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Simpson Superyachts, James Clayton, Sanlorenzo

James Clayton on superyacht surge in APAC

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James Clayton on superyacht surge in APAC

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  • 9:48 pm

In a Column for YACHT STYLE, the Sales Director at Simpson Superyachts gives his perspective on the state of superyacht sales in Asia-Pacific.

 

Simpson Superyachts, James Clayton, Sanlorenzo

James Clayton, Sales Director, Simpson Superyachts

 

According to industry reports, the number of superyachts in the Asia-Pacific region has seen a notable uptick, with an average of 100 superyachts over 30m visiting the region each month – and this figure is growing.

 

In Hong Kong alone, over 100 30m-plus superyachts are registered following a 10 per cent increase in registrations over the past fiscal year. This surge is emblematic of a burgeoning interest in luxury maritime experiences among high-net-worth individuals across Asia.

 

I attribute this growth to several factors, most notably the region’s expanding affluence and a cultural shift towards embracing the exclusive yachting lifestyle. Asia has become a hotspot for superyacht enthusiasts, with over 25,000 islands to explore, due in large to two of the world’s biggest archipelagos, Indonesia and the Philippines.

 

There’s a diversity of unspoiled nature that attracts yacht owners willing to explore more unchartered waters, with the region offering the allure of exploring pristine coastlines and secluded island paradises.

 

Hong Kong and China, with their rapidly growing economies, have taken centre stage in the regional superyacht market, yet other APAC nations like Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia are not far behind. Australia, on the other hand, is an already developed and mature superyacht market, with major growth opportunities.

 

In fact, we’re witnessing a diversification of interest across the region. Clients are not just seeking a vessel; they’re investing in a one-of-a-kind life fulfilment experience, with a superyacht opening a whole world of opportunities for them.

 

Simpson Superyachts, James Clayton, Sanlorenzo

Kamakasa, the second Sanlorenzo Alloy

 

In terms of vessel preferences, there’s a notable trend towards larger, more technologically advanced superyachts with alternative propulsion systems.

 

Discerning buyers in Asia are increasingly drawn to superyachts equipped with cutting-edge amenities, state-of-the-art navigation systems, and eco-friendly technologies like recently presented methanol fuel cell systems and alternative nature-powered generators with wind turbines and solar panels.

 

This shift aligns with a global movement within the superyacht industry towards sustainability and innovation. 

 

However, there have been challenges posed by the ongoing global supply chain disruptions, which have been affecting the timely delivery of superyachts to Asia. The pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in the supply chain, impacting production schedules and, consequently, delivery timelines. This is a hurdle the industry is actively addressing to meet the growing demand.

 

The answer to long waiting times can be a quality brokerage superyacht, as there’s currently good market availability in the 40-50m and 50-80m segments. Over the summer, Simpson Superyachts sold the 44.5m Kamakasa, which was delivered in 2020 and is the second hull of Sanlorenzo’s successful Alloy series.

 

I’m optimistic about the continued growth of the Asia-Pacific superyacht market. The potential in this region is immense. As we navigate the challenges linked to inconsistent regulations and lack of quality superyacht marina berths in some key locations, we’re also presented with opportunities to redefine the luxury yachting experience in collaboration with our clients in Asia.

 

JAMES CLAYTON

 

Simpson Superyachts, James Clayton, Sanlorenzo

 

Now based in Hong Kong, Clayton is Sales Director of Simpson Superyachts, a part of Simpson Marine Group. His two decades of experience in the yacht industry includes over eight years with Benetti as General Manager Americas for the Italian shipyard and he has a strong understanding of the Asian market, having spent many years in Malaysia and Singapore.

james.clayton@simpsonmarine.com

www.simpsonsuperyachts.com

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Jean-Benoit Manhes, United Nations, Yacht Style, Lagoon, Leopard, International Maritime Organisation, solar panels, biofuel

Jean-Benoit Manhes: Can we make yachting green?

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Jean-Benoit Manhes: Can we make yachting green?

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  • 1:27 pm

An international development specialist with the UN for over two decades, Jean-Benoit Manhes is also an avid sailor. In a Column for Yacht Style, he looks at how yachting can become a greener pastime.

