Australia

The Superyacht People

SuperYacht Times has announced additional topics and speakers for the upcoming <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/325" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit - 2026 - 3rd Edition">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a>. Now in its third edition, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/325" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit - 2026 - 3rd Edition">event</a> will take place on 7 and 8 May 2026 in Kobe, Japan, at La Suite Kobe Oceans Garden.Following two previous editions in Hong Kong, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/325" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit - 2026 - 3rd Edition">Summit</a> will be hosted in Japan for the first time, reflecting increased industry focus on the country’s expanding superyacht infrastructure and cruising potential.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390760/image/large-146654e30858a77fb5fc5eb4bef88ac9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390760">Thursday 7 May&nbsp;8:30 - 9:15 - Welcome Coffee&nbsp;9:15 - 9:30 - Presenting the Asia-Pacific Superyacht ReportThe <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/325" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit - 2026 - 3rd Edition">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a> will begin with the presentation of the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Market Report 2025/2026. This report provides an overview of recent developments in the region and outlines the principal topics for discussion throughout the event.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390751/image/large-c17bf753c2c926c9c96faf500643d6d7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390751">9:30 - 10:10 - Kobe as a regional gateway for superyacht operationsThis panel will explore the development of Kobe’s marina and associated superyacht facilities, assessing how improved infrastructure, services and regulatory access may strengthen the city’s role as a gateway for yachts operating in Japanese waters.<ul><li>Mr Kinoshita, President and CEO of the Hotel New Awaji Group, representing the Awaji Island Tourism Association (DMO)</li><li>Nigel Beatty, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1317" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtzoo (Company)">Yachtzoo</a></li><li>Mr Makiya Nambu, Executive Vice President and Director, Pasona Group</li><li>Mr Koji Shirahase, Director of Waterfront Redevelopment Department at Port and Harbor Bureau, Kobe&nbsp;</li><li>Mr. Hiroshi Taneike, Yacht Harbor Co., Ltd</li></ul><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390752/image/large-4175f60f0567c30532aeebf8e52a51be.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390752">10:10 - 10:50 - Developing Japan as a superyacht destinationRecent amendments to regulations governing foreign-flagged yachts have begun to reduce long-standing barriers to entry in Japan. This session will explore how these reforms, combined with infrastructure investment and destination development, are influencing cruising patterns and the country’s broader appeal to visiting superyachts.<ul><li>Mr. Yukio Shintani, President of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1132" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Creation Marine (Company)">Creation Marine</a></li><li>Kenta Inaba, President and Partner at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6572" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Super Yacht Logistics Japan (Company)">Super Yacht Logistics Japan</a></li><li>Kirk Patterson, President of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8701" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Konpira Yacht Services (Company)">Konpira Yacht Services</a></li><li>Mr Yoshiteru Sakaguchi, Director of the Chugoku–Shikoku Office, Ministry of the Environment, Government of Japan</li><li>Mr Toru Nishio, Director of Exchange Promotion Department , Kagawa Prefectural Government</li></ul>10:50 - 11:30 - Coffee Break<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390754/image/large-6a4403fa952b0bb75c87852b2c061cd1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390754">11:30 - 12:00 - Understanding Japanese superyacht clientsMichael will draw on his experience working with Japanese clients to discuss how cultural expectations, communication styles and decision-making structures influence the sales and ownership process.<ul><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><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390755/image/large-8b5bf0bc19637c2d7cdd19cb81b98d07.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390755">12:00 - 12:40 - How superyacht purchasing patterns are evolving in Asia-Pacific regionAs wealth demographics shift and new generations of owners enter the market, purchasing behaviour across the Asia-Pacific is evolving. This panel will explore how client expectations, usage patterns, brokerage practices and financing structures are changing, and what these developments mean for builders, brokers and service providers seeking to engage buyers in the region.