Marine Industry Briefing

Metstrade Special Episode

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 11 Nov 2026 06:00:00 +0000

The 35th DAME Design Awards has produced its largest shortlist in 23 years, with 74 nominated products highlighting the technologies and design priorities shaping marine equipment. We also pick out the Metstrade events that look genuinely worth adding to the diary. Plus, we share a short practical guide to navigating nearly 1,700 exhibitors across 13 halls.

DAME Design Awards
Marine Industry News: 2026 DAME Design Awards nominees
Official DAME nominees

Programme and press highlights
Full Metstrade programme
Tuesday highlights
Wednesday highlights
Thursday highlights and Yacht Racing Forum
Virtual press room and exhibitor press-events calendar

Attendee resources
Official Metstrade app
Interactive floor plan
Exhibitor list
Press facilities and accreditation

Want to get in touch or sponsor the podcast? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

Outdoor Network enters boatbuilding | Villa Vie suspends cruising | PredictWind adds AI routing

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 04 Nov 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Outdoor Network has entered boatbuilding by acquiring NauticStar and planning to restart production at a 212,000-square-foot facility in North Carolina. The move connects manufacturing with the group’s established marine retail, e-commerce and parts operations. Villa Vie Residences has suspended its residential-cruise operation in Cambodia after monthly fuel costs climbed as high as USD 8,000 per cabin. Plus, PredictWind has launched an artificial-intelligence weather router designed to translate complex forecasts and routing calculations into clearer departure recommendations.

Also mentioned in this podcast:
Whisper Marine acquires Heyday Boats from Brunswick Corporation
Sunbeam Yachts opens new production facility in Austria
Simrad adds navigation aid overlay to recreational radar systems
Miami Boat Show outlines changes for 2027
IYC appointed exclusive Americas representative for Bering Yachts

Want to get in touch or sponsor the podcast? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

Beneteau bets on refit | Rightboat brings boat search to ChatGPT | Ferretti moves towards 100-metre yachts

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Groupe Beneteau is planning a new Mediterranean hub for yachts from 60 to 80 feet as it expands large-yacht services and manufacturer-backed refit. The project supports a wider strategy to generate recurring revenue, extend boats' service lives and strengthen customer relationships beyond the original sale. Rightboat has launched a ChatGPT plugin designed to turn conversational boat research into qualified leads for brokers and dealers. Plus, Ferretti Group has secured approval to expand its Ancona yard for the construction of yachts up to 100 metres.

Also mentioned in this podcast:
2026 DAME Design Awards nominees – 74 products shortlisted
Fort Lauderdale Boat Show: 2026 yacht lineup and debuts
Numarine takes direct control of Americas sales
Benjamin Bensahel succeeds Paolo Casani as CEO of Camper & Nicholsons
Saxdor commences production in the United States and debuts model at FLIBS

Want to get in touch or sponsor the podcast? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

5 bidders target The Italian Sea Group | Fountaine Pajot invests | Highfield launches a professional division

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 06:00:00 +0100

The Italian Sea Group has received 5 binding asset offers as its restructuring reaches a potentially decisive stage. The competing proposals could preserve the superyacht group or divide its shipyards between different buyers. Fountaine Pajot is investing in new models, production technology and a larger-yacht range as the leisure-boat market returns to a more demanding normal. Plus, Highfield Boats has launched a dedicated professional division for patrol, rescue, tactical and commercial marine customers.

Also mentioned in this podcast:
Cockwells announces new management team as founder steps back
International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference reports attendance growth
Saxdor enters a post-acquisition leadership transition
D-Marin agrees to acquire Porto San Rocco
Lionel Messi orders a Sunreef Ultima 88

Want to get in touch or sponsor the podcast? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

Sunreef builds across 2 continents | boot courts new sailors | Croatia secures 23 marinas

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 06:00:00 +0100

Sunreef Yachts is expanding production in Poland and the United Arab Emirates as it pursues EUR 1 billion in annual revenue by 2030. Its dual footprint is intended to increase capacity, improve access to international markets and reduce reliance on individual supply routes. boot Düsseldorf is targeting used-boat buyers and new licence holders as part of a long-term strategy to rebuild demand for new sailing yachts. Plus, ACI has secured operating rights for 23 Croatian marinas until 2058, creating a longer planning horizon for investment.

Also mentioned in this podcast:
European recreational-boat exports highlight growth opportunity
Cruisers Yachts partners with O Marine for European expansion
IBEX announces its 2026 Innovation Award winners
Thordon Bearings opens a new Canadian production plant
Raymarine expands vessel monitoring with the CAM400 camera

Want to get in touch or sponsor the podcast? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

SeaSure launches marine AI at IBEX | Informa buys Clarion | Gulf Craft expands

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 06:00:00 +0100

SeaSure has launched a vessel-specific marine intelligence platform at IBEX, combining 12 specialised artificial intelligence agents with boat configuration, service and warranty data. The platform aims to improve troubleshooting and turn field experience into useful intelligence for builders, suppliers and service businesses. Informa has agreed to acquire rival events group Clarion for GBP 2.24 billion as it expands a global portfolio that already includes several leading marine shows. Plus, Gulf Craft is expanding manufacturing and third-party aftersales while using vertical integration to manage the effects of geopolitical tension on logistics, confidence and buying decisions.

