70% of companies in the yachting sector describe themselves as leading according to a study performed by Yacht Harbour on a sample of over 100 companies. It can therefore be hard for customers to differentiate at first glance the real financial position of companies and their scale.
Following a very active past 20 years in the mergers and acquisitions space in the yachting industry, some behemoths have emerged, controlling a large portion of the market and shaping the industry moving forward. Some high-profile individuals and corporations have also become involved in the superyacht industry in recent years. We have therefore investigated some of the most powerful corporations and individuals in the yachting space.
Dalian Wanda Group
Princess AVK
Annual revenue: $39.47 billion (2014)
Chairman & Founder: Wang Jianlin
Brands: Sunseeker
Largest commercial real estate operator in China and world's largest cinema chain operator, Wanda Group was founded in 1988 by Wang Jianlin. The company has today 634 billion yuans in assets and manages over 26 million square meters of hotel property. In 2013, the company decided to purchase UK-based yacht manufacturer, Sunseeker.
Having gone through losses of 9 million pounds in 2009, Sunseeker restructured its debt and was taken over by FL Partners, an Irish private equity company. Sunseeker was sold in 2013 to the Wanda Group for around 300 million pounds according to the Financial Times.
LVMH
Symphony - © Feadship Fanclub
Annual revenue: $35.6 billion (2015)
Chairman & CEO: Bernard Arnault
Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, better known as the French luxury goods conglomerate, LVMH, is perhaps not so surprisingly also a player in the superyacht industry. In 2008, L Capital, the company's investment arm, purchased Princess Yachts in a deal worth 200 million pounds according to Reuters, with support from the Calyon investment bank.
Later that year, the conglomerate strengthened their position in the company with the purchase of Royal Van Lent, part of the Feadship organization, for a reported sum between 200-400 million euros. In 2007, Royal Van Lent had posted sales of 100 million euros.
Gavio Group
Fast - © Baglietto
Annual turnaround: €2.2 billion (2012)
Gruppo Gavio, a large Italian corporation whose main business lies in motorway concessions with the company operating over 1400 kilometers of motorways in Italy, also has interests in the yachting industry. In 2012, Bejamino Gavio led an acquisition of the iconic Italian Baglietto shipyard for a sum of €18.5 million. The shipyard had been through some rough waters during the financial crisis resulting in 73 million euros of negative equity in 2009.
The group further consolidated its position in the sector by purchasing Cerri Cantieri Navali, a few months before the Baglietto deal, and by later acquiring US-based Bertram in 2015.
Privinvest Group
Siren © Yacht Harbour
Current owners: Akram & Iskandar Safa
Privinvest Group is one of Europe's largest maritime corporations which is involved in naval manufacturing and is also involved in the superyacht industry. Founded by the Safa brothers, Privinvest purchased Constructions mécaniques de Normandie (CMN) based in Cherbourg, France in 1992. The company then managed to turn around the fledging shipyard with new orders from the Middle East according to the Independent.
In 2007, the group funded 30% of the Abu Dhabi MAR company which ventured into shipbuilding through ADMShipyards and worked on the 141-meter Yas. In 2009, Privinvest continued to consolidate its position in the sector by acquiring German shipyard Nobiskrug.
Azimut-Benetti Group
I Dynasty © Superyachts Monaco
Maximum recorded asset net worth: €300 million (2011)
Current owner: Paolo Vitelli
Brands: Benetti, Azimut
Azimut was established in the early 1970s by Paolo Vitelli as a dealership of Amerglass boats. The company then evolved into yacht manufacturing by building its first 43ft boat. It later delivered Failaka, the first 30-metre fibreglass yacht ever built, to a Kuwaiti prince. In 1985, Azimut took over the Fratelli Benetti boatyard in Viareggio, setting the roots for the group. The company later started collaborating with young designer, Stefano Righini, which would bring the Azimut lines the company is known for today.
The company acquired the Gobbi shipyard in 2001 which now produced the group's Atlantis range from 10m to 18m. In 2004, the group acquired Fraser Yachts, a large yacht brokerage company. It later developed Marina di Varazze and the Royal Yacht Club in Moscow. By 2011, the group's net assets grew to €300 million according to this presentation with a turnover of €600 million, a significant cut on its €1 billion turnover in 2008 according to the Financial Times.
Ferretti Group
Chopi Chopi © Yacht Harbour
Maximum recorded value: €1.5 billion (2007)
Current owners: Weichai Group, Royal Bank of Scotland
Ferretti was established in 1968 as the first marine division of Alessandro and Norberto Ferretti's family business. In 1971, the company delivered its first wooden motor-sailer and by 1982 it began producing boats for sport fishing with a flybridge. By 1996, the group decided to expand into a larger range and set up Custom Line, a division meant to operate in the growing 26-40m range. In following years, the company multiplied acquisitions buying CNA in 1998, CRN in 1999, Riva in 2000, Mochi Craft in 2001 and Itama in 2004.
