Last year’s Monaco Yacht Show demonstrated some signs of improvement in the market place. Offering an important platform for industry to meet as well as do business in the marketplace, this year’s event has reaffirmed that business is gradually improving.
Monaco Yacht Show 2012
The Australian presence was strong this year with the Australian Marine Export Group and Superyacht Australia showcasing both the marine export and Superyacht sectors for Australia. Exhibitors included Muir Engineering, VEEM propellers, Superyacht Australia, ImaginOcean Yacht Design, Rivergate Marina & Shipyard, Superyacht Group Great Barrier Reef and Waterline Yacht Design.
Matthew Johnston, Managing Director of Muir stated that Muir had secured business during the course of the show including supplying equipment for a 35m and 44m project in New Zealand and were also holding enquiries from Northern Europe.
“2011 showed some signs of recovery and 2012 has reinforced this view, the custom build project market over 60m appears to be on the rise while the smaller business is still slow” said Johnston.
Richard Chapman, Director of Hydrive Engineering and Coursemaster Autopilots said the show had been a good one for Hydrive with a potential new distributor in Italy as a result of contacts made at the show; “business is starting to pick up and there is a more positive vibe amongst the industry and market”.
A real coup for Australia was having Hanseatic Marine‘s recently launched motor yacht Smerelda on the water at the show. Chris Blackwell the Project Manager at Hanseatic Marine was elated having spent the show showcasing Smerelda to brokers and industry professionals who he said were very complimentary of the quality of build, finish, engineering and outfitting and many astounded at the speed range and fuel efficiency.
Hanseatic Marine 77m Smeralda megayacht
With Superyacht Australia now having significant momentum making inroads into removing barriers for superyachts cruising Australian waters, Operations Manager Victoria Smith said “spending time with key charter brokers and Captain’s was very fruitful, ensuring Australia is in front of mind when considering a new destination.
