to continue its quiet, confident expansion. With every brushstroke guided by the mantra Do it right, do it once, the company charts a steady course towards continued global leadership in superyacht surface perfection.

Nautipaints yacht paint approach

Nautipaints delivers yacht paint finishes worldwide with artisan precision, rigorous quality control and underwater expertise for every project.