SuperYacht Times is pleased to announce <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> as Event Partner for the third edition of 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">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a>, which will take place in Kobe on 7 and 8 May 2026, hosted at La Suite Kobe Oceans Garden.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/390946/image/large-734b249872100012a6cb4f44a4137db4.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/390946">Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/65287" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2026 programme (2026-04-10 15:15:00 +0200)">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2026 programme&nbsp;</a>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">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a> convenes yacht owners, operators and senior industry stakeholders to examine how the region’s superyacht market is evolving, with discussion centred on regulatory frameworks, operational realities and the conditions required for sustainable, long term growth.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386863/image/large-58c4ccbfb716dce2b59f06ad26c0f064.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386863">Japan, which has not traditionally been perceived as a core yachting nation, is home to more than 21,000 ultra high net worth individuals. This concentration of private wealth, combined with recent regulatory reform and growing investment in marina and service infrastructure, has brought renewed attention to the country’s potential role within the wider Asia Pacific superyacht ecosystem.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/65494" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="What is shaping Japan’s yacht brokerage market? (2026-03-02 13:30:00 +0100)">What is shaping Japan’s yacht brokerage market?</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/370701/image/large-fccdf0ce93277bda47184d5f87855515.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/370701">As Japan continues to open its market to international yacht traffic, 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">2026 Summit</a> will explore how the country is positioning itself alongside more established regional destinations, while also examining broader regulatory, operational and investment trends shaping the Asia Pacific market.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/384775/image/large-410054e783a96845b5d4c94c95eff55c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/384775">

Benetti announced as Event Partner for APSS 2026

Kobe, Japan 

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Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2026 Sponsors

Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan

Benetti Event Partner APSS 2026 announcement image 

SuperYacht Times is pleased to announce Benetti as Event Partner for the third edition of the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit.

Benetti announced as Event Partner for Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2026 in Japan

The third edition of 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">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a> concluded in Kobe, Japan last month with nearly 200 attendees and 34 speakers attending the two-day conference.&nbsp; <iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EThtbaZ_yVs?&amp;wmode=opaque" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe> Each year, 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">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a> brings together industry leaders, yachting clients and key stakeholders with the shared goal of positioning the Asia-Pacific as a leading superyacht market and cruising destination.This year, visitors were able to take part in 14 and a half hours of networking, alongside nearly nine hours of panels and talks, with topics ranging from developing Japan as a superyacht destination, to how superyacht purchasing patterns are evolving in the Asia-Pacific region.Other topics and talks included Q&amp;As about understanding Japanese superyacht clients and Japanese business culture, as well as how Kobe is becoming a regional gateway for superyacht operations. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395607/image/large-5fd67c82000e823a5f989810b704e62c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395607">In 2024, plans were announced for the construction of Kobe Marina, a purpose-built superyacht marina intended to support Kobe’s wider waterfront regeneration ambitions. The summit allowed key stakeholders to discuss the development of this project, assessing how it could strengthen the city’s role as a gateway for yachts operating in Japanese waters.“When we found out about Kobe being an opportunity, we just jumped at it!” commented Nigel Beatty, Founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1317" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtzoo (Company)">Yachtzoo</a> Japan. “It’s going to be one of the premier marinas, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, if not, marinas in the world.”&nbsp;Read more: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/65205" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kobe Marina: Progress update on Japan’s first dedicated superyacht marina (2026-01-22 12:45:00 +0100)">Kobe Marina: Progress update on Japan’s first dedicated superyacht marina</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395606/image/large-ce1759bf15132239c1d25b1d84922f3d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395606">The conference also included the return of the highly-successful <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> Dinner on the first evening. Held at the La Suite Le Pan Building, just five minutes from the venue, more than 146 guests arrived for welcome drinks at the Rooftop Bar before sitting down for a full-course dinner in La Terrace Hall.“It is our third time participating in the summit,” explained Ewa Stachurska, Chief Marketing Officer at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo Asia-Pacific (Company)">Sanlorenzo Asia-Pacific</a>. “We consider it absolutely crucial for the growth and evolution of our industry here in the region.”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">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a> also unveiled the third edition of the <a href="https://issuu.com/superyachttimes/docs/asia-pacific_superyacht_summit_report_2026" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Report</a>, which was presented during the summit. Using <a href="https://sytiq.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht iQ</a> and proprietary yacht-tracking data, the report examines the region’s fleet, cruising patterns and key areas of activity.&nbsp;The report looks at how many superyachts are currently active in Asia-Pacific, where they are based, whether the regional fleet is growing, and which locations are emerging as important hotspots.<a href="https://issuu.com/superyachttimes/docs/asia-pacific_superyacht_summit_report_2026" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Download your copy of the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Report here.</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395605/image/large-95d679fad04e6a619e09a04b8783fba3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395605">“I want to say a huge thank you to all our event sponsors, including patron <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7687" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="FEMA Marine (Company)">FEMA Marine</a>, event partners <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> and destination partyer Kove, along with Hiroshi Sakamoto and his team at The Inland Sea, Setouchi Tourism Authority,” commented Merijn de Waard, CEO and Founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4509" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperYacht Times (Company)">SuperYacht Times</a>.&nbsp;“We’re very grateful for all your support and thank you to all the attendees and panellists for getting behind this year’s event. The response from across the industry has been brilliant, and we’re already looking forward to the next one.”SYT Strategy bespoke consultancyWould you like to increase your footprint in the Asia-Pacific superyacht market but are lacking the right data? The Intelligence team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4509" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SuperYacht Times (Company)">SuperYacht Times</a> performed extensive research specifically for the <a href="https://issuu.com/superyachttimes/docs/asia-pacific_superyacht_summit_report_2026" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Report 2026</a> and we could do the same for your company too through SYT Strategy. Interested? Get in touch with our Sales team via <a href="mailto:sales@superyachttimes.com" title="">sales@superyachttimes.com</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/384822/image/large-01a206f2bdb72f4c331b95cf173db8a6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/384822">

Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit Japan 2026 in 60 seconds

The 35.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/313" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nautor Swan (Company)">Swan</a> 115 yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5553" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moat35.2m (115'6&quot;)Nautor Swan2016">Moat</a> and the 31.24-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> 96 yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12060" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Liberty31.24m (102'6&quot;)Southern Wind2024">Liberty</a> emerged as the overall class winners at the 2026 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/355" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta - 2026">Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta</a> in Porto Cervo, earning their places on the event's prestigious Silver Jubilee Cup.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395390/image/large-1b9e1e6537c0245b4c595edc22c4e824.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395390">Organised by the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2826" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (Company)">Yacht Club Costa Smeralda</a> (YCCS) with title sponsor Giorgio Armani, the regatta welcomed 17 superyachts for four days of racing in the waters off Sardinia. The final day saw competitors tackle a 16.4-nautical-mile course through the La Maddalena channel in north-easterly winds ranging from seven to 12 knots.Read: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/66177" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachts attending the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 2026 (2026-05-26 17:30:00 +0200)">Yachts attending the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 2026</a>In the Blue Class, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5553" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moat35.2m (115'6&quot;)Nautor Swan2016">Moat</a> secured her third consecutive <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/355" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta - 2026">Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta</a> title. Owned by Juan Ball and racing with Cole Parada as tactician, the Swan 115 once again proved dominant throughout the series. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> 108 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11831" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gelliceaux35.51m (116'6&quot;)Southern Wind2023">Gelliceaux</a> finished second overall on 14 points, ahead of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/53" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Briand Yacht Design (Company)">Briand</a> 108 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4020" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Inoui33.4m (109'7&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2013">Inoui</a> in third. The 39-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Tripp Design Naval Architects (Company)">Tripp</a>-designed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/220" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cervo39.0m (127'11&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2009">Cervo</a>, competing in the event for the first time, placed fourth.Commenting on the victory, Ball credited the result to the team's continuous efforts to refine the yacht throughout the year and praised the spirit of the regatta and its unique setting in Porto Cervo.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395388/image/large-da55be4e78874035e8aa845a59dc0893.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395388">Meanwhile, in the White Class, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12060" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Liberty31.24m (102'6&quot;)Southern Wind2024">Liberty</a> solidified her lead with another race win on the final day. The Southern Wind 96, racing with Bouwe Bekking on tactics, finished ahead of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nostromo30.1m (98'9&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2009">Nostromo</a> in second and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10474" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SØRVIND34.59m (113'6&quot;)Southern Wind2022">Sørvind</a> by Giorgio Armani in third.The yacht's owner, Carlo Pirzio Biroli, described the event as a fantastic week of racing, highlighting the close competition on the water and the race committee's management of the fleet across all four race days.Additional honours were awarded during the event. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/577" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dubois Yachts (Company)">Dubois</a> 100 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2284" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nostromo30.1m (98'9&quot;)Pendennis Shipyard Ltd2009">Nostromo</a> claimed victory in the Corinthian Division, ahead of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/10474" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="SØRVIND34.59m (113'6&quot;)Southern Wind2022">Sørvind</a> by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/558" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Armani/Casa (Company)">Giorgio Armani</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6569" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Magic Blue28.64m (93'12&quot;)Southern Wind2010">Magic Blue</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395389/image/large-141d0deb5458162601fb688a8a56fe72.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395389">As the highest-placed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> yacht, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12060" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Liberty31.24m (102'6&quot;)Southern Wind2024">Liberty</a> also secured the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> Trophy, reserved for yachts built by the South African shipyard. Fellow <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> models <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11831" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gelliceaux35.51m (116'6&quot;)Southern Wind2023">Gelliceaux</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/14514" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kalantis35.51m (116'6&quot;)Southern Wind2026">Kalantis</a>, both SW108s, completed the podium.The event also coincided with the 20th <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/151" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Southern Wind (Company)">Southern Wind</a> Rendezvous, which saw owners and guests enjoy a more relaxed day of sailing along the same course as the regatta fleet.With the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/355" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta - 2026">Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta</a> now concluded, Porto Cervo shifts its focus to the return of the Range Rover Sardinia Cup. The event will run from 31 May to 7 June, marking its comeback after a 14-year absence from the racing calendar.

Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 2026 Winners

The Swan 115 Moat and Southern Wind 96 Liberty emerged as the overall class winners at the 2026 Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta.

