May 2025

Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2025 Wrap Up

Taking place at the Renaissance Harbour View Hotel in Hong Kong from 7 to 8 May, the summit brought together key decision-makers, including representatives from family offices, yacht management companies, captains, brokers, and other industry leaders to discuss developments in the region. Set against the dynamic backdrop of Hong Kong, the summit offered two days of essential discussions and strategic insights.

Wednesday 7 May Panel 1: Hong Kong as a Superyacht Destination

Lawrence Chow, Chairman of the Hong Kong Boating Industry Association (HKBIA)
Benjamin Wong, Head of Transport & Logistics and Industrials at InvestHK
Cissy Chan, Executive Director, Commercial, Airport Authority Hong Kong
Joe Yuen, Director of Lodestone Yachts

This panel explored various initiatives aimed at further developing Hong Kong as an attractive superyacht destination. Lawrence Chow opened the discussion by highlighting the significance of the 2024 Hong Kong Yacht Show. He emphasised that the event was not just about selling yachts, but about positioning Hong Kong as a serious yachting hub in the region. He acknowledged the historical absence of infrastructure and clear policy support for yachting, but noted that progress has been made through collaboration with government authorities. He reiterated the importance of public and private sectors working together to build the necessary ecosystem.

Benjamin Wong stressed that Hong Kong is well-positioned to capitalise on regional opportunities. He described the development of a superyacht cluster within the GBA and highlighted the area's growing appeal for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). He noted that while efforts are underway to improve policies and regulations, promoting lifestyle and destination appeal is equally important. He suggested that attracting yacht owners and related services could bring significant economic and tourism benefits to Hong Kong.

Cissy Chang explained how the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is becoming more integrated with the city’s marine infrastructure, especially with developments at SkyCity and plans to revitalise the old Kai Tak Airport site into a lifestyle and marina hub. She noted that improving multimodal access, such as seamless connections for private jets and yacht services, would enhance the city’s value proposition for superyacht visitors.

Finally. Joe Yuen emphasised the demand among clients for Hong Kong as a cruising destination and pointed to the city’s world-class skyline, culinary scene, and proximity to other cruising grounds. However, he also flagged existing limitations, particularly the shortage of marina berths and the bureaucratic hurdles involved in obtaining visiting permits. He called for more transparency and efficiency in cross-boundary cruising between Hong Kong, Macau, and the Chinese mainland.

Together, the panellists agreed that for Hong Kong to thrive as a superyacht destination, there needs to be an alignment of infrastructure development, regulatory clarity, and lifestyle marketing. While challenges remain, the panel conveyed optimism that with coordinated efforts and continued investment, Hong Kong can play a leading role in shaping the future of yachting in the region.

Panel 2: How to Build a Superyacht Destination

Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTM, part of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
Jean-Marc Poullet, Senior Partner Chairman Asia at Burgess
Laura Verbrugge, Sale & Charter Broker at Fraser
Manoa Rey, Research and Niche Marketing Coordinator at Tahiti Tourisme
Bob Hoogendoorn, Senior Manager at McKinsey & Company

This discussion explored the necessary advancements in regulations, infrastructure, and marketing strategies to position these locations as more attractive for superyacht visitation. Issam Kazim discussed how Dubai’s transformation into a superyacht hub has been driven by strong government vision and strategic planning. “From a destination perspective, we’ve been doing this for quite some time now,” he explained. “Dubai’s private-public sector partnership plays a crucial role, with an increasing number of high-net-worth individuals relocating to the city and bringing their superyachts.”

Bob Hoogendoorn shared this view, speaking more about how coordination between governments and private stakeholders accelerates the development of a yachting destination, particularly in the early stages. “The early-stage coordination with the national government really works as a flywheel effect, an industry accelerator.” Bob emphasised the importance of considering a destination’s maturity curve, stating that Dubai is in the acceleration phase, where the fundamentals are already in place. He also highlighted the need for collaboration across regions.

Jean-Marc Poullet added that the essential ingredients of a successful superyacht destination are: beautiful waters, exciting onshore activities, and good connectivity. Jean Marc discussed the unique situation in Asia, where destinations like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Dubai combine financial hubs with yachting opportunities, which can attract yacht owners. He also highlighted the challenge of creating more ‘full package’ destinations, similar to well-established European destinations like the Amalfi Coast.

