United Kingdom

Tutino Yachts

From stewardess to Founder and Managing Director of her own boutique yacht charter firm, Sophia Tutino has grown <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tutino Yachts (Company)">Tutino Yachts</a> into a company providing tailored superyacht charter services. The company has since expanded its presence to serve a growing clientele in the Gulf region.SuperYacht Times sat down with Sophia to discuss what led her to start the business, her expansion in the Gulf, how client behaviour differs between the Gulf and Europe and what future developments may lie ahead.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/364934/image/large-e66657d2a253b04f4f499cbf084dcfdf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/364934">How did you first become involved in the yachting industry?I began my journey in the yachting industry during the summer of 2005, while completing my Master’s degree, initially working as a stewardess for a single season. Over the next year, I continued undertaking short assignments for the same yacht owner during my academic breaks. After graduating in September 2006 I attended the Cannes Boat Show, hoping to secure an internship or an assistant role. There I met Richard Lambert from OceanStyle by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a>. Within a month, I was invited to London for an interview and subsequently offered a temporary role covering maternity leave as a Sales and Marketing Assistant.&nbsp;This initial position quickly evolved and after one year I was promoted and transferred to the Monaco office to establish and expand the company's Yacht Charter division. I eventually became Head of Charter, a position I held for seven years.What inspired you to establish&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tutino Yachts (Company)">Tutino Yachts</a>&nbsp;– what was your vision?After spending over a decade with three of the industry's leading charter companies, I felt driven to build something that genuinely reflected my own values, relationships and understanding of luxury yachting. The aim behind founding <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tutino Yachts (Company)">Tutino Yachts</a> was clear: to deliver a boutique, highly personalised experience, emphasising trust, expertise, and tailored service.&nbsp;From the start, the goal was never to become the largest company, but rather the most discerning - focusing closely on detail, discretion and deep industry knowledge. My vision has always centred on combining the highest standards of yachting with an approachable and distinctly human touch.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/338473/image/large-2a6fcc9d3050d93adb837fd78c6de360.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/338473">You started&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tutino Yachts (Company)">Tutino Yachts</a>&nbsp;in the UK. What prompted your expansion to Dubai?Initially, our client base was predominantly European, which made London a natural choice thanks to its global connectivity, cultural relevance and appeal to sophisticated travellers. However, over time, we began to see growing interest from clients in the Gulf region.The idea of expanding into the Gulf first emerged when I started arranging large charters for clients from Saudi Arabia. It became clear to me that the potential was significant when I was asked to organise yachts for the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix. In November 2023, I attended the Abu Dhabi F1 and spent three days onboard with many potential clients, many of whom were based in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It was eye-opening to realise how many serious charter prospects could be found in one place, compared to London where networking tends to be more dispersed.That experience convinced me that being closer to this growing market would be invaluable. Many clients in the region are looking for more than just a transactional charter arrangement; they appreciate long-term relationships and tailored advice that reflects a genuine understanding of their lifestyle and expectations.Following that, I decided to make the move and established our base in Dubai in April 2024. This has allowed us to stay closer to our Gulf clients while positioning the company strategically between Europe and Asia, so we can serve a broader market while maintaining a highly personalised approach.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/364986/image/large-d46154f6062e3e1388225ecc77f078a6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/364986">What are some of the key charter trends you're observing in the Gulf region today?The Gulf yachting scene has matured significantly in recent years, with several clear trends emerging. Firstly, there is an increasing demand for bespoke, full-service charters. Clients now expect more than simply chartering a yacht; they seek curated experiences that blend gastronomy, wellness, cultural exploration and attentive service. This experiential element has become essential to the offering.Secondly, there has been a notable shift towards longer charters and multi-day cruising itineraries, especially around destinations such as Abu Dhabi, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the northern Emirates. Families and private groups are particularly interested in exploring the region by sea, and there has been a marked rise in enquiries from Saudi-based clients who want to charter within Saudi waters.Moreover, there is also rising demand for larger yachts with advanced amenities, including beach clubs, Jacuzzis, onboard cinemas and wellness spaces. Clients increasingly desire the comforts of a floating villa, combined with the privacy and flexibility uniquely provided by cruising in the Gulf region.Lastly, clients in the GCC are often spontaneous and highly mobile, resulting in a greater focus on last-minute arrangements. We frequently accommodate short lead times, sometimes as little as one or two days, to deliver tailored charter experiences.Have recent geopolitical tensions in the region affected your business in the Gulf region?While we remain mindful of the broader geopolitical landscape, our business in the Gulf region has continued to grow steadily. Our clientele is global, highly mobile and accustomed to navigating complex environments, demonstrating significant resilience and adaptability.In fact, we've observed clients increasingly turning to yacht charter as a form of controlled luxury travel. A private yacht offers a unique level of privacy, safety and flexibility, qualities that become particularly valued in uncertain times.Naturally, we remain vigilant and responsive to developments that could impact our clients' safety or travel preferences. So far, however, demand has remained strong and the trust established with our clients ensures they feel secure and supported in their charter decisions.Which destinations do you currently consider the most promising for charter growth?We are observing positive momentum across several regions that combine natural beauty, improving infrastructure and evolving client demand.The Gulf remains particularly promising, with destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman attracting increasing attention. The interest here is shifting beyond day charters to multi-day, personalised itineraries. With enhanced marina facilities and a rising demand for private, tailored experiences, the Gulf is transitioning from being predominantly a winter destination to a year-round charter hub.In the Mediterranean, Croatia and Montenegro are experiencing renewed interest. Both destinations offer striking coastlines, historic ports and an appeal slightly off the usual path. Clients are increasingly seeking authenticity, privacy and cultural depth, and these Adriatic destinations deliver strongly in all these aspects.Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline is emerging as an area with considerable potential. As new developments enhance accessibility, this region is becoming attractive to clients interested in untouched cruising grounds and carefully curated, high-end experiences.While traditional Western Mediterranean destinations such as the South of France, Amalfi Coast and Balearics remain consistently popular, clients are increasingly seeking new horizons and we are responding accordingly.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/364993/image/large-8b49563484773db0d7d4ed40aa6e4b3d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/364993">How does client behaviour in the Gulf differ from Europe?Client behaviour in the Gulf region is notably dynamic, characterised by spontaneity, an emphasis on privacy and a strong preference for highly personalised service. Unlike in Europe, where clients often plan their charters well in advance, sometimes six to twelve months ahead, clients in the GCC tend to make decisions at much shorter notice, often within just a few days. This requires us to remain agile, resourceful and ready to deliver exceptional experiences with very little lead time.There is also a strong cultural emphasis on discretion and trust. Relationships are paramount in the Gulf, and loyalty is built over time through consistency, confidentiality and a deep understanding of each client’s lifestyle. Additionally, when meeting clients in the Gulf, it is customary for us to go to them, rather than the other way around.Patterns of use also vary. In Europe, charters are typically centred around extended cruising across multiple destinations. In the Gulf, while longer itineraries are becoming more popular, there remains significant demand for day charters, weekend trips and onboard hospitality for private celebrations or corporate events.Both markets are highly sophisticated but operate to different rhythms. Our focus is on understanding these nuances and adapting our approach accordingly.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/345860/image/large-b23471cead5f5ece15e2c87e0e5dac3f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/345860">Do you have a favourite yacht that you have experienced on charter?I have been fortunate to spend time on many remarkable yachts, but one that stands out is the 95-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/778" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Golden Yachts Ltd. (Company)">Golden Yachts</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="O'Pari95.0m (311'8&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2020">O’Pari</a>. I arranged it for ten days in 2024 in the Gulf region, and my client invited me to stay on board for three days. It was an incredible experience. As you would expect on a yacht of that scale, every detail was impressive, but what I particularly enjoyed was how each area offered a different atmosphere. One evening we would have dinner in one area, then move to another for an aperitif. There was always something new to enjoy.More recently, I visited the 60-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/657" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alfa G60.0m (196'10&quot;)Oceanco2004">Alfa G&nbsp;</a>in Nice and was very impressed by what has been achieved with its refit. Over the years, I have been on many yachts, so it is difficult to choose just one favourite, but <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="O'Pari95.0m (311'8&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2020">O’Pari&nbsp;</a>remains especially memorable for the days I spent onboard. On the smaller side, I would mention the 29.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1364" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Permare s.r.l. (Company)">Permare</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8277" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Altvs29.6m (97'1&quot;)Permare s.r.l.2019">Altvs</a>, which I have always appreciated as well.Are there any future developments at&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tutino Yachts (Company)">Tutino Yachts</a>&nbsp;that you are able to share with us?This is a particularly exciting time for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tutino Yachts (Company)">Tutino Yachts</a> as we continue to grow in both scope and vision. We are currently expanding our charter advisory presence in the Gulf, strengthening our base in Dubai while also exploring strategic partnerships across Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Egypt. These are four markets we believe are developing into increasingly attractive superyacht destinations. At its core, our focus remains on refining how luxury is delivered, with intention, care and a clear sense of purpose.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/251708/image/large-8c3fe05e1e8fbce5b2952e30fe671cc9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/251708">Images courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tutino Yachts (Company)">Tutino Yachts</a>.Gulf Superyacht Summit 2025SuperYacht Times is pleased to announce that the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/events/gulf-superyacht-summit-2025" target="_blank">Gulf Superyacht Summit 2025</a> will take place at the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, in Abu Dhabi on 4 and 5 December 2025. Strategically timed around the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/events/gulf-superyacht-summit-2025" target="_blank">GSS</a> will take place before the racing which is scheduled for 5 to 7 December.

Sophia Tutino on founding Tutino Yachts and Gulf charter trends

Sophia Tutino discusses her decision to found Tutino Yachts, her expansion in the Gulf, how client behaviour differs between the Gulf and Europe.