Moat and Liberty claim top honours at 2026 Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/344" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="World Boating Day - 2026">World Boating Day 2026</a> came to a close last weekend with over 143 events hosted across 28 countries. Organised by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6042" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Superyacht Life Foundation (Company)">The Superyacht Life Foundation</a>, the events took place on 23 May, with both physical and virtual activities. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395202/image/large-47bef4d2540bb1080ebc73b366e0d9e9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395202">This year saw a global celebration of events, from shipyards and marinas to museums and vibrant waterfront destinations, offering industry leaders, families, students and first-time visitors the opportunity to discover, connect and explore on and around the water.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>’s “Connecting Excellence” event brought emerging yacht design talent together with the creative and technical teams behind its most iconic projects, while, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> supported Social Boat, an Amsterdam-based initiative, enabling guests with limited financial means to experience a memorable day on the water through hosted canal journeys.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395201/image/large-8bfe1bb3fdcfcde117c16e55d94e478b.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395201">In Monaco, the Monaco Cluster brought together leading names including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/82" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Espen Øino International (Company)">Espen Øino</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> MED, La Belle Classe Academy and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club de Monaco (Company)">Yacht Club de Monaco</a>, for yacht design insights, educational sessions, family activities and celebrations aligned with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4337" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Club de Monaco (Company)">Yacht Club de Monaco</a>’s Fête de la Mer.&nbsp;In Spain, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/7977" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Balearic Marine Cluster (Company)">Balearic Marine Cluster</a> hosted a vibrant programme anchored by the Balearic Boating Festival 2026 at Port Adriano, a lively public celebration featuring workshops, gastronomy and interactive activities for all ages.&nbsp;Across Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza, the programme expanded further with guided shipyard visits at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/211" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Astilleros de Mallorca S.A. (Company)">Astilleros de Mallorca</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4473" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="STP Shipyard Palma (Company)">STP Shipyard Palma</a>, a contemporary art exhibition at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/391" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Club de Mar (Company)">Club de Mar</a> Mallorca, networking events for women in the nautical sector, sailing experiences including the Galaxie voyage and educational initiatives opening their doors to maritime careers.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395203/image/large-11f91aa214a5d621720fdb80ce62f128.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395203">In the United States, the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum partnered with Sail to Shelter to deliver hands-on, creative activities, introducing families and young visitors to boating culture. Meanwhile, at Fort Lauderdale’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4355" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pier Sixty-Six Marina (Company)">Pier Sixty-Six Marina</a>, there was a fun and educational celebration focusing on teaching boating basics.As well as this, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Metstrade (Company)">Metstrade</a>, in collaboration with Plastic Whale and The Ocean Conservation Trust, invited exhibitors, visitors and communities worldwide to take part in a collective action for cleaner waters. Meanwhile, E-WERF and Marée Circle opened their shipyard, offering insight into the future of boating. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395200/image/large-f81f16266466a30b5b76761609606da9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395200">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/344" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="World Boating Day - 2026">World Boating Day</a> is about opening up the world of boating to anyone with a connection to the water, whether through work, lifestyle or curiosity,” concluded Dilan Sarac, Executive Director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6042" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="The Superyacht Life Foundation (Company)">The Superyacht Life Foundation</a>.“Each year we see more communities, partners and individuals come together, and that shared energy is what drives this movement forward.”Preparations are already underway for World Boating Day 2027, with further expansion expected as new regions and partners join the initiative.(All images courtesy of The Superyacht Life Foundation.)

World Boating Day 2026 concludes

World Boating Day 2026 came to a close last weekend with over 143 events hosted across 28 countries.

World Boating Day 2026 concludes with over 143 events hosted worldwide

Yachts attending the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta 2026

Taking place from 26 May to 30 May 2026, the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta returns to Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Italy.

The largest superyachts at Cannes Film Festival 2026

SuperYacht Times takes a closer look at some of the yachts currently in the region for the 2026 edition of the Cannes Film Festival 2026 in France. 

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The largest superyachts in the region for the Cannes Film Festival 2026

SuperYacht Times is pleased to announced the release of the <a href="https://issuu.com/superyachttimes/docs/asia-pacific_superyacht_summit_report_2026" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Report 2026</a>, which is now available as a free download. The report was produced for 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">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a>, held in Kobe, Japan, on 7 and 8 May 2026.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391630/image/large-35a5114e3ed8a25c76d38787ba96de16.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391630">Now in its third edition, the <a href="https://issuu.com/superyachttimes/docs/asia-pacific_superyacht_summit_report_2026" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">report</a> provides a data-led overview of the Asia-Pacific superyacht market, drawing on analysis from the SuperYacht Times Intelligence team, with data supplied by <a href="https://sytiq.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht iQ</a>.Using <a href="https://sytiq.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht iQ</a> and proprietary yacht-tracking data, the <a href="https://issuu.com/superyachttimes/docs/asia-pacific_superyacht_summit_report_2026" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">report</a> examines the region’s fleet, cruising patterns and key areas of activity. It looks at how many superyachts are currently active in Asia-Pacific, where they are based, whether the regional fleet is growing, and which locations are emerging as important hotspots. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/25869/image/large-be0ca6ac405b4c42e4bdcf910c97ce4e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/25869">SYT Strategy bespoke consultancyWould you like to increase your footprint in the Asia-Pacific superyacht market but are lacking the right data? The Intelligence team at SuperYacht Times performed extensive research specifically for the <a href="https://issuu.com/superyachttimes/docs/asia-pacific_superyacht_summit_report_2026" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Report 2026</a> and we could do the same for your company too through <a href="https://www.sytstrategy.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SYT Strategy</a>. Interested? Get in touch with our Sales team via <a href="mailto:sales@superyachttimes.com" title="">sales@superyachttimes.com</a>

Asia-Pacific Superyacht Report 2026 available for download

SuperYacht Times is pleased to announced the release of the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Report 2026, which is now available as a free download.

market-insight-large-articles#1

The International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO) has announced that the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4556" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival (Company)">Cannes Yachting Festival&nbsp;</a>(CYF) has joined its community as a member. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/371277/image/large-3c855c030bdd1559da307ebdccf75fe3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/371277">Founded in 1964, the IFBSO represents the interests of boat show organisers by fostering international cooperation and promoting excellence in boat show management. As of April 2026, IFBSO represents 41 boat shows across 18 countries.“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4556" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival (Company)">Cannes Yachting Festival</a> is one of the great names in our industry, and we’re delighted to welcome them into the IFBSO community,” explained Veda Pretorius, Executive Director of the IFBSO.&nbsp;Through its working groups, annual Congress and the Boat Show Barometer research programme, IFBSO provides members with peer insight and practical tools that they might not be able to develop alone.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/349170/image/large-c969f2bac08471636ca21cfbeb04d130.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/349170">This year’s <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/336" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival - 2026">Cannes Yachting Festival</a> runs from 8 to 13 September and will be the first edition under the leadership of the new Show Director Constance Brément. “Joining IFBSO ahead of the 2026 edition – my first as Show Director of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4556" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival (Company)">Cannes Yachting Festival</a> – has special significance,” she explained.&nbsp;“This membership strengthens our international outlook and gives us a valuable opportunity to connect with leading boat show organisers worldwide, share best practices, and continue evolving the Festival for the benefit of our exhibitors, partners and visitors.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/371265/image/large-65eeb855cd18b7b0172495f2695045fc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/371265">Organised by global events company RX (Reed Exhibitions), the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4556" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cannes Yachting Festival (Company)">Cannes Yachting Festival</a>’s value closely aligns with the work of the IFBSO’s Diversity &amp; Inclusion and Sustainability working groups.Held annually across Vieux Port and Port Canto in Cannes, France, the event serves as a major platform for yacht unveilings, premieres and debuts. “Our congratulations go to Constance Brément, who steps up as Show Director for 2026,” concluded Pretorius. “We wish her a brilliant first edition.”

Cannes Yachting Festival joins IFBSO

The International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO) has announced that the Cannes Yachting Festival (CYF) has joined its community. 

Cannes Yachting Festival joins IFBSO ahead of 2026 edition

MEDYs largest yachts attending


SuperYacht Times takes a closer look at the largest yachts set to attend MEDYs 2026.

