IMPERIAL CHARTER DIRECTORY 2022
THE FUTURE OF YACHTING Q&A WITH SIX OF THE WORLD'S BEST DESIGNERS
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The yachting industry is changing right in front of our eyes. Superyachts are becoming visually lighter and more closely resembling modern land architecture. In the era of great changes, there are typically those who accept change with enthusiasm, and those who are not ready for this brave new world. Around 30 years ago, when superyachts first appeared on the market, opinion also differed among yacht owners and industry enthusiasts: while some viewed the creations of young and ambitious designers with delight, others were unimpressed by the new concepts. Earlier still, in the 1960s, some yachtsmen remained loyal to wooden boats, while their neighbours in the marina were confidently navigating light fibreglass yachts. Time itself was the best referee in this dispute. Now, only those few connoisseurs go to sea on wooden motor and sailing boats, while yachts powered by diesel engines are causing many people to doubt their right to exist.
Today, the focus is on sustainable yachts. Superyacht owners have a greater interest in clean oceans, beaches, and lagoons than anyone else. Everybody knows how polluting fossil fuel is, but only a few are aware of how seriously the underwater world is suffering from yacht vibrations. Naturally, alternative types of engine will lead to changes on the yachting horizon. That’s why we decided to discuss the future of the yachting industry with designers – who are the first to agree with the owner regarding the desired look of their new vessel. All of our interviewees have had a massive impact on superyacht exterior design in recent decades. Each has a different view on new materials and technologies, but all of them agree – the future of the yachting industry is in harmony with the ocean.
