Benetti’s President of Sales for Asia explains why the Italian shipyard’s superyachts and service are so suitable for the region.

Angel Zhou, President of Sales for Asia, Benetti

Having been appointed late last year, can you clarify your roles and responsibilities at Benetti?

As the President of Sales for Asia, my mandate covers the entire Asia region, with a focus on mature markets including Hong Kong, Singapore and mainland China, as well as high-growth territories such as Southeast Asia, Japan and beyond.

I oversee the end-to-end commercial strategy in the region by driving sales across our entire product portfolio, from 34m models to 110m gigayachts. I’m also responsible for strengthening our service and aftersales networks in local markets, nurturing partnerships with brokers and marinas, and shaping how Benetti’s ‘sea-to-shore’ lifestyle is experienced by Asian owners.

My role bridges global brand heritage with on-the-ground regional insights, ensuring Benetti’s values are translated meaningfully for Asia’s evolving client base.

Benetti B.Yond 57M

Why were you attracted to this role?

Two main reasons. First, Benetti’s legacy is unmatched, with a 153-year heritage and Azimut|Benetti Group being the world’s No. 1 builder of superyachts (24m-plus) for the past 26 years. It’s extraordinary.

Its Italian craftsmanship, timeless design language and bold approach to innovation, from early steel-hull breakthroughs to today’s hybrid-powered sustainability, have long earned the admiration of the global superyacht community.

During my time at Simpson Marine (2007-2025), I witnessed firsthand how Benetti’s customisation capabilities and iconic design features resonated deeply with Asian clients. Examples of this include the Oasis Deck®, one of the industry’s most revolutionary concepts, introducing open lateral wings to expand the beach area; the Veranda Deck® concept on the Motopanfilo 45M; and the Cabana Deck® on B.Loft.

Veranda Deck® on Benetti Motopanfilo 45M

Second, this role represents a milestone. For four decades, no woman and no Asian has led sales for such a prestigious yacht brand in Asia at this level. As a woman and an Asian professional with deep regional expertise, I saw this as a meaningful challenge and opportunity to bring a local, contemporary perspective to one of the world’s most respected superyacht brands.

Asia’s owners have unique expectations such as privacy, multigenerational living and seamless service. I believe a diverse viewpoint can strengthen how Benetti connects with this audience.

Overall, this role allows me to bring together two passions: my long-standing admiration for Benetti and my commitment to advancing representation within our industry.

Benetti Oasis 42M

Looking back at your career, can you talk about how you gradually evolved your skillset and client base to become a superyacht broker and specialist?

My journey evolved naturally over time. At Simpson Marine, I built a strong foundation through deep product knowledge and long-term client relationships. By focusing exclusively on the high-end segment early on and understanding the nuances of Asian clientele, my expertise and network organically expanded into the superyacht category.

My hands-on experience of managing complex builds, working closely with owners and navigating high-value transactions now underpins my work at Benetti.

What have been your biggest learnings in terms of helping owners both find and enjoy their superyacht?

My biggest learning is that owners enjoy their yacht most when its design aligns with how they truly want to live at sea. Benetti’s strong R&D and partnerships with leading designers have shown me how thoughtful innovation – like the open, social connection to the water on the Oasis models – directly transforms the onboard experience.

Benetti Oasis 42M

I’ve also learned that Asian owners value generous volume, flexible layouts for multi-generational living, and a lifestyle flow that feels intuitive and effortless. This is why I am focused on models such as the Oasis 42M, B.Yond 57M and B.Loft 65M, which embody these qualities and elevate both the ownership journey and the day-to-day enjoyment on board.

B.Loft’s Cabana Deck®, designed by Giorgio Cassetta, is Benetti’s reinterpretation of the beach club as a water-level living space. This new area, expanded by fold-down side wings, transforms the traditional stern platform into a spacious, indoor-outdoor lounge pieds dans l’eau.

The B.Yond 57M is designed to offer a range of experiences on long cruises and is offered with three stern configurations. The Beach version has a generous outdoor area and pool; Air has a touch-andgo helipad for a limitless cruising experience and the possibility of transforming this space into a veranda; and Water is designed to stow marine exploration equipment.

Why do you believe Benetti offers the right yachts and support for the Asia market?

I’ve always believed Benetti is a shipyard that truly understands cultural diversity. The brand not only respects and embraces Asian culture but also genuinely invests in the region. Benetti engages deeply with local expectations, appreciates local partners, and prioritises long-term relationships.

Benetti B.Loft 65M

This authenticity, combined with its design innovation and commitment to customisation, aligns with the needs of discerning Asian owners. The models I highlighted – Oasis 42M, B.Yond 57M and B.Loft 65M – are especially suited to the region, offering large social spaces, flexible layouts for multi-generational living, and a lifestyle centred on connection with the sea.

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