The International Superyacht Summit 2020

After a hugely successful first two years, The International Superyacht Summit (previously the ‘Dubai International Superyacht Summit’) returns for a third year, from 11th – 12th March 2020. The Superyacht Group is delighted to once again participate as media partner for this crucial event within the superyacht industry’s calendar.

Under the patronage of P&O Marinas, and initiated and co-organised by Fabulous Yachts, the focus of The International Superyacht Summit has previously been the development of the UAE as a preferred winter destination for superyachts on the migratory trail. This year, the Summit looks further afield, encouraging the industry to take a more collaborative approach throughout the Gulf region.

Chairman of The Superyacht Group, Martin Redmayne, will be moderating the two-day event, and further to the above, will be considering how the industry is ‘Making 2020 the start of the Gulf Strategy’, during session one on the first day.

“We are still very happy to be hosting the event in Dubai, but the new name of the event was formulated in order to attract international operators to discuss how we can develop the yachting industry here” - Fabiana Maccarini, Research and Development Manager – P&O Marinas – DP World

“We are still very happy to be hosting the event in Dubai, but the new name of the event was formulated in order to attract international operators to discuss how we can develop the yachting industry here,” said Fabiana Maccarini, Research and Development Manager – P&O Marinas – DP World.

“We have widened the scope of The International Superyacht Summit to become more regional, because we recognised that a single destination does not encourage cruising – a whole region has to develop together,” added Captain Tony Crabbe, Owner & DPA/CSO – Fabulous Yachts.

One of the new themes at The International Superyacht Summit this year will be an examination of emerging trends in superyacht ownership, and how builders can accommodate the requests of an increasingly youthful generation of owners and charterers who have a growing environmental awareness accompanied by an intolerance of unsustainable practices.

“Having watched superyacht design in the last number of years, we have noticed a shift to more sustainable yachts, and secondly, a shift towards the more ‘explorer’ type of yacht – and that’s reflective of what the younger generation want..." - Captain Tony Crabbe, Owner & DPA/CSO – Fabulous Yachts

“The themes [for this year’s Summit] developed as a natural progression,” continued Crabbe. “Having watched superyacht design in the last number of years, we have noticed a shift to more sustainable yachts, and secondly, a shift towards the more ‘explorer’ type of yacht – and that’s reflective of what the younger generation want.

“It’s a theme that I’ve noticed developing in many conferences, and in the data found within The Superyacht Report. It’s incredibly topical and it’s so important that we discuss it as much as possible. We need to use the Summit to address the emerging needs of a younger generation of owner.”

Crabbe hopes that The International Superyacht Summit will also encourage the industry to address the ways it can adapt to the change in the ways vessels are being used by younger clients. Sessions such as, ‘Zillionaire – Generation Z are driving a new market’, will look at this topic in detail. (Full programme and speakers can be found here)

The focus on a more eco-conscious generation of owners is also aligned with the goals and aims of the UAE government, which is currently focussed on a raft of sustainable initiatives. “Government policy is to become more sustainable and it’s visible throughout their departments, and it’s also noticeable how strong this policy is within the marine department,” said Crabbe.

One of the many topics being discussed at The International Superyacht Summit that will also be under the ‘sustainability’ spotlight is the re-introduction of sailing. “Sailing was prominent in the UAE many years ago but recently it seems to have been forgotten,” said Maccarini, explaining that the region is keen to increase the popularity of sailing, as it is more sustainable and it is embedded within local culture. “Sustainability is a big part of the government’s plan,” which Crabbe agrees with, and therefore thinks that the reintroduction of sailing will be warmly received by the region as it is developed.

To conclude The International Superyacht Summit, and continuing the emphasis placed on sailing by the region, there will be a Sailing Regatta from Bvlgari Yacht Club to Queen Elizabeth 2, culminating in a party whereby attendees can celebrate an enjoyable and productive two days.

To make the summit an ongoing initiative throughout the year, The International Superyacht Summit team have launched a forum that can be found on the summit's website, in order to allow industry stakeholders to express their opinions and offer their advice on superyacht industry matters. To find out more about the International Superyacht Summit 2020 click here.

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