United States

Yacht Habit 

Taking place during the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/313" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palm Beach International Boat Show - 2026">Palm Beach International Boat Show 2026</a>, SuperYacht Times hosted an array of panel discussions throughout the week. These sessions were open to all visitors and explored the latest market developments, designs and owner’s insights.&nbsp;We take a look at everything you might have missed during the seminars at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/313" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palm Beach International Boat Show - 2026">Palm Beach International Boat Show 2026</a>. If you would like to catch up with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/65735" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Everything you might have missed from PBIBS 2026 (2026-03-30 13:00:00 +0200)">everything you might have missed at the show, you can find our comprehensive news guide here</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389509/image/large-fe1cae81799e96e34d12ebc86c22b7fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389509">The Future of Superyacht Ownership - Attracting the Next GenerationWednesday 25 March 2026 | 15:00-15:30 | Tent 7Speakers:<ul><li>Daniela Petrozzi- Sales Director, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a></li><li>Wim Verhoeff- Sales Director, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a></li><li>Frederica Findlater- Head of Charter Management, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a></li><li>Björn Benecke- Sales Manager, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/44" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeking & Rasmussen (Company)">Abeking &amp; Rasmussen</a></li><li>Josh Marshall- Sales Consultant, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a></li></ul><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389507/image/large-595f0ee01a70768a7fb91084dcfea2ed.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389507">Moderated by SuperYacht Times’ Features Editor Leona Caanen, this panel brought together leading voices from shipyards and brokerage houses to examine how a new wave of owners is reshaping the market. The discussion highlighted a clear shift away from traditional notions of ownership towards experience-led, flexible and lifestyle-driven yachting, with the evolution of the owner profile being a recurring theme.&nbsp;According to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>’s Sales Director Daniela Petrozzi, the market is seeing more first-time buyers entering at larger sizes, often without prior ownership experience. These clients are typically accustomed to highly intuitive, technology-driven products in other sectors and expect a similar level of seamless integration onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389514/image/large-bdfe62bef94cda57a3ce377c923efb73.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389514"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/64" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oceanco (Company)">Oceanco</a>’s Sales Director Wim Verhoeff highlighted a broader cultural shift away from traditional status-driven ownership towards experience. He explained that the ownership journey now extends far beyond delivery, with clients placing increasing value on the build process itself, including close involvement with shipyards and participation in key project milestones.This shift is also reflected in how clients engage with the industry, with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/44" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Abeking & Rasmussen (Company)">Abeking &amp; Rasmussen</a>’s Sales Manager Björn Benecke noteing that access to digital platforms and social media has created a more informed client base. This has required shipyards to focus less on explaining technical fundamentals and more on articulating the reasoning behind design and build decisions. Speed of communication and transparency were also identified as critical factors in meeting these expectations.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389508/image/large-0c0112e12d58b5ee8b532d8196b47766.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389508">From a brokerage perspective, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a>’ Head of Charter Management Frederica Findlater pointed to charter as an increasingly important entry point into yachting. Many clients are first introduced to the lifestyle through charter before progressing to ownership, allowing them to develop a clearer understanding of their preferences and expectations. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a>’s Sales Consultant Josh Marshall added that one of the key challenges remains managing perceptions around the true cost and complexity of ownership.Technology was highlighted as a major driver of change across both brokerage and shipbuilding. Digital tools, advanced renderings and AI-driven design platforms are enabling clients to engage earlier in the process and arrive with more defined ideas. Petrozzi explained that flexibility has become central to modern yacht design, with owners increasingly favouring adaptable, multi-functional spaces over traditional formal layouts.&nbsp;Verhoeff expanded on this by describing yachts as platforms for experiences rather than static assets, noting that clients are seeking practicality alongside luxury. This includes layouts and features that better support extended time on board and a lifestyle that mirrors, or even replaces, time spent ashore.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389515/image/large-7bc9f2f7f9a73b65e98640df7d75a794.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389515">Benecke emphasised the complexity of modern yacht construction and the importance of managing client expectations around build timelines and technical limitations. In addition, multiple speakers highlighted a growing skills gap within the industry, particularly in relation to highly trained crew and specialists capable of operating increasingly advanced onboard systems.Looking ahead, the panel agreed that the industry must continue to adapt through the onboard experience, supported by skilled crew and thoughtful design, remaining central to the long-term appeal of superyacht ownership.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389756/image/large-f1107a13b0ceba71ef6c57c48bbab94e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389756">The Last Frontier - The Rise of Expedition YachtingThursday 26 March 2026 | 12:00-12:30 | Tent 7Speakers&nbsp;<ul><li>Gayle Patterson- Director, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6954" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pelorus (Company)">Pelorus Yachting</a></li><li>Jennifer Smith- Commercial Director, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">ShadowCAT</a></li><li>Richard Hadida- Owner and Chairman, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster Yachts</a> and the owner of the 27-metre sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6352" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lush27.08m (88'10&quot;)Oyster Yachts2012">Lush</a></li><li>Enrique Tintore- Product Manager Xplorer &amp; Yacht Support, <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>Erik Hasselman- Head of Yacht Expeditions, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7794" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cookson Adventures (Company)">Cookson Adventures</a></li></ul><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389753/image/large-ba24f6d64f24b4660e38ac595e824e30.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389753">Moderated by SuperYacht Times’ Editor-in-Chief Francesca Webster, this panel brought together experts from across expedition planning, shipbuilding and yacht operations to explore the rapid rise of expedition yachting and the evolving demands of this segment.A central theme throughout the discussion was the shift in how expedition yachts are defined. Enrique Tintore of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> explained that beyond aesthetics or ice-class credentials, true expedition capability is rooted in reliability, endurance and self-sufficiency. