Monaco

SuperTenders Monaco

Superyachts have long relied on tenders to support the needs of owners and guests, performing tasks that the main vessel cannot easily accommodate. Over the past decade, these boats have undergone a marked evolution in both size and functionality, giving rise to a distinct new category: the chase boat.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/378020/image/large-f344c2b68442a1153a44748350d1fa0f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/378020"> The difference between a tender and a chase boat“Tenders are typically used for short transfers or support tasks and are stored onboard the mothership, whereas a chase boat is a standalone vessel that acts as an extension of the mothership,” explains Marco Rossetti, Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Business Development at Italian boat-builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anvera (Company)">Anvera</a>.Unlike tenders, which must be launched and recovered and often occupy valuable space, chase boats can travel independently or be towed, offering significantly greater flexibility. They serve as multifunctional platforms, enabling owners and captains to meet operational needs and enhance guest experience without compromising layout or functionality of the main yacht.As service expectations onboard superyachts continue to rise, so does the demand for additional crew. With many yachts constrained by limited accommodation, chase boats can provide a valuable extension of crew space, helping to maintain high service standards while relieving pressure on the mothership.Building on this, Alex Treleani, Managing Partner at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7671" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperTenders Monaco (Company)">SuperTenders Monaco</a>, explains: “Some chase boats are towed, while others navigate alongside. But in the end, the term ‘chase boat’ comes from that it follows the main yacht. It is no longer really a tender, since it cannot be stored on deck.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/378028/image/large-9ac5c2c30a979632e5c689077a18b60a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/378028">What is fuelling the shift to chase boatsThe transition from traditional tenders to chase boats reflects shifting priorities in both the charter and ownership sectors, alongside regulatory changes that have influenced operational flexibility, guest comfort and space optimisation.Treleani explains that guests onboard superyacht charters have become increasingly demanding, particularly when it comes to comfort. “Clients have paid for the experience and want to optimise their time, often choosing to reach the next port more quickly while the mothership takes additional time to arrive, dock and prepare.”The demand for chase boats in the charter market continues to grow, Treleani adds. “During a MYBA meeting three or so years ago, there was a request that Yachtfolio include a search engine specification on whether a yacht has a chase boat, saving clients and brokers a lot of time. The idea was that, just as you can filter on the number of cabins or cruising area, you can also filter on chase boats.”Treleani underlines the appeal for private owners, too, many of whom began their yachting journey on smaller craft they could pilot themselves. “Years ago, they might have owned a 15, 21, or 24-metre yacht that they could drive. Now, with a 60 or 70-metre yacht and a crew of 18, they can no longer take the helm and have lost some of their direct connection with the sea. Many rediscover that pleasure through a chase boat which they can operate themselves.”With marinas becoming increasingly crowded, Treleani points to destinations such as Saint-Tropez, where “80 percent of superyachts are anchored offshore,” and notes that clients are no longer satisfied being ferried ashore in small inflatables that leave them wet and uncomfortable.Richard Faulkner, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4767" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Compass Tenders Ltd (Company)">Compass Tenders</a>, reinforces this point, highlighting how tenders have evolved. “Tenders have developed from small Boston Whalers into RIBs, but those boats are inherently exposed to weather conditions. If there is any chop, you are going to get wet, which is not high on the list of priorities. Comfort is paramount.”While limousine tenders once offered a more refined option, Treleani argues that the concept no longer meets the expectations of today’s clients. “You are enclosed inside and cannot see out,” adding that this has contributed to increasing demand for chase boats. Owners and guests now favour larger, more versatile tenders that deliver an enhanced on-water experience without compromising visibility or space.Privacy has also emerged as a key driver of demand. Treleani notes that many guests prefer swimming closer to shore, where the water is shallower and clearer. In the past, a small tender might be used for a quick dip, but the tender offered no amenities. By contrast, a chase boat allows guests to anchor in three or four metres of water, where they can unwind for hours at a time. The chase boat becomes an extension of the superyacht experience, offering comfort and discretion closer to shore.Rossetti adds that regulatory restrictions on where superyachts can cruise, along with anchorage limitations, have further encouraged owners to acquire chase boats. “There’s a growing trend, centred largely on the Côte d’Azur, but is rapidly spreading throughout the Mediterranean. This shift is creating more opportunities with chase boats: Owners can now travel more swiftly and comfortably to destinations that the superyacht can’t reach.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314713/image/large-0bcd1d8d2898ffb6f2afe59cfb281e4c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314713">Will they continue to get bigger?Both Rossetti and Treleani believe that the popularity of chase boats will continue to rise, although they stress that growth in size is likely to stagnate. Rossetti explains: “At the moment we build between 12-20-metres, as there is a 20-metre restriction. From what I see, chase boats will be an increasingly important trend.”Treleani takes a similar view. “A chase boat is unlikely to go much beyond that, although anything is possible. By definition, a chase boat can be almost anything, but a true chase boat that could be towed, has an upper limit of 20-metres. Our target is usually 16 to 17-metres. Beyond that, it becomes difficult.”The evolution of tenders to chase boats reflects a broader shift in how owners and guests use the water, placing greater value on comfort, privacy and versatility. Looking ahead, chase boats are set to remain central to the superyacht experience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/378021/image/large-15bfe29d6e6017bc2e944171023904ad.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/378021"> This article was featured in <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-55" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Issue 55 of the newspaper</a>. You can read all the articles from this edition <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/newspaper/newspaper-issue-55" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">here</a>, and stay up-to-date.