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The original article appeared in Issue 73 of Yacht Style

 

Jean-Benoit Manhes, United Nations, Yacht Style, Lagoon, Leopard, International Maritime Organisation, solar panels, biofuel

Lagoon 51

 

Yachting is a pleasure relying on the environment, offering access to the sea, beaches, harbours, reefs and fishing. As such, it’s subject to public and governmental scrutiny, and has increasingly become viewed as an unsustainable, damaging activity due to growing concerns about environmental preservation.

 

The ultimate vision of a growing number of yacht designers and builders is to transition towards a zero-emission system, although entirely neutral boats might take years to be fully operational and safe, never mind affordable for many owners.

 

However, a series of measures can be explored to make yachting greener and simultaneously reduce operating costs, while also maintaining safety and enjoyment at sea.

 

Jean-Benoit Manhes, United Nations, Yacht Style, Lagoon, Leopard, International Maritime Organisation, solar panels, biofuel

Silent 60 with kite wing

 

The easiest choice can take place during the initial investment phase, with models featuring hybrid technologies, new high-performance hull forms and solar-electric propulsion. Most major superyacht builders now propose improved designs and sustainable propulsion options.

 

Many are also driven by legislations including from the UN’s International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to adhere to new limits on sulphur and nitrogen oxide emissions.

 

Environmental considerations are not the sole factor determining an owner’s choice of yacht but they’re of growing importance. They can also prove beneficial in terms of savings to be made on fuel consumption, especially considering the increased cost of energies and fossil fuels around the world.

 

When purchasing a new boat, looking at the entire life cycle might also help owners make an informed decision. How flexible is the design? Can new materials be used instead of pure plastic? What’s the expected life cycle of components? Can it be dismantled in the future?

 

Jean-Benoit Manhes, United Nations, Yacht Style, Lagoon, Leopard, International Maritime Organisation, solar panels, biofuel

Leopard catamarans use water purification technology to provide drinking water from a tap

 

Also, how often will the boat be used and what’s the most energy-demanding equipment such as desalinisation, air-conditioning, fridges and galley appliances, lights and other automated equipment?

 

Many owners are attached to their existing yacht or brands they trust, or they rely on good deals in the second-hand market, where futuristic designs are scarce. Yet a yacht is not just a hull and many of its components can be optimised.

 

What’s the fuel consumption for a particular voyage or regular passages? Which equipment can be upgraded and modernised, or used in a less systemic way? Which equipment could rely on alternative sources of energy?

 

Let’s look at alternative sources of energy. In this domain, sailboat owners have a head start by using wind, although most still use fossil fuel to refill batteries, especially during long journeys. However, this is probably the sector with the biggest technological changes, resulting in increased efficiency.

 

Jean-Benoit Manhes, United Nations, Yacht Style, Lagoon, Leopard, International Maritime Organisation, solar panels, biofuel

Sunreef’s Eco models feature a ‘solar skin’

 

Solar panels can now have a 30 per cent return rate and are used extensively by Silent-Yachts and Sunreef on its Eco range, for example. Wind turbines are more silent and efficient ¹ and hydro-generators – while not sufficient for heavy equipment – can replenish IT-induced power consumption.

 

For the most adventurous, new batteries such as sea-water powered batteries or fuel cells can complement the available energy.

 

Fuel consumption will remain the main source of pollution of a yacht. Switching to hybrid power is possible and encouraged by several yacht companies, but require important investment and are not always technically compatible with yacht design.

 

Jean-Benoit Manhes, United Nations, Yacht Style, Lagoon, Leopard, International Maritime Organisation, solar panels, biofuel

Azimut’s new Magellano 60 can operate on biofuel

 

Alternatives include using biofuel (HVO), which Azimut is offering for use on its new Magellano 60 and has been adopted on some Caterpillar engines and by the 44m Lammouche superyacht. This can be a solution, although not for long hauls, while kites can be used to support or replace engine propulsion ² and have been used successfully, such as on the Silent 60 solar-electric catamaran.

