Indonesia

Pacific High

Francesca Webster recently had the chance to visit Indonesia’s Raja Ampat and explore this untouched region aboard the spectacular Dewata with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7638" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pacific High (Company)">Pacific High</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/363897/image/large-8c405b14d0c9b90bcc2b00c42cd27d97.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/363897">Recognised as one of the world’s last frontiers, it is no surprise that Raja Ampat was recently named among National Geographic's top travel destinations for 2025. Comprising over 600 spectacular islands, the archipelago sits within the famous Coral Triangle, and is home to over 70 percent of the world’s marine fauna and flora. It is, however, not a destination for the faint of heart. Sitting to the far east of Indonesia, on the western peninsula of Papua New Guinea, travellers face a long journey over land and sea to reach its aquamarine shores. What awaits those who make the journey however, is a lush and magnificently unspoilt world, both over and below the water, making it a haven for scuba divers and birders alike. One of the great advantages of it being so hard to get to, of course, is that Raja Ampat sees only a tiny portion of Indonesia’s annual tourism, making it one of the most attractive destinations for superyacht owners and charter guests, particularly those looking to explore the region in solitude.&nbsp;Like many other regions of Asia, Indonesia has strict regulations when it comes to superyacht charter and the commercial vessels operating in Raja Ampat must be Indonesian flagged. What makes it unique, is that the vast majority of vessels on the water are also traditional in their styling, built in the Indonesian Phinisi style, meaning that very few contemporary boats can be found on the water, replaced instead by the wooden hulls and twin masts of the UNESCO recognised vessels. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/363902/image/large-13f381f345a8da0d9ea2b7405f2b87b7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/363902">For those seeking an authentic Phinisi sailing experience, few offerings rival the yachts crafted by Pacific High. Built in accordance with time-honoured traditions in South Sulawesi, northern Indonesia, these vessels are the result of meticulous craftsmanship and cultural reverence. Founded in Bira in 2018 by Yann Martinie de Maisonneuve, together with partners Peter and Charlotte Gaslgaard, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7638" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pacific High (Company)">Pacific High</a> has, to date, completed three stunning yachts – Nataraja, Dewata, and Senja – with the fourth, the 36-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13781" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanya33.0m (108'3&quot;)Pacific High2025">Sanya</a>, slated for delivery in August this year. They are also due to begin construction on another 44-metre and 54-metre this year, which will join the charter fleet in 2027.&nbsp;Each yacht is constructed at the company’s 5,600-square-metre beachside facility, nestled among palm trees and capable of accommodating up to four builds simultaneously. Here, traditional Phinisi techniques are thoughtfully combined with modern technologies, resulting in vessels that are as technically accomplished as they are timeless.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/363901/image/large-fa9f83cdb2e9e43fc87622797cfcfc65.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/363901">Over the past seven years, Yann has drawn on his deep-rooted expertise in maritime operations and Phinisi craftsmanship, going back over 16 years, to bring these remarkable yachts to life. His unwavering dedication to preserving Indonesia’s seafaring heritage is reflected in every detail – a harmonious blend of age-old artistry and contemporary luxury. Complementing this vision is <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7638" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pacific High (Company)">Pacific High</a>’s specialist design team, which works closely with clients to transform personal visions into bespoke realities, delivering vessels that are both functional and profoundly individual.During a recent visit to Indonesia I was lucky enough to step aboard Dewata and experience the unmatched Indonesian hospitality for myself, here is an insight into our charter;Cruising with DewataWhile many yacht charters in Raja Ampat begin in Sorong – the bustling capital on the Papua mainland – we were fortunate to embark in Waisai, located on the island of Waigeo. From the moment we spotted her from the shore, the yacht stood out effortlessly with her distinctive blue hull and a warm welcome from her eleven-strong crew awaiting our arrival.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/363903/image/large-2e77f2ae9a235115fae09531c155be21.