Over 350 key figures from the yacht racing industry attended the second edition of the World Yacht Racing Forum. Their feedback was a positive one, everyone recognising the quality of the debates and the importance of such an international Forum to debate the key issues our sport faces. Today’s keynote speaker Michel Desjoyeaux, double winner of the Vendée Globe, reminded the audience that the sport of sailing looks clean from outside but needs to better its carbon footprint. “We have a responsibility”, he commented; a wise reminder following the Copenhagen climate conference. Desjoyeaux went on to say that the sport of sailing is a great platform of integration for the younger generation, and especially for the ones who encounter problems in suburban areas. “It is wrong to consider our sport as an activity for the rich people. The access to our sport is easy and cheap. We have several projects that demonstrate this clearly in France.” Desjoyeaux concluded by talking about the business model of our sport and the direction it should take. “We don’t need to reduce our costs; what we need to do is increase the return we provide to our partners.” A message that provided a perfect introduction to the next session, entitled “Cutting racing costs – how can we meet the challenges of today’s economy?” Knut Frostad, CEO of the Volvo Ocean Race, made it clear from the onset that reducing costs was a matter of survival. “Our sport is small and we need to work collectively at growing it. We can achieve this by reducing costs in several areas, and particularly in the technical side of the sport: there is money wasted in this area. I am also in favour of salary caps”, he said. “On the other hand, I am not in favour of subsidising teams like some events do. It is the wrong approach.” Also involved in this panel of experts, Dominique Wavre, President of the IMOCA, explained that the Open 60 Class was facing – and trying to address – fundamental issues of reliability, safety and budget control. “We had 30 boats at the start of the last Vendée Globe but only 11 made it to the arrival. We want to have 30 boats again in the next edition and we will achieve this if we manage to develop boats that are more reliable whilst protecting the existing platforms.” Other speakers such as Josh Hall – President of the Portimao Global Race – presented a cheaper alternative whilst the Audi MedCup Director Ignacio Triay confessed that it was difficult to trim down the costs “because we risk to reduce as a consequence the level of services provided to the teams and the partners.” The debate moved on to the governance of yacht racing – How does sailing compare to other sports? The presence of the Secretary General of ISAF Jerome Pels made it both interesting and controversial, with the panellists as well as the floor putting a strong pressure on the Sports governing body’s spokesman. CEO of the Brawn GP Formula One team, Nick Fry followed with amusement before observing that “this looks like a bogus model!” Fry then took some distance and suggested that the sports’ main actors look at the broad picture: “Rather than focusing on the details, ask yourselves: What are your goals? What is your global strategy? I don’t know your sport but it doesn’t seem to be managed professionally and for the benefits of its participants.” Nick Fry concluded by an advice: “Look at what the main corporations want. Observe the level of return they receive in other sports such as Football or Formula One. Your competition should be us!” He finally reminded the audience that his team was small – 450 employees, a budget of 100 million Euros / year, 18 events per year followed by 400 journalists: statistics that clearly illustrate the massive gap that our sport needs to fill. The afternoon session began with a debate about the future of multihull racing. Being former Olympic racers and multihull experts, all panellists agreed that it was an absolute shame that the Tornados had been taken away from the Olympic program; nobody in the 350 strong audience said the contrary… The reasons were more interesting to understand. Mitch Booth, a double Olympic medallist, explained that “multihulls have always struggled with acceptance within the institutions, the yacht clubs or federations. They have been banned for years. There is unfortunately a cultural issue still to resolve.” Cam Lewis, who is one of the best promoters of multihull racing in the US, considers that “this issue will be resolved. There are currently several successful projects – including the forthcoming America’s Cup – that need to be used to the benefit of multihull racing.” Founder of the Extreme 40 concept, Herbert Dercksen confirmed that the platform he successfully developed has “helped overcome this stigma.” Other promising projects such as the MOD – Multi One Design trimarans – are on their way, and could well become tomorrow’s most successful in and offshore multihull project. “There should also be some individual projects in parallel”, commented Desjoyeaux. “This is how the sport and the technology can evolve.” More than 500 delegates - including the ones involved in the adjacent Superyachts Coating Conference and the Yacht Racing Design &amp; Technology Symposium - then walked into the Grimaldi Forum auditorium for the events Grand Finale, the long expected America’s Cup session. CEO of BMW ORACLE Racing, Russell Coutts was first on the podium, speaking with enthusiasm about his trimaran’s wing – “bigger than any wing ever built including airplanes.” Coutts spoke at lengths about his passion for the America’s Cup, and the characteristics that made it so dear to him. “Some of the lessons for the future lie in the past”, he claimed. “Freemantle was one of the most exciting America’s Cups ever. Auckland showed the benefits of a custom built harbour, and the importance of a strong local support. Finally, Valencia illustrated the benefits of a global management for both the Challengers series and the America’s Cup. All those events were very successful in their way. I have one question”, he concluded: “why change such a successful format?” Brad Butterworth, President of Alinghi, followed on stage and reminded the audience about the ground rules of the event. “The founding document of the America’s Cup is the Deed of Gift. We can amend the rules if we agree to do it by mutual consent. However, in this case, there was no mutual consent.” Butterworth also spoke with enthusiasm about the Alinghi 5 catamaran, telling the audience how exciting it was to sail on such a platform. “In the future, he said, we should seriously consider a multi-challenge America’s Cup on multihulls.” After confirming that his team would be ready to race on February 8, he expressed a wish: “Whoever looses the dual should be graceful and abandon any lawsuit.” Nicolo Bastianini, Paul Cayard, Magnus Holmberg, Stephan Kandler, Sotiris Buseas and Marcus Hutchinson then joined Coutts and Butterworth on stage for a debate about the future of the event after AC 33. Talking on behalf of their respective teams, all panellists expressed clear – yet solvable - differences regarding the format, dates and type of boat to use for the next edition of the regatta. On the other hand all panellists agreed that an independent management was necessary, Brad Butterworth reminding his colleagues that its establishment would be difficult due to the complexity of the event. Led by Paul Cayard, the speakers then unanimously endorsed the idea to rapidly create an official group of challengers and to start working concretely, together, on a Protocol for the next America’s Cup. A promising achievement in the current context and after two years of legal battles. The second edition of the World Yacht Racing Forum ended up on this positive note. Officially closing the event, the Forum’s Chairman Peter Gilmour highlighted the great quality of the debates held during two days in Monaco. “To be honest, I am not really surprised by this,” he said. “I just wonder why we haven’t started a long time ago. This is an exceptional reunion of the most influential people in our industry. Next year’s third edition of the Forum will be built on this event’s success.”