Largest yachts attending the Mediterranean Yacht Show 2026

The highly anticipated <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TYBA Yacht Charter Show 2026 - 7th">Turkish Yacht and Broker Association Charter Show</a> (TYBA) returns for its seventh edition from 7 to 11 May in Marmaris, Turkey. Here’s a preview of a curated selection of high-end gulets, motor yachts and sailing vessels making their way to the stunning Aegean town for an unforgettable showcase at this year’s show.&nbsp;Noyan Mutlugil, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TYBA Yacht Charter Show 2026 - 7th">TYBA</a> Chairman of Show Committee, highlights how this year's show is the celebration of "a 47-year-old legacy of yacht charter shows in Marmaris. The idea for the first charter show in the region was initiated in 1979 by Jim and Jill Anderson, who were living in Marmaris at the time and pioneered the idea of holding a yacht show in the area. Following this initial attempt in 1979, the first official yacht charter show gained international recognition from 1981 onwards."The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TYBA Yacht Charter Show 2026 - 7th">TYBA</a> Association has taken over this legacy and continues to develop it with the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Event/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TYBA Yacht Charter Show 2026 - 7th">TYBA</a> Yacht Charter Show. Except for a two-year break due to the pandemic, this tradition has continued uninterrupted for almost fifty years. "With this deep-rooted history, the charter show tradition in Turkey is considered the second oldest ongoing organisation in the world (the first being the Antigua Charter Yacht Show)" shares Noyan.The event, held in the shadow of the historic Marmaris Castle, will showcase the most distinguished commercial charter yachts representing Turkish yachting. The fair offers an ideal platform for brokers to inspect yachts, meet crew members, and strengthen professional relationships in the international charter market. This year's show will have 49 yachts attending, more than 35 of which are over 24-metres. Below we highlight some of the largest yachts attending the show in Marmaris.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/372258/image/large-99b1a81121f61333e96e22df28abe8f4.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/372258"> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8508" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oguz Khan50.5m (165'8&quot;)Bodrum Oguz Marin2025">Oguz Khan</a> | 50.5 m| Bodrum Oguz Marin | 2025<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/91243/image/large-a1b5f68c82d686fc8ca37faf0817fa06.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/91243"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7254" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="All About U 249.9m (163'9&quot;)ADA Yacht Works2019">All About U 2</a> | 49.9 m | ADA Yacht Works | 2019<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/362258/image/large-dc3e81368f0b46bc3a72a1191f5879b2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/362258"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12721" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Legasea49.9m (163'9&quot;)ADA Yacht Works2025">Legasea</a> | 49.9 m | &nbsp;ADA Yacht Works | 2025<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4902" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Mare Nostrum49.1m (161'1&quot;)Kadir Turhan2008"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/74850/image/large-8bc7af20b9cb01faaa7e41945f6ed733.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/74850">Mare Nostrum</a> | 49.1 m | Kadir Turhan | 2008<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/391833/image/large-bbe4edc295863d675e0ee7133a4480c9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/391833"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2460" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Orient Star47.0m (154'2&quot;)CMB Yachts2012">Orient Star</a> | 47.0 m | CMB Yachts | 2012 | Exhibited by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/6" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Camper & Nicholsons (Company)">Camper &amp; Nicholsons</a><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/15198" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="De Love 47.0m (154'2&quot;)Custom2024"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/353867/image/large-910b98a7f5fa11f327b31e85077dac21.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/353867">De Love</a> | 47.0 m| Custom | 2024<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7204" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Halcon Del Mar 45.0m (147'8&quot;)Tum Tour Yacht2017"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/83965/image/large-d13ce021e2db9ed1b19914879d728af4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/83965">Halcon Del Mar</a> | 45.0 m | Tum Tour Yacht | 2017<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/15216" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="North Wind43.99m (144'4&quot;)Sökmen Kardeşler2023"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354006/image/large-5ad7ae069e6c92226c87682fda4c3656.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354006">North Wind</a> | 43.99 m| Sökmen Kardeşler | 2023<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3308" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ubi Bene43.89m (143'12&quot;)Valena Yachting2010"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/227727/image/large-4e23d5d657af051b8a4abbd3e981b307.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/227727">Ubi Bene</a> | 43.89 m | Valena Yachting | 2010<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12958" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Son Of Wind42.3m (138'9&quot;)Unknown2021"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/268014/image/large-b45a282828e6b1b5bd098a45fc29e19c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/268014">Son of Wind</a> | 42.3 m | Unknown | 2021<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13789" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Double Eagle39.6m (129'11&quot;)Bodrum Shipyard2005"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/308658/image/large-b9207365c007f654810a46092c73d23d.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/308658">Double Eagle</a> | 39.6 m | Bodrum Shipyard | 2005<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1766" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ariela39.6m (129'11&quot;)CRN2004"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/265911/image/large-bd88c05f4f2d47222e3fafd821c9412b.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/265911">Ariela</a> | 39.6 m &nbsp;| CRN | 2004<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12415" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Deep Water39.2m (128'7&quot;)Tum Tour Yacht2022"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/309282/image/large-d1ad70fcd789c47bf8fd9657d271fda9.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/309282">Deep Water</a> | 39.2 | Tum Tour Yacht | 2022<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/354035/image/large-88623e1b47738af17ac7fb15efb54adf.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/354035"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/15217" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Long Island39.0m (127'11&quot;)Sökmen Kardeşler2019">Long Island</a> | 39.0 m | Sökmen Kardesler | 2019<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5563" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Canaria38.2m (125'4&quot;)Cavusoglu Yat Imalathanesi2013"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/82543/image/large-d48474ae029651b935359a715543116b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/82543">Canaria</a> | 38.2 m | Cavusoglu Yat Imalathanesi | 2013<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5878" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bella Mare38.0m (124'8&quot;)Bozburun Shipyard2008"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/82353/image/large-af7675db9f7deb6f8e15e3b386142d2d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/82353">Bella Mare</a> | 38.0 m | Bozburun Shipyard | 2008<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11346" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Queen of Makri 37.2m (122'1&quot;)Megri Yachting2020"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/200605/image/large-755b99d0b1c5f839f91437ffaae97b42.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/200605">Queen of Makri&nbsp;</a>| 37.2 m| Megri Yachting | 2020<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3144" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gitane37.0m (121'5&quot;)Evadne Yachts2008"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/297646/image/large-ae71f4ce5f943acefd5103db2f7aaaea.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/297646">Gitane</a> | 37.0 m | Evadne Yachts | 2008<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3467" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Panfeliss36.5m (119'9&quot;)Mengi Yay Yachts2009"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/238371/image/large-138e93c31481b7095088353d9f931041.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/238371">Panfeliss</a> | 36.5 m | Mengi Yay | 2009<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1579" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="White Soul35.84m (117'7&quot;)Bod-Yat A.S.2007"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/201462/image/large-c2efeefc32c4517fe9c430ef9c466ec9.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/201462">White Soul</a> | 35.84 m | Bod-Yat A.S. | 2007<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/2150/image/large-1f7d6b8ba5da2222459551cb1ac747bb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/2150"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5882" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Estrella de Mar34.0m (111'7&quot;)Koyunbaba Boat Manufacturing2011">Estrella De Mar</a> | 34.0 m | Koyunbaba Boat Manufacturing | 2011<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/104237/image/large-d1d118fe5215c9567fcb80c4301fb847.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/104237"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9134" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Coral34.0m (111'7&quot;)Türkoglu Shipyard 2008">Coral</a> | 34.0 m | Türkoglu Shipyard| 2008<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/267935/image/large-f68ae32e4a5eb3b16c7dac9a04f669e3.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/267935"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1462" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Go33.77m (110'10&quot;)Dragos Yachts2009">Go</a> | 33.77 m | Dragos Yachts | 2009<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/271961/image/large-47b743c3b2e2c84a8afd2da533d41ce7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/271961"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13006" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Questa Vita33.0m (108'3&quot;)Unknown2021">Questa Vita</a> | 33.0 m | Unknown | 2021<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/296940/image/large-36b720092923eb69c9d80c4010ea13f8.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/296940"> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4318" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Serenity 8630.11m (98'9&quot;)Mural Yachts2007">Serenity 86&nbsp;</a>| 30.11 m | Mural Yachts | 2007For the full list of yachts attending TYBA, visit the official event <a href="https://tybachartershow.com/attending" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">site</a>.

yachts attending TYBA 2026

Discover some of the largest superyachts attending the Turkish Yachts and Brokers Association show in Marmaris, Türkiye.

Largest superyachts attending TYBA 2026

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bering Yachts (Company)">Bering Yachts</a> has unveiled the interior concept for its 33-metre explorer yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bering Yachts (Company)">Bering</a> 110, developed in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4720" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Red Yacht Design (Company)">Red Yacht Design</a>. The reveal offers a first look inside the model, with the first hull currently under construction.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/372249/image/large-9ffc2bdc420009249ec1e58cf2df10ec.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/372249">Conceived as a crossover yacht, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16391" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bering 110/0133.3m (109'3&quot;)Bering Yachts2027">Bering 110</a> aims to combine explorer yacht capabilities with the volume and comfort more commonly associated with larger vessels. While her steel hull and projected range of more than 5,000 nautical miles highlight her exploration credentials, her interior design takes a more restrained direction.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396259/image/large-f625f19ab89d937510477f384352590f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396259"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396260/image/large-a2b92ec224adb00b9d7dd82abc89d6e7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396260">According to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4720" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Red Yacht Design (Company)">Red Yacht Design</a>, the model’s interiors draw inspiration from Far Eastern principles of simplicity, balance and precision. The main saloon has been conceived as a continuous living space where the lounge, dining area and window seating flow naturally into one another. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396261/image/large-cc4e5a6cd3ef0e8648071aa84ed8aa4c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396261">Warm wood panelling, soft neutral tones, raw marble surfaces and placed burgundy accents are meticulously layered, while a curved sofa serves as the focal point of the lounge. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396263/image/large-0399d48b166deffd4f40f4913f613896.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396263">Moreover, textured stone and bronze-toned detailing are combined with carefully layered lighting, while a sculptural staircase frames her darker finishes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396262/image/large-ce40fe1687e59360a3005f217a6e43f4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396262" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396270/image/large-ad0ab9b178534091e4385f873d3d1d9c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396270">Full-height wooden windows let in abundant natural light and the surrounding sea views. Cana Gokhan of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4720" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Red Yacht Design (Company)">Red Yacht Design</a> further remarks,“The details are clean and deliberate, with subtle nods to the discipline of calligraphy.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396266/image/large-e4501624263e2141f062a608fa7b3791.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396266">Her interiors are imagined as a space where guests can genuinely unwind. Rather than displaying traditional superyacht opulence, the yacht’s design prioritises stillness, comfort and liveability.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396267/image/large-b4c50c8988ec45e5ee044bbec49a62ac.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396267" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396264/image/large-8b953afd3227d4243379a0203dd395a2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396264">The layout remains closely aligned with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bering Yachts (Company)">Bering</a>'s explorer identity. Her asymmetrical main saloon benefits from generous width and circulation. The owner's suite, additional guest accommodations and crew areas have been configured for extended stays onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396269/image/large-0acb9673d1b760945dfd2d9b0b56ca8f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396269" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">&nbsp;Dedicated storage with ample space for necessary supplies and equipment have also been incorporated to support long-range cruising and self-sufficiency at sea.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396268/image/large-ab189de88814a2399080943d53faafd3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396268" style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; position: relative; max-width: 100%; margin: 1rem 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 13.6px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396265/image/large-9161f81cc4dbee429d677289fd44aba4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396265">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16391" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bering 110/0133.3m (109'3&quot;)Bering Yachts2027">Bering 110</a> forms part of the shipyard's growing Superyacht Division, with additional interior details expected to be revealed as the project progresses. According to <a href="https://sytiq.superyachttimes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht iQ</a>,<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4385" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bering Yachts (Company)">&nbsp;Bering</a> has several yachts in-build including the 49.68-metre Bering 165 yacht, and the first hull of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/16391" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Bering 110/0133.3m (109'3&quot;)Bering Yachts2027">Bering 110</a>.&nbsp;

 Bering unveils interior concept for in-build 33m explorer yacht Bering 110

Bering has unveiled the interior concept for its in-build 33-metre explorer yacht Bering 110, developed in collaboration with Red Yacht Design. 


<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">ISA Yachts</a> has announced that the keel of the third 43.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/17023" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Unica 45M/0343.7m (143'4&quot;)ISA Yachts2029">ISA Unica 45M</a> yacht has been laid from the shipyard in Ancona, Italy, marking the start of her construction. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396273/image/large-966918cdfe1cdf289affc294bd4fded0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396273">The sale of the third displacement yacht was announced in April 2026 to a client from the United States, with delivery scheduled for 2029. Developed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1197" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Team for Design - Enrico Gobbi (Company)">Enrico Gobbi of TEAM for Design</a> in collaboration with the shipyard’s technical department, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/17023" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Unica 45M/0343.7m (143'4&quot;)ISA Yachts2029">ISA Unica 45M</a> yacht features a steel hull and aluminium superstructure.&nbsp;Distinguished by fluid, perfectly balanced lines that create a sleek silhouette, the ISA Unica 45M yacht combines generous interior volume with extended outdoor spaces and large glazed sections.Read:&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/65857" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Third ISA UNICA 45M Steel superyacht sold with 2029 delivery date (2026-04-14 20:30:00 +0200)">Third ISA UNICA 45M Steel superyacht sold with 2029 delivery date</a><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396272/image/large-8336c72513a1f53dfad504c1679588b9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396272">Spanning 430 GT, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/17023" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Unica 45M/0343.7m (143'4&quot;)ISA Yachts2029">ISA Unica 45M</a> yacht can accommodate up to 12 guests across a six stateroom configuration, with her owner’s suite positioned aft on the upper deck. The suite includes a private lounge, desk area, walk-in wardrobe and ensuite bathroom.Further guest accommodation includes a VIP suite on the main deck with large side windows, a walk-in wardrobe and an ensuite with a separate shower, while the remaining guest accommodation can be found on the lower deck, comprising two further VIP suites and two twin suites.&nbsp;Moving outside, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/17023" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Unica 45M/0343.7m (143'4&quot;)ISA Yachts2029">ISA Unica 45M</a> yacht boasts a stern layout spanning three levels. Descending towards the water, the space includes sunpads, a pool and an infinity cockpit, all of which are enclosed by a glass balustrade.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396271/image/large-796abe1179971e5145e9e562c63fbc12.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396271">Her main deck includes a gym, while dining spaces will be arranged both indoors on the main deck and outside on the upper deck, each accommodating up to 12 guests for formal dinners.Other key features include her upper deck which features a forward lounge and sunpad area, while her 16-metre fly deck incorporates additional lounging and dining spaces, a bar and a circular Jacuzzi.In terms of performance, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/17023" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Unica 45M/0343.7m (143'4&quot;)ISA Yachts2029">ISA Unica 45M</a> yacht is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1408" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Caterpillar Inc (Company)">Caterpillar</a> engines, giving her a top speed of 15 knots and a cruising speed of 14 knots.

