Australian owners today are far more sophisticated and globally connected. They want more than a beautiful boat – they want lifestyle, personalisation, seamless ownership and sustainable innovation.

We’ve seen the growth of charter, the rise of refit capabilities to world-class levels, and a steady increase in foreign-flagged vessels choosing to cruise here. That shift didn’t happen by accident – it’s thanks to years of tireless work by so many across the sector.

Of course, it hasn’t been without challenges. Regulatory red tape, skills shortages and infrastructure constraints remain real barriers, particularly as yachts continue to get bigger and the expectations of both owners and crew also continue to grow.

I’ve always believed this industry is defined by its passion and persistence – and that spirit remains as strong as ever.

As we look ahead to the next chapter, especially with the Brisbane Olympics on the horizon, we have a real opportunity to elevate further. We need to back the next generation, invest in training and strengthen collaboration across the board – from marinas and manufacturers to captains and crew.

After two decades at the helm of Ocean, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved – and I’m just as excited for what’s still to come.

On the following pages, I’ve spoken with 20 leading voices from across the marine industry, from builders and brokers to designers, marina directors and crew specialists.

Each shares their take on how far we’ve come, where we’ve excelled – and the critical challenges we still face as together, we shape the next chapter in Australia’s yachting journey …

Joe Akacich, Founder and Managing Director, Blackpond Marine Consultants

Twenty years ago, our very exciting industry was still in its puberty. Our sector may have contained all the amazing potential it does today and quite a few of the same players, but we were still really pondering how to gain a competitive edge.

We wanted to grow the domestic market, as well as attract an international crowd, but this came with geographical realities – Australia is just so far away.

That said, we knew if we received more foreign vessels we had to be geared up to both accommodate and service them.

Twenty years later, we’re far more developed but likely, back then, we just didn’t think big enough. We also didn’t think deeply enough about the future insofar as what would be the very likely basic needs of an owner, master and crew in 20 years’ time.

We certainly did not measure the crew’s influence in what we as an industry could provide. There’s still just not enough marina space or suitable alongside facilities designed to support casual berthing.

This is a great feature in the Med, where stern-to docking is safe and secure for owners. And, added to that, there’s plenty of crew available during the off-season, when many go on leave or are busy doing extra training.

The other aspect that has changed is sustainability. When it comes to this, both Australian owners and the industry in general have made some gestures over the past 20 years, but to be honest, we’re nowhere near where we need to be.

Sure, we kind of consider what’s best when it comes to recycling, or when trying to be environmentally responsible, but there’s still no deeper commitment to the long-term question of how we’re genuinely improving our environmental footprint. How are we creating less rubbish, less dust, less pollution? And, more importantly, how are we actively protecting the areas we’ve already impacted? This is one part of our industry that still has a long way to go – and we, as a collective, must do better.

Blackpond Marine Consulting

Sam Sorgiovanni, CEO Sorgiovanni Designs

The past 20 years of yachting in Australia have been a journey across choppy seas – a period marked by exhilarating highs, challenging lows and an enduring spirit of perseverance, dedication and innovation.

In the early part of this era, we witnessed the twilight of the Oceanfast era, Australia’s first true superyacht builder. Based in Western Australia, Oceanfast helped lay the foundations for our industry, delivering more than 20 magnificent yachts. Their pioneering spirit continues to inspire many of us today, especially me.

Since then, Western Australia has seen the emergence of outstanding builders such as Evolution Yachts and Silver Yachts. Now, Echo Yachts is proudly carrying the torch forward, continuing to champion custom superyacht construction in Australia.

The Made in Australia moniker remains highly respected globally. We’re recognised not only for our quality but for our innovation, offering a compelling alternative to the well-established European yards, especially for Australian owners or those from nearby regions who value building close to home.

Australia’s yachting industry has embraced – and in many cases led – advances in sustainability, pioneering the use of environmentally sensitive materials and engineering. Driven by clients increasingly passionate about protecting our planet, we’ve shown that luxury and responsibility can go hand in hand.

