Yachting, wealth and tourism dominate day 1 of the APSS 2025

Day one of the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2025 drew to a close today, with a strong industry presence from attendees from the yachting and marina sector, as well as family offices and the local wealth sector.

Taking place at the Renaissance Harbour View Hotel in Hong Kong from 7 to 8 May, the summit brings together key decision-makers, including representatives from family offices, yacht management companies, captains, brokers, and other industry leaders to discuss the region.

Organised by SuperYacht Times, under the patronage of FEMA Marine, alongside Event Partners Damen Yachting and Benetti, the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit offers two days of essential discussions and strategic insights.

“We’re proud to see such a strong turnout for the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit 2025,” explained SuperYacht Times Founder & Director Merijn de Waard. “The level of engagement on day one highlights the growing importance of this region in the global superyacht landscape. It’s encouraging to see key players from across the industry come together in Hong Kong to help shape its yachting future.”

The event started with a presentation of the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Report 2024/2025 by SuperYacht Times’ Head of Intelligence Ralph Dazert, before the first panel titled, “Hong Kong as a superyacht destination” began. 

Topics discussed on day one included, how to build a superyacht destination, how to manage refits successfully in Asia, how to engage people through social media and navigating the luxury market in Asia.

The event also saw a presentation on the new Kobe Marina development in Japan by Nigel Beatty, a Q&A session with Captain Fraser Gow of the 62.5-metre Amels superyacht Stardust and an interview with Doan Viet Dai Tu Chairman of Openasia Group. 

“What’s been most valuable so far is seeing where different countries currently stand in terms of marina development and infrastructure and realising just how aligned many of us are,” explained superyacht captain Robin Shellcock.

“Events like the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit broaden your network and your perspective. You hear new ideas, and that helps maintain high standards across the board. I’d definitely encourage other captains to attend!”

Like our successful Gulf Superyacht Summit, the two day event included a Networking Dinner on the first evening of the event, where attendees were able to connect with colleagues from across the industry. Over 275 people registered for the inaugural event and around 240 attended for the first day.

“It’s been wonderful to reconnect with so many industry friends,” added Alexandre Heng of O2H20. “I’ll definitely be returning next year. Hong Kong is fast becoming the catalyst for yachting in Asia – the Monaco of the region. We want to see more people coming in, enjoying yachts here, and using Hong Kong as a gateway to explore the rest of Asia.”

Day two will take place tomorrow and will include topics such as, a new type of class society, reducing the energy consumption of yachts, emerging markets, cross border regulations and practicalities.

A full summary of all the talks and presentations will be published on the SuperYacht Times website after the event has concluded.