Keel of third ISA Unica 45m yacht laid

ISA Yachts has announced that the keel of the third 43.7-metre ISA Unica 45M yacht has been laid from the shipyard in Ancona, Italy.

Third ISA Unica 45M motor yacht keel laid

Dutch design studio <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a> has revealed new renderings of in-build 69-metre sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12410" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Zero68.85m (225'11&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2026">Project Zero</a> ahead of her launch this summer, offering a closer look at her design philosophy, custom interiors, and renewable energy systems.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396254/image/large-94d02d1ae28bc065a048800a6e2d96e3.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396254">Developed in collaboration with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/230" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Dykstra Naval Architects (Company)">Dykstra Naval Architects</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12410" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Zero68.85m (225'11&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2026">Project Zero</a> has spent six years in development. Rather than purely focusing on reducing energy consumption, the yacht is reported to be the first of her class to be designed around energy generation. This radical approach allows the yacht to run for up to two weeks on purely renewable sources, without relying on fossil fuels.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396253/image/large-7447c42b77f8a8f7bc690af39433370f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396253"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12410" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Zero68.85m (225'11&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2026">Project Zero</a> has been designed to honour the owners' appreciation for traditional sailing yachts while introducing a host of bespoke design solutions. Outside, custom elements can be found throughout, from the spoon bow and matte-finished deck hardware to the sculpted stern cap and hand-painted transom finished in a wood-effect treatment. Her notable metallic blue hull is further distinguished by a feather-inspired boot stripe, a reference to the black-browed albatross that served as a major inspiration for her design.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396256/image/large-a8857968400b95119871dc187c9832f9.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396256">Looking inside, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12410" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Zero68.85m (225'11&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2026">Project Zero</a> embraces a holistic interior concept centred on natural materials, craftsmanship and owner-focused living. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a>’s interior rejects highly polished finishes in favour of tactile textures and organic materials to embody nature. Smoked European oak, reclaimed bark-based materials, leathered stone and hand-selected veneers are featured prominently throughout. Natural knots, cracks and grain variations have been deliberately preserved rather than concealed.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396255/image/large-213cb67058fc8448969608065d402377.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396255">A unifying design language runs throughout the entire yacht. The designers have employed curved architectural forms, shaping joinery, furniture, structural glazing, and lighting. They further remark that all elements either begin or end in a full radius, creating a sense of continuity between the spaces.The owners' choices can be seen throughout <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12410" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Zero68.85m (225'11&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2026">Project Zero</a>’s design. Her main saloon features a flexible dining table designed to double as a puzzle and craft table, reflecting the owners' hobbies during extended periods onboard. Elsewhere, modular cockpit furniture can be swiftly reconfigured into either lounge or dining arrangements. Meanwhile, electrically operated cockpit windows enable guests to enclose exterior spaces at the touch of a button.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396257/image/large-90f1c0052c3eb53d6f1ebf5adf3d6cce.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396257">Accommodation onboard includes four staterooms. Each stateroom is personalised around places of significance to the owners, all taking inspiration from destinations from Italy to French Polynesia. The owner’s suite is arranged around the mizzen mast, which has been wrapped in a bespoke artwork by American sculptor Sienna Martz. Moreover, this area benefits from a dedicated study to support long periods of working remotely while cruising.Further customisation extends behind the scenes, where the traditional full-beam engine room has been eliminated to make room for a concealed service corridor, enabling the crew to move discreetly throughout the yacht while maintaining guest privacy.According to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/15" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vripack (Company)">Vripack</a>, the yacht combines hydro-generation through regenerative turbine propellers with more than 100-square-metres of photovoltaic thermal panels integrated into her biminis. These panels generate electrical and thermal energy to power onboard systems, heating and cooling.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396258/image/large-478db106ff098d1896050a1003af3d87.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396258">The yacht's sailing performance has also been refined thanks to a collaboration with Emirates Team New Zealand. Through advanced computational fluid dynamics testing, they developed a distinctive topside curvature that reportedly improves sailing speed by 2.5 percent while simultaneously increasing the vessel's electric power generation by approximately eight percent.Currently under construction at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/34" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vitters Shipyard (Company)">Vitters Shipyard</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12410" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project Zero68.85m (225'11&quot;)Vitters Shipyard2026">Project Zero</a> is scheduled for launch in summer 2026.

First look: Vripack unveils interior concept of 69m ‘fossil-free’ sailing yacht Project Zero 

Interior concept of 69m sailing yacht Zero, an all-electric project by Vripack and Dykstra Naval Architects currently under construction at Vitters.

Recently spotted anchored off St Tropez by the SuperYacht Times team the 96-metre superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a> remains the largest modern private superyacht ever built in the United Kingdom. Constructed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/96" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Devonport (Company)">Devonport Yachts</a> in Plymouth and delivered in 2012, SuperYacht Times takes a look at 10 things you didn’t know about the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/96" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Devonport (Company)">Devonport</a> flagship.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395647/image/large-c8c0480475b32d2822ac3b4050fd16cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395647">1. She has been under the same ownership since deliveryCommissioned in 2007 by a Swiss-Italian family and delivered in 2012, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a> has remained within the family’s ownership for over a decade. Known as the former Project-55, she was launched on 10 September 2011 and christened <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a>, with her sea trials commencing in October 2011.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395636/image/large-784dda4f94be2bf21fab944a36c68946.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395636">2. She was built at a former naval shipyardFounded in 1989, by the Babcock International Group, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/96" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Devonport (Company)">Devonport Yachts</a> was based in Plymouth, Devon and was part of a tradition of boat building at the Devonport Royal Docks, which have been building and supporting The British Royal Navy for over three hundred years. Blending military-grade engineering with superyacht luxury, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/96" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Devonport (Company)">Devonport Yachts</a> put the UK on the map for large motor yacht designs. On 23 February 2010, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/96" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Devonport (Company)">Devonport Yachts</a> was acquired by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/209" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pendennis Shipyard Ltd (Company)">Pendennis</a>, with the two companies joining forces to expand the offering at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/209" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pendennis Shipyard Ltd (Company)">Pendennis</a>’ base in Falmouth.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395648/image/large-5c060da19ac4dc275b02e1e9083a83ba.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395648">3. The owner gifted his last superyacht to his motherThe name Vava has been used by the family on previous yachts, with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a> succeeding an earlier vessel bearing the same name. The previous 47.3-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1064" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava47.3m (155'2&quot;)Feadship1996">Vava</a> was delivered in 1996, with the brief that her owner should enjoy the most peaceful long-distance cruising possible. The yacht was allegedly gifted to his mother when <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a>I was delivered. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395638/image/large-690e352299b20df7f4a808579a964981.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395638">4. Her owner won sailing's most famous trophyHer Swiss-Italian owner who as well as being listed as one of the top 100 wealthiest people in the world by Forbes magazine in 2013, is also a keen yachtsman and sailor. After founding the yachting syndicate Team Alinghi in 2000, her owner entered and won the renowned America’s Cup in 2003, bringing the Cup to Europe for the first time.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395644/image/large-8e6e948f928e48edf31db24a2923fcf6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395644">5. Her designers fought off competition to be chosen&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a>, while her interior was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/533" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rémi Tessier (Company)">Rémi Tessier</a>, with naval architecture by her builder Devonport. In an interview with SuperYacht Times in 2016, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/61" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="RWD (Company)">RWD</a> Founder Justin Redman explained that it was an incredible opportunity to win the commission over other designers. “We felt we won it because we developed not only a very unique looking profile for her owner, but one which incorporated key influences which he had brought to the table from sailboat racing,” he explained.&nbsp;You can read the full interview <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Article/46674" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Insight: A behind-the-scenes look at Redman Whitely Dixon (2016-03-08 12:00:00 +0100)">here</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395643/image/large-c90cf5553c0191d6762a7293bea6cb81.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395643">6. She can accommodate a high number of guestsBuilt to SOLAS-36 passenger ship standards, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a> set a new standard in the charter market for 2012 following her delivery. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a> can comfortably accommodate up to 36 guests across an impressive 18 staterooms. Her master suite boasts an open-plan layout, while her full-beam VIP suite rivals other luxury yachts. She can also sleep a crew of 34. &nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395633/image/large-d1c97626edc7f61f7ed6e51652d62cfb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395633">7. She features one of the largest beach clubs of her generationWhen <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a> was launched, expansive beach clubs were still relatively uncommon on large yachts. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a> boasted a substantial waterside leisure area that helped set the standard for the indoor-outdoor lifestyle spaces that have since become commonplace across the superyacht sector. Other key features include an aft deck swimming pool, a main deck saloon with a sliding glass wall and a helideck, which was recently spotted with an Airbus H125 landing onboard. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395637/image/large-45075d272b12450df93265d130e80084.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395637">8. She has participated in scientific missions Although often spotted in the Mediterranean, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a> was designed with global exploration in mind. She has been deployed for three research expeditions by scientists from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and other research universities from around the world. Her substantial fuel capacity, advanced engineering systems and robust construction allow her to undertake extended voyages far beyond the traditional summer cruising grounds frequented by many large yachts. Over the years she has travelled as far as Antarctica and Polynesia and has participated in scientific missions in the Indian Ocean.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395645/image/large-9a7d3fd9d75bd6b12e895fb6df0b9175.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395645">9. She helped put British superyacht construction back in the spotlightThe delivery of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a> attracted significant international attention and demonstrated that Britain could still compete in the upper size segments of superyacht construction. More than a decade later, she remains a lasting symbol of British engineering, design and craftsmanship.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395639/image/large-ce7d1bb5e1194e11f710c58e1226e024.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395639">10. She remains the largest modern superyacht built in the UK<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1711" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vava II96.0m (314'12&quot;)Devonport2012">Vava II</a> still remains the largest modern superyacht ever constructed in the UK. The second largest modern superyacht is the 82-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/96" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Devonport (Company)">Devonport</a> yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/307" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Pure82.0m (269'0&quot;)Devonport2008">Pure</a>, which was launched in 2008 and recently underwent an extensive refit at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/86" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amico & Co. s.r.l. (Company)">Amico &amp; Co</a> facility in Genova Italy.