<ul><li>Julien Solari, CCO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a> Asia&nbsp;</li><li>Angel Zhou, President of Sales for Asia, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>&nbsp;</li><li>Nina Lee Boudoul, Director for the Asia Pacific Region, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunreef Yachts (Company)">Sunreef</a></li></ul><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392087/image/large-c19c4953f41c908f20a6b08e0bb44196.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392087">12:40 - 13:05 - Inside Japan’s yachting industry: Culture, experience and challengesIn this session, Phillip Peatey, who has spent more than 15 years working in the Japanese yachting industry as an owner’s representative and regatta organiser will share first-hand perspectives on Japan’s superyacht industry.Drawing on his experience, the discussion will explore the challenges of operating in Japan, the nuances of engaging with Japanese stakeholders and the local business practices that shape the industry.<ul><li>Phillip Peatey&nbsp;</li></ul>13:10 - 14:30 - Lunch&nbsp;14:30 - 15:10 - &nbsp;Q&amp;A with Stuart Gibson owner of 35.2-metre&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a>&nbsp;yacht SkyeIn this session, Gibson, who has cruised extensively in Japan, will discuss his background, his experiences in the country and his decision to relocate there. He will also reflect on what he values about living in Japan and share his views on how the country can further develop as an attractive yachting destination.&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390753/image/large-0b0afecebe8afe0e88e753d58b8ccca5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390753">15:10 - 16:00 - Why International shipyards are investing in the Asia-PacificSeveral international shipyards have expanded their presence in the Asia-Pacific region in recent years. This panel will examine the strategic motivations behind that investment and how these builders evaluate the region’s long-term commercial potential.<ul><li>Nick Stratton, Chief Sales Officer, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo Asia-Pacific (Company)">Sanlorenzo APAC</a></li><li>Erwin Bamps, CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/955" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gulf Craft (Company)">Gulf Craft Group</a></li><li>Rob Luijendijk, Director Sales at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a></li><li>Andrea Antichi, General Manager of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/358" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azimut Yachts (Company)">Azimut Yachts</a></li></ul><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390843/image/large-3ceeb2a2134513d03fbaf7eb05fec67f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390843">16:00 - 16:30 - The Australia playbook for yacht building in Asia-PacificThis panel will examine the development of yacht building in Asia-Pacific through the lens of the Australian market. It will explore what Australia has done well, where further progress may still be needed, and whether its experience offers a practical model for other regional yards seeking to strengthen their global competitiveness.<ul><li>Chris Blackwell, Sales &amp; Marketing Manager, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4342" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Echo Yachts (Company)">Echo Yachts</a></li><li>David Good, President, CEO, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7593" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) (Company)">Australian International Marine Export Group</a></li></ul>16:30 - 17:30 - Drinks19:00 - 22:30 - DinnerFriday 8 May8:45 - 9:45 - Welcome Coffee<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390759/image/large-910e8fbfc2431ebbb1e92380d9b21128.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390759">9:45 - 10:30 Developing marinas for superyacht operations in Asia-Pacific region As more superyachts cruise the region, marina infrastructure is becoming a prerequisite for sustained growth. This panel will examine how developers and operators are both building new facilities and upgrading existing marinas to accommodate larger yachts, from berth depth and shore power to technical services and crew amenities, and assess what operational standards are required to support consistent superyacht activity across the Asia-Pacific.<ul><li>Ruurd van Putten, Area Director Southeast Asia at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8222" href="https://sya.superyachttimes.com/news/per:100/title:asia-pacific+superyacht+summit/published:0/not_published:0#managed-by-system" target="_blank">Marinetek</a></li><li>Cissy Chan, Executive Director, Commercial, Airport Authority Hong Kong</li><li>Robin Shellcock, Superyacht Captain</li></ul><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390757/image/large-bc4d38374beaf6faf996b76f0137e399.