Also mentioned in this podcast:
Yanmar acquires West Coast distributor Boatswain’s Locker
Osculati expands its presence with Osculati USA
Azimut becomes technical partner for Ferrari Hypersail
Beneteau Oceanis 51.1 sinks after a whale strike
Saxdor brings autonomous docking to its boats

Want to get in touch or sponsor the podcast? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

Charter giants change hands | Swan scales up | Southampton reshapes its show

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0100

Dream Yacht Charter, Navigare Yachting and SamBoat are moving towards new ownership after Romain Motteau and a group of investment partners reached an agreement in principle with PPF Group. If completed, the transaction would bring fleet operations, charter management and a digital marketplace together in one of the world’s largest yacht-charter groups. Nautor Swan has entered sailing-superyacht territory with the 44-metre Alloy 44, the largest yacht in its 60-year history and the 1st model in a planned aluminium range. Plus, the Southampton International Boat Show will cut its 2027 run from 10 days to 8 as British Marine seeks a more concentrated and commercially efficient event.

Also mentioned in this podcast:
Red Sea Yacht Show 2027 and supporting partnerships
Arksen previews the 50-knot Arksen 55
Royal Yachting Association sets participation goal
CMC Marine brings propeller development in-house
Setag Yachts targets demand for pre-owned refits

Want to get in touch or sponsor the podcast? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

Princess returns to profit | Azimut moves into resort fleets | Saxdor doubles production

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0100

Princess Yachts has returned to profit after a 2-year operational transformation, reporting GBP £35.9 million in adjusted earnings
before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation during 2025 despite deliberately producing fewer yachts. The next test is whether its new-model programme can generate profitable orders without allowing capacity to run ahead of demand. Assets Group has ordered 18 Azimut yachts for 2 Maldives resorts, creating a new distribution channel that connects luxury hospitality, yacht access and local aftersales support. Plus, Saxdor Yachts is doubling its Polish production footprint as demand for its larger 460 platform exceeds current capacity.

Want to get in touch or sponsor the podcast? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

Metstrade confronts the market | Cantiere del Pardo builds for growth | Sunreef brings artificial intelligence aboard

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0100

Metstrade has announced a 2026 content programme focused on the market, workforce, sustainability and technology challenges shaping
leisure marine businesses. More than 1,700 exhibitors are expected across 13 halls when the exhibition opens in Amsterdam. Cantiere del Pardo is adding more than 35,000 square metres of production space as part of a long-term strategy spanning manufacturing, new products and owner engagement. Plus, Sunreef Yachts has developed an in-house artificial-intelligence platform intended to simplify the operation and maintenance of increasingly complex yachts.

Want to get in touch or sponsor the podcast? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

Sunseeker takes control in Europe | Beneteau accelerates model launches | Fairline doubles down

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0100

Sunseeker International has launched Sunseeker Europe after Sunseeker London and Sunseeker Poole filed notices of intention to appoint
administrators. The new operation will take responsibility for distribution, service and warranty support across a major international network responsible for selling more than half of the shipyard’s annual production. Groupe Beneteau is presenting 24 new models for the 2026–2027 season while expanding its Neo refit programme from 2 models to 8 as it targets the much larger pre-owned market. Plus, Fairline Yachts is doubling down on the 40–60ft segment with the Targa 58 GTO, targeting customers who want larger-yacht functionality with lower ownership costs.

Also mentioned in this podcast:
Economic uncertainty and skills shortages top superyacht sector concerns, says CMC Marine
OceanWorld Group and Denison Yachting form joint venture
ePropulsion unveils eCore energy management system at Cannes
Sanlorenzo unveils SHE and outlines decarbonisation roadmap as H1 revenues climb
Pantaenius cuts deductibles for yachts with continuous anchor monitoring

Want to get in touch or sponsor the podcast? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

Voly consolidates yacht operations | Sea-Doo faces fatal capsize lawsuit | Saxdor powers Malibu’s rebound

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0100

Voly has acquired Oceanskies in its 4th takeover since 2023, taking the number of crew administered across its expanding superyacht
operations platform to more than 10,000. The deal illustrates a wider push to consolidate fragmented yacht software and services into 1
accountable digital provider. Families in the United States have filed a product-liability and wrongful-death lawsuit following a fatal Sea-Doo Switch capsizing, raising questions about recalls, testing and the effectiveness of remedial work. Plus, Saxdor contributed USD $61m in quarterly sales as Malibu Boats reported a stronger finish to its financial year against a market it still expects to remain broadly flat.