UK’s largest modern superyacht Vava II

SuperYacht Times takes a look at 10 things you didn’t know about the Devonport flagship, Vava II. 

Vava II: 10 things you didn't know about the UK's largest superyacht

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting&nbsp;</a>has announced that the 60.2-metre Xplorer 60 yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11078" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="After You60.2m (197'6&quot;)Damen Yachting2025">After You</a> and her 53.25-metre support vessel <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12677" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emotional53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2025">Emotional</a> have departed the builder's main shipyard in Vlissingen, the Netherlands. This departure follows a period of refit, service and optimisation works. According to AIS data, both vessels are currently en route to Reykjavik, Iceland.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396232/image/large-abd42b77a1b431f487ab944294f2e03e.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396232">The yard commented the works were customised to the owner's specific operational needs while preparing the fleet for extensive cruising and exploration in remote regions.Delivered in 2025, both vessels were conceived for long-range autonomy and expedition-style cruising. The pair were acquired by the same owner through <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4547" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TWW Yachts (Company)">TWW Yachts</a>, who oversaw their integration into a single exploration-focused fleet.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396229/image/large-f729916d9bf110968c318dc15a60c062.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396229"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11078" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="After You60.2m (197'6&quot;)Damen Yachting2025">After You</a> features naval architecture developed in-house by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>, with exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/37" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture (Company)">Azure Yacht Design &amp; Naval Architecture</a> and interiors by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/161" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="H2 Yacht Design (Company)">H2 Yacht Design</a>. Her onboard amenities include a wellness deck equipped with a Jacuzzi, bar and sauna, a convertible tender hangar that transforms into a lounge and karaoke bar, and a forward observation lounge designed for wildlife and weather watching.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396230/image/large-5aa256db87522afed8b9fe78dbef7a37.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396230">Meanwhile, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12677" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emotional53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2025">Emotional</a> was designed inside and out by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>. The support vessel carries a range of expedition equipment, including tenders, a submarine and watersports gear. This allows the mothership to remain dedicated to guest accommodation and entertainment.In terms of performance, both yachts are powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11078" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="After You60.2m (197'6&quot;)Damen Yachting2025">After You</a> has a cruising speed of 11.5 knots and a top speed of 14.5 knots, while <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12677" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Emotional53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2025">Emotional</a> cruises at 12 knots and can reach a maximum speed of 19 knots. Together, the two vessels provide the capabilities of a much larger expedition yacht while retaining the flexibility and operational advantages of a dual-vessel setup.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396231/image/large-b80cda5f786823cbca02643d696ec9a9.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396231">“It is always rewarding to welcome our yachts back to Vlissingen,” said Head of Refit &amp; Services at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> Michel Coens. “Their return reflects the trust placed in our team, our facilities and the way we work together with the Owner’s team, the Crew and our own specialists. Seeing After You and Emotional depart again ready for their next journey is something we can be proud of.”&nbsp;Photos provided courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>.

After You and Emotional depart Damen Yachting following refit

The 60.2-metre Xplorer 60 yacht After You and her 53.25-metre support vessel Emotional have departed the builder's main shipyard in Vlissingen.


Xplorer 60 yacht After You and support vessel Emotional depart Damen Yachting after refit

For owner Paul Andrews, the search for the right yacht was a journey that spanned more than a decade. However, when he first came across the 25.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/121" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palmer Johnson Yachts (Company)">Palmer Johnson</a> sailing yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> online, something about her caught his attention. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394762/image/large-d54e9461baa90d5794ad964df495e456.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394762">“I first saw her in a video while I was searching for yachts,” he explained. “She was located in Thailand at the time, which was quite literally on the other side of the world from me, but her presence immediately stood out.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394534/image/large-bfddc47ecaf6a83efc8300953b5b19d9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394534">Originally launched in 1967, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> was the largest aluminium hulled sailing yacht in the world when she first hit the water. Built as a classic world cruising yacht, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> had circumnavigated the world three times, with voyages to the Antarctic and Arctic regions when she entered the market in 2022. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394541/image/large-c96b4ebc0ab5a9453459421e627799d7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394541">“The beam, the proportions and the sheer character of the yacht caught my attention straight away,” recalled Andrews. “I wasn’t specifically searching for a <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/121" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Palmer Johnson Yachts (Company)">Palmer Johnson</a>, but when she was built, she was engineered to a commercial, almost military-grade standard and built to navy specs, which gave her a genuine pedigree, strength and a fascinating story behind her.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394543/image/large-0b87ef55ef9559c3dc95e76eca2db6c7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394543">However, when Andrews finally travelled to Thailand to inspect the yacht in person, the initial impression was far from ideal. “It was raining heavily and she looked tired and neglected.” But returning the following day to see the yacht in clear conditions revealed a completely different vessel. “Her lines were beautiful and the potential became obvious. She simply needed vision and attention.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394544/image/large-f191bd60c4deb3732c009830efb76fc3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394544">In 2015 under the ownership of her previous owners, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> had started a refit programme spanning more than $1 million, which lasted five years and saw her receive a full teak interior refit. “It was clear that previous owners had already invested heavily in the yacht,” added Andrews. “The teak interior joinery was exceptional and the hull structure was sound. However, the layout did not fully make use of the yacht’s size.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394540/image/large-3bd64f4dfb231598384875f28fc57a05.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394540">With the help of Martin Holmes and his team at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2262" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lee Marine International Brokerage (Company)">Lee Marine</a>, Andrews took a boat from Langkawi, Malaysia where he purchased <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> and started the process of refitting her in Phuket. “My vision was always to maximise the yacht without taking away the character that makes Firebird special,” he explained. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394689/image/large-066bcffa01ddea4816fadbefefba6fb6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394689">“Rather than remove that character, the refit focused on respecting the craftsmanship already onboard, while improving the functionality and layout for modern cruising. So the very first thing I wanted to do was lay a completely new teak deck.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394684/image/large-59c92dfa1c2c4dfaf499558c82520e13.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394684">The refit saw beautifully laid teak installed throughout, which instantly transformed her appearance and the feeling underfoot. From here, Andrews had a large swim platform and gangway at the stern installed for easy access, as well as an alfresco dining area for 12, with a large three-metre teak L-shaped sofa added and a circular seating area for eight at her stern.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394683/image/large-ccd9dbe381bbc98da19e89f67500eafb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394683">Additional work saw her saloon and guest staterooms reworked to create a larger and more comfortable interior, while technical works included the installation of a new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4062" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Raymarine UK Ltd (Company)">Raymarine</a> navigation suite, electric furling systems and the recommissioning of her <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1497" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Detroit Diesel (Company)">Detroit Diesel</a> engine and generators.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394537/image/large-a9744df0db0cb9126710320c8ad8f685.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394537">&nbsp;“I was involved in every stage of the project!” beamed Andrews. “Working alongside skilled craftsmen in Thailand allowed the ideas I had for the yacht to be executed properly.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394682/image/large-6c7c43f1ab3dc6151b36ef4b9e0c6d90.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394682">“The region has an impressive concentration of marine specialists including riggers, carpenters, sailmakers and marine engineers. The quality of teak craftsmanship in Thailand is also exceptional and the cost of skilled labour is significantly lower than in many other parts of the world. By chance I also discovered a local boat carpenter whose family had been building boats in the region for generations. His team worked tirelessly and played a crucial role in transforming the yacht.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394536/image/large-a684c5dbb17405c08f59b474c49fe63e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394536">A large portion of the refit work was carried out at Premier Superyacht Shipyard near <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3209" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yacht Haven Marina (Company)">Yacht Haven Marina</a> in Phuket. The yard operates an 890-tonne travel lift and regularly handles vessels significantly larger than <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a>, so during her haul-out, hull works, repainting, mechanical servicing and installation of the bow thruster were completed at the yard. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394535/image/large-fe228dc87c3eb4c006007450d0644190.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394535">The refit started almost immediately after Andrews had stepped onboard and he remained involved throughout the process. “After studying the layout of an <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1097" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Oyster Yachts (Company)">Oyster</a> 85, I realised it might be possible to alter the companionway arrangement and open access to unused space within the yacht. By cutting through the bulkhead at the end of the galley we created a new passageway that allowed an entirely new guest stateroom to be built.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394687/image/large-2e193db0a4b19958ca9e5ecb0fbbb3b1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394687">The result allowed for unused areas to be converted into additional guest accommodation, while maintaining the logical flow through her companionway and saloon areas. Thanks to this, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> is now able to comfortably accommodate up to 13 guests, while still feeling spacious. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394691/image/large-d359643ead180961dcf469e992df6a3a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394691">“The onboard experience is exceptional now! <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> is incredibly comfortable and she has become a wonderful place to spend time. I have several comfortable homes on land, but I genuinely did not expect living aboard a yacht to feel this enjoyable.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394775/image/large-19d12ff20ebf8798893858104887e523.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394775">From a technical standpoint the most important upgrade was the installation of a Max Power bow thruster. At 71 tonnes, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> is not a small yacht and the thruster significantly improved manoeuvrability for docking. Paired with electric furling systems, her sails can now be easily controlled from the cockpit, &nbsp;which means the yacht can be sailed comfortably by a small crew. “Together with the bow thruster and upgraded navigation systems, the yacht is now far easier and safer to operate,” added Andrews.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394782/image/large-7d015b051a954c975849eb73b943caa0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394782">Currently available for charter, Andrews noted that there had already been interest from charter clients in the Seychelles and the Maldives. “It would feel rather selfish to keep such a yacht entirely to myself! Our goal is to have her operating in the Greek islands by 2027.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394781/image/large-71d773016ba60ca5be3610663cfc2a04.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394781">The refit took approximately 18 months to complete, with the project bringing the yacht a new lease of life. “I have restored historic buildings and classic cars before, but <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> has been the most rewarding project of them all! Working on her felt almost like giving a living vessel a new chapter in her life. I feel incredibly privileged to have been part of that transformation.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394773/image/large-89483fb30e91ef0842117ed871bea925.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394773">“<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/12413" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Firebird25.6m (83'12&quot;)Palmer Johnson Yachts1967">Firebird</a> has had an extraordinary life with many different owners over the decades, with each leaving their own mark on the vessel,” concluded Andrews. “If I had to describe her in just a few words, I would say she is an iconic, unique superyacht and I hope she continues to bring joy to many future owners and guests.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/394763/image/large-26cc3acdb14ea54697eb754a850e1393.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/394763">

Firebird: 26m Palmer Johnson yacht refit

Inside the 18-month Thai refit that transformed the 26m Palmer Johnson sailing yacht Firebird into a modern cruising yacht.