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390757">10:30 - 11:15 - Operating yachts in Asia-Pacific: insurance, compliance and riskThis panel will explore the insurance landscape for superyachts operating in Japan and the wider Asia-Pacific region, focusing on current challenges, market perceptions and the practical considerations facing owners, captains and managers.<ul><li>Martin Baum, Managing Director at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/314" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pantaenius (Company)">Pantaenius</a>&nbsp;</li><li>Zachary Bailey Principal at Indo Pacific Solutions</li><li>James Drysdale, Associate Director at Howden Sturge</li><li>Edward Majdalany, Founder &amp; CEO at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7869" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zairos (Company)">Zairos</a>&nbsp;</li><li>Alaettin Sevim, Compliance Officer at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7687" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="FEMA Marine (Company)">FEMA Marine</a></li></ul>11:15 - 12:00 - Coffee Break&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390761/image/large-fe86f4ed3a6e6141128737307e5f6f46.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390761">12:00 - 12:30 - Captain Christoph Schaefer on cruising in AsiaCaptain Christoph Schaefer of the 48.53-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/960" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Flyghtship Construction Ltd (Company)">Flyghtship Construction</a> superyacht<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1482" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="V648.53m (159'3&quot;)Flyghtship Construction Ltd2007">&nbsp;V6</a> will discuss his cruising experiences across the Asia-Pacific region, with particular focus on his time in Japan last year.<ul><li>Captain Christoph Schaefer, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1482" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="V648.53m (159'3&quot;)Flyghtship Construction Ltd2007">V6</a></li></ul><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390758/image/large-997b9f6d0597a30e09159fa9a1d69271.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390758">12:30 - 13:10 - The Pacific cruising corridor: Connecting Australia, New Zealand and the Islands This session will explore the potential for a more integrated Pacific cruising corridor between Australia, New Zealand and island destinations. It will assess the regulatory, operational and infrastructure barriers that currently fragment the region, and examine what changes would be needed to enable smoother cross-border cruising and longer itineraries.<ul><li>Justin Bourgeois, Captain of the 34.14-metre Derecktor sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2250" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kawil34.14m (112'0&quot;)Derecktor Shipyards2000">Kawil</a></li><li>Cameron Bray, Managing Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7294" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Superyacht People (Company)">The Superyacht People</a></li></ul>13:10 - 14:30 - Lunch<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/392088/image/large-9e5b1647097ea7d03daf469ef10d905d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/392088">14:30 - 15-15 - &nbsp;Inside Japanese business culture and UHNW trendsChiaki Nagato&nbsp;will draw on her experience as an entrepreneur operating across Japan and international markets to offer an insider perspective on how business is conducted in Japan.The discussion will explore the cultural dynamics that shape business relationships, as well as emerging trends among ultra-high-net-worth individuals in the country. It will also provide practical insight into how international businesses can navigate the Japanese market, from building trust to understanding local expectations and decision-making processes.<ul><li>Chiaki Nagato,&nbsp; Japanese entrepreneur</li></ul><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386889/image/large-b403243d51fafe27c94b8b9facc8db8f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386889">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/325" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit - 2026 - 3rd Edition">Summit</a> has become an important meeting point for stakeholders and decision-makers across the Asia-Pacific yachting industry. Although Japan has not traditionally been regarded as a major yachting market, it is home to more than 21,000 ultra-high-net-worth individuals, highlighting its longer-term relevance within the global superyacht sector.By bringing together owners, operators and industry leaders, the event provides a forum to examine how markets such as Japan are evolving, and what is required for the region to support more consistent, year-round superyacht activity.15: 15 - 15:30 - Recap and final words from Merijn de Waard<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/384822/image/large-01a206f2bdb72f4c331b95cf173db8a6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/384822">

