Connection to the Sea, Virtual Client Engagement and Environmental Consciousness. The IYC Captain's Forum discusses the Leading edge of Yacht Builds

The new build sector is evolving rapidly, shaped by the expectations of a younger, more engaged clientele and advances in technology that are transforming both new builds and refits. 

One clear trend echoed by all delegates is that clients are demanding a much stronger connection to the sea. “Clients want longer platforms and beach clubs that feel like living rooms,” Marnix Hoekstra of Vripak explained. Wim Verhoff of Oceanco added: “Advances in engineering, such as single-tier engine rooms, now allow designs to move lower, closer to the water.” He added “There is a shift from space to process—how the yacht is actually used much more closely affects design decisions.” 

In the semi-custom sector, Nicky van Zon, Moonen Yachts, highlighted similar trends: “Owners ask for modifications such as extended decks, lowered bulwarks, and flexible outdoor furniture—nothing is fixed to the deck.” 

Managing client expectations remains central to the build process. “The top concern is losing control of time and costs,” said Cassandra Bruno of IYC. “Our role is to translate between technical teams and the owner, with structured milestone tracking through digital platforms.” Verhoff emphasised the importance of early risk mitigation: “Before the contract is signed, we address challenges ranging from regulations to the actual laws of physics! Once risks are managed, the process becomes fun.” 

According to Hoekstra, younger owners are now becoming more engaged in the design process. He says many “often bring their own designers and involve ideas from spouses and family in the process. Collaboration is therefore essential—but it can also be difficult to achieve.” 

Technology is transforming engagement. Virtual reality has become “a game changer—clients even have their own headsets at home. We meet in the yacht!” Hoekstra explained. The virtual model is accurate to the mm which provides an incredible resource for visualising and planning. Engagement isn’t just about technology though, Hoekstra remembers Oceanco hosting a dinner for their owners on a deck with no hull! 

For newer owners, sustainability is no longer optional. “Futureproofing is critical,” Hoekstra argued. “Young clients demand it, and young UHNWI’s won’t join the industry unless it’s achieved.” Verhoff reinforced the urgency: “If the ocean deteriorates, the industry is in trouble. We’ve developed tools to calculate the precise carbon footprint of every decision.” This helps owners understand the impact of the decisions they make and the actual costs of making decisions that are more environmentally conscious. Matthew Stone affirmed “the clients have to pave this new path.” 

Alongside new builds, the refit market is growing. “There are over 6,200 yachts above 30 metres, many more than 20 years old,” Verhoff observed. “With increasing impatience among owners, there are opportunities for major refits that deliver a personalised yacht more quickly than a new build.” With new builds effectively taking 6 years (2 in design and 4 in build) some owners do both – refit an existing yacht whilst they wait for their new build! 

In terms of market activity Matthew Stone of Moonen Yachts noted that “the 50–70 metre sector is the most buoyant, while the 30-metre market remains slightly more volatile.”  

The themes of the discussion were clear – technology is changing client engagement. Design is more focused on being with and in the sea. Environmentally conscious clients are helping drive innovations that go some way in reducing the footprint of the yacht both, in the build and - more importantly in terms of resources - operationally through its lifespan.