Firebird reborn: Behind the Thai refit of a classic 26m yacht

Superyachts have become a floating home for many of its new-age owners, and it is precisely this that has motivated <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha Custom Yachts</a>’ design for the Squalo 100. The brief for both the exterior and interior design was to create a yacht that feels right to live on, emotionally, physically and sensorially. From the layout to the engineering behind the walls was approached through the lens of human experience, rather than mere aesthetics. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395777/image/large-3128f701f247e9a823704b469af76762.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395777">Intimacy, comfort &amp; balanceFor <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha Custom Yachts</a>, luxury is deeply connected to proportion, intimacy and comfort: “a yacht can feature the finest materials and highest quality finishes, but if the spaces feel too tight, disconnected or uncomfortable, the emotional experience aboard is lost” says Roberto Aboumrad, the founder and CEO of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha Yachts</a>.Hence, true onboard luxury is not measured by excess or scale alone, but by understanding the emotional relationship between people and space. If seating arrangements are too close together or too far apart, it can obstruct the way onboard guests interact with one another. “True comfort comes from finding that human balance of space.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395771/image/large-de41a280b3ab03c380c47ca7096655df.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395771">For Roberto, that comfort starts with the shape of the hull. Rather than pursuing narrow planning hulls, which are optimised for going fast, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha</a> decided on a semi-displacement hull. “These hulls are designed for liveability, efficiency and comfort. There is more interior volume, while simultaneously cruising at speeds it was designed to (i.e. 10-14 knots).”Cruising at the speed that the yacht was designed to do, also ensures high fuel efficiency and long range cruising, which sits in line with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/YachtModel/12554" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Squalo 10030.02m (98'6&quot;)">Alpha</a>’s approach towards sustainability. “There’s a misconception in today’s market that, by adding more electronics and gadgets, you automatically create a better boat,” yet often the opposite is true. “The more complicated you make a vessel, the more things you create that require maintenance.” <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha Custom Yachts</a> instead focuses on “creating systems that are durable, intuitive and reliable for long-term ownership.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395758/image/large-1424f9925cdca3c1115877f949e5d9c4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395758">While keeping the number of gadgets to a minimum, technology does play a crucial role in any <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha Custom Yacht</a>s vessel. “Technology is extremely important for us,” shares Roberto, “but for us technology means simplification.” Making elements more simple and functional makes for happy yacht owners. “It’s a mentality that extends directly into the crew’s workflow and maintainability. A happy crew creates a happy yacht.” With that same thought, the yard has placed enormous importance on crew accommodations and facilities: “the crew lives onboard year-round - it is important they are comfortable and happy.”&nbsp;Especially the galley is a space of pride for Roberto, “we have an incredibly large galley,” he continues, “the space has a centre island, industrial refrigerators, freezers and extraction hoods, a Hoshizaki ice maker capable of producing 90 kilos of crystal clear ice per day.” For <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha Custom Yachts</a>, Roberto emphasises, “the galley is one of the most important areas onboard; it directly impacts everyday life.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395781/image/large-eca123327394f5b4dce944d6d68412a7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395781">Living the experienceA crucial element to designing a yacht for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha Custom Yachts</a> is onboard experience: “when you’ve lived aboard boats for enough years, travelled enough and truly experienced living at sea, you begin to understand the human needs of onboard living” shares Roberto, “you can study design at a desk, but living it opens up a whole new understanding.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395757/image/large-c3608611ab7f6dd82cd72bba6d9c9e54.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395757">This philosophy is not just extended to the yacht’s interiors, but also to the engineering of the Squalo 100. One such place is the engine room, which, onboard all <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha Custom Yachts</a>, are designed with accessibility and functionality as priorities - the goal is to make the engine room and its equipment accessible and simple.Roberto explains how “comfort is an overall sensory experience - space, silence, vibration, colours, atmosphere - to truly feel comfortable and happy, you need to feel all five senses.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395753/image/large-8a75feae7d000d25adda68409da4ead2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395753">One way in which the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha</a> team has done this is by structurally separating the hull and superstructure, which dramatically reduces vibrations and sound transfer throughout the vessel. “You don’t hear generators, vibrations, nor conversation in any of the other staterooms. There is total silence onboard.”Another one of the senses <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha Custom Yachts</a> is especially considerate of is smell. “You can walk into a beautiful boat but if it’s humid or there are unpleasant odours, it ruins the experience.” The yard has noticed that many of the odour-related issues don’t actually originate from black or grey water tanks themselves, but from low-quality piping systems that begin to sweat over time. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395761/image/large-f1870b9a00c455b1e44bcca22a5b9127.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395761">To prevent this, the Squalo 100 has incorporated high quality piping systems alongside a positive-pressure make-up air system designed to continuously renew and purify the air onboard. “Approximately six times per hour, the entire interior air volume is renewed with fresh air.” The result is a refreshing onboard environment.The air-flow design onboard the yacht has also been thoroughly considered: “we maintain more pressure inside the salon than outside, so when the doors open, fresh air escapes outward and blocks hot air from entering” Roberto explains. For the galley, the same construction is used, but flipped, “the galley maintains a lower pressure than the guest areas so that not all the cooking smells will spill into the staterooms and saloon.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395762/image/large-48885ca43e88052e18731411f2ea3610.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395762">Living in spaceA central element in the design of the Squalo 100 and all other <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha Custom Yachts</a> is the ceiling height. “For me ceiling height is a must,” Roberto shares how this decision was rooted in a very human observation: “When tall people walk onto yachts, they have to check how much space sits between the top of their head and the ceiling - which often isn’t very much.” Combined with the Squalo 100’s full-beam saloon and master cabin, the increased ceiling height dramatically transforms the perception of the interior volume. “It creates a totally different feeling onboard.”Besides a spacious layout, a refreshing airflow and minimal yet high-end technologies, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha Custom Yachts</a> offers additional personalisation for their yachts through elements like hull colours. “I had a client with a huge fascination for Porsche and he told me he wanted his hull the same colour of his Porsche Calipers brakes."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395763/image/large-5a734ebfefcf55bc0e5400e54e0d53fc.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395763">“We have always been extremely flexible with customisation because we understand that every owner lives differently and expresses luxury differently.” This type of pursuit of individuality is the main reason that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha</a> has intentionally stayed a boutique shipyard. “We’ve done crazy things,” shares Roberto, “but if it doesn’t hurt the value or integrity of the yacht, we’re happy to make our client’s vision become a reality.”There’s a few elements that the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha</a> team won’t compromise on, like the crew accommodations and facilities. Roberto shares how “the crew lives onboard year-round. If the crew isn’t comfortable or happy, the boat won’t be a happy boat.” While owners or guests spend maybe just over a week onboard, crew lives onboard and ensuring they feel at home is of utmost importance.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395746/image/large-e1304f071c6fd249b2bf1a2b910fbc15.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395746">A symbol of powerThe Squalo 100 carries an air of power. Its name stems from the Italian word squalo, meaning ‘Shark’. “A shark is the most efficient creature in the ocean. It’s powerful, intelligent, efficient, and naturally dominant.” For the shipyard, the name perfectly reflects its in-house philosophy. “<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5252" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alpha Custom Yachts (Company)">Alpha</a> represents leadership, and the Squalo yacht represents efficiency, strength, personality and power.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/395767/image/large-999c901798381e697b3243b4b14b578f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/395767">

Inside the design of Alpha squalo 100

Alpha Custom Yachts' Squalo 100, designed for spacious living on the water.