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389757/image/large-fd697e4a96f389159508080864f5a0e1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389757">This emphasis on capability was echoed by Gayle Patterson of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6954" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pelorus (Company)">Pelorus Yachting</a>, who noted that there is no single blueprint for the “ideal” expedition yacht. Instead, success is defined by how well a vessel aligns with the specific mission, whether that be polar exploration or warm-water discovery.From an owner’s perspective, Richard Hadida of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster Yachts</a> highlighted the role of sailing yachts within the expedition space, pointing to their inherent efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Drawing on his experience with the Oyster World Rally, he underlined the importance of global support networks and community when operating in remote regions, where assistance may be limited and vessels often rely on one another.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389755/image/large-6bcf2c547af20d468a2be44020c90451.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389755">&nbsp;Jennifer Smith of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6651" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ShadowCAT (Company)">ShadowCAT</a> explained that increasingly ambitious owner programmes are driving demand for multi-vessel operations, with support vessels allowing for a separation of functions between yachts. This approach enhances operational capability without compromising the onboard experience, particularly for complex expeditions requiring helicopters, submarines or specialist equipment.Tintore highlighted the importance of adaptable platforms, such as reconfigurable deck spaces, which allow yachts to accommodate changing mission profiles. Early-stage collaboration between shipyards, designers and expedition specialists was repeatedly identified as essential to achieving this, with Smith noting that late-stage additions often lead to operational compromises.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389752/image/large-9e95a185922f5b130b15b0e6109bca39.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389752">Erik Hasselman of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7794" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cookson Adventures (Company)">Cookson Adventures</a> stressed the importance of detailed pre-planning, from permitting and logistics to safety and risk management, particularly for complex, multi-activity expeditions. He added that while high-end equipment such as submersibles can enhance the experience, they must be carefully integrated into a broader programme to ensure optimal use.Patterson revealed that a significant proportion of expedition clients are now millennials, many of whom are motivated by purpose-driven travel. This includes participation in scientific research, conservation initiatives and what Hadida described as “regenerative tourism,” by leaving destinations in a better condition than they were found.Ultimately, the discussion reinforced that expedition yachting is no longer a niche subset of the market, but a rapidly evolving sector.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389759/image/large-c3a4f3afe8a4231c1bfdb76c8edbcad4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389759">Taking the Pulse of the Market – Insights from the Yacht Sales FrontlineFriday 27 March 2026 | 12:00-12:30 | Tent 7Speakers<ul><li>Jonathan Beckett- Managing Partner and Chief Executive, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a></li><li>Leo Jordil- Sales Consultant, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a></li><li>Hannah Wolstenholme- Sales and Charter Broker, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a></li><li>Toby Maclaurin- Chief Commercial Officer, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a></li><li>Sakeena Hazuri Mathis- Yacht Broker, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6659" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Habit (Company)">Yacht Habit</a></li></ul><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389761/image/large-bd3bd9e1478324d2b93ec61258924bd4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389761">Moderated by SuperYacht Times’ Head of Intelligence Ralph Dazert, this panel brought together leading brokerage professionals to assess the current state of the yacht sales market, with a particular focus on shifting buyer sentiment, geopolitical influences and evolving ownership trends.The discussion focused on the increasing impact of global uncertainty on transaction timelines. Jonathan Beckett of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/159" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Burgess (Company)">Burgess</a> noted that while 2025 had been a record year, with early 2026 maintaining strong momentum, ongoing geopolitical tensions have prompted a more cautious approach among buyers.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389758/image/large-1875c7c1635f59b7197e5f5ddb12da97.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389758">This more measured decision-making process was echoed by Hannah Wolstenholme of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a>, who observed that clients are conducting increasingly thorough due diligence. While activity across brokerage and new construction remains steady, buyers are taking additional time to assess both market conditions and external risks before proceeding.The panel also highlighted a divergence in performance across size segments. Leo Jordil of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> pointed to continued resilience in the market above 60 metres, where demand remains robust, while smaller yachts are more exposed to short-term volatility.&nbsp;Toby Maclaurin of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/136" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ocean Independence (Company)">Ocean Independence</a> reinforced this cautious optimism, noting that his firm had recorded a stronger first quarter in sales compared to the previous year, despite a moderation in charter following a record 2025 season. Drawing parallels with the Covid period, he emphasised that while some clients adopt a wait-and-see approach, others remain committed and ready to act when opportunities arise.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389760/image/large-c23b642f81a176ad54d12b4cbe75e636.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389760">Looking beyond immediate market conditions, the panel explored a generational shift in yacht ownership. Beckett highlighted the emergence of younger buyers, whose priorities differ from previous generations, particularly in relation to environmental considerations, yacht usage and technological integration.Regulation was also identified as a key driver of change, with &nbsp;Jordil referencing increasing environmental restrictions in cruising destinations. While Wolstenholme emphasised that modern owners are seeking yachts that reflect their personal identity and support more versatile usage. This is contributing to sustained demand for larger, more complex yachts, particularly in markets such as South Florida, where concentrations of wealth continue to grow.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/389762/image/large-4f147fc98e8e899c2484db00c0b33a72.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/389762">At the same time, clients are becoming more informed and detail-oriented, with Sakeena Hazuri Mathis of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6659" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Habit (Company)">Yacht Habit</a> noting that buyers are increasingly focused on operational aspects such as maintenance costs and long-term ownership implications.&nbsp;However, the rise of artificial intelligence and readily available data has introduced new challenges. Maclaurin observed that while clients have access to more information than ever before, not all of it is accurate, leading to a higher volume of complex and sometimes misguided enquiries.&nbsp;Finally, the panel addressed the increasingly competitive nature of the brokerage landscape. While external factors may influence short-term behaviour, the long-term outlook is supported by evolving client demographics, technological advancement and a continued appetite for bespoke yachting experiences.