With Tahiti positioning itself as an ‘exploration destination’ focusing on sustainable tourism, Manoa Rey shared how they are also maintaining a high quality of experience. “We set the goal to become a leader in sustainable tourism in the South Pacific. It's about focusing on quality over quantity.” Manuel stressed the importance of preserving the natural beauty of Tahiti, aiming for gradual growth in the number of yachts visiting, while ensuring the destination remains unspoiled.

Finally, Laura Verbrugge highlighted the challenges captains face in Asia, particularly the complex and varied regulatory environments across countries. "The main word for them is frustration. The destination is there, but the amount of paperwork and regulations are very complicated." She mentioned that experienced captains manage to navigate these issues but that newcomers to Asia may find the regulations daunting.

Q&A: Japan: New Marina Project Presentation

Nigel Beatty, YACHTZOO

This session featured an in-depth presentation on the new Kobe Marina development in Japan, exploring the motivations behind the initiation and the anticipated impact on both local and regional yachting communities. Nigel explained that Kobe's central location within Japan, its world-class port facilities and accessibility through multiple airports and the Shinkansen (bullet train) make it an ideal location for a superyacht marina. The marina is set to offer not just docking facilities, but also shore-side infrastructure, including offices, yacht clubs and marine businesses. Nigel added that Kobe's regeneration of its port area will help to ensure that it will be a vibrant hub for both yachts and tourists. The marina will feature up to 1.75 kilometres of dockage, which is half the size of Port Hercule in Monaco.

It will cater to yachts as large as 117 metres and will include a yacht club, restaurants, and events along the quay. This infrastructure is designed to cater to both international and domestic yacht owners and crews. One of the key goals is to engage both the local Japanese market and international yacht owners. The marina aims to create a community where yacht crews can easily access services and explore Japan. With access to both coastal areas and skiing in the northern parts of Japan, this development offers a unique combination of leisure options for yacht owners.

You can find out more about Kobe Marina here.

Panel 3: How to Manage Refits Successfully in Asia

Sam Thompson, Director at JMS Yachting
Rob Taylor, Managing Director at Clearvac Engineering Asia
Robert Corcoran, Chief Operating Officer at Fema Marine
Petre Plesea, Managing Director at Golden Eagle Yacht Management

This discussion explored what changes are necessary to promote a thriving refit market and whether there is a case for establishing a top-tier refit yard in the region. Petre Plesea recounted a recent major refit on a 70-metre yacht in Singapore, which included replacing the main engines. He contrasted the speed and cost-effectiveness of the operation with the alternative of carrying out the same work in Europe: “The engine replacement in Singapore took 49 days. In Europe, that would have taken at least three months and cost three times as much.” The speed was largely attributed to the scale of manpower available. “We had 90 workers on board daily, 35 just to move the engine. They worked in shifts, 24 hours a day. That kind of labour intensity would be unaffordable in Europe.”

Sam Thompson explained that the refit market in Asia is still growing, but it lags behind more established regions: “There’s definitely growing interest in refits here, but compared to the Mediterranean or US, the infrastructure and workforce need a lot of development.” He also highlighted supply chain challenges: “Getting the right parts and materials can be a headache. Many of the premium yacht parts are sourced from Europe and the lead times are long, which impacts timelines and costs.”

Rob Taylor noted that as well as this, the complexity of refits in Asia is increasing: “We’re seeing more owners opting for full refits as opposed to just maintenance. There’s definitely a market for high-quality work, but it’s still relatively niche.” He emphasised the importance of training and education: “Investing in local talent is crucial. There are plenty of people interested in the yachting industry, but there aren’t enough formal training programs to make them qualified technicians.”

Robert Corcoran pointed out the shortage of skilled labour in the region: “One of the major hurdles we face is the lack of skilled technicians. Even though there’s a demand for high-end refits, it’s tough to find workers who can meet those standards.” He stressed the need for investment in facilities: “We need modern facilities, dedicated refit centres that are equipped with the right tools and infrastructure to handle superyachts. This will be a game changer for the market. ”The panellists were united in the belief that the Asian yacht refit market has significant potential but is constrained by infrastructure, regulatory challenges, and a shortage of skilled labour.

