With the prestigious aura of Monaco as its backdrop and inspired by the format of transformative global forums such as COP and Davos, the inaugural World Yachting Summit (WYS) made a landmark debut. This premier event brought together a diverse and elite audience from across 20 countries, uniting leaders from the yachting industry, governmental bodies, regulators, luxury sectors, tourism authorities, and innovators committed to shaping a more sustainable future for the marine world.
Over three days of rich programming, the Summit delivered constructive dialogue, deep introspection, and future-facing strategy through 19 expert panels, 8 Inspiration Talks, and invaluable networking opportunities. Attendees left energized, thoughtful, and united in purpose — as reflected in the overwhelmingly positive feedback from both delegates and media.
A New Blueprint for the Industry
The Summit’s dual-track approach focused on:
- Business Perspectives & Tourism Development
- Creating a Practical Roadmap to Net Zero
These were supplemented by insights from related sectors like private aviation, luxury hospitality, wealth management, and horology — positioning the event as a multidimensional think tank for the superyacht world.
Voices of Influence: Innovation Through Inspiration
Among the most powerful moments were the Inspiration Talks, opened by legendary watchmaking figure Jean-Claude Biver, who emphasized the future must be shaped by those who dare to be “first, unique, and different.” Other standout keynote speakers included:
- Giovanna Vitelli (Chairman, Azimut|Benetti Group)
- Espen Øino (Founder, EOI)
- Dan Lenard (Nuvolari-Lenard)
- Michael Breman (Sales Director, Lürssen)
- Andrei Dragos (Chairman, Dragos Group)
- Patrick Coote (CMO, MarineMax)
- Barbara Sanches (Senior Principal Consultant, DNV)
- Victorien Erussard (Founder & Captain, Energy Observer)
- Olivier Wenden (Vice-President, Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation)
- Albert Manzone (Deputy COO, Société des Bains de Mer)
- Bernard d’Alessandri (Secretary General, Yacht Club de Monaco)
The SMART Future of Yachting
The Summit called for a bold reinvention of the yachting industry using the SMART framework — reimagined as:
- Sustainable – Yachting must lead with climate-conscious innovation, embracing failure as a step toward net-zero goals.
- Modern – Embrace transparency, digitization, and the development of new yachting hubs that cater to next-gen clients and crew.
- Attractive – Redefine yachting’s image with purpose, inclusivity, and accessible luxury that speaks to younger values.
- Resourceful – Promote the sector’s economic and social value while investing in training and regulation under unified industry voices.
- Transformative – Encourage youth sailing and marine education to build a culture of excellence and environmental respect.
Cautious Optimism and Global Shifts
The final day’s reflection underscored both challenge and opportunity: generational transitions, geopolitical instability, crew shortages, and shifting wealth landscapes. With the Middle East rising as a winter hub and the Mediterranean retaining its summer crown, adaptability will be key.
Speakers agreed that the future is not in resisting change but embracing it — with humility, innovation, and a renewed human-centered vision.
Powered by Collaboration
The Summit’s success was driven by its organizers and strategic partners:
- M3 – Monaco-based yachting consultancy
- OMNIYAT – Leading luxury developer from Dubai
Their vision, alongside a world-class program, turned WYS into a flagship initiative with the potential to become the industry’s global compass.
“The Summit proved to be an extraordinary initiative on many levels,” said José Marco Casellini, CEO of M3. “It generated enthusiasm and praise from key players and is set to be a driver of global innovation in yachting.”
A Message of Purpose
In the words of Bernard d’Alessandri, Secretary General of Yacht Club de Monaco:
“When we are at sea, we are guests in a world that is not our own.” Bernard d’Alessandri
Andrei Dragos, Chairman of Dragos Group added at the end:
This Summit was more than an event — it was a call to action: to listen to new generations, to invest in innovation and sustainability, and to promote yachting as a force for economic, environmental, and social value.
“With this sentiment at its core, the World Yachting Summit 2025 has not just launched an event — it has ignited a movement” Andrei Dragos
