Back by popular demand, BOAT International's industry networking event, BOAT Connect, returned for its second edition on 22 June at the Design Centre in Chelsea Harbour, London.
An event like no other in the yacht industry, BOAT Connect aims to bring together carefully selected brands and designers (in a format akin to speed dating) to facilitate relevant in-person discussions, and to create lasting and meaningful partnerships. After all, the secret to great design is all about building a little black book of contacts, resources and inspiration – and of talented creatives who can help supercharge your vision.
Watch the highlights
Watch the highlights from BOAT Connect 2023 and see what it was like to participate in one of the most innovative events on the yacht industry calendar.
The event
BOAT Connect has been met with considerable acclaim by the industry for encouraging a new style of networking – one that more closely resembles speed dating. Representatives from 10 superyacht design studios connected with 10 prospective suppliers in a series of interactions lasting 10 minutes at a time. Conversation flowed freely to facilitate genuine working partnerships until a bell rang to indicate it was time to move on to the next meeting. To close the evening, all of the attendees were invited to stay and network over drinks.
The attendees
Official event partners for the evening included Bella Figura London, Christopher Hyde Lighting, Ralph Lauren, Davidson London, Norfolk Interior Specialists, Pavoni, Perennials Sutherland, The Rug Company, Studiotex and Summit Furniture.
Meanwhile, the designers in attendance included representatives from Studio Indigo, Design Unlimited, Reymond Langton, RWD, H2, Red Yacht Design, Angel O'Donnell Ltd., Bannenberg & Rowell, Isabelle Yen and Rosanna Bossom.
The venue
This year's BOAT Connect networking event returned to London's Design Centre in Chelsea Harbour due to its reputation as a leading destination for all things interior design. The venue is home to 120 showrooms and more than 600 luxury brands, and made for the perfect backdrop to welcome some of the superyacht industry's most respected creative enterprises.
For more BOAT International events, including the upcoming Superyacht Design Festival, click here. To find out when the next BOAT Connect event is and how you can participate, email events@boatinternationalmedia.com.