Topics and speakers announced for APSS 2026

SuperYacht Times has unveiled the preliminary topics for the upcoming Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit

Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2026 programme

Last week, Features Editor Leona Caanen attended the inaugural Sydney Charter Show, located at Jones Bay Wharf and organised by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Australia (Company)">Superyacht Australia</a>. Over the course of a week, the Sydney Harbour was overflowing with the presence of superyachts and sailboats, starting off with the Sydney Charter Show on Sunday 21 and Monday 22 of February, followed by the Australian Superyacht Conference held on Tuesday, February 23.The remainder of the week and weekend saw the preparations of the SailGP and the race on Saturday and Sunday where the iconic Sydney Harbour served as a backdrop. Here’s what you might have missed:<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386838/image/large-175d95569695bfcf11e74c059e17cadd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386838">Sydney Charter ShowWhat used to be just a superyacht soirée, has turned into a proper two-day show, hosted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Australia (Company)">Superyacht Australia</a>, which is the peak body for the Australian Superyacht Industry. With a key focus to promote the South Pacific’s international competitiveness as a destination for the global superyacht fleet, as well as to increase visitation of superyachts to Australia and bringing awareness to the capabilities of Australian facilities to service and support visiting vessels’ needs.The debut show saw 19 charter yachts attend, ranging from the 54-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/375" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Baglietto S.p.A. (Company)">Baglietto</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/984" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mischief54.0m (177'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2006">Mischief</a> with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahoy Club (Company)">Ahoy Club</a>, to 27.45-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/119" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Horizon Yachts (Company)">Horizon</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13010" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Orraia27.45m (90'1&quot;)Horizon Yachts2024">Orraia</a> as well as the 36.9-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1475" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lumir36.9m (121'1&quot;)Heesen Yachts2005">Lumir</a>, built in 2025, to the 39.72-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3509" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Faenoe (Company)">Faenoe</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5107" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Cloud39.72m (130'4&quot;)Faenoe1990">Southern Cloud</a>, built in 1990. Other superyachts included <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13010" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Orraia27.45m (90'1&quot;)Horizon Yachts2024">Chaos</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12788" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bluestone 130.9m (101'5&quot;)Gulf Craft 2023">Bluestone</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12154" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Empire29.12m (95'6&quot;)Vicem Yachts2023">Empire</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5647" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Belle29.9m (98'1&quot;)Moonen Yachts2016">Belle</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5814" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rascal35.05m (114'12&quot;)Sunseeker2015">Rascal</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6839" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oneworld31.68m (103'11&quot;)Gulf Craft 2018">Oneworld</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2465" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Little Perle29.18m (95'9&quot;)Moonen Yachts2008">Little Pearl</a>,&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shore Thing35.05m (114'12&quot;)Lloyds Ships1986">Shore Thing</a>,&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4145" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lady Pamela30.48m (100'0&quot;)Azimut Yachts2000">Lady Pamela</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/805" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Evolution 139.0m (127'11&quot;)Oceanfast2008">Evolution</a>, as well as a few yachts under 24 metres.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386837/image/large-ac0da85bb823e7037bbe2ed82a21e0f5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386837">The show took place at Jones Bay Wharf, and featured the iconic Harbour Bridge and the Star Casino as the backdrop. Brokers, event sponsors, owners and potential charter clients roamed the dock during the two day event, with the Sunday being open to the general public. Monday featured a Media Morning, hosted by Melinda Frowde of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Australia (Company)">Superyacht Australia</a>, for lunch, brokers were invited by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ahoy Club (Company)">Ahoy Club</a> onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/984" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mischief54.0m (177'2&quot;)Baglietto S.p.A.2006">Mischief</a> to enjoy a three-course meal. The second day of the charter show concluded with welcome drinks for Tuesday’s conference.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386848/image/large-bd4a199879df2ee4571aa34d7a13e318.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386848">Australian Superyacht ConferenceOn Tuesday, attendees flocked to the Dolton House in Jones Wharf Bay where <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Australia (Company)">Superyacht Australia&nbsp;</a>hosted the Australian Superyacht Conference. The conference included eight speaker sessions with various industry experts and focused on putting Australia and the greater South-Pacific on the global yachting map, as well as solutions to overcome hurdles still in the way.The event was kicked off by an opening speech from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Australia (Company)">Superyacht Australia</a> CEO and Master of Ceremonies, David Good, followed by a welcoming speech from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4342" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Echo Yachts (Company)">Echo Yachts</a>’ Marketing Director, Chris Blackwell. Chris highlighted that this conference is “positioning Australia not just as a cruising ground but as a competent builder” and to place Australia on the map as a “first choice cruising ground.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386847/image/large-97e0760ecd3711ae1ea4e15f7f725784.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386847">The first speaker session saw captain and author Brendan O’Shannassy share the story of how he ended up becoming a superyacht captain, before shifting to the current challenges Australian crew are facing and how local laws impact possible yachties. Ending on a high note, Brendan highlighted the value for young Australians to explore the superyacht experience, both within Sydney and greater Australia, as well as gaining valuable experience in Europe and the Caribbean and bringing that back to the South Pacific.