The 2025 Monaco Yacht Show (MYS) once again solidified its position as the pinnacle event for the superyacht and wealth industries. It served as a global hub for high value transactions, complex regulatory discussions and a showcasing the future of maritime luxury.
The show featured a growing fleet of 150 superyachts, averaging nearly 50 meters in length and valued at close to $5 billion. This year’s edition emphasised substance and business activity, with a strong focus on brokerage. The total asking price of yachts increased notably compared to the previous year.
Despite global economic pressures, inflation and geopolitical tensions, the atmosphere remained bullish. The quaysides buzzed with critical conversations that define the operational and financial side of superyacht ownership.
Taxation and Regulation
Tax and regulatory complexity dominated discussions. VAT rates across the EU (ranging from 17% to 27%), strategies for deferral through yacht financing or reverse charging and Benefit in Kind (BIK) tax implications for Northern European owners were key topics. Owners increasingly seek advice before purchasing, as tax studies can significantly impact available budgets.
Brexit’s administrative aftermath continued to challenge operations, particularly crew movement and VAT status justification for yachts with UK ties. Martyn Fiddler’s presence at Stand QA1 symbolised the importance of expert guidance. Services like trust and company formation, indemnified tax advice and beneficial ownership solutions remain essential for both yachts and aircraft.
Legal frameworks also took centre stage. Attendees underscored the need for experienced directors on yacht owning companies to manage cross border laws, crew disputes, taxation strategies and risk mitigation especially in light of recent incidents involving fires, groundings and loss of life.
Flag state selection was another hot topic. While Monaco’s registry offers prestige, its requirements (Monegasque residence, French speaking senior crew and local social law compliance) make it prohibitive for many. Alternatives like the Isle of Man, Cayman Islands, Marshall Islands and Cook Islands were actively promoted for their efficiency.
US owners engaged in discussions around bonus depreciation and tax deductions, while UK owners explored temporary importation advantages and VAT paid status preservation. Across the board, tax advice from qualified professionals was strongly recommended.
Digitalisation, AI and Maintenance
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming integral to yacht management. Exhibits featured AI-powered maintenance systems, robotic accounting and smart glasses enabling remote experts to guide onboard repairs, reducing downtime and even supporting remote medical emergencies.
Practical issues like customs clearance for owner supplied items and tenders remain persistent headaches. Martyn Fiddler’s tax team helped owners and managers explore optimal importation strategies.
Yachting Meets Aviation and Lifestyle
MYS continues to evolve into a one stop shop for ultra high net worth lifestyles. The synergy between yachting and aviation was unmistakable. Deals for aircraft like the PC-12 were signed, Gulfstream jet management exchanged and fractional ownership with leaders like NetJets discussed.
The AH145 helicopter on the Yacht Club roof was a literal highlight, symbolising the overlap between sea and air. Exhibits also featured classic Mercedes, hyper cars, and race prepared trucks, all reflecting the diverse passions of attendees.
Yachts are increasingly designed as platforms for quality time, safety and privacy. Wellness centres, spas, cinemas and beauty salons are now standard. Beach clubs with fold out balconies and seamless sea access remain central to design.
Crew, Culture and Generational Shifts
The human element remains vital. The industry’s tight knit nature where half the people know each other and the other half know of them was evident. The show marks the end of Europe’s charter season and the start of yard periods or transatlantic voyages.
An estimated 5,000 crew members ensured the flawless presentation of 150 superyachts, managing the challenge of hosting prospective buyers while maintaining pristine interiors. Crew retention emerged as a cornerstone theme. Competitive pay, pensions, rotation and professional development are now key to attracting and retaining top talent.
A positive sight was owners bringing their children. However, concerns were raised about the declining number of seafaring generation billionaires. Unlike aviation shows that engage students, MYS was called upon to better welcome the next generation. The industry must preserve its public mandate by showcasing job creation and economic investment.
Succession and trust planning highlighted a generational wealth transfer. Trends emerged around younger, tech savvy owners and advanced medical facilities for older owners with the average yacht owner now over 60.
Resilience and the Road Ahead
Sanctions and compliance added pressure across the supply chain, with rising regulatory costs and looming corporate tax increases in Europe. Yet, the show’s energy remained high.
The infamous SASS Café after-party lived up to its reputation, with reports of a Greek owner celebrating a sale in style. The weather defied forecasts, ending with a stunning crimson sunset a classic ‘red sky at night, sailor’s delight’ moment.
Despite ticket prices reaching €2,000, exhibitors and serious buyers found the return on investment worthwhile. As one veteran put it, “Monaco is reassuringly expensive.”
MYS 2025 showcased the superyacht industry’s resilience and maturity. It has evolved from a display of opulence into a marketplace for navigating international regulations, transacting high value assets, and shaping a more efficient, innovative future.
At its heart, the mission remains unchanged: to provide a safe, private and high quality environment for spending precious time and creating unforgettable memories on the water with family and friends.
The industry’s trajectory is clear. A relentless drive toward sustainable innovation, skilled craftsmanship, artistic design, and a seamless ownership experience across both sea and air.
If you are looking to own, buy or sell a high value asset such as a yacht, helicopter or business aircraft, contact hello@martynfiddler.com and let’s get the conversation started.