Great success for second edition of World Yacht Racing Forum

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.

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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

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

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 49.8-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Daisy D49.8m (163'5&quot;)Heesen Yachts2018">Daisy D</a> sold in a deal with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1550" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marine Marketing (Company)">Marine Marketing</a> introducing the buyer, alongside Nathan Farrelly of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/124" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Edmiston (Company)">Edmiston</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4795" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="One Brokerage Australia (Company)">One Brokerage Australia</a>. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397051/image/large-5a5dce9decb30e6d016cb98d7fde34c4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397051">Delivered in 2018 as part of the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen</a> 5000 Semi-Displacement series, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Daisy D49.8m (163'5&quot;)Heesen Yachts2018">Daisy D</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/55" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Omega Architects (Company)">Omega Architects</a>, with interior design penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/205" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Cristiano Gatto Design (Company)">Cristiano Gatto Design</a> and naval architecture by her Dutch builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/54" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Heesen Yachts (Company)">Heesen Yachts</a>.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Daisy D49.8m (163'5&quot;)Heesen Yachts2018">Daisy D</a> can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests across a six stateroom configuration, with her master suite situated on the main deck forward, while her VIP suite, two doubles and two twin staterooms can be found on the lower deck.In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Daisy D49.8m (163'5&quot;)Heesen Yachts2018">Daisy D</a> is equipped with twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1409" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="MTU (Company)">MTU</a> engines, which propel her to a top speed of 23 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots. At the time of the sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/6105" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Daisy D49.8m (163'5&quot;)Heesen Yachts2018">Daisy D</a> had a last known asking price of €28,500,000.&nbsp;

Daisy D: 50m Heesen yacht sold

The 49.8-metre Heesen superyacht Daisy D sold, with a last known asking price of €28,500,000.

50m Heesen superyacht Daisy D sold

The 30.48-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/466" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Hatteras Yachts (Company)">Hatteras</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunday Money30.48m (100'0&quot;)Hatteras Yachts2001">Sunday Money</a> sold in a deal with Iain Lawrie of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/322" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Merle Wood & Associates, Inc. (Company)">Merle Wood &amp; Associates</a> introducing the buyer and Michael Zaidan of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5149" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Borden and Associates Yacht Sales (Company)">Borden &amp; Associates Yacht Sales</a> representing the seller.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397019/image/large-1adf3cf22ae9625acf3be275898f7595.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397019">Delivered in 2001, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunday Money30.48m (100'0&quot;)Hatteras Yachts2001">Sunday Money</a> features exterior design and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/326" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Jack Hargrave (Company)">Jack Hargrave</a>. Spanning 180 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunday Money30.48m (100'0&quot;)Hatteras Yachts2001">Sunday Money</a> can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests across a five stateroom configuration.&nbsp;In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunday Money30.48m (100'0&quot;)Hatteras Yachts2001">Sunday Money</a> can reach a top speed of 24 knots and a cruising speed of 18 knots, thanks to twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1497" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Detroit Diesel (Company)">Detroit Diesel</a> engines. At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4478" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sunday Money30.48m (100'0&quot;)Hatteras Yachts2001">Sunday Money</a> had a last known asking price of $1,450,000.(Image courtesy of Merle Wood &amp; Associates.)

Sunday Money: 31m Hatteras yacht sold

The 30.48-metre Hatteras motor yacht Sunday Money sold with a last known asking price of $1,450,000.

