Yachting as a Lifestyle: a journey beyond destination

A new chapter is unfolding in the world of yachting. Insights from the Blue Design Summit 2025 portrayed the boat as a living space where the experience itself is the destination. This evolution was the focal point in La Spezia, where the future of nautical design, craftsmanship, and client experience came sharply into view.

From commission to co-creation

During the headline panel “The Big Players” on May 15th, moderated by the journalist Fabio Pozzo, industry leaders including Vasco Buonpensiere (Cantiere delle Marche), Diego Deprati (Baglietto), Sebastiano Fanizza (Next Yacht Group), and Vincenzo Poerio (Tankoa Yachts) shared how the meaning of yachting is changing.

Ownership today has become authorship because UHNWIs want their yacht to reflect who they are and how they wish to live.

Clients are increasingly involved from the very beginning to create a home on water that embodies their values. They want to be an active part of the construction process, from the design to the actual development. Ownership is now approached as a creative project, a personal canvas where each detail carries emotional significance.

Rather than just purchasing a finished product, clients engage deeply with naval architects, designers, and shipyards to bring their vision to life.

The emergence of slow yachting

This deeper, more intentional approach aligns with the concept of “Slow Yachting”, introduced by Prof. Dr. Phil Klaus and Dr. Annalisa Tarquini-Poli of the International University of Monaco. Inspired by the broader slow living philosophy, it encourages owners to engage with their surroundings at a more thoughtful pace.

Rather than rushing from one glamorous marina to the next, the journey becomes about anchoring in hidden bays, connecting with local cultures, and enjoying stillness. Time on board is curated with care because every moment matters.

This philosophy was brought to life in the “Experiences On Water” panel, held on May 16th and moderated by Filippo Rossi (Floating Life). Panelists included Grazio Basile (Puccini Floating Music Academy), Giorgio Besenzoni (Besenzoni), and Claus Thottrup (Borgo Santo Pietro), each illustrating how yachting is becoming a platform for transformative experiences.

The yacht as a living expression

Across both panels, one message resonated strongly: yachting is being redefined as an immersive lifestyle. Design, technology, and storytelling converge to shape a space where every moment feels deliberate and meaningful.

To satisfy the evolving expectations of yacht owners, the entire nautical ecosystem must adopt a new perspective. Shore-side experiences are now part of the journey. Marinas, anchorages, and service providers must be ready to support longer stays, quieter rhythms, and seamless, high-standard transitions between sea and land.

The success of concepts like Slow Yachting depends on having the right infrastructure: discreet logistics, curated experiences ashore, and a deep understanding of what today’s UHNW clients value. The responsibility no longer lies solely with the shipyard. It belongs to the full chain of delivery, from port authorities to local hosts.

The industry says it knows how to build the perfect vessel, but is it ready to build the world around it?

Rebecca Gabbi

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