Interview: How to Engage People through Social Media: Supercoolben

Ben Sumadiwiria, @supercoolben

Ben Sumadiwiria, widely known by his online persona Supercoolben, which he launched around a year ago, spoke about the origins of his digital identity, now followed by over 1.3 million people on Instagram. He discussed the importance of creating engaging and authentic content within the luxury space, shared insights into how ultra-high-net-worth individuals in Europe and Asia interact differently with luxury, and reflected on how the superyacht industry currently produces content, identifying opportunities to better engage new audiences. The Q&A began with Sumadiwiria recounting the early stages of his digital persona, which took shape during his time working as a chef. His passion for food soon led to daily video content. “I started making videos daily about the foods that I enjoy and the foods I would be cooking. I live in Bali and I’d be cooking a steak every day and trying different street foods.” Driven by the need to monetise this work, he committed to posting one video each day, gradually building a loyal following.

As his audience grew, Sumadiwiria began receiving invitations to high-end restaurants and luxury hotels. “It was very hard for me to justify to my audience that these are very good places to eat,” he noted. To bridge the gap between reality and perception, he began adopting a fictional persona. “I would pretend this was my actual lifestyle, that I was the son of an Indonesian conglomerate and basically owned the hotel.” The concept quickly resonated with viewers. “It just became so viral that I started doing that every day.”

When asked about the differences he has observed between wealth in Europe and Asia, Sumadiwiria reflected on his own background and personal experiences. “I’m from Germany, and growing up in Berlin, I had never seen a Ferrari before. I saw my first Rolex when I was about 23,” he said. In contrast, his time in Asia presented a strikingly different picture. “I remember going to a normal café in Singapore, meeting up with a girl, and all her friends were wearing different Pateks. I realised something was very different here.”

He noted a broader cultural difference in how wealth is perceived and pursued. “In Europe, people are often more focused on saving money. They’ll talk about how their rent is €2,000 and how they should cut back. In Asia, it’s more about how we can make more money together and then afford these luxuries.” While he emphasised that these are personal observations, he described the contrast as a noticeable divide in mindset between the West and the East.

Sumadiwiria suggested that the superyacht industry could expand its digital reach by adopting content strategies used in other luxury sectors. He pointed to the example of Supercar Blondie, noting that personality-driven and visually engaging content has the potential to attract millions of views. He explained that even someone with limited knowledge of yachting could effectively present this type of content if it follows a compelling and consistent format. As an example, he said a video titled “What a 300,000 dollar boat gets you in Bali” would likely attract strong interest, particularly among potential buyers. In his view, short and accessible video content can be far more engaging than a traditional brochure.

Panel 4: Navigating the Luxury Market in Asia

Paolo Casani, CEO of Camper & Nicholsons
Nigel Tang, Head of Operations at Warpcapital Yacht Management
David Lau, Founder of Cross Harbour Advisory
Marina Lui, Alternate Chief Executive, UBS AG Hong Kong Branch, Head of Wealth Management China, UBS Global Wealth Management
Stephane Avis, Asia Co-Head of Lending at JP Morgan

This panel explored the evolving landscape of the Asian luxury market, with a particular focus on how brands, service providers and stakeholders in the superyacht sector can respond to shifting consumer preferences, regional nuances, and emerging opportunities. When asked how his experience in Asia has shaped Camper & Nicholsons’ strategic approach, Paolo Casani explained that the company entered the region directly in 2017, rejecting franchise and licensing models in favour of full ownership and control. “We believe Asia is a growing market that deserves respect,” he noted. Since then, the firm has expanded with a second hub in Singapore and now employs around ten staff across the region, making it one of the largest international brokerage firms operating in Asia. Casani outlined four key pillars of Camper & Nicholsons’ global strategy: a comprehensive suite of services spanning brokerage, charter, new construction, project management, and design; consistent brand development tailored to each region; a shift toward positioning the brand as a broader lifestyle offering; and ongoing investment in team training to ensure service quality. He also highlighted the firm’s proprietary digital infrastructure, developed entirely in-house following the acquisition of a tech company, as a critical tool connecting teams across Europe, the United States, and Asia.