31m Hatteras motor yacht Sunday Money sold

Travelling to Sydney, Leona Caanen speaks with Luke Geelan, family man and owner of the&nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shore Thing35.05m (114'12&quot;)Lloyds Ships1986">Shore Thing</a>&nbsp;fleet.Growing up with a passion for boating, and especially fishing, is Luke Geelan, Sydney native and owner of the 35.05-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shore Thing35.05m (114'12&quot;)Lloyds Ships1986">Shore Thing</a>. Having spent most of his life around the water, it seems only natural for Luke to have moved into the world of boating. Overtime the yacht has come to resemble not only a connection to his past, but also to his future, getting to enjoy it with his family and friends, as well as sharing it with charter guests.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388213/image/large-0b83e89d1054e69437b37ff303a35921.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388213">A family passionGrowing up on a river in Sydney, Luke was introduced to the rhythms of tide and weather from an early age. “I’ve grown up with a passion for boating, my father taught me to water ski and sail as a young child” Luke shares. Over time, Luke exchanged sailing for wakeboarding and eventually game-fishing, depending his passion for being out at sea. This passion has remained a constant factor in Luke’s life, deepening even further once he could share it with his own kids.A few years ago, Luke sold his business and decided to step into boating in a more deliberate way by acquiring the 35-metre motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shore Thing35.05m (114'12&quot;)Lloyds Ships1986">Shore Thing</a>, built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/554" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lloyds Ships (Company)">Lloyd Ships</a> in Australia in 1986. Purchasing her in 2024, the yacht allowed for Luke and his family to explore the Australian coast with more comfort, as well as for them to get to share their passion for the sea. “My two boys are especially big on game fishing, and my daughter is very passionate about snorkelling and marine life”, says Luke. By acquiring <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shore Thing35.05m (114'12&quot;)Lloyds Ships1986">Shore Thing</a>, it allows for the family to share their passions with one another.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396937/image/large-131bb2f788c31defa0822382f533d318.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396937">A three-part refitAs <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shore Thing35.05m (114'12&quot;)Lloyds Ships1986">Shore Thing</a> is from the 80s, she was in need of an upgrade when Luke purchased her. The refit has been phased and purposeful, with 2024 seeing the first of the three phases. The yacht spent September to November at the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3255" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard (Company)">Gold Coast City Marina &amp; Shipyard</a> where the bridge was upgraded, soft furnishings replaced and extensive paintwork completed. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388209/image/large-c74eb7958e3e321e611bea0e2d9fee9c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388209">The second phase was centred around remodelling the saloon, with new flooring, carpeting and ceilings, as well as mechanical enhancements. Other upgrades included a beach club installation, complete with an inflatable pool, protective netting and a shaded cabana, which has proved particularly popular with charter guests. Possibly the most meaningful addition during this refit have been the zero-speed stabilisers, “my wife suffers from really severe seasickness, the stabilisers are essential in making the yacht comfortable for my family,” Luke shares.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388210/image/large-06ec6524534531dc1f3ac942dd743803.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388210"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shore Thing35.05m (114'12&quot;)Lloyds Ships1986">Shore Thing</a>’s third and final refit will take place in 2027 and will see an upgrade of the crew quarters. Originally, Luke had hoped to finalise the refit this year, but the yacht’s agenda, both in charter and personal use, is almost fully booked for the calendar year, and Luke wants to ensure there is enough time for the refit: “Our crew is so amazing, I'm super lucky to have what I believe is the best crew.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388187/image/large-fde4622fb25e3e416358ace496ed0104.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388187"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shore Thing35.05m (114'12&quot;)Lloyds Ships1986">Shore Thing</a>&nbsp;juniorYet the 35-metre motor yacht is only half the story. Six months after acquiring the mothership, Luke secured what he describes as Australia’s leading game fishing platform: a custom-built 17.7-metre (58’0”) Assegai sportfisher. Designed specifically for marlin fishing along the country’s east coast, the yacht is equipped with a gyro stabiliser and, more recently, a Furuno Omni Sonar System capable of scanning 360 degrees around the vessel to significant depths, providing a technological edge in a pursuit that still relies on instinct and patience.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396954/image/large-96857bf8151cfcd655d86dc3d061d704.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396954">The reason for acquiring the fishing vessel to cruise alongside the mothership are his sons. Luke shares that “my sons and I have been game fishing together for the last five years or so,” and have even partaken in various competitions in- and around Sydney. “We’ve won a couple of state titles and other competitions,” a hint of pride sits in Luke’s voice. “My children in particular, have a passion for fishing, and I've just shared that passion, and supported it”, he adds.Lukes really enjoys fishing with his family and friends, on a recent trip to the Great Barrier Reef, the Shore Thing 58' landed a 1,223 pound Black Marlin. Yet Luke is quick to note that they’re conscious about the way they fish. “We only catch what we eat; everything else goes right back in the ocean. We’re not hunters, we just fish for the joy of it.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388186/image/large-a98a34adf0095495d9e5f32f36eb458e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388186">The joy of cruisingSome of Luke’s most cherished moments onboard are those with friends and family. “We hosted my 50th birthday onboard,” Luke shares, having chartered the yacht to Whitehaven Beach, located in the Whitsundays, “there were about 40 guests, all friends and family.”&nbsp;Possibly Luke’s favourite memory is the recent Christmas holiday onboard. “Spending time with our family and another family, sitting around and just having deep belly laughs over some beautifully cooked meals by our chef onboard.” Luke describes this as delightful and quite possibly one of the most memorable times onboard. “Your kids grow up so quick, getting to share such a beautiful time together and feeling like, as your kids become young adults, that you can really share laughs and stories. It was just special.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396938/image/large-04bc34860fd9bc9b421321a8d9f42e09.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396938">The beauty of being on a boat is that it ties everyone together, whether that is his own family and friends, or guests who charter the yacht, for Luke, the joy of owning <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shore Thing35.05m (114'12&quot;)Lloyds Ships1986">Shore Thing</a> lies in “getting to share the joy with other people.”The yacht and her fishing counterpart offer not just a sense of luxury, but a space for guests to create memories and experience the beauty of the Australian coastline as they cruise <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/3832" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Shore Thing35.05m (114'12&quot;)Lloyds Ships1986">Shore Thing</a> between the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays and the Sydney Harbour.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/388177/image/large-2991a957e2fdb4ef0038789921600aa2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/388177">