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386854/image/large-600a473b817ed4200448af659ef2d0f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386854">The second session was a Q&amp;A, where David Good conversed with Tom Slingsby, a competitive sailor, Olympic Gold Medalist (2012), and SailGP three-time consecutive world champion, alongside Laura Esteve from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1850" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="BWA Yachting (Company)">BWA Yachting</a>. Laura has been working closely with the SailGP team to bridge the gap of yachting to sailing, and brings superyachts to the edge of the race course for spectators to enjoy a prime view of the race, working to immerse spectators in the event through their Adrenaline Yachts programme.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386853/image/large-badd699f1f273412b60f00ac774f78b6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386853">Following a mid-morning break, the next sessions saw Mike Sager, from Ankor, discuss how the industry is rapidly changing, especially relating to charter, and the role that software and AI can play in facilitating not only guest experience, but also the work happening behind the scenes. Mike was followed by Eleanor K. Roi, from the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8430" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Maritime Cook Islands (Company)">Maritime Cook Islands</a>, who highlighted how yachts operating under the Cook Islands flag creates a sense of confidence when moving across the region.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386852/image/large-a8bf87bd9e03e9134e35fa908f00ba61.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386852"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386840/image/large-fd03c9e37da02317759b359db1e796c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386840">After lunch had been served, the next session was a panel discussion between Cameron Bray from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7294" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Superyacht People (Company)">The Superyacht People</a>, Jeff Pfaff from Tax Navigate Australia, and Kane Bygrave from Aurora Logistics on the challenges faced by foreign flagged vessels in the region, and the tax implications present both for foreign and local flagged vessels.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386839/image/large-12d56a934432f161d73f8f17cba6e55a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386839">From there, the conference shifted its focus on the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, explored by Stephen Joyce from the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7545" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Superyacht Australia (Company)">Superyacht Australia</a> team, who emphasised that the Olympics comes with a wonderful opportunity to host a lot of superyachts. Stephen continued by sharing the steps already being undertaken to ensure marinas can house large superyachts, ensuring local suppliers are ready for a high demand of their products (i.e. wines, meats, dairy, vegetables), and organising for nearby airports to serve as parking spaces for private jets that are unable to park at Brisbane airport.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386851/image/large-c9eecadf3956ec4de98acd5174e53584.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386851">Next was Zac Bailey, maritime lawyer and principal at Indo-Pacific Solutions, who spoke about compliance laws that are coming into effect this June, and what that means for the yachting industry. Zac's presentation, titled "Navigating the 2026 Compliance Horizon: Offshore Structures, Tax Residency, and the Operational Advantage of Being Ready" emphasised that, while these compliance laws might seem tricky, they are already the norm in Europe and the Americas, and are aimed to create a more transparent, less risk-averse industry.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386849/image/large-07d75d22672189057fc81d4a7e37f5c4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386849">The conference’s final speaker was Melissa White from the International Seakeepers Society, an organisation that bridges the gap between science, conservation and the yachting community. Guided by a deep commitment to ocean conservation and education, Melissa, who serves as Director of the Seakeepers South Pacific, highlighted how her organisation leads regional initiatives, partnerships, and programs that join up superyachts and advance marine science and stewardship, and creates access to research opportunities across the Pacific.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386850/image/large-09e0bfdf8eca4ae1ad64a959a4c2b7f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386850">The biggest takeaway from the Australian Superyacht Conference is that the South Pacific is not only ready, but also eager to welcome an increasing number of superyachts. Any hurdles in its path are not just thought of, but are actively being discussed and solved.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386856/image/large-9422445f80dde749215c14baf90bd019.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386856">SailGPThe last piece of this week’s puzzle was the attending of the various SailGP events. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1850" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="BWA Yachting (Company)">BWA Yachting</a> manages and delivers the SailGP Adrenaline Yachts Program, a premium superyacht experience taking place at nearly each SailGP event across the globe, including Sydney, Bermuda and Auckland. Adrenaline Yachts welcomes superyachts to the races, positioning them in the front row where guests and crew witness the thrills, spills, daring manoeuvres and near misses as the boats push their limits racing.On Thursday evening there were welcome drinks and a captain’s brief for the eleven attending superyachts at the Sydney SailGP, discussing where to position the yachts, how the markers move throughout the race, channels of communication and ensuring everything would run smoothly over the weekend. &nbsp;The following day included a tech-tour, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how the F50s (the racing boats) are made, where the teams train when not on the water, and the opportunity to meet some of the racers.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386855/image/large-a1b950fd31c4825d210a247701caba3c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386855">Saturday was the first race day where teams strive to collect as many points as possible. Sunday the real magic happened, as eleven superyachts, many of which also attended the charter show, set out on the water into the VIP zone, ready to spectate the four races. Three of those races were aimed at gaining points to qualify for the finals, which was the fourth race of the day. Spain, Great Britain and the United States qualified, with the United States claiming their first victory in over three years.

What you missed: Sydney Charter Show, Australian Superyacht Conference and SailGP

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What you missed down under: Sydney Charter Show, Australian Superyacht Conference & SailGP

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