From tenders to chase boats

How the chase boat evolved from a simple tender into an essential extension of the superyacht, offering greater comfort, privacy and versatility.

The evolution of the chase boat

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7671" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperTenders Monaco (Company)">SuperTenders Monaco</a> specialises in selling high-end chaseboats and tenders for superyachts, as well as luxury powerboats for day cruising. Based in Monaco, the dealership offers distinguished brands including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5302" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maori Yacht (Company)">Maori Yacht</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anvera (Company)">Anvera</a>, and the famous Black Shiver built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5598" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nova Marine (Company)">Novamarine</a>, globally renowned for its high-quality rigid inflatable boats (RIBs).<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314689/image/large-df4d5bd75a0dbae75b542d882e6eabd0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314689"> Alex Treleani, co-founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7671" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperTenders Monaco (Company)">SuperTenders Monaco&nbsp;</a>alongside his business partner Alberto Minerva, a former investment banking and longstanding yacht owner/client with a shared passion for the nautical sector, brings well over two decades of maritime expertise to the company. In a recent interview with <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a>, Alex delved into the company’s origins, its commitment to meeting client needs through a meticulous selection process for the perfect chase boat, and the strategic considerations behind its brand partnerships.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314718/image/large-516dabe3c5fc3e3dcbea9a84513b05c5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314718">Origins and evolution of&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7671" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperTenders Monaco (Company)">SuperTenders Monaco</a>:The conversation began with Alex recounting his experiences in 2018 when he established <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5598" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nova Marine (Company)">Novamarine</a>'s first international sales office in Monaco to expand the brand’s global presence. Although the market response was initially slow, he noted a significant growth in demand for chaseboats among superyacht owners in recent years. "Initially, we were unaware of the existing market for chaseboats, but they have increasingly become a necessity for superyachts over 40-metres,” Alex explained. He added, “For every superyacht of this size, having a chaseboat is essential—not just a luxury. Every owner wants one.” Since 2021, demand has surged dramatically, with sales under the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5598" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nova Marine (Company)">Novamarine</a> brand soaring; “80 percent of our boats are sold directly to superyacht owners, with the remainder delivered to a select number of waterfront properties.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314694/image/large-c76a68f87217316bdfb841ab2589e2dd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314694">As the conversation unfolded, Alex noted that introductions to friends of his clients, many of whom were superyacht owners impressed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5598" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nova Marine (Company)">Novamarine</a>’s chaseboats, often led to direct inquiries. However, he observed a consistent trend: these clients were seeking features that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5598" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nova Marine (Company)">Novamarine</a> could not always provide, such as enhanced indoor accommodations suitable for sleeping and more versatile outdoor spaces. “These requests were beyond the scope of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5598" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nova Marine (Company)">Novamarine</a>’s designs,” Alex remarked. “Saying 'no' to a client is something we avoid at all costs. It's crucial to listen to the client's needs. If we don’t have the right product, we can’t just say yes and then deliver something else. We need to ensure that our offerings align with their expectations; otherwise it would not be honest”.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314695/image/large-2b5776cecd4a984a87046db3149f6850.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314695">Brands partnering with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7671" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperTenders Monaco (Company)">SuperTenders Monaco</a>:Recognising this gap in the market led to the creation of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7671" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperTenders Monaco (Company)">SuperTenders Monaco</a>, which provides a broader range of brands with custom features to meet specific client needs. To differentiate from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5598" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nova Marine (Company)">Novamarine</a>, they conducted thorough market research to identify brands that were distinct yet compatible. “The only thing our selected brands have in common with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5598" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nova Marine (Company)">Novamarine</a> is that their products floated,” Alex humorously noted, emphasising that each brand in their portfolio stands out for its distinctive features and superior quality.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314715/image/large-f3a51d57429f13086843fe0f8c6b1c30.