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• Gulf Craft, Sunseeker, and Ferretti Group among those with regional and international launches this week at Dubai Harbour as part of the Dubai International Boat Show 2024
• Finnmaster marks sale of its largest model on first day of show
• Influx of European visitors recognised by key exhibitors

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Dubai, UAE – 29 February 2024: From the world’s largest wooden superyacht to spacious luxury catamarans,some of the most prominent global yacht brands have revealed their latest vessels at the Dubai International Boat Show 2024, the region’s largest and most established marine lifestyle show.

Running until March 3 at Dubai Harbour, the maritime showcase is welcoming visitors from Europe and Middle East with exhibitors citing an increase in Turkish, Russian, British, Saudi and Spanish buyers visiting their stands.

Displaying a host yachts, innovative designs, and luxurious features, further establishing the annual boat show as a must-attend event for both yacht enthusiasts and industry professionals. From sleek and stylish yachts to stunning catamarans, luxury boats and eye-catching hydrofoils, this year’s exhibition showcases outstanding design, innovation, and craftsmanship.

Here are just a few of the noteworthy launches, displays and sales from this year’s show, which is organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre:

Finnmaster Boats
Marking a successful first day of show, Finnmaster Boats sold its largest model, the Grandezza 37CA, to Dubai Creek Marina. Citing a notable increase in trade visitors during day one, their team also highlighted an influx in Russian buyers at the show. The Grandezza 37 CA will be built to Gulf specifications offering a perfect blend of comfort and style while integrating weather resisting methodologies. Boasting two cabins, large exterior and interior lounges, and a galley, the pocket-yacht includes sustainable features that align with modern environmental standards.

Sirena Yachts
Sirena Yachts is also displaying its magnificent 26.81-metre Wish, a blend of luxury and performance that can reach speeds of up to 25 knots with space to accommodate 10 guests along with 4 crew members. Referencing a notable increase in Turkish and Spanish visitors on the show’s first day, Sirena Yachts remain optimistic about with a number of potential sales discussions had on day one.

Gulf Craft
UAE-based superyacht builder, Gulf Craft, is proudly showcasing 15 yachts, including the Nomad 101, Majesty 111, and its new Majesty 60. Making its global premiere, the stunning addition to its esteemed Majesty Yachts collection is an 18.5-metre new model incorporating cutting-edge design, state-of-the-art technology, and luxurious amenities that redefine the standards of luxury yachting.

Ferretti Yachts
Italian shipyard, Ferretti Yachts, is giving Riva 82 Diva its MENA introduction this week in Dubai, seeing a number of European visitors viewing their latest offering. The 25.3-metre flybridge yacht features a range of design advancements that enhance both aesthetics and functionality, including high gunwales with painted composite segments instead of traditional steel handrails. Aside from its well-defined living areas, which include fold-down bulwarks that increase the yacht’s six-metre beam by an additional 50 per cent, the yacht also offers space for a jet tender of up to four metres in length.

Sunseeker
The world’s leading brand for luxury motor yachts, Sunseeker, is launching four – soon to be five – boats this week, including its 65 Sport Yacht, which measures 20.7m and can reach speeds of up to 35 knots, and its Manhattan 68 Pacific, ideal for summer distance cruising with a main deck that includes a large aft cockpit, galley, dining area, and saloon. Its Manhattan 55 meanwhile is designed to easily accommodate groups of families and friends keen to socialise, and the Sunseeker 88 Yacht, an award-winning vessel that can host eight guests with two twin cabins and a forward VIP complementing the owner’s stateroom. Sunseeker’s Superhawk 55 is also expected to be on display later this week and will be available for private viewings.

Azimut
Azimut S7 by Azimut is the latest addition to the S series and is a sport yacht with a sustainability focus. Coming in at 22-metres in length, the yacht seamlessly blends luxurious style with a strong commitment to sustainability, setting a new standard in luxury yachting. Guaranteeing the lowest fuel consumption possible, the Azimut S7 is fitted with automated interceptors that optimise the trim at every speed to maintain ideal hydrodynamics for both performance and efficiency. Meanwhile triple Pod propulsion combined with optimised water lines and carbon fibre, reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by between 20 and 30 per cent in the main speed range.