Owning the shore thing fleet 

A look inside Luke Geelan's charter fleet: his 35m Shore Thing and the 58' sport fisher chartering around Sydney.

"The joy of owning Shore Thing is getting to share it with others"

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom Yacht Equipment</a>&nbsp;has earned a prominent position in the superyacht supply chain for its bespoke boarding equipment, platforms, cranes, watertight doors and integrated control systems. Yet the engineering philosophy behind its custom-designed solutions is based on a resolutely modular approach.When Mervyn van der Ploeg was appointed managing director of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom Yacht Equipment</a> in 2015, the company was going through a bad patch. It routinely redesigned everything from scratch for each new yacht project, leading to prototype-level inefficiencies and financial strain. A small but telling example is that it used to produce 32 different types of locking pins. Today, through a process of standardisation and modularisation, that number has been reduced to just two sizes.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396743/image/large-c20dda6c39f046eea94eaa71057b9e2c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396743">“Previously, when designing a platform for a yacht, four different locking pins might have been specified, requiring multiple suppliers,” explains van der Ploeg. “Now, we buy 200 locking pins per year in two sizes from a single supplier at half the cost.”The process began by redesigning a prototype passerelle from scratch using a fully modular approach, which then became a template for other equipment. While remaining a supplier of custom equipment, modular components are now reused across <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a>’s product range, reducing design complexity and streamlining production.“A key technical insight came from looking outside the yachting industry,” continues van der Ploeg. “For example, swivel joints originally designed for excavators have been incorporated into our gangways. These components are proven, industrial-grade and standardised, which means we can build highly reliable systems without reinventing core mechanisms.”In the ten years since van der Ploeg joined the company, turnover has more than doubled from €12 million to €25 million, driven by increased efficiency along with larger yachts and a rising demand for integrated equipment.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396739/image/large-d48d0f06ceeb5a00cfda9bafe1c96878.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396739">Make it modularThe spin-off from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a>’s modular way of thinking are innovations designed to maximise open space while eliminating visual clutter. Many of these solutions revolve around relocating drive systems into hinge lines and the platform structures themselves. In one recent project, a large side platform was initially conceived as two separate elements with a manually installed infill piece. While technically feasible, it was operationally awkward. Instead, by introducing an internal hinge drive already proven elsewhere, the entire system was re-engineered as a single monolithic platform. The infill was eliminated, deployment became faster, crew workload was reduced, and the geometry became cleaner.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396744/image/large-4feaec6057dc57f70fe27a2f2a88296b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396744">The Sliding Stairs Access Hatch is another example. Developed in response to a request to optimise the passage from the main deck to the beach platform on <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship’s</a> 79.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11677" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Valor79.5m (260'10&quot;)Feadship2025">Valor</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a>’s engineers merged door, hatch and boarding equipment components to create a completely new solution. Essentially, the staircases on each side of the pool form the hatch itself, with half of each staircase retracting into the deckhead like a gangway to provide access to the beach club.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396742/image/large-bd76338bca2c0e5436acede35e416f93.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396742">“This marked a next step in modular engineering for <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a>,” says van der Ploeg. “Our approach not only accelerated the development process, but also showed how modularity enables flexible, cross-disciplinary solutions without compromising quality.”As both staircases form part of the watertight boundary of the vessel certified by Class, one of the main challenges was ensuring watertight integrity, given the angle at which the stair hatches are installed, as well as aligning the treads between the hatches and the fixed structures. In fact, sealing has become a central issue as stern structures grow more complex – folding, rotating and closing at compound angles. While inflatable seals are often the go-to solution and offer excellent theoretical performance, they also represent a single point of failure. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a> typically prefers D-profile rubber seals, which wear gradually, remain locally manageable, and allow temporary mitigation.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396741/image/large-cf52ffb86158af5f4ac7a5922058d9b5.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396741">“This approach is especially critical for Lloyd’s-certified watertight items such as split transom doors closing at different angles, where corners and junctions between curved surfaces become critical failure points,” van der Ploeg points out.Such solutions highlight how <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a> has evolved beyond developing hardware to innovating the onboard experience, a strategy that has resulted in multiple patented solutions, from pop-up gangways embedded in the stern platform to protective cabrio covers engineered to fold, stack or nest completely out of sight when not in use. At the last edition of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4374" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Metstrade (Company)">Metstrade</a>, the company presented five interactive aft deck models through immersive 3D visualisations showcasing how engineering, design and user experience increasingly converge in the early phases of yacht development.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396745/image/large-b406b1bef2a73b0811b05344a273be7e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396745">Under controlAnother defining feature of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a>’s approach is that its control systems and programming are all developed in-house. Precise timing between electronic commands, hydraulic oil flow and mechanical motion is critical, as are programmed delays that account for inertia and mass. Most systems employ frequency-driven power packs rather than simple on/off hydraulics, resulting in smoother movement, lower noise levels and the elimination of hydraulic ‘hammer’ effects. Automated operating cycles manage sequencing, speed and end-of-stroke deceleration automatically, reducing the risk of impact damage and operator error. Before delivery, full functional testing is carried out in-house, often with owner representatives present.Enclosed helicopter lifts represent some of the most complex control systems <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a> has delivered. On yachts such as the 85.95-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/234" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ecstasea85.95m (281'12&quot;)Feadship2004">Ecstasea</a>, the 96.6-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/5936" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sophia96.6m (316'11&quot;)Feadship2017">Sophia</a> (ex-Faith), 99-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/2074" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Madame Gu99.0m (324'10&quot;)Feadship2013">Madame Gu</a> and the 102.6-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/10678" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ulysses102.6m (336'7&quot;)Feadship2024">Ulysses</a>, these lift assemblies rely on synchronised spindles and highly precise control algorithms to ensure uniform vertical motion. Ironically, real-world usage of helicopter lifts has revealed an interesting pattern:&nbsp;<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396746/image/large-793a08021cda2fc7bab19c3cd8f1a821.jpeg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396746">“On some yachts, the heli hangars are no longer actively used and instead function as static storage platforms,” reveals van der Ploeg. “In such cases, owners may even suspend servicing altogether – an illustration of how operational reality can diverge from original design intent.”Developments in control systems are being matched by advances in data intelligence. During the COVID period, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a> expanded its remote-support capabilities and identified a recurring issue: when faults occur, crews often cannot describe what happened beyond “pressing the button”. To address this, its latest systems incorporate data logging that records each operating cycle, sequence order, timing, load condition and fault event with precise timestamps.“When an issue arises, engineers can trace it back to the exact operating condition that caused it,” explains van der Ploeg. “While still being rolled out primarily on new-build projects, data logging represents a shift towards evidence-based rather than purely scheduled maintenance.”Across <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a>’s predominantly hydraulic product range, failures rarely originate in the actuators themselves. Instead, the most vulnerable areas are where forces converge – locations where multiple loads are transferred into a single structural interface. Passerelles are a prime example:“Forces are transmitted through long, slender structures back to a limited number of mounting points,” explains van der Ploeg. “When additional functionality is introduced, such as lateral slewing rather than straight-line deployment, those forces increase substantially.”<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396750/image/large-74a75f9786460908e4bf98d749448420.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396750">Bonding and bolt-inSome <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a> passerelles now extend up to 16-metres in length, pushing the limits of lightweight structural engineering while maintaining stiffness, safety margins and regulatory compliance. Designing these interfaces requires careful attention to geometry, material thickness and fatigue behaviour.Marine-grade aluminium remains the primary structural material, selected for its high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. Steel is used selectively in high-load interfaces where stiffness and wear resistance are critical. Carbon fibre has also been deployed strategically, particularly in the outermost sections of passerelles. Reducing mass at the extremity lowers bending moments throughout the structure, enabling greater reach without adding reinforcements.&nbsp;A more recent addition to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a>’s fabrication methodology is the introduction of structural adhesive bonding. In lightweight aluminium constructions, particularly passerelles, welding thin sections sometimes caused unacceptable deformation due to heat input. To address this, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a> now uses a hybrid method: components are positioned with bolts to prevent movement, while the structural adhesive provides the primary load-bearing bond. In this configuration, the bolts act purely as locators and the adhesive carries the load.Another key evolution is the move towards bolt-in housings for boarding equipment such as passerelles and swim ladders. Historically, these housings were built directly into the hull, placing installation and testing squarely on the shipyard’s critical path. This new approach uses self-contained housings that are assembled and factory-tested in-house, accepted by owners or representatives, and installed later as plug-and-play units.“Once delivered, the housing is bolted into place, hydraulics and electrics are connected, and functionality is assured – eliminating the risk of delays, rework and repainting,” says van der Ploeg.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396752/image/large-1ea3884318d73cd6441f8d9cf8801f9c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396752">Breaking outSolely owned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4951" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw (Company)">Koninklijke De Vries,</a> until recently <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a> worked exclusively within <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a>. It is now pursuing a more open strategy, with roughly 60% of turnover derived from <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> new-build projects, 25% from service and refit work on existing <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadships</a>, and the rest from other shipyards – a share that continues to grow as the company expands its marketing network.An early major non-<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> contract was with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4644" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="AKYACHT (Company)">AKYACHT</a> in Turkey for its 120-metre-plus project (NB012) due for delivery in 2030. Another is the new <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">ISA</a> Custom 80 currently under construction at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">ISA Yachts</a> in Ancona. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/201" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="ISA Yachts (Company)">ISA</a> client, an experienced <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/29" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Feadship (Company)">Feadship</a> charterer, specified <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a> to supply the boarding systems with which he directly interacts – in total, five independent mechanical systems with fully integrated control logic.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396754/image/large-0eae94a6e941a08764d18f82632bee1f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396754">Across all these developments, a clear evolution emerges. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5438" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Akerboom Yacht Equipment (Company)">Akerboom</a> has progressed from boatbuilder to specialist supplier, system integrator and, ultimately, lifestyle collaborator. Each project begins by asking what experience the owner, designer or shipyard wants to achieve. From there, complexity is carefully analysed and engineered so that systems are notable precisely for their absence – seeming to disappear once installed, leaving spaces that feel more open, intuitive and fully resolved.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396753/image/large-24074ca4b4f597fe6f6d7ba61d16b96a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396753">