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314715">This search led them to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5302" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maori Yacht (Company)">Maori</a>, a shipyard based in Sardinia. After productive discussions, they secured an agreement as exclusive dealership to represent <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5302" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maori Yacht (Company)">Maori</a> in Monaco and France. Traditionally known as a builder of day cruisers, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5302" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maori Yacht (Company)">Maori</a> has recently ventured into the chaseboat market. Recent deliveries include notable vessels such as a chaseboat for several superyachts, such as a Dutch-built 87-metre yacht, a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a> 40-metre and a 50-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1080" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rossinavi (Company)">Rossinavi</a>. The success with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5302" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maori Yacht (Company)">Maori</a> opened further opportunities, leading to a partnership with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anvera (Company)">Anvera</a>, an innovative Italian shipbuilder from the Adriatic coast. Despite being relatively new in the industry, with just about ten years of operation, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anvera (Company)">Anvera</a> stands out with its unique product. Their boats are entirely built from carbon fibre and feature a distinctive design where the aft transom stern space fully opens to create a vast floating beach. This design appeals to clients who value expansive outdoor areas when their chaseboat is paired with a mothership.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314716/image/large-539bcf14f2d49037934664d09555c12b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314716">How they select the shipyards:When asked about the key factors he considers when selecting boat builders to partner with, Alex emphasised the paramount importance of quality. "Number one is quality. We look for top-level quality builders, which often means they build only a limited number of boats. Quality and quantity simply do not go hand in hand," he explained. Alex highlighted that while many builders produce fine boats that function as chaseboats, their high production numbers often limit the quality and customisation options available.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314713/image/large-0bcd1d8d2898ffb6f2afe59cfb281e4c.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314713">Customisation is the second critical factor. “Our clients are requesting specific customisations that reflect their unique needs and lifestyles,” Alex added. With brands like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5598" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nova Marine (Company)">Novamarine</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5302" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maori Yacht (Company)">Maori</a>, and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anvera (Company)">Anvera</a>, yacht owners receive a level of service akin to what they would expect from superyacht shipyards. They are provided with personalised renderings and a list of feasible customisations, always within reasonable limits, such as “not adding a helipad” to a chaseboat. This level of attention tends to be feasible only with a limited annual production, ensuring each vessel meets the highest standards of quality and personalisation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/315376/image/large-f4d6f028e40f754034fec9095b8caa5f.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/315376">Overall, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7671" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperTenders Monaco (Company)">SuperTenders Monaco</a> has not only positioned itself as a leader in the chaseboat market but also exemplifies the pinnacle of customisation and quality in the maritime industry. Through strategic partnerships with top-tier builders like <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5302" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maori Yacht (Company)">Maori</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5744" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Anvera (Company)">Anvera</a>, and its sister-company <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5598" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nova Marine (Company)">Novamarine</a> Monaco, &nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7671" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperTenders Monaco (Company)">SuperTenders Monaco</a> ensures every superyacht owner’s needs are not just met, but exceeded. The dedicated approach to offering bespoke solutions illustrates their commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. Moreover, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7671" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperTenders Monaco (Company)">SuperTenders Monaco</a> is poised for expansion with plans to include two prestigious brands under their exclusive dealership, one from an American shipyard and another from a European builder.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/314714/image/large-81b12ba9de5e66d59f6e275ae4ef1a7b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/314714">For those discerning clients looking to enhance their superyacht experience with a customised chase boat that combines luxury with functionality, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7671" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperTenders Monaco (Company)">SuperTenders Monaco</a> stands ready to deliver.

How can SuperTenders Monaco help you navigate the waters of high-end chaseboats?

SuperTenders Monaco specialises in selling high-end chaseboats and tenders for superyachts, as well as luxury powerboats for day cruising.