Entries open for Superyacht UK Young Designer Competition 2024

Superyacht UK, a membership-only association representing the interests of the UK Superyacht industry in the UK and overseas, has launched the 2024 Superyacht UK Young Designer Competition.

This event offers a platform for young designers from universities nationwide to showcase their creativity in yacht design.

Last year’s competition saw Oliver Rommelrath from Staffordshire University crowned as the winner. The 2024 event takes place at the Southampton International Boat Show from 16-18 September 2024, and participants will have the opportunity to present their designs to an international audience and industry experts.

“Superyacht UK has a focus to help young talent enter our awesome industry,” says Ben Geary, chair of Superyacht UK. “Many of us in the industry started out at institutions like Solent University or Warsash Maritime School, and through the encouragement of peers, or inspiration from mentors, have gone on to be leading members of the superyacht community.

“The Superyacht UK Young Designer event is a great opportunity for students to see, first hand, more of this world, to show off their talents, all whilst developing great contacts within the industry. “

To get the competition underway, Superyacht UK, British Marine and Sunseeker International will host an official launch event on 14 March 2024 at Sunseeker International’s client Showcase Suite in Poole.

University design department heads and staff are being invited to attend the event to learn more about the competition and what it offers their students.

Guests will also be given the opportunity to explore Sunseeker’s design and technology centre and main shipyard.

“Nurturing talent has been essential to the success of Sunseeker for over 50 years,” says Ewen Foster, chief technical officer (CTO) at Sunseeker International. “It is critical that we engage with the young designers of tomorrow who will shape inspirational designs to delight and excite a global audience. For many students, this competition may be their first opportunity to connect with future employers and for those that may end up working with us, their creativity will be at the forefront of our business in the years ahead.”

This year’s competition introduces two categories for entry: category 1 for 2nd and 3rd year students, and category 2 for master’s students. A total of 12 places are available, with participants required to hand draw their designs to specific briefs during the two-day event at the Southampton International Boat Show in September.

Entries require nomination by a tutor/lecturer, and the completed entry form must be submitted to Superyacht UK by 19 April 2024.

“The 2023 competition highlighted the immense talent amongst university students, with Oliver Rommelrath’s win underlining the high standard of design and creativity among participants,” says Lesley Robinson, CEO of British Marine. “The competition not only provides a platform for emerging designers but also fosters connections with leading figures in the yacht design industry.”