With just weeks to go, the yachting industry's newest event is set to debut in Monaco, world-renowned for its glamour and reputation as the "Capital of Advanced Yachting". BOAT takes a closer look at what’s in store at the inaugural World Yachting Summit on 15-17 April 2025.
What sets the World Yachting Summit apart?
Inspired by globally renowned events like COP and Davos, the World Yachting Summit brings together yachting leaders, global organisations, regulators and tourism authorities alongside government representatives, waterfront developers and industry pioneers for active participation, meaningful engagement and impactful debate to drive real action.
The summit breaks down the traditional divide between yachting and superyachting, addressing issues that resonate beyond the yachting industry's borders. Although these markets may differ, they share common ground in client expectations, business evolution, tourism prospects, technological advancements and regulatory challenges - making the discussions relevant to the whole sector.
How is the event structured?
The summit is designed around four distinct “tracks”, each focusing on a key topic explored through a series of expert-led panels. Attendees have the flexibility to curate their own agenda, selecting the sessions most relevant to them and moving between tracks as needed. More than just educational, these discussions aim to drive meaningful industry progress by setting clear goals for the future.
A wide range of panellists and moderators covering most sub-sectors of the industry will lead the discussions in various formats, combining keynotes with Q&A sessions and open roundtables.
Which topics will be discussed at the World Yachting Summit?
The summit will revolve around four critical themes, addressing the industry's most pressing challenges and shaping actionable solutions for the future.
1. Business perspectives: Changing paradigms
The yachting industry is undergoing a profound shift, influenced by evolving business models, AI integration, changing consumer behaviour and global economic forces. By drawing insights from other luxury sectors, this track explores how yachting can adapt and thrive in an unpredictable market. How current geopolitics impact yachting business, business models in the global age and 'Are yachts becoming a commodity?' are just some of the topics to be discussed.
2. Challenges ahead: Reinventing the yachting world
Social acceptance of yachting remains a challenge, particularly among younger generations. This track examines how the industry can enhance its image, strengthen sustainability efforts and address regulatory complexities. It also tackles the evolving demands of crew training, safety and cybersecurity.
3. Technological advancements: The road to net-zero
Innovation is at the heart of yachting’s future. From AI-driven design to alternative fuels and new materials, this track explores cutting-edge technologies shaping a more sustainable and efficient industry. Safety, automation and regulatory challenges will also be examined. Key discussion points will be raised, such as the role of regulators, how AI will impact the industry and the challenges of human safety at sea.
4. Tourism and yachting: Recipes for success
As new wealth emerges across the globe, yachting has the potential to expand into fresh markets and destinations. This track delves into how emerging regions can cultivate a thriving yachting ecosystem while appealing to both new and seasoned clientele. The evolution of customer expectations, the challenges in making ownership attractive and the influence of destination marketing will be some of the topics discussed.
For instance, Francis Lapp, founder and CEO of Sunreef Yachts, will participate in a diverse range of panels, including 'The Rise of the Catamaran in Experiential Yachting', 'What an Alternative Clean Future May Look Like', and 'Where Future Opportunities Lie'. Likewise, Nicola Pomi, vice president of marine sales for yachting and superyachting at Volvo Penta, will address the challenges of technological advancements and digitalisation amid increasingly stringent environmental regulations. Meanwhile, Italian yacht designer Dan Lenard of renowned studio Nuvolari Lenard will offer his insights on shifting client expectations and the future of yacht design with a focus on sustainability.
Beyond yachting, the World Yachting Summit will also explore challenges, innovations and future prospects across related industries, including private aviation, luxury hospitality and wealth management. With the next decade bringing uncertainty, insights from these sectors - beginning with a keynote on The Future of Wealth by Wealth-X - will offer yachting stakeholders valuable opportunities to learn, exchange ideas and anticipate new growth avenues. This cross-industry perspective will help navigate both established markets and emerging destinations.
How can attendees make their voices heard?
The World Yachting Summit is designed for engagement and converting ambition into action amongst all participants. While experts will lead the discussions, every attendee has the opportunity to intervene, contribute and influence the conversation with their own insights. Unlike large-scale conferences with thousands of attendees, this intimate event ensures collective thinking, meaningful dialogue and active participation.
The event features a networking showroom exhibition with an "Innov' Lounge" where businesses can connect with industry leaders, creating opportunities for collaboration. Beyond the panels, various networking initiatives and social events throughout the summit provide the chance to continue discussions in a more informal setting, allowing participants to explore ideas, exchange knowledge and shape the future of yachting together.
How will the World Yachting Summit drive change?
The summit’s slogan, “Charting the course for new horizons”, says it all – it is not just about discussion, it’s about action. Following the event, a comprehensive report will summarise key topics, insights and conclusions, providing a roadmap for the industry's future. By acknowledging its strengths and addressing its weaknesses, the yachting sector can take ownership of its challenges, putting forward concrete proposals for change while working alongside authorities and regulators.
The World Yachting Summit is made possible with the support of its valued strategic partners: M3 Monaco, a Monegasque waterfront development consultancy connecting land and sea, and OMNIYAT, a Dubai-based luxury real estate company. “OMNIYAT's partnership with the World Yachting Summit reflects its commitment to linking luxury living with innovation and environmental responsibility,” says Mahdi Amjad, chairman of OMNIYAT.
M3 Monaco CEO Jose Marco Casellini continues: "We are convinced that it is through exchanges and encounters that the ideas shaping the future of yachting will emerge. We all have a role to play, and by working together, sharing our knowledge and taking action, we can steer the industry in the right direction.”
Set to become an annual event, the World Yachting Summit is already making plans to return to Dubai in 2026. To find out more information, visit the World Yachting Summit website and view the various participation packages.
Sponsored content created for the World Yachting Summit