 

Yachting is an integrated experience, so we need to consider other ways to reduce our footprint. These can include treating ballast and cooling water, choosing less toxic anti-fouling paint, using a waste compactor ³, reducing single-plastic use (such as bottles, cutlery and sanitary products), using more non-refrigerated food and not damaging reefs when anchoring.

 

Fishing responsibly and paddling instead of using a dinghy with an engine are also little steps in the right direction.

 

Jean-Benoit Manhes, United Nations, Yacht Style, Lagoon, Leopard, International Maritime Organisation, solar panels, biofuel

Fraser beach clean-up in Hong Kong

 

Back to the shore. Marinas have a direct impact on the environment and greening possibilities include looking at alternative energy sources, proper waste management, recycling policies and the use of native species for decoration, instead of trees or plants demanding watering beyond rainfall. And we need to encourage citizen initiatives such as beach cleaning and participating in carbon-offset activities.

 

The above is far from exhaustive and will not make yachting a green activity overnight, but they’re among real actions that are being considered by the industry and boat owners to protect the core of what we like about yachting: access to a pristine environment.

 

To read about more ideas and initiatives, visit www.sealogical.com/is-green-yachting-possible or www.waterrevolutionfoundation.org

 

¹ Some vertical ones such as the ones from Phileole are particularly compatible with yachts: www.phileole.com/en/product/phileole-sailing/

² www.kite-boat.com/en/

³ www.nauticexpo.com/boat-manufacturer/yachtwaste-compactor-45246.html

 

JEAN-BENOIT MANHES

 

Jean-Benoit Manhes, United Nations, Yacht Style, Lagoon, Leopard, International Maritime Organisation, solar panels, biofuel

 

Specialising in international development since 1997, including over 22 years with UNICEF, Manhes has worked across Europe, Africa and Asia, where he has held positions in Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar. During his career, his work on climate change and the prevention of environmental degradation has involved mobilising the private sector and influencers through innovation. An experienced sailor, ‘JB’ has crossed the Atlantic and sailed in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Indian Ocean.

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Monaco Yacht Show, Johan Pizzardini, superyacht, yacht, Yacht Club de Monaco

Monaco Yacht Show “unmissable” – Johan Pizzardini

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Monaco Yacht Show “unmissable” – Johan Pizzardini

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  • 12:57 pm

Johan Pizzardini, Monaco Yacht Show’s Head of Communications & Media, explains what makes the four-day event “an unmissable event in the yachting world”.

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Monaco Yacht Show, Johan Pizzardini, superyacht, yacht, Yacht Club de Monaco

Johan Pizzardini, Head of Communications & Media, Monaco Yacht Show

 

Johan, can you give us a bit of background about yourself and your time working on the Monaco Yacht Show?

I’ve been involved in the Monaco Yacht Show (MYS) for 19 years, and it feels like a different era in yachting media from when I started! Back then, the show wasn’t the global superyacht reference it is today, drawing coverage from top-tier international media.

 

As part of our dedicated organising team, truly engaged in offering one of the greatest yachting events, I take pride in having played a role in developing the comprehensive media and communication strategy for the MYS, helping position it as a premier event on the social elite calendar.

 

What distinguishes the Monaco Yacht Show from other boat shows around the world?

Since its very first edition back in 1991, the Monaco Yacht Show has stayed true to its mission, focusing on the world of superyachts, specifically those 24m and larger. It was created as a platform for yachtsmen, yacht owners and charterers to explore the captivating world of yachting from every possible angle.

 

Situated against the stunning backdrop of the Principality of Monaco, the MYS offers a unique opportunity for potential clients to dive deep into every facet of yachting. With its impressive display of cutting-edge vessels, presence of industry experts, and showcasing the latest advancements, it stands as the ultimate destination for uncovering the entire yachting universe.

 

And let’s not forget, the Monaco Yacht Show is all about catering to discerning clients, truly capturing the essence of the complete yachting experience, and embracing the dreams and aspirations of the next generation of yacht enthusiasts and potential clients.

 

Can you give some figures to indicate the scale of the event?

The Monaco Yacht Show has always championed quality over quantity. With 560 exhibitors, 117 superyachts, and thematic displays featuring luxury cars and helicopters, our focus has been on providing a premium experience from the start.