As the company was preparing for an initial public offering (IPO) after having been acquired in a leveraged buyout by Candover Investments which put the Group's value at €1.5 billion in 2007, the financial crisis led to a significant drop in sales. As a result, the Group had to restructure debt and its creditors, led by the Royal Bank of Scotland, converted a portion of their €1.2 billion debt into equity according to Bloomberg.
Ferretti Group was eventually sold to Weichai Group, a state-owned Chinese company, the largest maker of bulldozer's in China.
Vagit Alekperov
Galactica Super Nova - © Dick Holthius
Net worth: $11.1 billion (2016)
Brands: Heesen Yachts
Mr. Vagit Alekperov is currently considered to be Russia's 9th richest man according to Forbes. In May 2015 it became known that the head of Lukoil, Russia's largest independent oil company, is the current owner of Heesen.
In 2008, Mr. Alekperov purchased Heesen Yachts from founder, Frans Heesen, for a reported sum of 100 million euros. The shipyard posted profits of €5.2 million in 2013 according to Forbes Russia.
In March 2016, Heesen launched its newest flagship, the 70m Galactica Super Nova (Project Kometa) which was built for Mr. Alekperov according to Dutch publication, Quote.
Mohammed Al Barwani
Turquoise - © Ocean Independence
Net worth: $1.2 billion (2015)
Energy tycoon, Mohammed al-Barwani made his wealth investing in oil, gas, minerals and manufacturing. In 2010 he however decided to purchase Dutch shipyard, Oceanco from Greek shipping magnate, Theodore Angelopoulos. First company to build spa pools on superyachts, Oceanco has much benefited from the hands-on approach of Al Barnawi delivering the beautiful Nirvana for Russian billionaire Potanin as well as expanding its facility to be able to construct yachts up to 160 meters.
In December 2013, al-Barwani further consolidated his position in the industry, purchasing Turkish yacht manufacturer, Proteksan (now Turquoise Yachts), which was struggling following the highly publicized sinkage of M/Y Yogi.
Eastwind Yachts has been appointed as the central sales agent for the 114.2-meter expedition yacht Luna, currently available for €270 million. Built by Lloyd Werft in 2010 and refitted in 2015/16, the vessel is undergoing additional refit work before delivery to a new owner.The Newcruise-designed exterior and Donald Starkey interior accommodate 18 guests in 9 suites with a crew of 51. Luna's steel hull and aluminum superstructure provide a 9,500-nautical-mile range at 16.8 knots cruising speed, with a top speed of 22 knots. The diesel-electric propulsion system and ice-class hull enable global exploration in various conditions.Key features include twin helipads, a swimming pool, beach club, full spa with steam room and sauna, cinema, and two tender garages adjacent to a gym. The yacht's stabilization system ensures comfort at sea."Luna represents the pinnacle of expedition yachting with proven global capability," said an Eastwind Yachts representative. The vessel is currently the world's second-largest expedition yacht.Interested parties can contact Eastwind Yachts for viewings and additional specifications.Credits: Eastwind Yachts; Yacht Harbour archive
June 5, 2025
Viken Group, a global marine design firm specializing in cruise ships and superyachts, has appointed Anna Silvesjö as Chief Executive Officer. Silvesjö previously served as Partner and Group Chief Financial Officer of the company, which owns design studios TDoS (Tillberg Design of Sweden), Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine.Silvesjö outlined her strategic priorities for the group: "Viken Group will continue to expand into new market segments while deepening partnerships with clients through our on-brand design philosophy. Our design solutions align with each client's brand identity, culture, and target audience." She emphasized design excellence, commercial performance, and talent retention as key focus areas.Anna SilvesjöA central initiative under Silvesjö's leadership will be the development of Navigator, the group's integrated service platform for maritime projects. "Rooted in decades of experience across cruise ships, expedition yachts, and private yachts, Navigator simplifies the complexity of shipbuilding while ensuring rigorous cost control throughout development and construction," said Fredrik Johansson, Viken Group Co-Founder.The leadership transition occurs as the marine design industry continues to evolve, with Silvesjö representing one of few female executives in the sector. Her appointment reflects the group's emphasis on financial and operational management combined with design expertise.Viken Group's three subsidiaries maintain distinct specializations: TDoS in cruise ship design, Hot Lab in superyacht concepts, and Thalia Marine in naval architecture and engineering. The group currently operates across multiple international markets, serving both new construction and refit projects.No additional executive changes were announced alongside Silvesjö's promotion. The transition takes immediate effect, with Silvesjö assuming full operational responsibility for the group's global activities.Credits: Viken Group
June 5, 2025