Standardising the bespoke: The engineering behind custom superyacht equipment

Akerboom Yacht Equipment explains how modular engineering is reshaping its custom superyacht boarding systems, platforms, cranes and control systems.

The fourth 53.25-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> YS53 yacht support <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13202" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rafter53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2026">Rafter</a> has been delivered to her owner, following her launch in March 2026 from the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a> facility in Antalya, Turkey. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397013/image/large-c33b6dbec1e5da99757b484375d47d5b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397013">Designed to operate either alongside a mothership or independently, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13202" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rafter53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2026">Rafter</a> has been crafted in-house by her builder <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>, which were responsible for her interior, exterior and naval architecture.&nbsp;Created around family experiences, shared moments on the water and operational purpose <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13202" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rafter53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2026">Rafter</a> will now serve as a purposeful extension of her owner's fleet, where she has been developed to provide additional space, support and flexibility.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397012/image/large-e7a8adfa9276e3affbe8d0454cf3c3d4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397012">"From the outset, &nbsp;there was a clear vision for how the owner wanted to use YS53 <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13202" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rafter53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2026">Rafter</a> and the role she would play within the fleet," explained Rob Dolling, Owner’s Representative. "Together with Damen Yachting, we were able to translate those wishes into a vessel that is highly functional, personal and closely aligned with the owner’s programme."<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13202" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rafter53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2026">Rafter</a> can comfortably accommodate up to eight guests, as well as 10 crew plus her captain. Her interior reflects the owner’s personal style, combining timeless elegance with Old English influences throughout. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397011/image/large-c5c4c4fd9fd1617d2fa194c1f00b061d.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397011"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13202" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rafter53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2026">Rafter</a> boasts the brand’s signature axe bow, while her reinforced deck supports touch-and-go helicopter operations. With a generous open main deck of more than 200 square-metres, this versatile space can be used for large tenders, toys and specialised equipment.This is complemented by a 15-tonne crane, enabling the handling of substantial tenders and heavy loads. With a volume just shy of 500 GT, she can accommodate up to eight guests, along with a crew of eight.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397010/image/large-d904abeb9d80368dab56f223768c6958.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397010">"As the fourth Yacht Support 53 delivered by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1821" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Damen Yachting (Company)">Damen Yachting</a>, she reflects the versatility of the Yacht Support range within modern superyacht ownership and has been created with a very clear purpose," concluded Jan van Hogerwou, Commercial Executive USA.Crafted with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13202" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rafter53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2026">Rafter</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, which provide her with a cruising speed of 12 knots and a top speed of 19 knots. Once her sea trials are complete, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13202" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Rafter53.25m (174'8&quot;)Damen Yachting2026">Rafter</a> will prepare for delivery to her owner. &nbsp;

Rafter: Fourth Damen Yachting YS53 yacht on sea trials

The fourth 53.25-metre Damen Yachting YS53 yacht support Rafter has been delivered following her launch in Antalya, Turkey in March 2026.

Fourth Damen Yachting YS53 yacht support Rafter delivered

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a> has completed the refit of the 37-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a> Classic 120 yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1886" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kos37.5m (123'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2009">Kos</a>, following a comprehensive programme of works spanning structural modifications, onboard systems, technical upgrades, exterior areas and interiors. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396976/image/large-40153e77114e1432e88b74a33b05ac53.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396976">Built in 2009 by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/212" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Benetti SpA (Company)">Benetti</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1886" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kos37.5m (123'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2009">Kos</a> forms part of its Classic 37 series, featuring exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/254" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Stefano Righini Design (Company)">Stefano Righini Design</a>, interiors 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> and naval architecture developed in-house by her builder.The refit of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1886" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kos37.5m (123'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2009">Kos</a> commenced in August 2025 shortly after the yacht was acquired by her new owner and was completed in approximately six months through the coordinated efforts of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a>'s project management team, specialised technicians, skilled craftsmen and interior designer Laura Rossi. According to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a>, the programme was undertaken with the aim of improving operational efficiency, enhancing the onboard experience and extending the yacht's service life.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397008/image/large-c77ef9362600c70fc7acbd85faee16f2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397008">From the outset, the owner and project team sought to preserve the yacht's original layout and distinctive character while improving her functionality, comfort and the perception of space. On the main deck, the refit scope included the installation of new full-height windows in her main saloon alongside the reconfiguration of the staircase area between the main and upper decks.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397007/image/large-91d720dd0c041da15a467ac85b61b3da.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397007">Laura Rossi oversaw the interior redesign, introducing what <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a> described as "greater fluidity, brightness and visual continuity." A new transparent balustrade around the staircase would allow natural light to flow between decks, while satin-finish glass panels replaced selected opaque surfaces in the corridors. New fabrics and materials were also integrated throughout the guest accommodations to enhance comfort, durability and ease of maintenance.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397009/image/large-f3728f4818fd2bd0f7063bd374fc9a4e.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397009">"<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1886" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Kos37.5m (123'0&quot;)Benetti SpA2009">Kos</a> does not deny what she has been, nor does she try to become something else," commented Rossi. "The project was conceived to lighten, simplify and enhance the yacht's original identity, creating spaces that are brighter, more fluid and more natural to experience every day."<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/397006/image/large-04998d04550196299f04c73e269ea5f1.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/397006">In addition to the living areas, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/895" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Lusben Shipyard (Company)">Lusben</a> carried out a myriad of technical upgrades involving the main engines, generators and essential onboard systems. The entire lighting system was replaced with energy-efficient LEDs, while the bridge and onboard electronics were updated to make them easier to use and improve navigation safety. Exterior works included restoring the teak decks, reconfiguring the sundeck after removing the existing Jacuzzi and completely repainting the hull and superstructure.&nbsp;