Of course, challenges remain. Like many global industries, we face pressures around cost-competitiveness. As Australia’s broader shipbuilding sector shifts toward defence and military projects, there will be challenges in retaining key skills.

I’m confident the technologies, capabilities and talent developed through this evolution will ultimately strengthen Australia’s yacht-building sector.

Sam Sorgiovanni Designs

Judy Brinsmead AM, Principal and Director Rivergate Marina and Shipyard

Since 2005, Australia has shifted from being seen as a stopover for international superyachts to being recognised as a true destination in its own right. This transformation has driven a sharp rise in expectations around marina facilities and refit capabilities. Visiting yachts expect a complete suite of services equal to what’s offered in the US or Europe – from premium berths and refit infrastructure, to crew support and technical expertise.

Australia is now firmly on the map as a region where owners and crew can access everything they need. To keep pace with these rising demands, particularly from larger yachts and international clients, Rivergate has made major investments in both capacity and capability. One of our biggest challenges has been ensuring we have the infrastructure to meet the needs of the growing fleet – especially as vessels increase in size.

Clients now view facilities not only through the lens of technical performance, but also through the broader contribution they make to the maritime community. That’s why investment in expertise, infrastructure and sustainability is no longer optional – it’s essential.

Looking forward, the biggest opportunity, and challenge, will be keeping up with demand. The industry is growing fast and so is the need for technical support, trained workers and physical infrastructure.

With the Brisbane Olympics in 2032, the potential to drive development is immense. If we get it right, Australia will be well-placed to become a global leader in the superyacht sector.

Rivergate Marina and Shipyard

Mark Richards, CEO Palm Beach Motor Yachts

When I founded Palm Beach Motor Yachts in 1995, I never imagined the journey it would take me on. Today, we’re not just building boats – we’re creating experiences.The biggest shift over the years has been the technology. Electronics and onboard systems have evolved at a rapid pace, and the challenge is knowing what’s coming, managing that change and integrating it in a way that genuinely benefits the owner.

It’s about smart innovation – not tech for tech’s sake.

Looking ahead, I see huge opportunities in efficient, high-performance boats. Owners want lower running costs, longer cruising ranges and more convenience. With events like the America’s Cup pushing advancements in foiling, semi-foiling and lightweight materials, the industry is heading in a direction we’ve always prioritised.

At Palm Beach, weight, construction and efficiency have been at the heart of everything we do – so this next chapter plays right to our strengths. Starting a new boat brand today is a whole different ballgame. When I launched Palm Beach, it was far more accessible – lower set-up costs, fewer regulatory hurdles and a much more forgiving environment for newcomers.

These days, the costs of facilities, labour and compliance are enormous. You see some builders chasing low-cost production in China or launching ego-driven projects without viable business models. But here’s the truth: if you’re not running a healthy business, quality slips. And in this game, quality is everything.

Palm Beach Motor Yachts

Angela Burlizzi, Director of Analu

From an interiors perspective, the design 
of vessels has evolved dramatically –
along with the materials, colour palettes and overall feel on board. When I first began, clients were drawn to bold nautical themes – navy and white, black and gold, poly-cotton sheets embroidered with anchors, fish and ropes.

Stripes dominated, and bedcovers were not only visually heavy but physically weighty too. Today, yacht interiors are far more refined and sophisticated. Technology has brought us materials that are not only easier to maintain but also visually stunning and more suited to the marine environment.

There’s now an endless variety to choose from – man-made stones that look indistinguishable from the real thing but are lighter and more practical; fabrics once reserved for interiors, like velvets and chenille, are now suitable for exterior use; and feature walls that combine luxurious materials and function as decorative art.

While design trends might emerge in one place, globalisation ensures they travel at lightning speed.