Baglietto has launched the 40.9-meter superyacht Andala, marking the eighth vessel in its DOM 133 series. The ceremony took place at the company's La Spezia facility with the owner and select guests in attendance.Designed by Stefano Vafiadis with interior styling by Giorgio M. Cassetta, Andala features the series' characteristic angular profile while incorporating owner-requested modifications. The yacht includes two swimming pools, full-height windows, and side balconies among its customized elements.IBI Yachts represented the buyer throughout the construction process, with Floating Life's Andrea Pezzini overseeing technical aspects as owner's representative."Our brand's having a truly amazing spring," said Baglietto Chief Commercial Officer Fabio Ermetto. "We've launched four yachts so far, and three more – two DOM133 and a T52 – are going to hit the water by mid-June. Such outstanding results testify to our company's soundness and organisational maturity."The launch represents Baglietto's fourth yacht delivery this year, following the DOM 133 models L'Instant and Astera. Two additional hulls in the series remain under construction at the La Spezia facility, with completions expected in the third quarter of 2024.Andala will now begin sea trials before final delivery to its owner. The DOM 133 series continues to demonstrate strong market demand, with Baglietto maintaining its position in the competitive 40-meter semi-custom superyacht segment. The shipyard's current production pipeline includes three additional vessels scheduled for launch within the next two months.Baglietto Spa is an Italian boat builder based in La Spezia specializing in new aluminum light alloy yachts ranging between 35m and 50m in length and steel and light aluminum alloy displacement megayachts starting at 40m.Credits: Baglietto
June 5, 2025
In-Mind Design has revealed its latest superyacht concept, the Interstellar, showcasing innovative design solutions aimed at enhancing guest experience and sustainability. The 100-meter concept yacht features a unique layout and advanced technological solutions.The vessel’s design prioritizes guest interaction and social spaces, with a particular focus on the upper deck. The main deck features a large open space that can be converted into various configurations, including a cinema, dance floor, or dining area, thanks to modular furniture and retractable screens.The yacht’s exterior design includes a distinctive stepped profile, creating multiple outdoor living areas at different levels. The upper deck boasts a large open space with a retractable roof, providing both indoor and outdoor entertainment options. The concept also features a beach club with direct access to water toys and a swimming pool on the upper deck.“The Interstellar concept is designed to offer maximum flexibility and adaptability to the owner’s needs,” said Francesco Guida, Founder of In-Mind Design. “The modular design allows for various configurations, ensuring the yacht remains relevant and enjoyable over time.”The concept incorporates several sustainability features, including hybrid propulsion systems and energy-efficient materials. The yacht is designed to accommodate up to 24 guests across 12 staterooms, with additional space for a crew of 30.The interior design focuses on creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The main saloon features large windows and sliding doors that open onto the deck, while the owner’s suite includes a private terrace with panoramic views.The yacht’s technical specifications include a beam of 18 meters and a draft of 4.5 meters. The hybrid propulsion system allows for a top speed of 18 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots, with an estimated range of 5,000 nautical miles at 12 knots.“We aimed to create a yacht that not only meets the current demands of luxury travel but also anticipates future trends in design and technology,” added Guida. “The Interstellar concept demonstrates our commitment to innovation and sustainability in yacht design.”The Interstellar concept is currently available for potential clients interested in commissioning a custom build based on the design.Credits: In-Mind Design
June 4, 2025
Sanlorenzo has unveiled Casa Sanlorenzo, a new 1,000 square meter arts venue housed within a restored 1940s palazzo overlooking Venice's Santa Maria della Salute basilica. The project includes 700 square meters of exhibition space and a 600 square meter garden, featuring the company's contemporary art collection dating from 1965 to present.Architect Piero Lissoni led the restoration, preserving original brick facades and flooring while introducing contemporary elements. Notable features include a glass-and-steel staircase and an adaptive lighting system designed to accommodate changing exhibitions. The space connects to surrounding areas via a new bridge constructed from prefabricated metal with Istrian stone treads and oar-inspired handrails."I believe the opportunity to build a bridge in Venice for Sanlorenzo Arts is more unique than rare," stated Piero Lissoni. "This bridge is not simply a vehicle to transport people, but a cultural bridge."The venue will serve as an official location for Venice Climate Week from June 4-6, hosting the "Sanlorenzo Talks" series on ecological transition and sustainable innovation. The palazzo's restoration maintained all original load-bearing structures while updating mechanical systems and creating flexible gallery spaces.Casa Sanlorenzo's art collection reflects postwar artistic movements, with works displayed against white walls and alternating concrete and Palladian stone floors. The property combines exhibition areas with a private residential apartment, representing Sanlorenzo's integration of marine craftsmanship, design and contemporary art patronage.The bridge's design incorporates traditional Venetian elements including a humpback shape reminiscent of medieval structures and specialized anti-slip stone treatment. Its metal components feature weather-resistant finishes suitable for the lagoon environment. The project required 18 months of restoration work before opening to the public.Sanlorenzo was founded in 1958 in Viareggio by yacht builder Gionvanni Jannetti. In 2005, Massimo Perrotti became the majority shareholder in the shipyard. Sanlorenzo builds yachts ranging from 28.60 to 73 meters in length. Credits: Sanlorenzo
June 4, 2025