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/363903">Crafted from traditional Indonesian ironwood, her aesthetic is a seamless blend of timeless elegance and local craftsmanship. Her layout spans two principal decks, thoughtfully arranged for both comfort and style. At the fore of the main deck, a sheltered lounge provides a breezy, shaded retreat, while a central dining space offers the perfect setting for relaxed breakfasts and leisurely lunches. Towards the aft, two generously proportioned double staterooms with en suite bathrooms await – each boasting a shower with what must surely be one of the finest views over the water. This section of the deck also includes a private terrace with an alfresco dining area and sun lounge. Cleverly designed, the entire aft can be closed off to create an exclusive owner’s deck, offering privacy and direct access to the swim platform.Above, the upper deck delivers the best vantage point onboard. Shaded sunloungers invite guests to take in panoramic views – especially mesmerising while crossing the Dampier Strait, a world-renowned migratory route for whales and dolphins. In the evenings, this deck transforms into an open-air dining space, where lights strung between the masts cast a warm glow, setting the stage for sunset cocktails and starlit dinners.The interior has been designed to instantly relax her guests, with beautiful linens and local fabrics used for the furnishings and the traditional wood holding place as the cornerstone of the design.An adventurers paradise&nbsp;As passionate scuba divers, both my husband and I were thrilled by the opportunity to dive directly from the vessel – a privilege that elevated the entire charter experience. The presence of a knowledgeable dive master onboard opened the door to some of the region’s most secluded and pristine sites, often untouched by other visitors. Each morning began with the anticipation of a new underwater adventure, thoughtfully planned with the crew, who provided beautifully illustrated dive site diagrams to ensure we were well-prepared for the unique conditions and features of each location.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/363900/image/large-f1ebb66ca3ad25ebed8bd89543e7a7e9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/363900">We explored a number of iconic dive sites, including the extraordinary Melissa’s Garden – renowned for its vibrant coral garden spread across a submerged reef, showcasing some of the healthiest and most diverse hard coral formations in the region. Cape Kri was another highlight, holding the world record for the highest number of fish species spotted on a single dive – over 350 in total. Alongside these celebrated destinations, we also had the privilege of visiting a number of lesser-known spots, which were, almost without exception, completely deserted apart from ourselves.Perhaps the most unforgettable moment came when we had the rare chance to dive with oceanic manta rays – not just once, but on multiple occasions. It was a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. The expertise and attentiveness of Dewata’s crew and dive team made each dive not only safe and seamless but also genuinely spectacular.For guests who prefer to stay above the waterline, the region offers an abundance of opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Snorkelling reveals vibrant reefs just beneath the surface, while the yacht is well-equipped with kayaks and paddleboards – amenities we thoroughly enjoyed. Gliding across the water by paddleboard, we were able to discover a number of idyllic sandy islands, each one more picturesque than the last.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/363898/image/large-65aeb9fffbbb37f77ef017f920d524bf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/363898">Beyond the aquatic adventures, Raja Ampat is equally renowned for its rich biodiversity on land – particularly its endemic bird species. Chief among them are the mesmerising birds of paradise, whose elaborate and theatrical mating displays draw nature enthusiasts from around the world. Thanks to Pacific High’s longstanding relationships with local communities – whose deep knowledge of the land is essential to locating these elusive creatures – Dewata’s crew were able to arrange an unforgettable experience for us. In the early hours, we departed the yacht at 4:30am and trekked into the rainforest, eventually reaching a bamboo hide high in the trees. There, as the dawn broke, we watched the Red Bird of Paradise perform its otherworldly courtship ritual – a truly magical moment, and without question one of the highlights of our Raja Ampat adventure.The superyacht experienceNo account of our journey would be complete without reflecting on the exceptional experience of life aboard the yacht herself. From the outset, the onboard team delivered a level of service and hospitality that far exceeded expectations. The chef crafted a menu that was fresh, vibrant and beautifully imaginative – each meal a celebration of local ingredients and global culinary finesse. Meanwhile, the onboard masseuse ensured we remained completely relaxed throughout, adding a deeply restorative dimension to our time at sea.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/363899/image/large-2ca3682676bab351a83ebab06236ba05.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/363899">The crew of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7638" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pacific High (Company)">Pacific High</a> proved, without question, that the charm and authenticity of a traditional sailing yacht can rival – and in many ways surpass – the luxury of a modern motor yacht. To bring our charter to a memorable close, Dewata cruised to a remote private island near the Fam Islands, where the crew had arranged a breathtaking beach dinner. Beneath an elegant awning, with lounge chairs set up on the sand, we dined as the sun dipped below the horizon – a truly magical finale to an unforgettable voyage.

