Asian yacht dealership Simpson Marine unveils a strategic expansion into Vietnam, partnering with yacht brokerage O2H2O Vietnam and SS&Sons Group, which represents prominent luxury brands and will become the official partner for Sanlorenzo, Bluegame and Fairline in Vietnam.

Simpson Marine’s Sanlorenzo’s fleet readies itself for Vietnam; photo: Guillaume Plisson for Sanlorenzo

The expansion comes as leisure-boating and lifestyle gains traction in Vietnam. Key industry players are beginning to invest in local operations and marinas in important locations, including Ho Chi Minh City and Nha Trang. Opportunities for new marinas to be built could also potentially position Vietnam as a popular yachting destination in Asia.

With a coastline spanning 3,260km, Vietnam boasts 2,800 islands. Picturesque bays, vibrant culture, and famous destinations like Ha Long Bay are seen to present ripe cruising potential.

Vietnam’s marine scenery holds much potential for an emerging boating lifestyle

Hong Kong-headquartered, Asia-wide yacht distributor and services company, Simpson Marine is driving growth in the country by working with local industry organisations. Reducing import taxes and complex registrations could speed growth and allow more Vietnamese to enjoy the boating lifestyle, the company surmises, echoing the progress made in neighbouring Thailand and Hong Kong.

“Together with O2H2O Vietnam, we will unlock the full potential of Vietnam’s yachting industry, leveraging on their local expertise, experience and passion for bespoke luxury and yachting,” said Simpson Marine’s Chief Operating Officer, Richard Allen.

Richard Allen, Simpson Marine’s Chief Operating Officer

The expansion will see a new office open in Ho Chi Minh City’s business district this autumn that will serve as a hub for yacht sales, charter services and customer support.

Simpson Marine will open an office in Ho Chi Minh later this year

The announcement furthers Simpson Marine’s plans for growth into emerging markets in the Asia-Pacific under its ownership by Sanlorenzo. Sanlorenzo acquired Simpson Marine from founder Mike Simpson in March this year.

Alexandre Heng, Founder of O2H2O Global & Vietnam and Sassy Nguyen, who is CEO of O2H2O Vietnam

O2H2O’s founding partner, Alexandre Heng, said he shared a common vision with Simpson Marine to spread yachting culture to Vietnam’s beautiful coastline “by offering the best world-class yacht brands and nautical lifestyle experience.”

simpsonmarine.com