Lui was asked how the profile of the Asian luxury consumer has evolved over the past decade and what this means for brands aiming to build long-term loyalty. She explained that the needs of ultra-wealthy clients have changed significantly in recent years. More clients are now seeking what she described as passion assets, which reflect personal interests, support a higher quality of life, and create opportunities to spend time with family. She noted that many individuals are placing greater value on items with emotional and generational significance. While jewellery, art, and watches continue to attract interest, yachts are becoming increasingly appealing due to their longevity and potential to be passed on. Clients are looking for purchases that can be enjoyed now and preserved for future generations, making long-term value an important factor in luxury buying decisions.

Stephane Avis was asked whether there is a growing appetite among his clients for luxury experiences such as yacht ownership or chartering. While noting that he does not work directly in the yachting sector, he pointed to broader trends that suggest increasing demand. He highlighted the significant generational transfer of wealth currently taking place in Asia, describing it as one of the largest seen in the region. Unlike in Europe or the United States, where wealth is often older and inherited, much of the wealth in Asia is newly created by parents or grandparents and is now being passed on to younger generations. This new generation, he noted, tends to spend differently, showing a greater interest in lifestyle-oriented purchases. He observed a growing demand for passion and trophy assets across the region, supported by developments in destinations such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Kobe. He also noted that many young Asians are exposed to luxury lifestyles abroad, particularly in places like the South of France and Miami, and are now looking to replicate those experiences closer to home.

Captain Nigel was asked to what extent values such as legacy, family, and cultural heritage influence purchasing decisions in the Asian luxury market. He explained that for many ultra-high-net-worth individuals in the region, yachts are considered more than lifestyle assets. They are viewed as multifunctional investments that serve as symbols of prestige, private family spaces, and venues for hosting, rather than simply recreational toys. He gave the example of a Singaporean family who owned multiple yachts, each with a distinct purpose. One is used for entertaining, another for extended family, and others for individual members, including the owner's daughters. Initially, the family owned a single yacht, built by Feadship, which served multiple roles. Over time, their approach matured, resembling ownership patterns more common in Europe. Captain Nigel added that many wealthy individuals in Asia are first-generation wealth creators. This often results in a more pragmatic and family-oriented mindset. He emphasised the importance of privacy, legacy, and discretion, noting that owners in this region tend to avoid excessive displays of wealth or adventurous indulgence.

David Lau offered his perspective on the role of family offices in navigating the luxury market in Asia. He explained that while technically retired, his primary focus is identifying future investment opportunities and staying closely connected to evolving wealth trends.

Through this work, Lau frequently engages with second, third, and fourth-generation wealth holders, particularly in Europe and Asia. He noted that many are still in the process of forging their own identities and have not yet assumed full control of their family businesses. His interactions with these younger generations have given him insight into how differently they approach wealth creation, accumulation, and its broader purpose. Lau shared a recent encounter at the Singapore Yachting Festival, where a 32-year-old Chinese crypto entrepreneur privately asked whether he should purchase a yacht or a jet. Lau explained that the two serve different functions, recommending a yacht for those seeking to entertain and socialise. More broadly, he observed that younger wealth holders in Asia are rethinking traditional notions of status and ownership, placing greater value on shared experiences and peer recognition.

Interview with Doan Viet Dai Tu Chairman of Openasia Group

Doan Viet Dai Tu, Chairman of Openasia Group & Founder of Tam Son Yachting

Doan Viet Dai Tu began by sharing how his professional journey naturally led him into the yachting industry. With a strong background in the automotive sector, Tu’s initial steps in Vietnam’s luxury market were focused on importing high-end cars, a market previously dominated by grey-market products. He emphasised his belief in entering a market early, especially before demand peaks, in-order-to lay solid foundations. "I’ve always believed in entering a market slightly early, around two or three years ahead and setting a high benchmark. For me, that meant investing in logistics infrastructure and building skills first. Selling came second," he explained. This approach was crucial in the development of Tam Son Yachting, which he founded with the aim of establishing the foundations of the yachting industry in Vietnam.

For the past 15 years, Dai Tu has been at the forefront of growing Vietnam’s yachting market. He discussed how the company initially focused on building awareness and understanding the needs of potential clients. Instead of rushing to sell yachts, Dai Tu concentrated on creating the infrastructure necessary to support yachting, from marinas to customer services, and educating customers on the benefits of yacht ownership. “It was not just about selling a yacht. It was about making sure we had the right ecosystem in place,” Dai Tu remarked. A key indicator of market maturity for Tam Son Yachting has been tracking customer spending. Dai Tu revealed that in their customer relationship management (CRM) system, one of the most significant metrics is the number of customers spending over half a million dollars annually in a single store. “Once we saw that number rising steadily, we knew the market was maturing,” he noted. This careful approach to customer engagement helped ensure long-term sustainability for both the company and the market.