Mentioned in this podcast:
New Sunreef 100 Eco sailing catamaran to make world debut at Monaco
Stolen 1968 Hinckley sailboat found 200 miles away after four-day hunt ends in tragedy
Fischer Panda appointed UK distributor for Instagrid portable power systems
Next-gen PLB and EPIRB tech to lead Wescom Group display at SMM
Teledyne FLIR brings new vision tech to USVs

Want to get in touch or sponsor the podcast? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

To be a guest on the Ben Taylor Podcast visit our enquires page

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

China's yacht expansion | Electric hydrofoils enter the United States | Marine business succession

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0100

Sea Expandary has acquired an 80% stake in OceanWalker as the Chinese venture builds an international yacht group spanning manufacturing,
distribution and superyacht services. The deal adds an established product range and global dealer network to a strategy already involving Camper & Nicholsons. Vessev has secured its 1st United States customer as FlyTahoe orders electric hydrofoil ferries for a proposed zero emission service on Lake Tahoe. Plus, Allen Brothers has entered its 3rd generation of family ownership, highlighting the growing importance of succession planning across privately owned marine businesses.

Mentioned in this podcast:
Cannes Yachting Festival selects 47 projects for 2026 Innovation Route
Airmar takes the paddlewheel out of speed sensing
Vision Marine and Avikus to trial Neuboat integration on Sterk 31E
JCS Hi-Torque tackles growing counterfeit goods threat in Middle East
Army crew turns offshore race into barn owl rescue operation

Want to get in touch or sponsor the briefing? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

Superyacht sinks days after delivery | Princess Yachts goes direct in Asia | Electric boating rethinks charging

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0100

The 29.6-metre Amer F100 superyacht Angiola II has sunk off Sardinia just 4 days after being delivered to her new owner, with all 14 people on board rescued. The official cause is under investigation as authorities plan the vessel’s recovery and continue environmental monitoring. Princess Yachts has established a shipyard-direct sales and service operation covering Hong Kong, Greater China and selected surrounding markets. Plus, Vision Marine Technologies says existing marina shore power can support most recreational electric boating without waiting for an entirely new charging network.

Top stories mentioned in this podcast:

- Amer F100 sinks 4 days after delivery
- Princess Yachts moves to direct sales operation in major Asian markets
- Electric boating does not need a new charging network, says Vision Marine’s chief executive officer

Mentioned in this Podcast:
- Temo’s Vannes site destroyed by fire
- Yamaha Motor raises full-year forecast after strong first half
- Williams Jet Tenders launches TurboJet MX range
- Amico Marine brings 13 original equipment manufacturers into new technical network
- Formula 1 driver Esteban Ocon collects new SportJet 520

Want to get in touch or sponsor the briefing? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Note: MIB does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

MarineMax’s $1.5bn sale | Sunseeker’s turnaround | Australia’s record boating market

Taylor Media Ltd — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0100

Safe Harbor Marinas has agreed to acquire MarineMax in a $1.5 billion dollar all-cash transaction that would connect more than 70 dealerships and 65 marina and storage facilities with the world’s largest marina network. MarineMax shareholders would receive US$53.00 per share, subject to shareholder and regulatory approval. Sunseeker has set out a 5-year plan to strengthen governance, improve operational predictability and rebuild its position in yachts above 100 ft. Plus, Australia’s recreational boating industry has maintained record annual turnover of AUD 10.5 billion as Sydney Boat Show exhibitors report stronger buyer confidence.

Top stories mentioned in this podcast:

Safe Harbor agrees $1.5 billion dollar MarineMax acquisition
Sunseeker sets out its plan to revitalise the brand
Australia’s boating industry maintains record turnover

Want to get in touch? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

Sources:

Brunswick’s Sales Growth | Ferretti’s Revenue Decline | Lürssen’s Record Delivery Year

Taylor Media Ltd — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 17:17:55 +0100

Brunswick Corporation has reported sales growth across every business segment, delivering a strong second quarter and raising its expectations for 2026. Its results suggest premium products and aftermarket activity remain resilient despite continued pressure in value-focused new-boat sales. Ferretti Group has reported lower revenue, profit, order intake and backlog as customers take longer to commit in a more challenging luxury-yacht market. Plus, Lürssen has completed a record-breaking delivery year, handing over 6 custom superyachts ranging from 75 to 140 metres.

Top stories mentioned in this podcast:
Brunswick reports growth across every segment
Ferretti faces a more challenging luxury-yacht market
Lürssen completes a record delivery year

Want to get in touch? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor, produced by the Taylor Media team and distributed in collaboration with Marine Industry News.

Sources

Want to get in touch? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

Correct Craft expands its marine portfolio

Taylor Media Ltd — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 10:08:04 +0100

Correct Craft has acquired Fluid Motion, the parent company of Ranger Tugs, Cutwater Boats and Solara Boats. SAIM and ZF have launched the TotalUpgrade refit programme, enabling older propulsion control systems to be replaced with the ZF TotalCommand platform. Plus, former Bluegame chief executive Carla Demaria has joined the ICOMIA board.

Mentioned in this podcast:

- Correct Craft acquires Ranger Tugs, Cutwater Boats and Solara Boats parent Fluid Motion

- SAIM and ZF launch TotalUpgrade refit programme

- Carla Demaria joins the ICOMIA board

Want to get in touch? Email us at info@taylormedia.uk

The Marine Industry Briefing is hosted by Ben Taylor and Emma Taylor and produced by the Taylor Media team.