Lusben completes refit of 37m Benetti yacht Kos

Lusben has completed an extensive refit of the 37m Benetti Classic yacht Kos.

37m Benetti yacht Kos completes extensive refit at Lusben

The 25.75-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/130" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moonen Yachts (Company)">Moonen</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7631" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moon River 25.75m (84'6&quot;)Moonen Yachts2003">Moon River</a> sold in a deal with David Legrand of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/158" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Fraser (Company)">Fraser</a> introducing the buyer and Derk Jan Rolff of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5652" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Holland Yacht Connection (Company)">Holland Yacht Connection</a> representing the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/346966/image/large-acba5ebb2d4596b138324b59ae61deb9.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/346966">Delivered in 2003 as part of the Moonen 84 series, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7631" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moon River 25.75m (84'6&quot;)Moonen Yachts2003">Moon River</a> features exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/240" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Marimecs BV (Company)">Marimecs</a>, interior design penned in-house by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/130" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moonen Yachts (Company)">Moonen Yachts</a> and naval architecture by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/241" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="René van der Velden Yacht Design (Company)">René van der Velden Yacht Design</a>.Spanning 115 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7631" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moon River 25.75m (84'6&quot;)Moonen Yachts2003">Moon River</a> can comfortably accommodate up to eight guests across a four stateroom configuration on the lower deck, with her full-beam master suite situated amidships, alongside a VIP at her bow and two twin staterooms.&nbsp;In terms of performance, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7631" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moon River 25.75m (84'6&quot;)Moonen Yachts2003">Moon River</a> 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, which provide her with a top speed of 12 knots and a cruising speed of 11 knots. At the time of her sale, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7631" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moon River 25.75m (84'6&quot;)Moonen Yachts2003">Moon River</a> had a last known asking price of €2,200,000.&nbsp;(Image courtesy of Holland Yacht Connection.)

Moon River: 26m Moonen yacht sold

The 25.75-metre Moonen motor yacht Moon River sold with a last known asking price of €2,200,000.