Looking ahead, Dai Tu remains optimistic about the future of yachting in Vietnam. He is committed to fostering continued growth by investing in infrastructure, building a local network of skilled workers, and positioning Vietnam as a key destination for luxury yachting in Southeast Asia. “Vietnam has everything to become a yachting destination,” he concluded confidently. Dai Tu is working towards positioning Vietnam not only as a destination for tourists but as a central hub for yachting in the region.

Panel 5: Thursday 8 May: Reducing the Energy Consumption of Yachts

Martin Lo, Director at Cheoy Lee
Vladimir Zinchenko, CEO of GX Superyachts
Chris Blackwell, Sales & Manager of Echo Yachts
Iacopo Senarega, R&D Project Manager at the Azimut-Benetti Group
Haico van Roeden, Technical Manager Design & Proposal at Damen Yachting

This panel explored the latest advancements and their potential applications. Panellists discussed how these innovations can be integrated into both new-builds and refits, striking a balance between sustainability and operational performance. Vladimir Zinchenko from GX Superyachts set an ambitious tone, revealing their ground-breaking approach: “We expect up to 75 percent less energy consumption in normal operation mode and aim to reduce generator runtime by at least 50 percent.” The company has developed hybrid propulsion systems that can provide 48 hours of full operation without generator use.

Iacopo Senarega from Azimut|Benetti Group emphasised the importance of comprehensive environmental strategies. The company has begun implementing ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) strategies, conducting detailed Life Cycle Assessments to understand and minimise their environmental impact across product development.

Martin Lo from Cheoy Lee highlighted the critical challenge of client education. “We have to explain the pros and cons of alternative energy systems,” he noted, pointing out the complexities of implementing new technologies. Lo shared insights from ongoing research with Hong Kong universities, including innovative solutions that can reduce infrared and ultraviolet radiation by 70 to 80 percent.

Chris Blackwell emphasised the importance of custom solutions, noting that energy efficiency must be tailored to individual yacht usage and client needs. Haico van Roeden from Damen Yachting highlighted the potential for technology transfer from commercial maritime sectors.

The panel concluded that a holistic approach is crucial. As Zinchenko summarised, the goal is to “build boats around energy management systems,” integrating hybrid technologies, efficient battery management and intelligent design to create more sustainable superyachts. While challenges remain, the maritime industry appears committed to pushing the boundaries of energy efficiency, balancing technological innovation with practical operational requirements.

Panel 6: Emerging Markets

Angel Zhou, China General Manager at Simpson Marine
Ronnie Wang, Owner's representative at Yachting Encounters Asia
Gautama Dutta, CEO & Director at Marine Solutions Distribution & Services
Alexandre Heng, Founder & CEO of O2HO

This panel brought together brokers from key emerging markets, including India and China to discuss what is needed to attract this new wave of wealth into yachting. During this discussion Alexandre Heng described charter as “the most direct portal entry” for new yacht enthusiasts. He explained that In China, over one million people experienced charters in Hainan, though international charters remain limited.

Gautama Dutta used the panel to trace India's yacht market evolution, noting 20 years ago there were “maybe two yachts in India” with significant infrastructure challenges. "Big cities like Bombay still don't even have a proper marina," he explained. It was pointed out that regulatory restrictions significantly impede market growth. Angel Zhou highlighted that in China, “restrictions for free cruising boats are very high” with complicated cross-border procedures making yachting less appealing. Speakers were optimistic about future growth. Dutta emphasised India's massive potential: “Even 0.1% of 1.4 billion people is a massive market.” Zhou noted China's 60 million overseas Chinese and continuous wealth generation. The panel agreed younger generations are more receptive to yachting. Dutta mentioned younger Indians are "going outside and studying" and experiencing different lifestyles.

