To help keep your finger on the pulse, I’ve worked with IYC’s leading sales consultants to predict this year’s top five features for superyachts. From cutting-edge technology to eco-conscious considerations, these features are not only captivating discerning buyers but also founding perspectives for charterers.
Whether this is the year you decide to purchase your first yacht or you’re already an experienced owner, we hope these insights will help you understand the state of the market and make more informed decisions.
Volume and Space
While traditionally one might expect an emphasis to be placed on sleek lines, cutting-edge performance and agile manoeuvrability, for many, increased volume and space have taken over. The allure of spacious interiors, high ceilings and family-friendly layouts is redefining the very essence of luxury at sea.
Not merely a shift in aesthetics, the demand for this feature perhaps reflects a broader cultural change. As yachting becomes increasingly synonymous with family retreats and multi-generational vacations, the demand for expansive interiors and ample headroom is on the rise.
Discerning buyers are seeking vessels that not only cater to the thrill of the open sea but also provide a comfortable and spacious platform for family bonding. For many buyers, the true measure of luxury lies in the freedom to explore, unwind and create cherished moments in a voluminous and inviting space.
Advancements in yacht technology are responding to this growing trend. Smart and efficient use of space allows for larger living areas without compromising on performance. Innovations in propulsion systems and hull design ensure that spacious interiors do not compromise navigation, offering a balance between comfort and performance.
This trend should also be taken into consideration for those interested in making their yacht also available for charter. Charterers are increasingly seeking vessels that provide a home-like ambiance on the water, making extended voyages more appealing and comfortable.
Long-Range, Low Consumption
A significant tide is turning towards a new era of exploration and efficiency. Many yacht buyers are increasingly setting their sights on a combination of two key attributes: extended range and fuel efficiency.
Explorer yachts, once niche, are now at the forefront of yachting trends. The desire to be in congested ports is becoming less appealing, with an increased appetite for remote destinations, seaworthiness and autonomy, impacting the client’s needs and expectations of the yacht’s capabilities. This has led to an all-time high of explorer yachts in-build and on order.
With environmental consciousness at the forefront of global conversations, yacht owners are not only looking to extend their journeys but to do so with minimal ecological impact.
Rising fuel costs and recent high-profile “eco incidents” reported in the media have heightened awareness about the environmental footprint of luxury travel. Expedition yachts, with their advanced propulsion systems and energy-efficient technologies, are well-positioned to allow owners to indulge their wanderlust while reducing their carbon footprint.
The ability to travel further on a tank of fuel not only enhances the yachting experience but also stretches the economic value of each voyage, a strong consideration for those looking to increase the utility of their yachting investment.
Wellness & Fitness Facilities
As clients increasingly view yachting as a lifestyle choice, the integration of wellness and fitness facilities has become a compelling and necessary addition to superyachts.
Fitness centres equipped with state-of-the-art exercise equipment cater to guests who prioritise maintaining their health and fitness routines while at sea. Wellness spaces such as spa facilities, meditation rooms and yoga decks provide a holistic approach to overall well-being.
Other features contributing to health and well-being can include contra-flow swimming pools, juice bars, cold plunges and saunas. Such considerations align with a contemporary understanding that true luxury includes investment in health, making wellness facilities on superyachts a vital component in the pursuit of a fulfilling and balanced lifestyle.
These wellness approaches represent a departure from conventional deck designs, transforming the yacht into a sanctuary that promotes health, relaxation and balance in a way that exceeds the traditional options on superyachts.
Connectivity & Entertainment
Staying connected is no longer a luxury but a necessity. With the rise of new satellite internet providers, it’s becoming more important for owners to be as well connected as possible for both work and leisure. As such, TV, Hi-Fi and Wi-Fi in all areas including external zones are becoming as important as technical design features.
Starlink, with its constellation of low earth orbit satellites, stands out as a necessary luxury on board. Its global coverage and cutting-edge technology ensure seamless communication, entertainment and work capabilities.
With reduced signal travel time and its potential to offer more consistent connectivity in challenging environments, Starlink promises high-speed, low-latency internet access even in the most remote corners of the ocean.
Manufacturer Reputation
In a world where the number of new-build construction shipyards is increasing year on year, clients are looking for their yachts to have distinguished features and a sense of respect within the industry.
Discerning clients continue to set their sights on vessels delivered by major Northern European shipyards, with a secondary nod towards esteemed Italian builders when budget considerations come into play. This strategic inclination isn’t merely a matter of prestige; it’s a calculated move driven by the desire to safeguard and potentially enhance the retained value of these vessels.
Yachts with Dutch and German pedigree have long held a revered status. The commitment to precision, innovation and craftsmanship these yards promise contributes significantly to their enduring allure.
As yachts age gracefully, the continued respect for the meticulous build quality synonymous with Northern European shipyards serves as a hallmark, maintaining and occasionally even appreciating the vessel’s intrinsic value over time.
Some clients turn their attention to major Italian builders who offer an appeal for budgets that don’t stretch as far, without compromising on elegance and functionality. While potentially more accessible in terms of cost, Italian-built yachts still carry the legacy of fine craftsmanship and a commitment to quality that resonates with those seeking a balance between value and prestige.
Amid these established maritime giants, a rising star has emerged – Turkey. The increasing prominence of Turkish shipyards is the result of a deliberate pursuit of excellence in design, engineering and construction. As the country’s builders continue to invest in state-of-the-art facilities and attract top-tier talent, their yachts gain recognition for their quality, innovation, and competitive pricing.
Michel Chryssicopoulos
After graduating with honours in International Business and Finance from Georgetown University in Washington DC, Chryssicopoulos worked for Merrill Lynch in New York as an investment banker. In 2003, he returned to Athens to join his father’s flourishing yacht brokerage. Fluent in four languages, he spearheaded the yacht sales department for over 15 years and today is a Global Managing Partner. Chryssicopoulos has a specific interest in new builds between 35-80m and years of experience working closely with some of the world’s top shipyards, industry stakeholders, and yacht owners across the globe.
This article was first published on yachtstyle.co.
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