26m Moonen motor yacht Moon River sold

As contemporary superyacht design continues to prioritise light, openness and seamless connections to the sea, glass has evolved from a purely functional element into a defining aesthetic feature and, with the use of significantly larger glass panels, has become an essential structural component. Expansive glazing now shapes not only the visual identity of a yacht but also its engineering framework, requiring a far more integrated and technically rigorous approach.For German specialist <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TILSE Glass (Company)">TILSE</a>, this shift represents both an opportunity and a responsibility – to ensure that increasingly ambitious designs are matched by uncompromising structural integrity, durability and precision.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293944/image/large-ecdb75ea245212d313561b3fadf7f87c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293944">Integrating glass from the concept stageLarger glass surfaces have fundamentally changed how glazing is approached in yacht construction. No longer a late-stage addition, glass must be embedded into the superstructure concept from the earliest design phases, with engineers analysing how forces move through the pane, adhesive bond and surrounding structure.Unlike static architectural environments, yachts operate under continuous dynamic loads, with hull flex, vibration and thermal variation all influencing performance. Safety margins must therefore reflect real marine conditions, while thickness, laminate composition, bonding strategy, edge detailing and installation methodology all need to be considered from the outset.Early collaboration is essential. By working with designers and naval architects at the concept stage, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TILSE Glass (Company)">TILSE</a> helps ensure that visual ambitions are achievable without compromising technical feasibility, long-term serviceability or structural integrity. This proactive approach allows glazing to do more than fit within a design – it helps shape the structural logic of the vessel, balancing elegance with engineering robustness.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/286853/image/large-74c88213b1c3eba82cf06fc659c13e71.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/286853">Bonding as a safety-critical interfaceOne of the most significant technical challenges is bonding glass – which is inherently brittle – to aluminium or steel structures that move, flex and expand differently under load and temperature change. The adhesive joint must do more than hold the panel in place: it must accommodate movement, transfer loads safely and maintain integrity under UV exposure, salt, humidity and vibration.“The real challenge is not only the glass pane itself, but the interface between glass and a structure that is constantly moving at sea.”As panel sizes increase, this interface becomes even more critical, since minor mismatches in movement, geometry or application can have amplified consequences. Bond thickness, surface preparation, laminate compatibility and UV protection must therefore be precisely controlled. In superyacht glazing, adhesive design is not a detail – it is part of the safety concept, and a well-engineered bond line underpins both structural integrity and long-term durability.Simulation and real-world performanceFinite Element analysis helps validate glass performance, particularly in complex or non-standard applications, by modelling the interaction between glass, adhesive and supporting structure under realistic marine loads. This allows engineers to identify stress points, optimise designs and support conditions, and mitigate deflection risks early in the project lifecycle.Unlike building façades, yacht structures are subject to continuous movement, making accurate modelling essential. Long-term factors such as moisture ingress, ageing and laminate degradation must also be assessed, as they can directly affect load-bearing capacity.As glass panels grow in size, tolerances become increasingly critical. Millimetre-level deviations in shaping or installation can influence load distribution and compromise both structural performance and visual alignment. Handling and installation of large panes have therefore become technical operations in their own right, requiring precise three-dimensional measurement and meticulous execution.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/333152/image/large-73662ca86854e3909e622abf8863c6a4.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/333152">Ensuring long-term laminate integrityLong-term durability begins with material selection. Because traditional PVB interlayers, which are widely used, can be vulnerable to humidity and temperature fluctuations, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TILSE Glass (Company)">TILSE</a> uses a specially developed resin interlayer designed for enhanced moisture resistance at sea, thereby preventing delamination.Chemical toughening further improves optical clarity, reduces distortion and avoids the anisotropy often associated with thermally toughened glass. Strict quality control from raw material selection to lamination, sealing and final inspection ensures each pane meets superyacht standards.Consistency in bespoke productionFor bespoke glazing, consistency depends on rigorous process control across the entire project chain, from early consultation and three-dimensional measurement through to production and installation. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TILSE Glass (Company)">TILSE</a>’s integrated approach reduces variability and ensures consistency across the entire project chain, even when each pane is uniquely specified.Combined with stringent inspection protocols and a commitment to rejecting substandard components, this enables the delivery of reliable, high-performance glazing systems.Engineering next-generation glazingLooking ahead, the trajectory of superyacht design points towards even larger, clearer and more seamlessly integrated glass surfaces. However, the next phase of innovation will be defined not by scale alone, but by the ability to balance ambition with practicality. Manufacturability, optical quality, structural safety, durability and ease of replacement will all play an increasingly important role in shaping future designs.As glass cements its position as a defining element of modern yacht design, its successful application depends on far more than aesthetics. Structural integration, bonding expertise, advanced simulation and uncompromising material quality must come together from the very beginning.In response, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/3829" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="TILSE Glass (Company)">TILSE</a> continues to invest in expanded production capacity, advanced handling capabilities and earlier involvement in complex projects – helping today’s most ambitious glazing concepts to be realised safely, durably and with the clarity expected of the next generation of superyachts.

Tilse yacht glass in design

Larger glass surfaces have fundamentally changed how glazing is approached in yacht construction. 

Engineering transparency: The evolving role of glass in superyacht design

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/396837/image/large-d8ba973efacc6a431309d036f5b1a3df.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/396837">The 95-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/778" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Golden Yachts Ltd. (Company)">Golden Yachts</a> superyacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="O'Pari95.0m (311'8&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2020">O’Pari&nbsp;</a>was recently seen anchored in Athens, Greece, ahead of Posidonia 2026. Several other superyachts, including the 60.98-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/13282" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="O'Madeleine60.98m (200'1&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2025">O'Madeleine</a>, were also spotted in the area during the international shipping exhibition, which took place from 1 to 5 June.Delivered in 2020, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="O'Pari95.0m (311'8&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2020">O’Pari&nbsp;</a>remains the largest yacht built by the Greek shipyard to date. She forms part of a fleet of distinctive <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/778" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Golden Yachts Ltd. (Company)">Golden Yachts</a> projects, alongside notable vessels such as the 87.6-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2354" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Project X87.6m (287'5&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2022">Project X</a> and the 77.7-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/11076" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Malia77.7m (254'11&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2023">Malia</a>, which was launched in 2023.Her exterior and interior design were penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/76" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Studio Vafiadis (Company)">Studio Vafiadis</a>. Spanning 2,700 GT, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="O'Pari95.0m (311'8&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2020">O’Pari</a> offers a range of standout amenities, including a touch-and-go helipad positioned on the forward upper deck, an expansive sundeck complete with a DJ booth, bar and Jacuzzi, and a dedicated wellness area featuring a massage room, Turkish hammam and Finnish sauna.Accommodation is provided for guests across a collection of marble- and mosaic-clad staterooms, comprising nine double cabins and four twin cabins.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, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/7237" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="O'Pari95.0m (311'8&quot;)Golden Yachts Ltd.2020">O’Pari</a> cruises comfortably at 16 knots and can reach a top speed of 20 knots. She is currently en route to Split, Croatia, according to AIS Data.

Golden Yachts yacht O’Pari in Athens

The 95-metre Golden Yachts superyacht O’Pari was recently seen anchored in Athens, Greece.

95m Golden Yachts superyacht O’Pari in Athens

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Great success for second edition of World Yacht Racing Forum