Alex Heng suggested it might take up to 20 years to develop mature markets. As Dutta summarised, “It's going to take a couple of generations before we reach the standards of Europe and America. But I think we should keep pushing.”The panel emphasised that education, infrastructure development and creating accessible yachting experiences are just as critical to growing these emerging markets, highlighting significant untapped potential in Asian maritime leisure.

Panel 7: Cross border Regulations and Practicalities

Roy Chan Co-Founder & Director of Legalmapp Limited
May Choi, Yacht Management Operations Manager at Simpson Marine
Simone Centola, Legal Strategies
Captain Robin Shellcock, Yacht Captain (Japan)
Marcel Vaarzon-Morel, Managing Director at VML International Maritime Company

This panel delved into the intricate legal landscape that owners and operators encounter daily, addressing essential areas such as Know Your Client (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) obligations, as well as the specificities of import/export compliance. Captain Robin Shellcock illuminated these complexities, explaining that maritime entry processes differ significantly across jurisdictions. "Each country does it differently," he explained, noting that while Japan offers a smooth crew visa process, other countries have more intricate regulations. Japan emerged as a relatively straightforward destination, offering smooth crew visa processes, while other countries present more nuanced regulatory landscapes.

May Choi emphasised the critical nature of continuous regulatory research, warning that maritime regulations in the region evolve rapidly and require constant vigilance. “We need to update regulations frequently because they change very fast,” she added. Documentation emerged as the critical linchpin of successful maritime operations. Experts unanimously stressed the importance of comprehensive paperwork, recommending a holistic approach to vessel documentation that goes beyond standard requirements.

Marcel Vaarzon-Morel highlighted Australia's particularly stringent bio-security measures, cautioning that even minor documentation oversights could completely derail maritime plans. “Australia focuses on bio-security. I've heard stories of vessels being held up because of meat and vegetables onboard.” He also warned about regulations for firearms, “There are significant fines if arms aren't declared. They need to be locked up suitably, and officials will actually check to ensure compliance.”

As well as this, charter agreements and temporary importation presented their own intricate challenges. Simone Centola noted interesting cultural nuances, observing that Asian clients approach legal disputes differently compared to their Western counterparts. “In Asia, clients tend to be less litigious compared to Western Europe or the US. It's about reading the contracts together.”

Roy Chen summarised the core challenge: “The compliance across different cross-border jurisdictions is complex, with too many forms, different languages, overlapping regulations and duplications of work.” Overall, the panel suggested that success in Asia-Pacific yacht operations requires a sophisticated combination of preparation, local expertise, adaptability and unwavering attention to detail. Yacht owners and operators must approach the region's maritime landscape with respect, diligence, and a willingness to understand its complex regulatory environment.

Panel 8: Discover Indonesia

Iswin Hudiarto, President Director at TASK Cikaldana
Jasmine Chong, owner of the 45-metre Celestia and fashion designer
Boumedienne Senous, CEO & Founder of Yacht Sourcing
Thye Hock, GOH, Superyacht Captain

The Discover Indonesia panel discussed strategies to attract more superyachts, focusing on the existing regulatory framework and the need to further develop marina infrastructure. When asked about the biggest opportunities for Indonesia to strengthen its position as a superyacht cruising destination, Boumedienne Senous highlighted the country’s unique geographic and cultural advantages. He began by noting Indonesia’s strategic location between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, describing it as a natural gateway from west to east. He also emphasised the country’s year-round cruising potential, a key advantage over other destinations with more limited seasons. Senous pointed to Indonesia’s largely untouched and undiscovered cruising grounds as a major draw. While destinations such as Raja Ampat are already well known, he noted that there are many similarly stunning areas across the archipelago that remain unexplored. Lastly, he underscored Indonesia’s rich cultural diversity. With each island offering a distinct cultural experience, a superyacht journey through the country can feel like visiting multiple nations in one itinerary.

Building on this, Jasmine Chong highlighted the strength of Indonesian hospitality as a defining asset for the superyacht experience in the region. Drawing from her work with Celestia, she noted that the high-touch, service-oriented nature of Indonesian culture is deeply ingrained and often requires little formal training. She described the crew as professional yet deeply personal in their approach, fostering a sense of family that resonates with guests. This natural warmth, she explained, is consistently recognised by clients and contributes to a distinctly bespoke and memorable cruising experience.