Exploring the Last Frontier: Raja Ampat expeditions with Pacific High

Francesca Webster recently had the chance to visit Raja Ampat and explore this untouched region aboard the spectacular Dewata with Pacific High.

The latest edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper – <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-53" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Issue 53</a> – has arrived, offering readers a fresh dose of exclusive editorial, incisive analysis and insightful interviews from across the global superyacht industry.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/360673/image/large-b6d5265d50ded621a0366e0a29fcc9d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/360673">Business insight and design exclusivesThis issue features a rare business interview with the team behind <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/47" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Delta Marine (Company)">Delta Marine</a>, one of America’s most respected and private custom superyacht builders. From their state-of-the-art Seattle-based shipyard, Delta has long been synonymous with high-quality, full-displacement yachts. In our sit-down, they discuss their evolving client base, the intricacies of building in the United States, and their strategic direction for the decade ahead.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/360675/image/large-99879f567f02aa2489a79ff04106c42e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/360675">Design aficionados will also enjoy an exclusive At the Studio interview with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a>, the award-winning British design house behind some of the most admired yachts on the water today. The team opens the doors to their Beaulieu River studio, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at their design philosophy, recent projects, and the collaborative approach that continues to drive their success.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/360674/image/large-baea87276b8faa13c3b62c30d0668a7c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/360674">Market review and refit spotlightIn this edition’s Intelligence section, we present a comprehensive review of the sailing yacht market. Drawing on a decade of data and recent transaction trends, our analysts examine how demand has shifted post-pandemic, which segments are thriving, and where market gaps are beginning to emerge.Also in this issue is a feature on the extensive refit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Starfire73.0m (239'6&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2007">Starfire</a>, the 73-metre motor yacht that has been extensively redesigned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7339" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pascoli International (Company)">Pascoli International</a> and the team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/44" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeking & Rasmussen (Company)">Abeking &amp; Rasmussen</a>. We speak to the design team and long-serving crew who brought this timeless yacht back to life, exploring how functionality and heritage were preserved throughout the project.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/360672/image/large-6c4522a743dd0b360b3991542367d962.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/360672">Exploring the Indonesian archipelagoFor readers with a taste for travel and tradition, this issue includes a captivating exploration of Indonesia’s traditional Phinisi sailing yachts. We profile <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7638" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pacific High (Company)">Pacific High</a>, one of the finest examples of these hand-crafted vessels operating today, and dive into the unique cultural and aesthetic legacy that Phinisis represent in the modern charter landscape.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/360676/image/large-51d44db399458e3687702787110814b5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/360676">Get this and much more in <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-53" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Issue 53</a>, which is available now in print and digital formats. For subscription details or to read the issue online, visit <a target="_blank">www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper</a>.

SuperYacht Times Issue 53 published

The latest edition of the SuperYacht Times newspaper – Issue 53 – has arrived, find out more here.

