Brookes Bell makes waves at the Monaco Yacht Show 2024

As the last week of September rolled around, the picturesque Port Hercule once again transformed into the bustling epicentre of the superyacht sector for the Monaco Yacht Show (MYS).  This annual gathering is more than just a display of opulence and maritime engineering; it's a convergence of over 30,000 professionals from every corner of the superyacht industry.  This year, we were proud to be part of the excitement, with our team eagerly diving into four days of networking, collaboration, and a shared passion for all things nautical.

A showcase like no other

The 2024 MYS did not disappoint, featuring an impressive line-up of 117 superyachts and 60 luxury tenders elegantly moored within Port Hercule.  An additional 53 yachts graced the Bay of Monaco, creating a stunning seascape that perfectly encapsulated the grandeur of the event.  The air was filled with a palpable sense of anticipation and enthusiasm, as industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts came together to celebrate the latest advancements and trends in yachting.

One of the standout moments was undoubtedly the unveiling of KISMET, a newly launched 122-metre masterpiece by Lürssen.  This superyacht, capable of accommodating 20 guests and a crew of 40, set a new benchmark for luxury and design in a sector renowned for its grandeur.  With a charter price tag of €3,000,000 per week, KISMET not only turned heads but also sparked conversations about the future of yacht design and the ever-evolving demands of ultra-high-net-worth clientele.

Representing Brookes Bell at MYS were Karley Smith, Managing Master Mariner and Adam Whittle, Marketing Manager from our Liverpool office and Superyacht Consultant, Patrick Yeoward, who is based in Palma.  Armed with their expertise and a genuine enthusiasm for the industry, our team embarked on a mission to strengthen existing relationships and forge new connections.

"The Monaco Yacht Show is an unparalleled opportunity to meet with clients and partners from around the world, all gathered in one extraordinary setting," Karley remarked.  "It's intense but incredibly rewarding."

Our schedule was nothing short of packed, reflecting the vibrancy and pace of the show:

• Tuesday kicked off with a meeting with the Asia Pacific Superyacht Association (APSA), setting a global tone for the days ahead.
• On Wednesday, we connected with AON, Divergent Yachts, Döhle Yachts, and the Isle of Man Ship Registry.  Each discussion delved into innovative ideas and potential collaborations that could shape the future of maritime services.
• Thursday saw us engaging with Hill Dickinson and the Boston Multi Family Office, where conversations ranged from legal insights to financial management within the yachting sector.
• We wrapped up on Friday with enriching meetings with Riela Yachts and the Association of Women in Yachting, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusivity in our industry.

Beyond these scheduled meetings, we also had the pleasure of interacting with a host of other esteemed organisations, including Sentient, Neptune Port2Port, the Marshall Islands, Navantia, Drydocks World, Clyde & Co, Pantaenius, Burgess, Praxis, Taylor Media, HFW, Jaffa & Co, Caine Law, Insignia Crew, ISWAN, Margetis Maritime, and Newmar Overseas.

Each conversation provided valuable insights and opened doors to potential partnerships.  Whether discussing technical issues, legal frameworks, or crew management, the diversity of topics mirrored the multifaceted nature of the yachting industry itself.

The rhythm of the show

The Monaco Yacht Show is known for its fast pace and the sheer volume of activities packed into each day.  From breakfast briefings to lunch events and evening socials, our team was on the move constantly.

"Comfortable shoes were a lifesaver," Patrick quipped.  "We easily clocked over 20,000 steps a day, but it was worth it for the connections we made and the experience of seeing world class yachts in every corner of Port Hercule."

Amidst the hustle, there was a shared understanding among attendees: this was the place to be for anyone serious about making waves in the superyacht sector.

Adam summed up the experience aptly: "Being at MYS isn't just about showcasing our services; it's about immersing ourselves in the industry's current and future trends.  It's a chance to listen, learn, and contribute to the conversations that will drive the yachting world forward."

The Monaco Yacht Show provided us with an invaluable platform to engage with a wide array of professionals—from brokers and insurers to designers and shipyards.  It's this unique blend of attendees that makes the event so special, fostering an environment where cross-sector collaborations can flourish.

As we sailed away from Monaco's glittering shores, we carried with us a wealth of new ideas, strengthened relationships, and an invigorated passion for our work in the maritime industry.  The meetings and experiences from MYS 2024 have not only expanded our network but have also equipped us with fresh perspectives to better serve our clients.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the organisations and individuals who took the time to meet with us.  Your insights and camaraderie are deeply appreciated.  We're already looking forward to next year's show and the opportunities it will undoubtedly bring.

Until then, we remain committed to excellence, innovation, and the collaborative spirit that events like the Monaco Yacht Show so beautifully embody.