Alpha Yachts’ Squalo 100: Redefining human-centred yacht design

The United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit has upheld a lower court ruling that Eduard Khudainatov, the former owner of the 106.1-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a>, cannot claim ownership following her seizure in 2022, marking the last chance he had to appeal the decision.SuperYacht Times takes a look back at the full legal battle over the yacht’s ownership and the proceedings that led to the US Government’s forfeiture of the yacht.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393887/image/large-ad933bf5db70a1d40d13082c78016610.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393887">The seizure of AmadeaIn April 2022, U.S. authorities under the Biden administration, seized <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> in Fiji as part of their Task Force KleptoCapture, which aimed at intensifying sanction enforcements against Russian oligarchs linked to President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;Prosecutors allege that sanctioned Russian billionaire Suleiman Kerimov is the owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a>, while Eduard Khudainatov, the former chief of Russian state oil and gas company Rosneft, and his company Millemarin Investment claim that the yacht is under their ownership.&nbsp;Suleiman Kerimov was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department, in consultation with the Department of State in 2018 for his role as an official of the Russian Federation and a member of the Russian Federation Council. He was alleged to have moved hundreds of millions of euros into France, in addition to conducting standard fund transfers without disclosing the money to French tax authorities.The arrest of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> was announced on 14 April 2022, but the Task Force KleptoCapture did not get the official green light for her arrest until 4 May. During this period a plea had been made by Millemarin Investment on the registration of the US warrant to seize <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a>.&nbsp;The Fijian Court of Appeals dismissed the plea on 27 May, opening an avenue for the U.S. Department of Justice to actualise the arrest and transport her to U.S. territory. From there, the yacht was locked in a legal battle for several years regarding her true ownership. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393882/image/large-85002cf90fcbd0f9d3c4545d29a092c9.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393882">The ownership structure behind AmadeaAccording to court documents, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) in September 2021 showed that Millemarin Investments Ltd were committed to sell <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> for €225 million to a Cayman Islands entity that was created less than one week before the deal. Under the agreement, the buyer acquired the right to use the yacht and assumed responsibility for her operating costs following the initial €45 million payment.Lawyers representing Millemarin claim the Cayman Islands-based company is owned by Khudainatov and because he is not currently sanctioned by the U.S, his legal team therefore challenged the seizure and forfeiture of the yacht.However, U.S prosecutors argue that the sanctioned Russian billionaire Kerimov was behind the Cayman Islands entity and that he allegedly used a web of shell companies to hide his assets, including <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a>, and evade international sanctions.&nbsp;It was alleged that Khudainatov was serving as the "straw” or nominal owner to obscure Kerimov's involvement.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393883/image/large-99488250fa35ea39ce37fa28d4ff2747.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393883">The court battle In October 2023, U.S. Justice Department filed a civil forfeiture complaint for ownership of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> following her seizure and relocation to San Diego in 2022. The complaint was filed at the Manhattan federal court and marked the start of a lengthy judicial process for the US to seek ownership.The U.S. Department of Justice alleged in its complaint that Suleiman Kerimov bought <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> in 2021, and then violated U.S. sanctions by making more than $1 million in maintenance payments through U.S. financial institutions.Just four months later, the U.S. government filed a petition to auction <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> before the dispute over her ownership was resolved, stating that the yacht was currently costing the U.S government more than $7 million a year to maintain.A court filing by federal prosecutors in Manhattan told U.S. District Judge Dale Ho that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> currently had an “excessive” $600,000 monthly average maintenance bill, and urged the judge to consider an auction. They also alleged that talks to have Khudainatov pay for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a>'s upkeep had broken down.&nbsp;In January 2025, the evidentiary hearing began to determine the ownership of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a>. Rachael Doud, Assistant US Attorney for the Southern District of New York stated that Kerimov’s niece allegedly paid €225 million to complete the sale of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> in 2021 on his behalf and to bypass sanctions which had been imposed on him since 2018.According to Doud, Kerimov and his family used the vessel and had plans to use it further, with Khudainatov acting as a straw owner. Khudainatov’s lawyer Adam Ford argued that there is no evidence of a completed sale and characterised the agreement with Kerimov as a loan rather than a purchase.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393875/image/large-a816cc99184d93f85c79dca79e3e1630.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393875">Ownership claims rejected and yacht sold at auctionOn 10 March 2025, U.S. District Judge Dale Ho issued an 80-page ruling that stated that while Khudainatov retained the "bare title" to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> after September 2021, the true beneficial owner was sanctioned Russian billionaire Suleiman Kerimov.The decision marked a significant victory for the U.S. Department of Justice, prompting them to announce in August 2025 that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> would be offered for sale via a sealed-bid auction on 10 September 2025.The auction was administered by the National Maritime Services of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in accordance with a forfeiture order issued by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York (Case 1:23-cv-09304), with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser Yachts</a> appointed as promotional agent for the auction.In October 2025, a spokesperson for the United States Marshals Service confirmed that <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> had been sold at auction, with her new owner and price not disclosed. However, Khudainatov and Millemarin Investments submitted an appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, maintaining they were the beneficial owners of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/393872/image/large-9aac7473aea0108815459490aee8c9cf.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/393872">Final ownership appeal rejectedIn a decision issued on 1 June 2026, the court and circuit Judges Parker, Lohier and Merriam affirmed Ho’s previous ruling, confirming that Eduard Khudainatov and Millemarin Investments Ltd were unable to demonstrate a sufficient beneficial interest in <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a>.&nbsp;The court agreed with the District Court in the Southern District of New York, stating that Khudainatov acted as a "straw owner" and despite a sale agreement in 2021 that transferred control and economic responsibility for the yacht, he only appeared as the legal owner on paper, with the real economic ownership allegedly under the control of Kerimov.&nbsp;The United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit confirmed that Khudainatov failed to demonstrate the type of beneficial interest required under US law to contest civil forfeiture proceedings.“With the standard of proof established, we review the District Court’s legal conclusions relating to standing de novo and its factual findings for clear error,” explained the court. “The District Court correctly concluded that the claimants’ legal title to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> did not itself establish standing to contest the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a>’s forfeiture. For the foregoing reasons, we affirm the judgments of the District Court.”As a result of this, the legal challenge over ownership has been brought to a close, with the Government’s forfeiture of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> remaining in place, and no other avenues available for the claimants to pursue ownership arguments in the United States courts.Delivered in 2017, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/82" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Espen Øino International (Company)">Espen Øino International</a>, while her interior was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/67" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Zuretti Interior Design (Company)">Zuretti Interior Design</a>, with naval architecture by her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/23" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lürssen Yachts (Company)">Lürssen</a>. With a gross tonnage of 4,402, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> can comfortably accommodate up to 16 guests across an eight stateroom configuration, alongside an impressive crew of 36.&nbsp;Amenities onboard include an infinity pool, a certified helipad, a private owner’s spa, a separate guest spa and two elevators. Powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, the yacht has a top speed of 20 knots, a cruising speed of 13 knots and a range of 8,000 nautical miles.&nbsp;According to AIS, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6167" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Amadea 106.1m (348'1&quot;)Lürssen Yachts2017">Amadea</a> is currently located in Monaco.

Amadea yacht ownership appeal rejected

The US Court of Appeals has upheld the court ruling that Eduard Khudainatov cannot claim ownership of the 106m Lürssen yacht Amadea.

US Court rejects final appeal from ex.owner of 106m yacht Amadea

As Venice Climate Week runs from 3 to 8 June, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> is calling for urgent investment in alternative fuel infrastructure across Europe. The company noted that the transition to next-generation sustainable yachts will depend on availability of energy infrastructure, rather than the speed of technological progress.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396223/image/large-103ef131c568767e63b19cb8b8a430ac.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396223">Executive Chairman Massimo Perotti presented the ‘Venice Call for Maritime Action’ at the event, an initiative formalised through an open letter addressed to Jessika Roswall, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, and copied to Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.“Across our industries, the technologies required to enable more sustainable mobility, employment and enjoyment at sea are no longer theoretical,” he stated in the letter. “They are real, advancing rapidly, and increasingly ready to move beyond experimentation and into everyday use.” The initiative calls for coordinated investment in green methanol supply chains and electrification infrastructure across key maritime hubs.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a> noted that while it has already invested in bi-fuel methanol propulsion as part of its 'Road to 2030' strategy, adoption remains constrained by limited infrastructure. This case is &nbsp;particularly apparent in the Mediterranean, where availability across marinas is still minimal.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396224/image/large-fa3744cfa8c57f5776899c890d02e793.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396224">Currently, less than one percent of global methanol production is renewable, with supply concentrated in industrial ports such as Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges, leaving major yachting regions underserved.The ‘Venice Call for Maritime Action’ urges coordinated action among European institutions and policymakers, port authorities and coastal cities, energy producers and fuel suppliers, and industrial and technology partners to accelerate the transition. This includes including a six-month progress review to assess infrastructure development.The letter also pushes forward <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sanlorenzo (Company)">Sanlorenzo</a>'s commitment to the following initiatives:&nbsp;<ul><li>Championing a future vision for more sustainable yachting</li><li>Continuing investment in innovation and technological progress</li><li>Supporting the development of viable and accessible energy ecosystems</li><li>Engaging in cross-sector collaboration to accelerate progress<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396226/image/large-dd7b8005406727dc9430ff3c953dbf09.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396226"></li></ul>The effort has already drawn support from across the maritime sector, including SYBAss, Professor Flavio Manenti of Politecnico di Milano, alongside representatives from marine technology, energy, and sustainability organisations.As one of the founding partners of Venice Climate Week, the company is using its Casa Sanlorenzo hub to convene industry dialogue under the ‘Planet Aqua, Planet Peace’ programme. The initiative brings together city leaders, scientists and industry stakeholders to address coastal resilience and maritime transition.Moreover, the group continues to advance its Road to '2030 strategy'. This includes the 50Steel Almax, the first superyacht to feature a methanol fuel cell system, and Bluegame’s hydrogen-powered BGH-HSV support vessel, developed for zero-emission operations during the America’s Cup."By aligning investment, infrastructure and policy, it is possible to unlock the next phase of sustainable &nbsp;maritime mobility and support the wider integration of alternative propulsion technologies across &nbsp;Europe,” Perotti concluded.

Sanlorenzo Venice Climate Week

Sanlorenzo is calling for urgent investment in alternative fuel infrastructure across Europe at the Venice Climate Week 2026.

Sanlorenzo urges acceleration of green methanol infrastructure at Venice Climate Week

The 24.3-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/162" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Codecasa S.p.A. (Company)">Codecasa</a> motor yacht Visotta has been sold and renamed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11848" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Besame Mucho24.3m (79'9&quot;)Codecasa S.p.A.1995">Besame Mucho</a>. Lorenzo Tosi of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5022" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timone Yachts (Company)">Timone Yachts</a> represented both the buyer and the seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396222/image/large-db8da0028a70703d7cb78287f1d649d1.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396222"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11848" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Besame Mucho24.3m (79'9&quot;)Codecasa S.p.A.1995">Besame Mucho&nbsp;</a>was delivered as Lady Hawk in 1995 and was built out of aluminium. Her naval architecture was created in-house by her Italian builder, with exteriors crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Andrea Bacigalupo (Company)">Andrea Bacigalupo</a> and her interiors penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/186" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Della Role Design (Company)">Della Role Design</a>.She can accommodate up to six guests across three well-appointed staterooms. Meanwhile, her flybridge provides an area for guests to dine alfresco or lounge in the comfortable seating.&nbsp;In terms of propulsion, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11848" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Besame Mucho24.3m (79'9&quot;)Codecasa S.p.A.1995">Besame Mucho</a> is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, giving her a cruising speed of 25 knots and a top speed of 33 knots.Photo courtesy of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5022" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Timone Yachts (Company)">Timone Yachts</a>.

Codecasa yacht Besame Mucho sold

The 24.3-metre Codecasa motor yacht Visotta has been sold and renamed Besame Mucho.