 

Monaco Yacht Show, Johan Pizzardini, superyacht, yacht, Yacht Club de Monaco

The Monaco Yacht Show is held in Port Hercules

 

Last year, 24,000 visitors attended, and we anticipate a similar turnout in 2023, although before the pandemic, we used to welcome over 30,000 visitors. Interestingly, Covid-19 unexpectedly reshaped our approach to life, and with the return of the 2021 edition after the cancellation in 2020, attendees eagerly embraced it as a vibrant renaissance of social interaction.

 

We believe in a one-on-one approach, and with support from the Informa Group and industry stakeholders, we’ve consciously reduced the number of visitors to prioritise the quality of the experience. Whether you’re a seasoned yachtsman, a new owner or an industry leader seeking connections, the Monaco Yacht Show must remain the pinnacle of the yachting world.

 

Can you explain the difference between the prominent yacht exhibitors?

Yacht builders seize the opportunity to exhibit their know-how in crafting stunning vessels. They aim to impress potential clients with their design and construction prowess, showcasing new models as a testament to their innovative capabilities. Approximately 40 brand-new yacht deliveries are unveiled in world premieres during the show, contributing to its unique allure.

 

Simultaneously, brokerage houses make every effort to exhibit their latest offerings available for purchase or charter, presenting a diverse range of yachts on the market. This exclusivity means that if you miss an edition, you won’t have the chance to witness the same collection of jaw-dropping yachts the following year, making the Monaco Yacht Show an unmissable event in the yachting world.

 

The show is held in Port Hercules and overlooked by the Yacht Club de Monaco. What role does the yacht club play in the show?

The Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM), often hailed as the world’s most beautiful yacht club, serves as an additional hub for the high-end visitors during the show. YCM actively participates in the show’s social events, hosting conferences, dinners, and cocktail parties. This not only enhances the social aspect but also enriches the visit experience, creating a perfect blend of luxury, networking, and industry engagement.

 

Monaco and the Yacht Club de Monaco are both very active in the sustainability sector. Can you tell us about the Monaco Yacht Show’s history of promoting eco-friendly yachting?

The Monaco Yacht Show has led the way in promoting eco-friendly yachting practices since 2005. Recently, it reinforced its commitment to sustainability with the launch in 2022 of the Sustainability Hub, a dedicated exhibition for green solutions in yachting.

 

Monaco Yacht Show, Johan Pizzardini, superyacht, yacht, Yacht Club de Monaco

Johan Pizzardini being interviewed

 

The show consistently features green technologies and encourages eco-conscious practices among exhibitors and visitors alike. It facilitates industry-wide dialogues on sustainability, emphasising responsible yachting.

 

Last year, the show initiated a carbon neutrality plan (click for article), aligning with the Monaco Transition Energy program and Informa’s FasterForward initiative to sustainable business, with the aim of achieving net-zero emissions. This underscores our dedication to actively contribute to environmental preservation as a boat show organizer.

 

Sunreef Yachts will be exhibiting an 80 Eco sailing catamaran and an 80 Sunreef Power powercat next to each other this year. Can you tell us about these yachts and which/how many other superyachts on display this year are using solar-electric power, hybrid propulsion, hydrogen or any other eco-friendly power sources?

These Sunreef sailing and power catamarans are two of the most innovative and eco-friendly superyachts on the market. I prefer focusing on yachting in general, not on specific yachts, as yachting has been shifting to more sustainability and builders have been researching and developing viable sustainable solutions for their yachts.

 

The Sustainability Hub is a real highlight of these solutions and we expect to see the fruits of the development of sustainable solutions in the building and maintenance of yachts in the coming years. We would dare to dream of displaying only sustainable yachts in the future.

 

Finally, is there anything else our readers should know about the Monaco Yacht Show?

Monaco Yacht Show is a one-of-a-kind event, featuring new projects unveiled annually. Missing even a single year means missing out on the extraordinary concentration of superyachts and megayachts on display.

 

For those keen on chartering or purchasing, it would entail extensive voyages across the seven seas, along with weeks of visits to shipyards and marinas to discover these exceptional vessels. I think it might just be time to start planning your earliest flight to Monaco!

www.monacoyachtshow.com

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