The new furry guest

For many yacht owners, family now means the whole pack—including four-legged companions. Increasingly, dogs are part of the superyacht scene: trotting across teak decks, bounding into tenders for a quick hop ashore, or dozing in the sun while guests linger over lunch. What once raised eyebrows is now almost expected. The numbers back it up. Analysts put the global pet travel services market at $2.4 billion in 2024, with forecasts pushing close to $4 billion by 2030. Pets are no longer “add-ons”—they’re family members, and they travel accordingly. Yachting is already adapting. Charter brokers say requests for pet-friendly yachts are rising, while designers are rethinking interiors with tougher fabrics, shaded deck zones, and even artificial-grass “dog loos.” Refit lists now include boarding ramps and ladders designed just for dogs, making shore runs less of a scramble. What started as an indulgence is quickly becoming part of the blueprint.

Bark Air and the New Luxury Standard

Perhaps the clearest signal of this shift comes from the skies. BARK Air, launched in 2024, flew more than 1,000 dogs on 142 flights in its first year and generated close to $6 million in revenue. Its promise of a “dog-first” private jet complete with concierge services, crate-free cabins, and stress-reducing touches has sold out routes and built a loyal following of repeat passengers. For yachts, the message is clear. If owners are going to these lengths to ensure their dogs travel comfortably, they will expect the same standards at sea. A flotation vest and a bowl of water are no longer enough; concierge-level care, thoughtful design, and seamless integration of pets into the yacht experience are now part of the luxury package.

Essential Tips

● Safety: fitted lifejackets with rescue handles, non-slip decks, and secure boarding ramps.

● Routine: maintaining feeding schedules and using synthetic turf pads or trays for emergencies.

● Crew support: assigning responsibilities for feeding, exercise, and hygiene, alongside basic pet first-aid training. When done well, a dog on board becomes part of the charm. Morning tender rides double as walks; playful swims off the stern boost morale; quiet companionship brings warmth to long passages.

The broader trend is unmistakable: pets are no longer left behind. High-net-worth families expect to travel with them and in comfort equal to their own. For yachts, that means adapting. Those that can promise a smooth, pet-friendly experience complete with gear, protocols, and trained crew will not just meet a niche demand, but align with a cultural shift in what “luxury holiday” really means. For many owners, the ultimate expression of home on the water may now come with a wagging tail.