24m Codecasa yacht Visotta sold and renamed Besame Mucho

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

In recent years, Japan has taken deliberate steps to improve cruising access for foreign-flagged superyachts and to expand marina infrastructure, raising its profile as a regional cruising destination.At the same time, the country is home to a significant concentration of private wealth. British investment migration consultancy Henley &amp; Partners estimates that Japan has approximately 748 centi-millionaires, defined as individuals with net assets of at least US$100 million.Yet despite these conditions, domestic yacht brokerage activity remains limited.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/298475/image/large-2bc1925828d3618f6130a044598154c3.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/298475">Bubble-era expansion and its legacyJapan’s so-called bubble era refers to the late 1980s, when loose credit conditions and speculative investment fuelled a rapid surge in asset prices and consumer confidence. Real estate and equity valuations rose sharply before the boom collapsed in the early 1990s, triggering a prolonged period of economic adjustment.Japan experienced a period of substantive domestic yacht ownership during this time. Yukio Shintani, founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1132" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Creation Marine (Company)">Creation Marine</a>, recalls that “during the bubble period, domestically produced and imported boats of 25 to 50 feet saw explosive sales”, adding that many marinas were developed to support this growth. He also notes that corporate ownership expanded into larger vessels, with companies acquiring yachts in the 70 to 100-foot range, a scale of ownership that “had not been seen before”, often for “company entertainment and employee benefits” rather than private leisure use.When the bubble burst, the market shifted abruptly. Shintani recounts that a lot of boats for sale appeared on the market, with a significant number subsequently exported to destinations including Russia, South Korea and New Zealand. Domestic demand weakened in parallel, although resale activity persisted as brokers adjusted to the new conditions. “Many used boats came on the market at lower prices,” Shintani explained, allowing transactions to continue at more accessible price points even as new purchases slowed.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/306440/image/large-7dc86989e23fe9887e3eae0a94c0c8d4.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/306440">The experience of that period continues to influence attitudes within Japan’s domestic brokerage market. Nigel Beatty, founder of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1317" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtzoo (Company)">Yachtzoo Japan</a>, observes that buyers now in their sixties and seventies retain a direct memory of the period and its aftermath. “That experience still influences how they think about risk and conspicuous ownership today”. Rather than being shaped by aspiration alone, buying behaviour among this cohort remains informed by caution rooted in first-hand experience of the bubble-era collapse.How Japan’s brokerage model differsJapan’s yacht brokerage market has developed along a structurally distinct path from the broker-led systems common in Europe and the United States. This divergence reflects not an absence of brokerage activity, but a different commercial architecture shaped by long-standing business norms and relationship-driven practices.According to Shintani, yacht transactions in Japan are typically handled by sales companies rather than independent brokers acting on behalf of both buyer and seller. “In Japan, the sales company negotiates directly with the buyer,” he said. While some vessels are sold on consignment, Shintani notes that “the buyer does not know how much the seller will sell them for to the dealer”, illustrating a pricing structure that contrasts with the commission-based arrangements more typical in Western markets.A common feature of the Japanese model is that dealers purchase vessels outright, service them, and later resell them, assuming inventory risk while bundling maintenance, support and after-sales services into the transaction. Emphasis is placed on continuity and operational oversight rather than transaction volume, reflecting a market shaped by caution following the bubble-era collapse instead of short-term resale dynamics.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386827/image/large-7d1fe94087b6643f09cd2327b719f158.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386827">Beatty stresses that Western-style brokerage structures can operate in Japan, particularly as regulatory reform for larger yachts progresses. The prevailing preference, however, remains the dealership model because it aligns more closely with domestic business culture. “It works in Japan where long-standing relationships are built over generations,” he said.Foreign firms that attempt to replicate Western brokerage practices without adaptation have historically struggled to gain traction. “Many firms try to do business in Japan in a Western way, and this usually doesn’t work,” Beatty noted. In his view, localisation is not optional but fundamental. Companies that fail to adapt to Japanese commercial norms are unlikely to establish durable market positions.To place this in perspective, Beatty points out that Japan has one of the largest fleets of recreational vessels in South and East Asia, alongside a well-developed domestic used yacht market supported by its own listing systems. The distinction, he argues, lies less in the presence of buying and selling activity than in how that activity is structured and conducted. Rather than converging towards Western brokerage models, Japan’s market has evolved in a manner consistent with its wider business environment.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386825/image/large-217c26f8ba05559616786d2d3cd665fe.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386825">Constraints shaping today’s brokerage environmentJapan’s yacht brokerage market continues to be shaped by a combination of infrastructural, and cultural constraints that limit both scale and participation.&nbsp;Infrastructure remains one of the most immediate practical constraints. Shintani observes that “marinas in urban areas are full, leaving new buyers with no mooring space”, particularly for yachts over 50 feet. Robin Shellcock, formerly a yacht captain and now a broker at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1317" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Yachtzoo (Company)">Yachtzoo Japan</a>, points to Yokohama Bay Marina as an example, describing a waiting list of around 20 applicants where nobody’s given up a spot. He adds that one owner even chartered a 70-foot yacht “just to shove it in his berth” in order to retain the space while his own vessel was away for refit.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386823/image/large-502d9119d1f326f69b22421adc6e56ae.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386823">Beyond berth availability, marina capability also influences ownership decisions. Drawing on his experience captaining larger yachts, Shellcock notes that adequate shore power remains scarce. When captaining the 35.2-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunseeker (Company)">Sunseeker</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/9290" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Skye35.2m (115'6&quot;)Sunseeker2022">Skye</a>, which required 400-volt, three-phase shore power, that specification was available at only two marinas in Japan. Such limitations influence acquisition decisions, as owners may struggle to base larger yachts domestically with confidence.As vessel size increases, regulatory and crewing requirements become more restrictive. Shintani notes that for Japanese-flagged superyachts, crew availability presents a significant barrier, as “there are no crew members with Japanese seaman’s licences who can handle or service them”, while “foreign licences held by foreigners are not valid”. Beatty highlights the 24-metre threshold as a further constraint. Once a yacht exceeds that length under the Japanese flag, he explains, “you have to be fully commercial to the Japanese standards”, introducing additional cost and administrative requirements even where the yacht is intended for private use.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386824/image/large-b275375a529b41f215399e6dbc45c606.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386824">Ownership patterns reflect these combined pressures. Beatty notes that while some Japanese owners do operate larger yachts, these vessels are often based overseas and therefore sit outside the domestic brokerage ecosystem. Within Japan itself, ownership has “traditionally been under 24-metres”, reflecting the influence of infrastructure limits and operating considerations.Financial factors further constrain activity. Shintani points to the weak yen as a continuing challenge, explaining that it “makes it difficult to import boats, both new and used, from overseas”. Rising shipping costs have compounded this effect, inflating acquisition expenses and disproportionately affecting larger yachts, where margins, logistics and operational complexity are already higher.Cultural considerations also continue to shape demand. Kirk Patterson of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/8701" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Konpira Yacht Services (Company)">Konipra Yacht Services</a> argues that the limited number of Japanese yacht owners reflects deeper social dynamics rather than a lack of wealth. While ownership is “not zero”, he notes that there are “very few Japanese yacht owners, especially superyachts”, pointing to the limited development of a broad leisure-boating culture. Discretion plays a role, he suggests, with discretionary wealth often directed towards alternatives such as second homes, and extended cruising lifestyles less compatible with prevailing professional and social norms. As a result, where interest exists, ownership is frequently discreet or outward-facing rather than anchored within Japan’s domestic brokerage market.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386826/image/large-db729ab1f95e3d92ac67cb6a552f6813.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386826">Prospects for changeAfter decades shaped by contraction and caution, any discussion of change within Japan’s yacht brokerage market must be framed carefully. Recent regulatory adjustments and infrastructure investment have improved access for visiting yachts, but whether these developments can meaningfully influence domestic ownership remains uncertain. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/104219/image/large-c94403a78cad4fa52830c3e4d2898030.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/104219">Prospects for growth are therefore less about sudden expansion than about gradual shifts in demographics, demand profiles and participation, with any change likely to be uneven and incremental rather than transformative.Shintani points first to the ageing profile of Japan’s existing owner base. “The average age of today’s largest group of boat owners is over 70 years old,” he said, adding that over the next “three to five years” many are likely to exit the market. Whether this translates into renewed demand will depend on the extent to which a younger generation can be engaged. In Shintani’s view, this requires more than transactional reform. “I believe we need to convey more about the wonders of marine life to the younger generation,” he said, pointing to the need for “places where children can experience marine activities up close”. Despite the market’s long-standing constraints, he maintains that “surrounded by the sea, Japan still has many opportunities” to foster broader engagement with boating over time.Beatty also sees evidence that generational attitudes are beginning to shift. Younger buyers, he argues, show a greater appetite for larger yachts than their predecessors. “Probably the past 15 years or so,” he said, noting that these buyers “don’t really identify with that bubble time”. Unlike earlier cohorts shaped by the excesses and subsequent collapse of the late 1980s, Beatty describes younger owners as “more adventurous” and less constrained by that historical legacy. Ownership, he suggests, often develops incrementally. “There’s guys with 70, 80-foot yachts that are in their 30s right now,” he said. “By the time they’re 50, they’re running some substantial size yachts.” As ambition grows, however, the limiting factor increasingly becomes whether larger yachts can be operated and based in Japan at all, given regulatory thresholds, crewing requirements and marina limitations.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/377575/image/large-1667448dcb7e90b7b10ce7b101b65997.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/377575">An additional dimension is emerging through foreign demand. Angel Zhou, President of Asia at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>, suggests that non-Japanese buyers may play a growing role in shaping Japan’s brokerage activity. Chinese buyers, she says, are likely to represent “an important share of the Japanese superyacht market in the coming years”, particularly as more high-net-worth individuals choose to reside in the country.&nbsp;That potential, however, remains constrained by structural frictions. Zhou points in particular to the withdrawal of domestic yacht finance providers, which has limited access to mortgage products and slowed the conversion of interest into completed transactions. Were finance providers to re-enter the market, especially for yachts in the 20 to 40-metre range, she argues that it “would significantly accelerate market expansion” by broadening access to ownership.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386863/image/large-58c4ccbfb716dce2b59f06ad26c0f064.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386863">Japan’s brokerage market is unlikely to expand rapidly, but nor is it static. Demographic turnover, shifting generational attitudes and growing foreign participation may widen activity incrementally, even as structural constraints continue to cap overall scale. Its trajectory is therefore more likely to reflect gradual recalibration on its own terms, shaped as much by social norms and operating realities as by regulatory reform.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/386528/image/large-ac18974277bb47126ecdd41da712a4c7.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/386528">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2026Following two successful editions in Hong Kong, the <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/events/asia-pacific-superyacht-summit-2026-3rd-edition" target="_blank">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a> will move to Japan in 2026. The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/events/asia-pacific-superyacht-summit-2026-3rd-edition" target="_blank">event</a> will take place on Thursday 7 and Friday 8 May in Kobe, hosted at Hotel La Suite Kobe Oceans Garden.As Japan continues to open its market to international superyacht traffic and expand its marina and service infrastructure, the summit will examine how the country is positioning itself within the wider Asia-Pacific yachting landscape. Discussions will also address broader regulatory, operational and investment trends shaping the region.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/370697/image/large-af880a3d9740bec86f3b197c0c5e9fa1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/370697">The <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/events/asia-pacific-superyacht-summit-2026-3rd-edition" target="_blank">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit</a> serves as a dedicated forum for analysing market developments and facilitating dialogue among leading stakeholders from across the superyacht industry.Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/asia-pacific-superyacht-summit-2026-topics-announced" target="_blank">Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2026 expands programme with new speakers</a>Early Bird tickets are available <a href="https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/asia-pacific-superyacht-summit-2026-tickets-1979724982716?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank">here</a>.

What is shaping Japan’s yacht brokerage market?

Analysis of Japan’s yacht brokerage market, examining structural divergence, generational change and limits shaping future growth.

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Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit

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Following successful editions in Hong Kong, we are proud to announce that the third edition of the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit will take place in Kobe, Japan, on 7 and 8 May 2026.Now firmly established as an annual gathering, the APSS brings together industry leaders, yachting clients, and key stakeholders with the shared goal of positioning the Asia-Pacific as a leading superyacht market and cruising destination.What to expect:• Thought-provoking keynote sessions and expert panel discussions• Insights into the most pressing challenges and opportunities across the region• Exclusive access to the latest market intelligence and emerging trends• High-level networking with influential yachting professionals

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Benetti announced as Event Partner for Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2026 in Japan