At the 2025 Superyacht Technology Show, Jack Robinson sat down with Justin Ratcliffe, Associate Editor at Superyacht Times, to discuss how the show has evolved, what makes it different and why the future of superyacht technology needs its own stage.
Okay, let’s get some background on the event. This is the fourth or fifth one, right?
It’s actually our fifth event if you count the first one as a conference, but four if you don’t include that.
So why did you think there was a need for another show in the industry?
We didn’t want to create just another general show. Although we call it a “superyacht technology show,” we needed something specific for the superyacht industry – something private, not open to the public. A lot of our big sponsors really appreciate the idea of a closed-door, exclusive event where we can have open discussions.
It’s about creating a space for the superyacht family to come together, where we can focus on B2B interactions. Many of our industry guests want to speak to integrators and others in the field, but often they don’t have time at bigger trade shows. This event is aimed at catering to that need, while also providing a solid foundation for the event to grow. Barcelona is the perfect location, with the World Trade Center expanding its docks, and we’re also planning to have a water-based part to the show. We want to focus on emerging technologies like hybrid, hydrogen, and alternative fuels, which is our long-term goal.
What are your registration goals for this year?
We have had 1,000 registrations. I expect the final number will be between 600 and 700 by the end of the event. The key here is that we’re seeing a lot of buyers – industry professionals like owners, reps, captains, AVIT officers, and chief engineers. This show is designed for them, with a focus on technology, rather than things like taxation or general yachting topics.
What makes this event different from traditional trade shows?
We avoid the “meet the buyer” format where you end up sitting at a plastic table talking to people who may not be ready to engage. Instead, we use AI matchmaking to connect people with relevant parties based on their profiles. We’ve also added elements like gamification to make the event more interactive and fun. We’re bringing the energy and creativity that you might see at places like CES, but tailored to the superyacht industry.
In 2026 we will be taking this a step further, introducing ‘Intelligent Buyer Networking’, a re-interpretation of “meet the buyer” where exhibitors, industry guests and buyers will be intelligently matched in advance of the show, based on shared interests and relevant, so every conversation has real potential.
You mentioned the event has evolved over time. What’s been the biggest logistical change?
One thing we’ve learned is that we can’t grow the show too quickly. Last year, we learned that lesson, and we’ve taken it to heart. The feedback has been amazing, and we’ve had people saying they’ve received more leads here than at major shows like the Monaco Yacht Show. We’re also careful to separate technology from brokerage. Our focus is squarely on technology, which is something that many shipyards and brokers have asked for.
What’s next for the show?
Over the next three years, we want to continue expanding the range of technology we showcase. In the early days, people thought of us as an AVIT show, but this year you can see robots, medical technology, and companies like Peninsula showing off their innovations. It’s about staying grounded in what’s feasible right now. We’re looking at advancements like liquid-cooled electricity for charging yachts quickly, but the infrastructure just isn’t there yet. The government needs to invest in marinas to support this kind of technology. For now, we’re focusing on making the event as relevant and impactful as possible. The industry is evolving, and as technology advances, we want to make sure the show keeps up. For example, while we’re not quite there yet with hydrogen, we want to be ready for it in the future. The main thing is ensuring that the infrastructure supports the technology, such as charging solutions or refueling options for green technologies.
How do you see the event developing in the future?
Well, we’re not just about adding more halls and expanding the event for the sake of it. General trends and industry noise is suggested the move towards more private, community focused events as being the future of events in our industry – so we will just keep doing what we’re doing!
Basing the show in Barcelona has been a great choice for us, and Europe’s investment in the blue tech sector is a huge advantage. We’re part of that movement, with the city being declared a marine research hub. We plan to continue growing while maintaining the quality and focus of the event.
How’s the event going so far?
It’s going well. The attendance is the highest it’s ever been, especially with a strong turnout of chief engineers. We’ve expanded from our original focus on AVIT to cover engines and more, and there’s a real appetite for this kind of comprehensive event. And
it’s not just about the tech. We’ve also created a sense of community. We wanted to create a space where industry professionals can feel like they’re part of a community, without the overwhelming crowds. The more intimate setting of the show helps to foster these genuine connections.
Do you think this model is the future for industry events?
Absolutely. The idea is to make the event exciting, relevant, and private. A super networking event, where everything from the tech talks to the lunches and parties is designed to foster genuine connections. This is the direction we’re heading, and it’s something that I think more industries could adopt.
