Yacht owners that have become active on the business side of the industry have called for active changes in its models during a panel at the Superyacht Forum in Amsterdam. This follows the launch of their platforms aimed at reducing charter by slashing booking fees. "Stop your disrespect." Ahoy Club's Ian Malouf advised the market.
Attending the panel were Australian businessman Ian Malouf, founder of Ahoy Club and fresh of a $578 million exit in the waste management space, Philippe Bacou, founder of Yotha and Matty Zadnikar, founder of SeaNet. All founded yachting businesses in recent years stepping over from yacht ownership. The debate was moderated by Martin Redmayne.
According to Malouf, his primary goal is to improve the market and his secondary one is to make money. "I think we’re portrayed as a one click and you’re there business, but we have a large team and we are a full-service digital platform." Malouf commented. "We have the cheapest structure in the business and we expect it will go lower before it goes higher."
Malouf's 54m Mischief
Historically resistant to change, yachting has reacted defensively in recent quarters to the entry of these new actors. Malouf described their behaviour as "cartel-like". According to Philippe Bacou, the market is responding aggressively due to the platforms reducing commissions.
"When you provide something that is automatic instead of manual it reduces costs. What we are doing is making savings here." Bacou detailed. "Of course, we all want to make money, but it comes down to global satisfaction."
Ahoy Club and Yotha's web-platforms power an online search of available yachts for charter, a digital booking process and communication system with the yacht and their concierge team. Thanks to automation, the companies say they can reduce booking prices by near 15%.
Bacou's 43m Philmi
“Their behaviour has been poor but expected,” Malouf described. “We’ve been treated like we’re coming into an industry of brokers who think they own the boats. Our pricing structure is cheaper and we’re being told by many that it’s not acceptable and that it is an act of price-fixing.”
When a representative from a large brokerage house asked Malouf whether it would have been better to go to industry bodies like MYBA or LYBRA and try to improve the sector from the inside, the Australian businessman responded.
"Sometimes you have to break things to fix things and that’s what needs to happen. You’re talking about joining arms and walking down the road, which we’re witnessing and it’s a behaviour that’s unpalatable. The question of why didn’t we go to the industry is the reason we are here. For you to even ask me that question is a joke."
One of Seanet's Benettis
"You expect me to bend a knee for the incumbent and say, is it ok for me to enter your industry? Well, you don’t own this industry and it needs a shake, is getting a shake and will be shaken by us. What happens in a market is you have a business and competitors come in and compete, and whoever provides the best service for the best price and for the best commodity usually ends up with the best business."
The representative responded, as the market typically retorts, saying large brokerage houses offer a knowledgeable brokers, which can't be matched by these digital platforms. Pointing out Ahoy Club has a concierge team, Malouf went further, saying some central agents won't present valid charters that Ahoy brings to them.
"A few central agents will block a charter from us getting to the owner. Our remedy to that is that we respect your CA agreement until you breach it by not recommending our choice. That’s when we’ll go to the owner – it’s simple and fair. We’ve done over 100 charter contracts so far – we make no money off the small charters but they’ll come through. You talk about building relationships and that’s what we’re doing."
Malouf, Bacou and Zadnikar all encouraged the market at the end of the debate to focus on the end client and not to skim clients for commissions. "Put your commission drive aside and focus more on what the client wants." Zadnikar outlined.
"Stop your disrespect." Malouf added on.
Matty Zadnikar comes from the safety monitoring space, having founded and run Z-Group for over 20 years. In 2014, the group was acquired by American industrial safety group Total Safety, which allowed Zadnikar to transform his yachting hobby into a business. Founding the company, Zadnikar announced an investment of €32 million to jump start SeaNet's fleet in the Med, which is based on a co-ownership model.
Made up of Azimut and Benetti yachts of up to 40 meters, the idea is to give owners an option to buy only part of a yacht and improve its efficiency. On a 93ft Benetti Delfino, priced at €9 million, SeaNet lets you buy a 25% ownership stake for €2.3m with annual running costs of just over €110,000 instead of €450,000. This set up grants buyers a total of 7 weeks of use of that type of boat in the SeaNet fleet for 7 weeks per year.
Ian Malouf built his wealth in waste management in Australia with the DADI Group that was ultimately acquired by Bingo for $578 million earlier this year. With the help of his daughter, Ellie Malouf, the two have now switched their attention over to yachting with Ahoy Club, a market that they're now positioning themselves to try and dominate.
Owner of the 54-meter Mischief, which Malouf is also marketing for charter through Ahoy from €137,650 per week in the off-season, the Australian businessman recently listed the yacht for sale at an asking price of €24 million.
Philippe Bacou also launched his yacht platform, Yotha, in 2018 after 15 years of experience on the ownership and charter side of the market. Earlier in 2018, the French businessman raised an additional €1.4 million from strategic investors to develop and launch Yotha. His 43-meter ISA, Philmi was delivered in 2014.