Still, local culture and lifestyle must be considered – especially in our part of the world, where the demand for bespoke and unique design is stronger than ever. The Australasian market has grown exponentially in every respect. As individuals and as an industry, we’ve worked tirelessly – travelling, networking and actively promoting our region. It’s no longer just an outlier on the global map – it’s now recognised as a serious destination for superyacht owners, refits, builders and suppliers.

The level of professionalism here now easily rivals that of longer-established economies – driven by the passion and momentum of the people in it. Here’s to the next 20 years.

Analu

Bill Barry Cotter, CEO Maritimo Motor Yachts

The Made in Australia label has gained substantial credibility in global markets over the last two decades, particularly in marine manufacturing. This rise has been driven by consistent quality, innovative design and the ability to produce vessels suited to demanding conditions. Maritimo has been instrumental in this growth, showcasing Australian craftsmanship and engineering excellence. Owner expectations have also evolved toward greater luxury, liveability and performance, with a growing focus on fuel efficiency and integrated technologies.

Over the past 20 years, boatbuilding in Australia has changed significantly, with fewer builders operating today than in the past. This shift is largely due to globalisation, rising production costs and an ongoing shortage of skilled tradespeople.

These challenges have made it difficult for smaller local builders to compete, particularly against large-scale international operations. To strengthen and sustain Australia’s boatbuilding sector, we need targeted support that includes robust apprenticeship schemes, dedicated marine industry training programs and meaningful incentives for innovation. Encouraging onshore manufacturing and nurturing a new generation of skilled professionals will be key to reinforcing the global standing of Australian marine brands, ensuring they continue to thrive in an increasingly competitive international market.

Maritimo

Captain Richard Morris, CEO Australian Superyachts

After the Sydney 2000 Olympics, several regional industry bodies stepped up to build on its success and actively promote Australia at international events such as the Monaco and Fort Lauderdale boat shows.

They pioneered what we now refer to as destination marketing – a targeted strategy to position Australia as a premier superyacht destination by highlighting our world-class cruising grounds, growing infrastructure and service capabilities. Today, that work continues under the national leadership of Superyacht Australia.

When I first started captaining superyachts, Australia was seen as remote, with limited infrastructure and regulatory barriers that made visiting, let alone chartering, a challenge for foreign-flagged vessels.

Captains and owners were curious about Australia’s cruising potential, but it wasn’t on the established global itinerary. That perception has shifted dramatically.

Australia is recognised as a serious and desirable superyacht destination, not just for its world-class cruising grounds, but for its capable marine trades, facilities and professional support services. Much of this change is thanks to persistent industry advocacy, improved government engagement and the professionalisation of our destination marketing efforts.

Australiansuperyachts

Captain Paul Maguire

Over the past 20 years, working in the Australian and wider Asia-Pacific regions, I’ve witnessed massive growth in superyacht activity — not just in vessels visiting, but also in yachts now being purchased and remaining in the region.

Before, a 35-metre yacht was considered large. Now, vessels over 40 metres are commonplace. While marina infrastructure has grown to support this shift, it hasn’t happened quickly enough. Berthing during peak periods remains a challenge, and many of us captains work together to share spaces where we can.

The increase in experienced agents across Australia, Fiji and New Zealand has made a significant difference when time is short. Still, one of the biggest gaps remains in refit infrastructure. Larger vessels often head overseas simply because the lifts here aren’t big enough, or because we lack the yard capacity to accommodate them. We need bigger sheds, greater lifting capabilities and a deeper understanding from regulatory authorities — too often, they don’t fully grasp the nuances of what we do and end up creating more roadblocks than solutions.

Looking ahead, the next chapter of Australia’s superyacht industry will be defined by crew. Without skilled crew in our region, the industry cannot grow.

Amazing cruising grounds are one thing — but the key to making sure owners and charter guests come back is exceptional onboard experiences. That includes not just the adventure and location, but the service, cuisine, safety and professionalism. It’s what sustains the wider network, from marinas and agents to refit yards and local suppliers.