Bush & Noble
Exclusively listed by Bush & Noble, the Wooden Yacht does exactly what it says on the hull: It is the world’s largest wooden superyacht and spans 50 metres. Featuring a classic wooden exterior that conjures memories of a traditional Arab dhow, the yacht’s wooden frame is complemented by its impressive interior layout and Italian furnishings, which create a relaxed, inviting, and modern environment. Sure to be one of the most popular boats on show this week, the unique project is showcased by the Bush and Noble Group, which Sunseeker Gulf is also part of.

SF Yachts
SF Yachts is similarly showcasing two stunning vessels: the Prestige M48 and the Riviera RCAT 50. The Prestige M48 is a 15m boat offering unparalleled freedom of movement and stability promising its occupants peaceful moments at sea. Designed to provide a seamless blend of comfort and performance, it boasts a cruising speed of 20 knots and ensures swift, smooth journeys. The Riviera RCAT 50 meanwhile, is a 15.4-metre luxury catamaran, is designed to maximise space and offers the roominess typically found in larger vessels. With a seating capacity for up to 10 people on the stern and a spacious balcony area at the front, it provides ample room for relaxation and entertainment.

Running until March 3, boat owners, captains, divers, and trade visitors can enjoy complimentary entry on registration, while individual tickets start from AED 60. Kids under 12 go free.

To purchase tickets for Dubai International Boat Show, please click here.

• Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference 2024 deep dives into cross-sectoral growth strategies as new-age eco-conscious consumers seek more holistic marine experiences
  

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Dubai, UAE – 25 February 2024: The world’s mega-rich and well-heeled luxury consumers are taking to the ocean like never before, but luxury yacht builders and makers of high-end marine crafts should continue to prioritise their eco-credentials if they’re to ride the wave of a US$13 billion market.

Speakers at this week’s Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference agree that boatyards which prioritise sustainable manufacturing into yachts that are better for the environment will align with the values of the new-age eco-conscious yacht owner or even first-time buyer.

If they do so, expect to see plenty of e-boats and hybrid electric propulsion vessels in the coming years cruising beautiful marine tourism hotspots, including the Dubai Reef, launched in 2023, one of the world’s largest reef development projects, which will span 600sqm of pristine Dubai coastline.

Eric Althaus, Managing Partner and Senior Broker of Althaus Yachts, a broker of high-end yachts, said eco yachts are the perfect foil for today’s owners eager to reduce their environmental footprint: “The modern yacht owner, often younger, seeks global exploration and adventure in remote places,” said Althaus, who will sit on a panel about innovative marketing strategies in luxury yachting at the Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference, taking place on 27 February at the Westin Mina Seyahi.

“To align with these values, eco yachts are equipped with advanced features such as hybrid electric propulsion, sustainable materials, dynamic positioning, solar panels, and cutting-edge wastewater recovery systems, emphasising a commitment to environmental care during cruises.”

The annual Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference will act as the official curtain raiser for the Dubai International Boat Show, bringing more than 250 key industry leaders from across the globe to deep dive into topics including innovation, regulation, sustainability, and the future of the sector.

It arrives as yacht-brokerage firms reported record sales of superyachts in 2023, with Fortune Business Insights, a market-researcher, expecting the global luxury yacht market to nearly double in size over the next eight years, with annual revenues reaching US$13.6 billion by 2030.  

Dr. Mariem Nasraoui, R&D Director at ChromaMe Air & Surface Nano Tech, is another speaker on a panel exploring tech’s role in transforming the luxury yachting sector.  Dr. Nasraoui said tech is critical in advancing luxury yachting’s sustainability agenda.

“Innovations such as eco-friendly propulsion systems, lightweight materials, and energy-efficient technologies will help reduce the environmental footprint of yachting activities while maintaining high standards of luxury and performance,” said Dr. Nasraoui. 

“In the coming years, we can expect to see further integration of technology into luxury yachting, including advancements in areas such as autonomous navigation, renewable energy integration, and augmented reality experiences for passengers. These innovations will continue to enhance the overall yachting experience while addressing sustainability challenges and driving industry growth.”

An amazing orchestra of collaboration

Figen Ayan, Chief Port Officer of Galataport Istanbul and President of MedCruise – the largest port association globally representing over 150 ports from 22 countries – will sit on a panel of the Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference examining the Gulf region’s steep ascent as a capital of the yachting world.