Dynamiq has released new exterior images of its 52-meter GTT 170 superyacht, currently under construction at its Antalya shipyard in Turkey. The aluminum-hulled vessel, designed for shallow-water cruising with a 2-meter draft, targets owners in the U.S. and Middle East markets, with delivery scheduled for the 2027 Mediterranean season.The GTT 170 features naval architecture by Vripack, combining a top speed of 19 knots with IMO Tier III-compliant MAN V12 1,066 kW engines and an integrated battery pack. The stabilization system includes four electric fins and a Hull Vane aft foil to reduce pitch motion.Accommodation comprises five guest staterooms and an owner's suite, with a two-level beach club featuring a pool, bar, and spa with fold-out terraces. The sun deck includes an outdoor cinema and lounge areas.Dobroserdov Design developed the exterior, while Claudio Pironi & Partners created minimalist interiors using teak and natural marble. The yacht is being built at Dynamiq's Antalya facility with European subcontractors and Turkish craftsmen.Hull #2 is available for €29 million. The GTT 170's shallow draft enables access to Caribbean destinations like the Exumas and St. Barths, with 500 GT volume optimized for sub-50-meter length. No hybrid propulsion option was specified for this hull.Dynamiq was founded in 2014 by experienced yacht broker and designer Sergei Dobroserdov. Dynamiq is the first company in the superyacht industry to introduce an online configurator, allowing the yacht to be easily and transparently customized down to the last detail. Dynamiq unveiled its first launch at the 2016 Monaco Yacht Show.Credits: Dynamiq
May 13, 2025
Denison Yachting has entered an exclusive global partnership with French shipyard JFA Yachts to represent its Long Island brand of sail and power catamarans. The agreement focuses initially on models ranging from 70 to 100 feet.JFA's aluminum-hulled Long Island catamarans are designed for transoceanic cruising, with engineering by Marc Lombard Yacht Design Group and interiors by Darnet Design. The yachts emphasize lightweight construction, customizable layouts, and systems optimized for long-range performance. A Long Island 85 has recently sold, with a new Long Island 87 model scheduled for delivery later this year.Long Island 87David Johnson, Denison broker and U.S. brand representative, stated: "Alongside my colleague Simon in Europe, I'm proud to promote a shipyard that leads the world in building aluminum-hulled sailing and power catamarans—vessels purpose-built for owners seeking to explore the most remote parts of the world in total comfort."Simon Turner, overseeing European and global sales, added: "These exceptional, round-the-world-capable catamarans deliver an unmatched level of performance, luxury, and safety that is unparalleled anywhere else."Long Island 86 PowerJFA Yachts CEO Frédéric Jaouen noted: "We pride ourselves on attentively listening to our clients’ needs, exercising discretion, and developing trusted relationships. The savoir-faire of our team has earned JFA Yachts a reputation as one of the most respected shipyards in the world."The partnership expands Denison's portfolio of specialized cruising catamarans while providing JFA with global distribution channels. No specific sales targets or production figures were disclosed.Long Island 87 SailWith a rich family history dating back to 1948, Denison Yachting is a leader in the industry, providing comprehensive yachting services worldwide. With over 20 waterfront offices and a team of 90+ licensed brokers, Denison offers superyacht sales, yacht charter, crew placement, and new construction services. Their extensive experience and passion for yachting ensure a long-term perspective and commitment to excellence.French shipbuilder JFA Yachts was founded in 1993 by Frédéric Jaouen. JFA Yachts builds mono- and multihull power and sailing superyachts from 24 to 50 meters in length. Credits: Denison Yachting
May 13, 2025
Ferretti Group's Custom Line brand has launched four new custom yachts at its Ancona shipyard within eight weeks, including two Navetta models and two planing vessels. The launches demonstrate the shipyard's capacity for bespoke construction, with each yacht reflecting owner-specific customization through collaborative design processes.Custom Line 30#23The first vessel, a 32.82-meter Custom Line 106' (hull #24), launched on January 9, features exterior design by Ferretti Group Engineering and interiors developed by Custom Line Atelier in consultation with the Middle Eastern owner. The yacht's minimalist aesthetic combines dark wall coverings with light surfaces, complemented by freestanding furniture and folding guest tables. A social-focused flybridge completes the layout.On February 13, the 34th Custom Line Navetta 33 (33m x 7.52m) debuted for a European family. Its exterior was designed by Ferretti's Strategic Product Committee, with interiors by the Group's Engineering Department and Custom Line Atelier. The design employs dark finishes, pale marble, and leather accents, with mirrored surfaces enhancing spatial perception. American walnut flooring and ribbed master cabin details emphasize tactile refinement.Custom Line 33#34Two additional undisclosed models in the planing line were also completed during this period. Custom Line emphasizes direct owner involvement in all projects, with each yacht undergoing tailored design and construction processes at the Ancona facility. No delivery timelines or further technical specifications were disclosed for the recent launches.The consecutive completions highlight Custom Line's operational capacity for concurrent custom projects, with all four yachts now undergoing final outfitting before delivery to their respective