Genova for Yachting: TEHA Study presented, confirming the strategic role of the nautical sector

On March 19, 2025, Genova for Yachting presented the TEHA study (The European House – Ambrosetti) on the socio-economic impact of professional yachting during its public assembly held at Palazzo della Borsa in Genoa. The data highlights significant growth in the sector, despite some signs of contraction in specific yacht categories.

Rising data and positive trends for 2024
According to the TEHA Study, Genoa's nautical sector total turnover is expected to rise from 590 million euros in 2023 to 630 million euros in 2024. Employment figures also show growth, increasing from 2,950 employees in 2023 to a projected 3,150 in 2024. The estimated contribution to the regional GDP reaches 222 million euros, marking a 6.8% increase compared to 208 million euros the previous year, with around 50% generated by non-nautical sectors (manufacturing, services, commerce, and tourism).

Reduced stays but higher value generation
For the first time, there is a reduction in the overall duration of yacht stays, decreasing from 79,000 days in 2023 to an estimated 63,000 days in 2024, a decline of approximately 21%. This drop is mainly due to reduced stays of yachts between 15 and 50 meters in length. However, significant growth (+47.7%) in yachts over 50 meters, up to 130 meters, which have a higher economic value-generation capacity, offsets this effect.

Challenges and strategies for global leadership
Giovanni Costaguta, President of Genova for Yachting, emphasized the need for strategic balance: "GFY's challenge for global leadership must effectively address the requirements of the entire cluster, encompassing both larger yachts and medium-sized vessels. Genoa’s complex access logistics and increasing isolation negatively affect attractiveness, making it essential to initiate concrete projects in training, infrastructure, and economic-territorial planning."

Alberto Amico, spokesperson for GFY shipyards, highlighted: "In recent years, other national and international locations have developed appropriate infrastructure through public-private partnerships, while Genoa risks losing ground despite the vision and concrete proposals from private stakeholders."

Emphasizing local competencies and training
Cinzia Farinetti, Vice President of GFY, stressed the importance of leveraging local professional expertise: "The transversal competencies and cultural heritage of our region are critical for attracting yacht crews and industry professionals."

Attilio Bruno, head of GFY’s training initiatives, highlighted the difficulty of attracting young professionals: "Despite the sector’s attractiveness, generational turnover is a concrete challenge. We collaborate with local entities such as the Blue District and recently launched a dedicated portal to facilitate matching job supply and demand."

Moderated by journalist Alberto Quarati, the debate included contributions from institutional representatives such as Luigi Attanasio (Chamber of Commerce), Admiral Piero Pellizzari (Coast Guard), Francesco Maresca (Municipality of Genoa), Alessio Piana (Liguria Region), and Marco Sanguineri (Port Authority).

Thus, Genoa reinforces its central role in the global superyacht market, showcasing its capabilities in integrating innovation, infrastructure, and training, despite logistical and competitive challenges.

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