METSTRADE reveals details of redesigned Superyacht Forum
Organisers of the annual METSTRADE trade show have revealed details of the newly redesigned Superyacht Forum, which will take place from 18 to 19 November 2024 in Amsterdam.
The Superyacht Forum is an annual meeting of the superyacht industry’s senior leadership professionals. Its agenda is wide-ranging and future-focused.
The redesign comes after METSTRADE organiser RAI Amsterdam acquired The Superyacht Forum earlier this year. RAI Amsterdam says it is ‘solidifying its commitment to address the educational needs of the superyacht value chain’ and actively engaging the voices of key industry associations in shaping the show’s agenda and delivering content that propels the superyacht industry forward.
This year’s Superyacht Forum (TSF) will be held in its familiar home at RAI Amsterdam. It marks the first edition under the organisation of the venue, enabling closer alignment with METSTRADE’s SuperYacht Pavilion and its three halls of manufacturers and suppliers, which will take place from 19 to 21 November 2024.
Organisers say this integrated approach offers benefits including opportunities for delegates and exhibitors to network on Monday 18 November, and fully co-ordinated content across METSTRADE and TSF.
More than 600 leading industry professionals will discuss key issues of tomorrow across three streams — innovation, sustainability and professionalization, under the overarching topic ‘Think Ahead’.
Topics for keynotes, workshops and breakouts have been selected by METSTRADE’s newly convened Superyacht Content Board, which harnesses knowledge from industry organisations.
Details of the programme confirmed include:
Think Ahead – Innovation
TSF 2024 will examine the cutting-edge impact of artificial intelligence on shipyards and designers, focusing on insights from outside the yachting industry. These examples will inspire and highlight AI’s potential to transform superyacht design and engineering.
A superyacht propulsion R&D deep-dive will explore the range of non-fossil fuel options available and how they meet diverse requirements. Particular attention will be paid to dual-fuel solutions, which promise to align environmental sustainability with operational requirements.
TSF will also explore how strategic mergers and acquisitions can drive growth, foster innovation, and create a more integrated and resilient superyacht market.
Think Ahead – Professionalism
A keynote on the first day will address the public perception of the superyacht sector’s image and how that can be managed. Delegates will also witness the launch of the Yacht Owner Representative Platform (YORP), a new network of registered representatives and hear how members work in the decision-making process for new builds and refits.
The Superyacht Alliance will explain how it is driving professional approaches towards growing and retaining talent within the sector.
Think Ahead – Sustainability
A large proportion of TSF 2024’s agenda will examine and discuss sustainable practices, headlined by a keynote exploring a 2050 superyacht industry roadmap.
Workshops and breakouts will look at biofouling management, whether there is a need for a superyacht industry regulatory policy on greenhouse gas emission reduction. The International University of Monaco will offer insights into the influence of sustainability on the decisions of younger generations, while the Water Revolution Foundation will provide updates on its Yacht Environmental Transparency Index (YETI).
MARIN’s Seven Oceans Simulator
MARIN (Maritime Research Institute Netherlands) will open its advanced Seven Oceans Simulator centre (SOSc) to a select group of TSF delegates on 20 November 2024. This workspace enables engineers and crew to experience and improve ships in operational conditions before they are built. It can also assist with operational mission rehearsal and training, as well as complex infrastructure design.
“When we acquired The Superyacht Forum, we promised enhanced networking opportunities, greater alignment with METSTRADE’s many related facets, and enrichment of the content programme in collaboration with superyacht industry organisations and key knowledge partners,” says Niels Klarenbeek, director of METSTRADE. “Three months later, you can see from this advanced preview that we have kept our word to build the absolute must-attend event for superyacht sector professionals. Look out for further announcements in the coming weeks.”
Martin Redmayne, founder of The Superyacht Forum and strategic advisor to this year’s event, adds: “The evidence is clear that this globally important event will continue to go from strength to strength under the fresh impetus of RAI Amsterdam.
“The METSTRADE team is building a must-not-miss agenda for 2024 and has exciting plans for this year and beyond.”
Tickets are now available for The Superyacht Forum, via the METSTRADE website.
