Deep dive into The Superyacht Forum 2025 agenda

Collaboration and alignment are critical, with all seven superyacht industry associations contributing to the programme and more time dedicated to networking, whilst the conversation can continue at Metstrade’s expanded and enhanced Superyacht Zone.

The Superyacht Forum offers an unrivalled opportunity for more than 900 industry leaders, decision makers, innovators and solution providers in the superyacht sector to meet and shape the future direction of the industry.

The NXT edition of The Superyacht Forum takes place at RAI Amsterdam on 17-18 November 2025. Tickets can be booked here: thesuperyachtforum.com/registration

Fresh perspective and a unique viewpoint

Gunter Pauli will open The Superyacht Forum with a keynote challenging conventional sustainability approaches. Known as “the Steve Jobs of sustainability,” Pauli introduces Porrima, a groundbreaking vessel showcasing regenerative technologies and innovative systems. His talk sets a visionary tone for a more sustainable superyacht industry and how rethinking systems can lead to innovative business models.

Also on the first day, Dagmar Symes will explore the human touch in yachting, drawing from her extensive leadership in hospitality and high-end retail, including roles at BVLGARI, Louis Vuitton, and luxury hotel brands. This unique combination of expertise provides her with a distinctive perspective on service, client experience, and operational excellence, reflecting cross-industry expertise within the high-end luxury segment. Her talk will explore the art of human centred hospitality, revealing how emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity and personal connection can elevate every onboard experience.

On Tuesday 18 November, designer Pauline van Dongen will present a keynote on integrating smart textiles and solar innovation into superyacht design. As founder of Studio Pauline van Dongen and co-founder of The Solar Biennale, she shares how wearable technology, and advanced materials can reshape sustainability and aesthetics in yachting.

Collaboration across the sector

In close collaboration with the superyacht associations, ten breakout sessions are organised with two strategic brainstorming sessions in which the audience can actively contribute. The NXT Level: Operational Safety Reset panel takes place on Monday 17 November, which is a high-level brainstorm to address inconsistent safety practices across the superyacht sector. From benchmarking of minimum standards to uneven ISM application, this session uncovers systemic gaps. Led by Captains, Engineers, and Compliance Managers, the group will co-create a framework of actionable solutions to guide a year-long industry collaboration focused on professionalisation and ocean legacy.

On Tuesday 18 November, the NXT Level Recruitment: Bridging the Talent Gap session will tackle the disconnect between crew recruitment and onboard realities. Industry leaders will work with experts from Viking Crew, Bluewater Yachting, Crewdentials, Arrow Monaco, Crew Unlimited, and Hill Robinson to identify recruitment challenges and define clear responsibilities across the ecosystem. The outcome of the sessions will support crew welfare and long-term industry success.

Networking across the superyacht sector

The Superyacht Forum places a strong emphasis on networking, which remains one of its core values. This year, attendees will benefit from more dedicated time to connect and collaborate, starting with a newly designed lunch format that encourages movement and conversation.

Networking drinks on Monday evening, 17 November provide a relaxed setting for informal exchanges, while the Closing Party on Tuesday 18 November offers a celebratory atmosphere to wrap up the event and strengthen new relationships.

To support ongoing engagement, The Superyacht Forum has introduced a dedicated app designed to facilitate networking and matchmaking, helping participants connect with the right people before, during, and after the event.

Be at the epicentre of the global leisure marine industry

The Superyacht Forum’s physical positioning and schedule place it alongside Metstrade (18-20 November) at RAI Amsterdam. The world’s largest event in the leisure marine industry, the show features the Superyacht Zone across three halls, the only truly international B2B exhibition providing products and services for the large luxury yacht industry. It offers a unique opportunity to continue the collaboration from The Superyacht Forum and see the best products available in the market to create new, innovative superyachts.

New features for the Superyacht Zone in 2025 include Refit clusters in Hall 8, the Superyacht Stage with daily sessions on superyacht technology and restaurant Harbour 8, featuring a high value lunch that can be enjoyed in just 55 minutes. See metstrade.com/zones/superyacht-zone for more information.

A complete superyacht experience: The Superyacht Forum and Metstrade collaborate

Three break-out sessions at The Superyacht Forum have been organised in close collaboration with Metstrade partners. This includes a session with Yachting Ventures on Tuesday 18 November, focused on start-up innovation. This session will explore how technology is transforming yacht management - from intelligent software solutions to digital crew verification tools, and more.   

Complementing this focus on start-up innovation, the Metstrade Superyacht Zone (Hall 8) will introduce a dedicated area for Superyacht Startups, offering expanded opportunities for early-stage companies in the superyacht industry to showcase their solutions and connect with industry stakeholders.

Book tickets to The Superyacht Forum now

The NXT edition of The Superyacht Forum takes place at RAI Amsterdam on 17-18 November 2025. It runs from 09:00-17:30 each day, extending into networking drinks on the Monday until 19:30 and a closing party until 23:00 on Tuesday.

Options for attending and registration can be accessed here: thesuperyachtforum.com/registration