Issue 53 of the SuperYacht Times newspaper now available

Following a successful first day at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/213" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a>, day two provided more insightful topics and discussions from expert panellists. Day two also gave attendees the opportunity to network and connect with colleagues from across the industry in a Networking Dinner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314531/image/large-f5b4257ff0df71414f4eec46208e9ec9.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314531">You can catch up with everything that happened during <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/60662" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Everything you missed from day one of the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2024 (2024-06-06 17:00:00 +0200)">day one of the Asia-Pacific 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/314128/image/large-98f0a44cf8d502b6a45ef76f54a5d790.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314128">The Business of Marinas: How to build a successful marina in Asia<ul><li>Jonathan Sit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2015" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="One °15 Marina (Company)">ONE°15 Marina</a></li><li>Ekrem Reyhancioglu of Poralu Marine</li><li>Cassy Wong of KIMDA</li></ul>Ekrem Reyhancioglu began by emphasising the shift from viewing marinas merely as yacht parking to recognising them as profitable components of broader waterfront developments. He described modern marinas as dynamic ecosystems that attract both yacht owners and non-owners, ultimately enhancing their profitability and appeal as destinations.Jonathan Sit agreed, focusing on the evolving business models of marinas toward sustainability. He highlighted the industry's move towards eco-friendly practices, spurred by the need to address environmental concerns and appeal to environmentally conscious generations like millennials and Gen Z.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314133/image/large-da74fbe67d48dd0419457f51a8859673.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314133">Cassy Wong pointed to Hercules Port in Monaco as an example of success, noting its combination of favourable weather, luxurious lifestyle, and comprehensive services that cater to every need of yacht arrivals, from refits to safe berthing, making it a premier destination for the elite.Ekrem cited the complexity of marina regulations across over twenty diverse countries as a significant challenge and stressed the importance of educating governments about the multifaceted role of marinas beyond just docking facilities; having characterised them as vibrant ecosystems that could benefit from more supportive governmental policies on regulations, licensing, and taxes.Jonathan emphasised the necessity for the marina industry to improve how it communicates its goals and operations to governments, noting a misalignment between what the industry aims to do and governmental perceptions. He referenced the effectiveness of the Singapore Hotel Association in uniting hotels to manage and share data, which helps in planning infrastructure.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314139/image/large-a0356e9e63035e9c737f14711ba48490.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314139">How European yacht builders try to attract more Asian clients<ul><li>Giorgio Cassetta, Founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cassetta Yacht Designers (Company)">Cassetta Yacht Designers</a></li><li>Gabriele Stella, Head of Sales, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a></li><li>Federico Rossi of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1080" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rossinavi (Company)">Rossinavi</a></li><li>Burak Akgül of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise Yachts</a></li></ul>The panel brought together industry experts to delve into the strategies employed by European yacht builders and designers to appeal to Asian clients.&nbsp;Federico elaborated on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1080" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rossinavi (Company)">Rossinavi</a>'s strategic shift towards focusing on the Asian market, stressing the importance of understanding the unique mentality and market dynamics of the region.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314138/image/large-0112498f9ad08eb1915b2d0c30f6ff13.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314138">Giorgio then provided insights into design preferences, highlighting the importance of tailored designs that cater to Asian customers' preferences, particularly focusing on the significance of shaded decks to fit the climate.Gabriele also discussed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>'s approach to developing yacht designs tailored specifically to the Asian market, focusing on the investment they have made in interior design and the involvement of designers to meet the unique preferences of Asian clients.The panel also explored the concept of brand value in the region, drawing on insights from Perini Navi's experiences and accentuating the importance of maintaining a consistent brand essence and delivering exceptional quality.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314140/image/large-abe35c3b5b9311690ecc83b45fb48759.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314140">Creating a charter market in Indonesia with phinisi yachts<ul><li>Yann Martinie de Maisonneuve, Co-Founder &amp; Director, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7638" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pacific High (Company)">Pacific High Cruises</a></li></ul>The discussion began with an interesting presentation from Yann about the foundation of his business and his motivations for building phinisi style yachts in the traditional way in Indonesia. This was shared alongside a presentation of the company’s vessels, alongside images of their 5,000 square-metre beachside construction facility.&nbsp;Following this, Enrico Chhibber, Features Writer at SuperYacht Times, hosted a Q&amp;A with Yann to get a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that phinisi yachts in particular offer to the market. Having begun the construction of his first boat only weeks after arriving in Indonesia, Yann has an unusually deep insight into the complexities of the phinisi yacht construction. He also shared some of the spectacular opportunities that the region holds from a yacht cruising perspective.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314144/image/large-a63ac81f8d0c673f1ae66ce6e234d078.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314144">The future of yacht construction in Asia<ul><li>Rod Davis, Chief Operating Officer, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/899" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silver Yachts (Company)">Silver Yachts</a></li><li>Allen Leng, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2561" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heysea Yachts (Company)">Heysea</a></li><li>Glenn Armstrong, Maritime Cook Islands</li><li>Dan Mundy, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1394" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Alexander (Company)">Ocean Alexander</a></li></ul>The panel evaluated the challenges currently faced by builders within the region, looking into topics such as the labour market, supply chain and local demand. &nbsp;Rod discussed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/899" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Silver Yachts (Company)">Silver Yachts</a>' decision to move aspects of their production capacity to China and how they streamlined their processes to leverage the strengths and skills of their Chinese facilities.