Carl Amor, Founder Aqualuma

Over the past 20 years, the Made in Australia label has transformed from a symbol of national pride into a globally recognised hallmark of quality, innovation, sustainability and authenticity. This shift has been fuelled by global consumer expectations, particularly from the US, Europe and Asia. They’ve all played a key role in shaping local industry trends.

As Australian companies gained exposure through international boat shows, cross-border design partnerships and growing demand for lifestyle-driven luxury, they have embraced and elevated global benchmarks.

Our local industry doesn’t develop in isolation – it’s in step with international markets yet continues to offer a distinctive edge grounded in rugged, real-world performance.

Australian boats and gear – from Riviera and Maritimo to Quintrex and Aqualuma – have become prized internationally for their innovation, durability and craftsmanship. What makes them stand out is their ability to thrive in some of the toughest marine conditions on the planet. That resilience has shaped a design and engineering culture that prioritises performance without sacrificing aesthetics or lifestyle appeal.

Aqualuma

Suzanne Davies, CEO Marina Industries MIA  

The last 20 to 30 years have seen enormous and rapid growth of marinas and maintenance facilities – marinas and boatyards have been built, thriving businesses created, industry standards lifted and regulations changed to capitalise on the opportunities.

The foresight and build-it-and-they-will-come attitude of big-thinking visionaries like the Gores, the Gays and the Longhursts, who invested in marina facilities in southeast Queensland in the 80s, 90s and into the 2000s created a burgeoning marine industry, generating wealth, business opportunities and careers for many.

As the boats have become bigger and more luxurious, so too have the marinas and the precincts that have been created around them.

Industry standards have been shaped by growing customer and community expectations and formalised accreditation is available for marinas to benchmark their performance.

Superyacht Australia has done a great job in promoting Australia as a cruising destination and the exceptional maintenance facilities and skilled trades we have here. This, combined with the work on regulations to encourage vessel visitation has led to strong growth in superyacht visits, their length of stay and economic contributions.

Our strong market means there are willing investors. We have professional, educated operators and well-supported industry training programs.

The challenge over the next decade will be for governments to recognise the economic and social value of marinas and ensure the right regulatory settings are in place to encourage investment and help businesses capitalise on opportunities

Marina Industries Association

Mitchell and Grant Torrens, Directors Torrens Luxury Collection

Twenty years ago, luxury was measured by hardware – length, engines and interiors. Today, clients are focused on time luxury – personalised service, immersive experiences and seamless ownership. Our TLC global buyers want a turnkey lifestyle, not just a yacht. Locally, clients benchmark against Monaco, Fort Lauderdale and Dubai, with expectations higher than ever – driven by increased international exposure and refined tastes. Acting as buyers’ agents to source yachts tailored to individual needs has been a core differentiator for us over the years.

The new generation sees yachts as floating resorts, business hubs and lifestyle platforms. Many of our TLC clients now look to offset running costs through experience-driven charters – F1 trackside berths, heli-surf expeditions, or Hamilton Island and surrounding island getaways. We’ve evolved with them, offering buyers’ agent representation, concierge services and bespoke lifestyle experiences.

Australia’s coastline remains one of the most pristine and under-cruised in the world. The real opportunity lies in unlocking its potential through stronger infrastructure – clearer charter regulations, extended cruising permits and luxury-grade marinas.

The ongoing challenge is the speed of regulatory reform and the need for more engaging social yachting events beyond traditional boat shows.

Next-generation families are shaping the future of yachting in Australia. I see it firsthand – building on the legacy of both my mother and father while adapting to an evolving clientele. Names like the Barry-Cotters, the Gay family, the Leigh Smiths and the Torrens family all share a mutual respect and deep commitment to excellence in our own unique ways. I’m excited to see how each of us carry our family legacies into the future.

Torrens Luxury Collection

Captain Michael Gooding, Silentworld Foundation

From a captain’s perspective, the biggest shift in 20 years has been in refit capabilities.