owners. A new Custom Line Navetta 30 was launched on February 20 at a ceremony attended by the captain, the dealer and all the shipyard’s employees. The 23rd hull in the brand’s displacement line is the result of a joint design effort by the Product Strategy Department – for the exterior design – and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, with interior architecture penned by ACPV ARCHITECTS Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and exteriors designed by architect Filippo Salvetti. They were supported by the interior design experts at Custom Line Atelier, who liaised directly with the owner – based in the MEA area – to ensure that the yacht is a true-to-life portrait of the people who live on her. Permeated by a sporty but sophisticated spirit, the yacht has a design vision with a clear focus on conviviality. The rich hues of sand-coloured leather and Orobica marble act as warm, vibrant accents in a palette dominated by dark grey finishes, creating a bold yet refined chromatic interplay. The freestanding furniture solutions, featuring numerous formal and informal seating arrangements – including large sofas and coffee tables that bring guests together in conversation – reveals a design sensibility that understands the art of hospitality. It’s a choice that reflects the tastes and culture of an owner who comes from a city where hospitality is an integral part of the lifestyle.Custom Line 120'#12The launch of the 12th Custom Line 120’ last February 27 is the result of a design effort involving the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, supported by Custom Line Atelier for the interiors. With a length of 38.36 metres and a beam of 7.65 metres, this yacht combines a sleek silhouette with styling that effectively mirrors the owner’s vision. Designed for the AMAS market, the yacht stands out for her generous, welcoming spaces, where chairs with armrests and deep armchairs reveal a clear desire for comfort. The interiors, decorated with a palette of bright neutral colours, are styled with a simple but refined approach. The made-to-measure master bathroom features a pair of Calacatta Oro marble basins in the centre and beside them a vanity table with opening mirror and incorporated pouf; the generous shower cubicle is on the starboard side and the sanitary area is located to port. The care lavished on the layout and detailing highlights the bespoke nature of the design, driven by the desire to offer the ultimate in well-being. The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credits: Ferretti Group
May 13, 2025
Italian yacht builder Apreamare will make its first appearance at the Venice Boat Show from May 29 to June 2, 2025, alongside exclusive Northern Italy dealer Pedetti Yacht Sales. The event, held at Venice's historic Arsenale, will feature 270 exhibitors and 300 boats, with Apreamare showcasing its new Gozzo 38 Cabin model.The Gozzo 38 Cabin, designed by Cataldo Aprea and Marco Casali in collaboration with engineer Umberto Tagliavini, expands on the open Gozzo 35 with enhanced interior space and weather protection. The 11.45-meter yacht features a deckhouse for improved habitability, a 4-panel glass door connecting the cockpit to the dinette, and a layout with two cabins and a 2-meter headroom bathroom. The guest cabin includes a 140-centimeter-wide bed, exceeding standard dimensions for its class.Exterior amenities include a convertible cockpit table, L-shaped seating for six, and an extended beach platform. Propulsion options comprise twin Volvo Penta D4-270 DPI or D4-320 DPI sterndrives, or a traditional Volvo Penta D4-320 shaft configuration.The participation highlights Apreamare's focus on Northern Italy's market, where demand for its Sorrentine Gozzo designs continues to grow. The Venice Boat Show marks the first public exhibition of the Gozzo 38 Cabin, positioned between the Gozzo 35 and flagship Gozzo 45 in Apreamare's lineup.The history of the shipyard starts in 1849, when Giovanni Aprea started to handbuild rowing and sailing boats used for fishing in Sorrento, basing his craft on the shape and form of the traditional “gozzo sorrentino”. Now the shipyard range includes the Apreamare and Maestro yachts.Credits: Apreamar
May 12, 2025
GX Superyachts has unveiled interior details of its debut 42-meter model, the GX42 Raised Pilot House, designed for family-focused ownership with delivery scheduled for 2026. The yacht features an organic-inspired interior by Marco Casali and hybrid propulsion for efficient operation.The Raised Pilot House configuration allocates the main deck to a full-beam owner’s suite with private foredeck terrace, walk-in wardrobe, and office space. The lower deck accommodates a VIP suite with fold-down balcony and three flexible guest cabins, including a children’s cabin with Pullman berth. Social areas include a 10-person dining space on the main deck and an upper deck with hot tub, bar, and lounging areas.Owner Vladimir Zinchenko stated: "The debut GX42 shows what is possible, while remaining true to the principles of Responsible Yachting. For a boat with a slim, efficient hull, the volume is phenomenal."Casali’s design employs walnut wood paneling, white leather, and Italian fabrics, with curved edges throughout to enhance a relaxed ambiance. Lighting by Ultra Luce and artwork from the owner’s collection complete the aesthetic."This is no showboat for flexing the muscles," said Casali. "We worked closely with the owners to realise their priorities for a family friendly design that favours extended periods on board."The GX42 represents the first released details of GX Superyachts’ new line, emphasizing sustainable materials and long-range cruising capabilities.Credits: GX Superyachts
May 12, 2025