The yachting industry is at a crucial turning point where sustainability and innovation are no longer options but imperatives. During the “Yachting in 2030: 360° View of the Industry” conference organized by the Cluster Yachting Monaco, experts highlighted the challenges and opportunities the industry will face in the coming decade:
🌱 A commitment to sustainability
Marketing plays a significant role in the yachting industry. However, it is no longer enough to adapt the discourse to appear more sustainable. Industry players must genuinely commit to and uphold their promises regarding sustainability.
🔋 Reducing energy consumption
A critical topic is the energy consumption of yachts, particularly the Hotel Load. Rethinking this operation is essential to reducing the ecological footprint of yachts. Every component and system on board can be improved to be more efficient and less energy-intensive. As Arthur Bohr, Monaco site director of Monaco Marine highlighted: “Everything that you can touch on a boat can be better”. We also need to start thinking of dismantling yachts coming to end of life.
🏦 Positive pressure on the industry
Banks, ports, and insurance companies must also actively participate in the shift toward a more sustainable industry. They can no longer afford to finance polluting solutions without risking their reputation. As Arthur Poloczanski, Public Relation Director of Sunreef mentioned, this “positive pressure forces the industry to evolve and adopt more responsible practices”. Vincent Huens de Brouwer, managing partner of Covership Insurance, emphasized: “It is our generation’s responsibility to find solutions and not leave this burden to future generations.”
✨ Relationship of inspiration
The relationship between yacht builders and their clients is reciprocal. Arthur Poloczanski summarized this dynamic by stating, “We inspire customers, but customers also inspire us.” Clients inspire innovations and improvements while being inspired by the proposed advancements. Owners should understand that there is cost involved when yachts going more sustainable, but they will save money in the long term!
📢 Change through large-scale communication
Annual events such as the Monaco Smart Yacht Rendezvous or the Monaco Yacht Show play a crucial role as communication platforms for the yachting industry.