This rising status is amplified by sustainable government initiatives propelling the region into global marine paradise, accentuated by the Arabian peninsula’s crown jewel, the Dubai Reef, the world’s largest artificial reef and a beacon of sustainability, attracting yachters and divers alike with a promise of eco-friendly cruising.

Ayan said the Dubai Reef is the result of an “amazing orchestra of collaboration” that invites visitors to dive into local culture and discover all aspects of a destination: “Especially post-pandemic, we clearly see in the marine tourism industry that travellers and Z generations are more eco-conscious, sustainable, and look for holistic experiences,” said Ayan. 

“The investments in ports, marinas or waterfronts are clearly following this trend and we see that the line between ports, berths and the hinterland is no longer separated and clear cut. Cities and communities are fully integrated, and the vision is fully inclusive where tourists, yacht owners and locals are brought together in a harmonious, inclusive space in a socially sustainable manner.”

Other speakers at the Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference include Abeer AlShaali, Deputy Managing Director of UAE boat manufacturer, Gulf Craft; Guillermo Canellas Vears, Head of Asset Management at NEOM; and Yousuf Lootah, Acting CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance at the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism.

The one-day conference precedes the 30^th Dubai International Boat Show, gathering the marine leisure and tourism industry’s leading minds and protagonists of its future development to scrutinise the most critical topics steering sustainable sector growth.

Something for everyone – more than a boat show

The Dubai International Boat Show takes place from 28 February – 3 March at the Dubai Harbour, featuring more than 1,000 brands from 55 countries, 200-plus boats – including nearly 50 regional and global boat launches – along with a raft of exciting watersports activities, kids’ areas, a fishing competition, F&B, and live entertainment for the entire marine community and families to enjoy.

The five-day showpiece event is organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre, and is one of the world’s most prestigious marine lifestyle shows, connecting people and the ocean while showcasing the best of what Dubai offers to live, work, play, and visit. 

• Middle East’s largest marine lifestyle show celebrates three decades of global seafaring success at iconic Dubai Harbour 
• His Excellency Saeed Hareb: “It has been incredible to witness the show’s growth and enduring power to unite the global maritime industry in Dubai”
  

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Dubai, UAE – 16 February 2024: Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS), the largest, and most established marine and lifestyle event in the Middle East, is readying its anchor ahead of docking at the iconic Dubai Harbour district from 28 February – 2 March 2024.

Celebrating its landmark 30th edition, the UAE’s most extravagant international boat show will feature more than 1,000 brands and 200+ boats from globally renowned shipyards including Azimut, Sunseeker Gulf, Gulf Craft, Finnmaster, HP Watermakers, Oceano and Althaus Yachts.

With 46 boat launches planned for this year’s event, Dubai International Boat Show, organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), continues to build on a three-decade legacy of hosting the world’s largest marine brands in Dubai and providing a sales and networking platform of paramount importance for the largest homegrown manufacturers and global distributors.

IMG Boats is set to make three global launches at the show, while Riviera Boats and Al Fajer are preparing to launch two new boats each. Regional launches are expected from SF Yachts, Williams Tender, Ferretti and many more.

At the event’s press conference, His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council and Senior Advisor to the Dubai International Boat Show, said: “As the Dubai International Boat Show embarks on a new chapter in its illustrious history for its 30th edition this year, the event continues to be a comprehensive platform for premiering innovations and welcoming new maritime companies and brands into the local industry.”

“Having been part of the show since its inception, it has been incredible to witness the show’s growth and enduring power to unite the global maritime industry in Dubai, which is now a magnet for global yachting tourism.”

International superyacht builders anchor in Dubai amid swelling luxury boat market

Amplifying its global attraction and reach, the 30th Dubai International Boat Show will welcome exhibitors from more than 55 countries, including four debut nations – Austria, Finland, Sweden and the Republic of Korea.

Leading superyacht manufacturers feature heavily among the 200-plus crafts at the show, including nine members of the Superyacht Builders Association Members (SYBAss), highlighting the event’s commitment to foster representation from the world’s leading shipyards.

The Middle East is currently home to 12.6 per cent of the world’s superyacht fleet while the luxury yacht market is projected to grow in value from US$306 million in 2022 to US$481 million by 2028. With Dubai’s High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI) population projected to increase by 39 per cent by 2026, Dubai International Boat Show will play a transformative role in accelerating sales across the regional and international yachting industry.