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314145/image/large-e8c4e466618e791f07e9ddc38a965d62.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314145">Allen noted the challenge of maintaining high standards in a rapidly maturing market, while Rod elaborated on the necessity of hard work, supervision, and strict quality control measures, particularly in overcoming setbacks caused by COVID-19.Rod expressed confidence in the region's capability to become a key player in custom yachts over 60 metres, citing facilities capable of producing up to 120-metre yachts, while Allen emphasised the government's control over water sources as a crucial factor in the industry's growth.Dan stressed the importance of maintaining an international design perspective and mentioned that Ocean Alexander has ongoing projects in the 45-metre range and plans to expand into sub-500 GT yachts between 30-50 metres.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314149/image/large-f0e4b18a9d89fab731378f60be326294.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314149">Navigating the new-build journey<ul><li>Yerin Hobson, CEO, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4946" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arrow Monaco (Company)">Arrow Monaco</a></li><li>Roy Chan, Legalmapp</li><li>Antony Cowie, Cowie &amp; Co</li><li>Paris Baloumis, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a></li></ul>This panel provided valuable insights into the intricacies of managing new-build yacht projects, emphasising the importance of thorough planning, transparent communication, and effective legal strategies to ensure successful outcomes.Paris opened the discussion by discussing how to minimise changes during the yacht building process, while Antony stressed how it is crucial not to rush the contract phase to ensure a smoother process and minimise changes during the build.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314151/image/large-ccdf13aa0334f8a6254b23e4fecbb6cc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314151">Although he was unable to attend, Yersin’s insights on a growing interest in larger, fully custom yachts in the Asian market were shared. He expressed how brands like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> and the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4876" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ferretti Group (Company)">Ferretti Group</a> have been successful in selling boats in this region, indicating that clients are increasingly ready to acquire larger yachts.Antony explained how managing client’s expectations both in new builds and brokerage sales is extremely important. He said that transparency throughout the process is vital from a yard’s point of view, ensuring that clients understand the complexities and timelines involved in a new-build project.Roy shared his experiences dealing with legal disputes involving shipyards and cash flow difficulties and how these often arise from misaligned expectations and financial management issues. He emphasised the importance of clear contracts and proactive legal measures to handle such disputes effectively.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314156/image/large-69180caee9fef2d4f4a2820c482d73af.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314156">Travelling off the beaten track<ul><li>Nick Davies, Managing Director at Cookson Adventures</li></ul>During the course of the two days many panellists and delegates inferred that yacht cruising in the Asia-Pacific region is cruising ‘off the beaten track’ by very definition, because there is so little infrastructure to support yachts and so many places to explore. A true expert on this topic, Nick Davies presented some of the most unusual and exciting adventures that the region had to offer, but also shared his insight on the demands of regional clients when they are considering adventurous yacht travel. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314157/image/large-d795cd3395e47b2b88287b0c5f22a3da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314157">Raised in Hong Kong, Nick knows the region well, and has worked with many local clients over the past 15 years to tap into some of its most unexplored regions. Sharing his insight, he discussed some of the challenges that superyacht and land-based adventure travellers face, offering an insight into how the Cookson Adventures team set up a rugged infrastructure to ensure that their trips - which can last years - run as smoothly as possible.In addition, Nick explained how clients look to spend their time onboard their yachts, whether as owners or charterers, and gave the delegates an insight into some of the scientific and conservation projects that clients have undertaken in recent years. Many of the company’s clients specifically seek out underfunded scientific research programmes to undertake during their expeditions and sabbaticals, offering funding that in other times is very hard to come by. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314161/image/large-93178503581f46b7adcf07b599d32b24.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314161">Keynote interview with Rose Damen of Damen YachtingFrancesca Webster was proud to be joined on stage by Rose Damen, Managing Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> and one of the leading female figures in the yachting industry. During the course of their 45 minute Q&amp;A, Rose shared a detailed insight into the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>’s perspective on the Asia Pacific region, highlighting the success of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a> Limited Editions brand in the region and the increasing popularity of the Yacht Support vessels, both within the region and beyond.&nbsp;Sharing her own personal experiences of living in Asia and the fact that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> had 25% Asia-Pacific clientele (before the Covid-19 pandemic), she was able to give a detailed insight into the perspective of local clientele. She also explained the origin of her own decision to join the family business within the yachting, rather than commercial, sector, and her insight into the development of the yacht industry in her years with the company. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314160/image/large-f926177ae144e39395242a8fc00e644d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314160">During the course of the interview, delegates from the audience asked questions about the challenges the shipyard has faced in recent years and she was candid with the reasoning for the yards focus on the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/18" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amels (Company)">Amels</a> Limited Editions platforms, which have been exceedingly successful since the 1990s. Rose shared that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> invested between €10-12 million in the development of a new Limited Editions series and gave the audience an insight into the process which takes place in collaboration with owners, designers and the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> team.&nbsp;Rose is also a fierce advocate for the promotion of women in yachting, and the company hosted an event on the Tuesday before the event gathering the local community together onboard a yacht cruising in the harbour. She shared her passion for this venture and also noted that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> works hard to advocate for the promotion of all young people in the superyacht sector. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309712/image/large-06de7766ac2658eed9825f9bdb17b7cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309712">

Asia-Pacific 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 Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2024.