We can now carry out refit work at a standard that’s competitive with the best in the world.

While marina capacity remains largely the same, what has improved significantly is the professionalism of crew – many of whom return from overseas with a much deeper appreciation of what guests now expect. That has arguably had the most noticeable impact on the guest experience.

Looking ahead, the next chapter in Australia’s superyacht industry will be defined by our ability to package experiences. For many overseas guests, the time it takes to reach Australia is still a barrier, but if we can combine cruising with land-based adventures or luxury resorts, the journey becomes far more appealing.

Silentworldfoundation

Jonathan (Joff) Beckett, Chief Executive, Burgess

Over the past two decades, the global superyacht industry has undergone a dramatic transformation. When I first started, the traditional markets were centred around Europe, the USA and the Middle East, and a 70-metre yacht was considered very large.

Today, we’re seeing buyers come from new and diverse regions, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Asia and even China. At the same time, yachts have grown significantly in both size and complexity. What was once considered large – say 70-plus metres –is now closer to 100-plus metres. Some of the modern superyachts are true palaces on water. The largest yacht currently in commission is around 182 metres, with a 194.5-metre vessel soon to be delivered.

So, will we see a 200-metre-plus yacht in the next decade? I’m sure we will. And the first billion-euro yacht? Definitely. It’s an incredibly exciting time to be part of this industry.

Alongside this growth, the management of superyachts has also become vastly more sophisticated. It now involves a deep understanding of safety, security, flagging, crew employment, work hours, rotation, taxation, guest limits, manning and regulatory compliance. It’s a complex operation, and expectations are high.

We’ve also seen a fundamental shift in owner behaviour and expectations. Two decades ago, an owner might spend a few weeks a year on their yacht. Now, many spend entire seasons – summer or winter – on board.

Yachts have evolved from being hobbies or occasional retreats to true second homes. As a result, owners now demand more than just impeccable construction and engineering – they expect full-service facilities, such as spas, gyms, cinemas, wellness centres and helicopter landing pads – often two!

And their expectations of brokers and yacht managers have grown too. Owners now want their entire yachting experience to be handled end-to-end, with strong oversight and trusted relationships. This business is no longer just about boats – it’s about people.

Looking at the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia, I see enormous potential. Superyachting here is still in its infancy, but the region is rich with opportunity – both in terms of cruising grounds and yacht ownership. I believe the market here could easily double over the next 10 years. Australians and Asians are increasingly purchasing large yachts and choosing to keep them overseas, but we may see more kept closer to home as infrastructure and services improve.

As for the future of the global superyacht industry, I believe we’ll see a continuation of current trends but with an increasing focus on sustainability. The market will grow, and we can expect new clients from Asia, China, India and South America, along with new cruising regions opening up. The potential is massive, and it’s a future I’m excited to be a part of.

Burgess

Steve Wicks, CEO Superyacht Solutions

Over the past 20 years, the profile of Australian yacht owners has changed, but they remain among the country’s most accomplished individuals. They’re smart, selective and increasingly focused on getting real value – not just in terms of cost but also time, convenience and quality.

If people who are new to yachting don’t feel they’re getting that value, we risk losing them to other forms of leisure that are more accessible, better packaged and easier to understand.

That’s why it’s critical for everyone in the industry – from service providers to suppliers – to really understand what clients need (and fear). They also need to build genuine trust and offer the right level of guidance and support as well. If we want this industry to grow and be sustainable, that’s non-negotiable.

The reality is, our industry is made up of many small businesses, each bringing their own strengths and motivations to the table. If we’re serious about creating a strong and lasting industry, we need to apply those same high standards not just within our companies but sector-wide.

Superyacht Solutions

Nicola Webster, Founder Coast New Zealand

Clients today are more discerning than ever. When we founded COAST in the early 2000s, the availability of low-cost, man-made materials had led to a proliferation of cheap and functional outdoor furnishings, the durability of which could usually be measured only by its half-life in landfill.