A total of 400 new companies and brands will join legacy exhibitors at the prestigious annual gathering, including MTM Marine, which will display the Sea-Doo Jet Ski; Cigarette Racing Team, which will launch a new racing yacht from the USA; and Baglietto, a newly-established SYBAss member.

Long-standing partners to showcase most-loved, iconic luxury yachts

For 30 editions, Dubai International Boat Show has traditionally served as a regional and international launchpad for the world’s most luxurious yachts.

Accompanying His Excellency Saeed Hareb at the press conference were Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Portfolio Management Officer at Shamal Holding, the owner and curator of Dubai Harbour; Nouman Al Hakim, Chief Operating Officer at Al Ameeri Group Holding; Abeer Al Shaali, Deputy Managing Director of Gulf Craft; Brett Noble, Co-Founder, Sunseeker Gulf and Bush & Noble; Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President, DWTC; and Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President, DWTC.

Shamal Holding’s Bin Habtoor said: “We are honoured to be celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Dubai International Boat Show and take pride in being part of its story. Our premier and multi-faceted district is the ideal home for the Dubai International Boat Show, the industry’s most established leisure maritime event.

“Anchored by the region’s largest marina, with the only dedicated Super Yacht Marina, Dubai Harbour provides the perfect environment and superior facilities for yachting enthusiasts and investors from around the world.”

UAE-based Gulf Craft is one of the world’s leading shipyards and manufacturers of luxury yachts, superyachts, leisure and utility boats.  Deputy Managing Director Al Shaali said: “We are looking forward to the 30th edition of the Dubai International Yacht Show, which holds significance as our home show for Gulf Craft. This year, we are preparing to showcase a variety of vessels, including new launches and brand developments.

“The extended location at Dubai Harbour is an interesting change, and we anticipate it will attract a good number of spectators. We also acknowledge the growing interest in yacht tourism and buyers in the Middle East, which we hope will be reflected at the event. It’s a significant moment for Gulf Craft and the yachting industry in the region.”

Kuwaiti-headquartered Al Ameeri Group Holding will meanwhile dock with three major luxury and superyacht manufacturers in attendance. “As exhibitors at Dubai International Boat Show since the very beginning, we recognise the impact the event has had on furthering the regional maritime sector,” commented Al Ameeri Group’s Al Hakim. “This year we will showcase five of our best-loved yachts, including the Azimut 53 Fly for the first time, along with the Middle East premiere of Azimut S7.”

As the official distributor of Sunseeker yachts across the GCC, which has four regional premiers to reveal, Sunseeker Gulf and Bush & Noble’s co-founder Brett Noble added: “The Dubai International Boat Show has demonstrated immense maturity and growth since its inception.

“As a premier British boat builder with performance in our DNA, we are utilising the event as a springboard to revitalise our brand in the market, maximising the city’s expectation to grow and attract more HNWIs and UHNWI. We will display four very different models as a Middle East premiere – 88 Yacht, Manhattan 68, 65 Sports Yacht and Manhattan 55 – that are all made in the region, for the region, with Gulf-specifications to meet customer demand and improve onboard comfort.”

Spotlight on sustainable maritime missions in revamped conference programme

Dubai International Boat Show 2024 is also set to spotlight wider domestic and regional sustainability efforts, including the pioneering Dubai Reef project, announced at COP28 under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

As one of the world’s largest marine reef developments, the initiative will contribute to Dubai’s sustainability goals as well as the ongoing acceleration of the emirate’s maritime sector and related sub-sectors.

The annual Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference, taking place on February 27, will act as the official curtain raiser for the Dubai International Boat Show, bringing more than 100 key industry leaders from across the globe to deep dive into topics including innovation, regulation, sustainability, and the future of the sector.

The Dubai International Boat Show will set sail from February 28 to March 3, 2024, at the Dubai Harbour. The landmark 30^th edition of the event offers an unparalleled platform for industry professionals, and boating, marine and luxury lifestyle enthusiasts to explore the latest trends and innovations in the maritime world.

Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), said: “Our most transformative edition yet, this year’s Dubai International Boat Show will see a gathering of maritime investors, experts and enthusiasts looking to foster collaboration and further the regional maritime industry.

“Honouring a milestone 30th edition, the show aligns with Dubai’s continued evolution as a worldwide leading yachting destination and evidences the emirate’s commitment to driving sustainable practices in the industry by spotlighting changemakers and providing a critical platform for innovation.”

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