Despite the challenges many businesses faced over the last couple of years, the yacht industry has gone, by and large, seemingly unscathed. Simpson Marine, for one, reported that 2021 was the most successful year it’s had to date. The Asian-based yacht sales and service company smashed its previous record and sold 135 new and pre-owned yachts last year – a 20 percent increase compared to 2020. 
"Simpson Marine’s mission has always been to bring people closer to the ocean and help them enjoy the freedom of life at sea. It is therefore heartening to see many first time boat owners being welcomed into the yachting fold during 2020 and 2021," says Mike Simpson, Founder and Managing Director of Simpson Marine. 
Photo: SanlorenzoSimpson Marine may have reported substantial growth in all business activities including new yacht sales, brokerage, yacht charter, yacht management and services; however, it was Sanlorenzo models which have been particularly successful this last year, with a significant number of sales, and plenty more scheduled for delivery this year – including two units of the new SD118, which was revealed to the world stage only last year. The largest Sanlorenzo sale that Simpson Marine secured in 2021 was a 52Steel, due to be launched during the summer of this year. 
The Italian shipbuilder recognised the success of Simpson Marine, awarding it “Best 2021 Service and Sales Performance Worldwide” for both the Yacht and Superyacht divisions, during the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2021.Simpson Marine reports that interest was not exclusive to Sanlorenzo either, reporting a spike in inquiries for: Bluegame, Beneteau Group brands, Fairline Yachts and Aquila Power Catamarans. 
Photo: Thomas PaganiThere have been a number of new yachts added to the Simpson Yacht Care and Yacht Management divisions as well, including eight new Sanlorenzo yachts. The division reports that it’s never been busier as it now has a total of 50 yachts under its care.
Simpson Marine is set to start the new year with a solid order book. With yacht availability and quick deliveries being high priorities for Asian buyers, Simpson Marine has been securing a long list of stock boats for the Asian market but supply remains limited. The company will also continue to pledge its allegiance to many regional and local ocean protection and marine restoration initiatives.