PBIBS 2026: A full summary of the panels

We take a look at everything you might have missed during the seminars at FPalm Beach International Boat Show 2026.

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A full summary of the Palm Beach International Boat Show 2026 SYT panels

The 38.36-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Never Blue38.36m (125'10&quot;)Custom Line2018">Never Blue</a> sold in a deal with Albert Rodriguez of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2575" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Galati Yacht Sales (Company)">Galati Yacht Sales</a> introducing the buyer and Jason Wood of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6659" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Habit (Company)">Yacht Habit</a> representing the seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/39300/image/large-8b1c9c8d89c268b02f918b4e90c1c69d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/39300">Delivered in 2018 as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a> 120 series, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Never Blue38.36m (125'10&quot;)Custom Line2018">Never Blue</a> features interior and exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/586" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Francesco Paszkowski (Company)">Francesco Paszkowski</a>, with naval architecture by her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/112" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Custom Line (Company)">Custom Line</a>. The flybridge yacht has been designed with spacious interior and exterior spaces and boasts an impressive 270 GT.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/41426/image/large-67a71d8e5d9f0ca9c0fbfe8595f88372.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/41426"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Never Blue38.36m (125'10&quot;)Custom Line2018"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/41427/image/large-7f6473a8592f8614616c271267bf9b54.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/41427"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/41422/image/large-a372056864968f145ad4f2c4542d8ea0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/41422"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/41424/image/large-4408e2460299c451d8bfdf4f9bf7040c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/41424">Never Blue</a> can comfortably sleep up to 10 guests across a five stateroom configuration, consisting of a full-beam master suite on the main deck and two queen VIP suites and two twins on the lower deck. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/41431/image/large-7f66df589581417ebd27b0ad3b6873ae.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/41431"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/41432/image/large-838d0b242fba886918c91afb71f63491.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/41432"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Never Blue38.36m (125'10&quot;)Custom Line2018">Never Blue</a> blends functionality with privacy with a dedicated sundeck, complete with sunloungers and an aft Jacuzzi. Guests are also able to dine alfresco with the addition of spacious exterior dining areas.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/41415/image/large-2d15b44ab7968a7825b029e6582257f0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/41415"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/41416/image/large-aaaf4ac94c1bd31a1b09e7329d94e4cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/41416">In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Never Blue38.36m (125'10&quot;)Custom Line2018">Never Blue</a> is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, providing her with a top speed of 25 knots and a cruising speed of 22 knots. At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Never Blue38.36m (125'10&quot;)Custom Line2018">Never Blue</a> had a last known asking price of $9,699,000.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/41388/image/large-f4121c22f0f60a59d4eec0bd68f1abdd.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/41388">

38m Custom Line yacht Never Blue sold

The 38m Custom Line 120 motor yacht Never Blue sold, with a last known asking price of $9,699,000.