Iswin Hudiarto added that many property developers he works with are now incorporating marina infrastructure into their broader projects, recognising Indonesia’s strong marine potential. Echoing earlier comments, he noted the country’s vast natural beauty, stretching from Sumatra to Papua, as a major draw for superyachts. However, he pointed out that there are still significant limitations in terms of marina availability and capacity. In his view, expanding marina infrastructure represents one of the most important opportunities for Indonesia to fully capitalise on its position as a superyacht cruising destination.

Captain Thye Hock added that one of the key challenges for superyacht operations in Indonesia is the limited availability of technical support. He noted that expertise in this area can be difficult to access across parts of the region, which poses operational difficulties for captains and crews. He also highlighted refuelling as a major concern, pointing out that obtaining high-quality diesel can be difficult. As a result, yachts cruising in Indonesia often need to be capable of long-range travel in order to reach remote destinations without relying on frequent fuel stops. All panel members agreed that while Indonesia has made encouraging progress in positioning itself as a yachting destination, further improvements are needed in both regulatory frameworks and infrastructure development to fully realise its potential.

Keynote Interview; Q&A with Giorgio Moretti (Serial Superyacht Owner)

Giorgio Moretti, a passionate yacht restorer with a background in naval and defense systems, has dedicated himself to preserving and revitalising historical yachts from the 1980-1995 era. His philosophy is rooted in the Italian tradition of restoration, treating yachts like historical buildings that deserve careful preservation. "The main job in Italy and my city is the restoration to adapt to new needs, but maintain the same smell, the same characteristic, the past history of that object,” Moretti explained. He approaches yacht restoration as a complex art form, comparing it to restoring a 14th-century building while ensuring modern functionality.

Moretti has acquired and restored several notable vessels, including Snelius, a former Dutch Navy hydrographic boat and Curiosity. His restoration process is comprehensive, often involving significant modifications. “If you buy the object originally for 100, typical cost for the restoration is 300, sometimes also 400,” he noted, highlighting the extensive investment required. Key challenges in yacht restoration include managing intricate systems like piping, electrical cables and technological equipment. “The complexity in the boat is 10 times higher with respect to traditional real estate,” Moretti emphasised.

His approach goes beyond mere renovation. “We need to manage, we need to save the history of our civilisation,” he stated, viewing each yacht as a piece of maritime heritage. The restoration process involves maintaining original materials and craftsmanship while updating functionality, adding modern amenities like stabilisers, beach areas and improved crew spaces. Looking to the future, Moretti believes the yacht market must focus on quality. His most significant challenge now is developing skilled workers. “The more complex equation is the craftsman for the furniture,” Moretti explained, acknowledging that training personnel is crucial to maintaining the high standards of restoration.

The Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit finished on a high note with delegates enjoying a final networking opportunity at the Asia Superyacht Night hosted by the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association and the Hong Kong Boating industry Association where over 180 members, guests and delegates mingled at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club over looking Hong Kong’s stunning Victoria Harbour.

Thanks go to the Sponsors Supporting the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit:

The event was held under the patronage of FEMA Marine with Damen Yachting and Benetti joining as Event Partners and Dubai Tourism as the official Destination Partner, all of whom played key roles in ensuring the success of this year’s programme.

Platinum Sponsors: Yacht Standards, Bering Yachts, GX Superyachts, and InvestHK

Gold Sponsors: Gulf Craft, Ferretti Group, Zairos, and Simpson Marine

Silver Sponsors: Camper & Nicholsons, Cowie and Co, Lodestone Yachts, Maritime Cook Islands, Sunreef Yachts, Setouchi DMO, Tahiti Tourism, The George Group, Echo Yachts, Fraser, Rossinavi, Hong Kong International Airport, Skytopia, Asia Yacht Management, Voyager, and YACHTEYE

Media Partners: Superyacht Times, Yacht Charter Market, Marina World, Yachtstyle

The Asia-Pacific Superyacht Association (APSA) also played a significant role in this year’s event as a Supporting Partner. With members actively participating as speakers, sponsors and delegates, APSA’s involvement underscored the strength and importance of the Asia-Pacific region in the global yachting industry.

For images on the event go to: https://www.flickr.com/photos/197014663@N05/albums/72177720326105739/

And for the SYT Report go to: https://www.superyachttimes.com/yacht-news/asia-pacific-superyacht-summit-2025-recap

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