We’ve always believed that the ocean, the great outdoors and the people who enjoy it deserve better, and for that reason we set out to produce beautiful, practical collections – not mere stuff.

Clients now expect not just exceptional quality and design but also authenticity and environmental responsibility.

Where once it was enough to deliver performance and style, now longevity and ethical production are equally critical.

Coast New Zealand 

Wes Moxey, CEO, Riviera Motor Yachts

From Riviera’s perspective, there has been a significant change over the past 20 years.

The company has moved from building more fundamental boats that were positioned as a value purchase to – over the past 13 years under the Longhurst ownership – creating yachts that are sought after internationally for their premium quality, robust build and reliability.

Today, Riviera is regarded as being among the world’s leading motor yacht builders in our class, crafting around 150 yachts per annum.

Global economic shifts also shaped the brand’s journey.

The GFC forced rapid industry contraction in 2008, while COVID unexpectedly fuelled a mini boom, as buyers sought freedom and safe family time at sea. We’re now starting to see the market heading back toward more normal conditions.

Riviera

Rick Rodwell, Director Ray White Marine

In the last 20 years, the Australian marine industry has matured significantly, shaped by evolving lifestyles, advancing technology and growing global connectivity. Where owners once prioritised practicality and versatility for local cruising, there’s now a clear shift toward high-end brands and innovative, eco-conscious features. In response, Ray White Marine expanded its brokerage portfolio, securing premium global dealerships.

Unlike the seasonal, destination-focused yachting seen in Europe, Australian owners tend to use their vessels casually year-round, with a strong emphasis on family and exploration.

Increasingly, they’re venturing further afield – to the Great Barrier Reef, Indonesia, the South Pacific and even the Med – driving demand for longer range, advanced systems and more seaworthy hulls.

Ray White Marine 

Geoff Majer, Director, Major Yacht Services

The superyacht industry continues to grow irrespective of pandemics, economic downturns or environmental challenges. Since 1997, I’ve had a prime position watching the steady evolution of Australia’s place in the global superyacht landscape – and the transformation has been remarkable.

Over the past 20 years, the needs and expectations of captains, crew and owners have become significantly more demanding and professional.

Yachts have grown considerably in size, which in turn means more crew on board and a higher standard of systems, logistics and service delivery. Today’s vessels travel further and faster than ever before.

Government processes, too, have improved. Customs, immigration and biosecurity departments have streamlined their protocols, making it easier for yachts to enter Australian waters. Biosecurity has also introduced underwater biofouling regulations to help protect our marine environments. Looking ahead, the biggest opportunity is undoubtedly the Brisbane Olympics in 2032, which will drive visitation and investment. The key challenge will be completing major lift and berthing projects on the east coast in time to meet the increasing demand.

Major Yacht Services

Joy Weston, Owner & Director, Crew Pacific

Initially, the superyacht industry in this part of the world was smaller and often seen as an extension of the broader maritime sector.

Crew standards varied, formal qualifications were less common, and many individuals transitioned from commercial shipping, fishing or tourism backgrounds without the specialised training that’s now expected. Today, the industry is far more professional.

There’s been a significant rise in the demand for internationally recognised certifications, and crew in this region are often highly skilled in technical and engineering roles as well as guest service.

Crew Pacific

Jeni Bone, Writer and Editor Ocean / Sails Magazine

For the past few decades, I’ve had a front-row seat to the evolution of the boating and superyacht industry.

The changes since Ocean first launched have been profound.

In the early to mid-2000s, one of the biggest concerns was the rise of grey imports. As online research and boat-buying took hold, dealers and prospective owners were bypassing traditional channels, importing vessels from overseas without considering the consequences.

Thankfully, the landscape has matured. Today, buyers are better informed, and a strong network of reputable brokers and specialists helps guide more responsible decisions.

Jeni Bone

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