SKIPPER ISSUE 39

SUMMER 26

ISSUE 39 · POWERED BY

THE DEFINITIVE BOATS AND YACHTING MAGAZINE

22 COVER STORY

AT HOME ON BOARD IN MALTA The remarkable story of Kalani — a classic yacht whose 25-year Maltese journey proves that true character never goes out of style.

32

38

The Mediterranean routes redefining luxury cruising.

THE SUMMER DRIFT

THE MARINA ECONOMY

18

BOAT PREMIERES

26

How waterfront destinations became lifestyle ecosystems.

The yachts, launches and shows dominating the season.

The personalities shaping modern boating culture.

SKIPPER WATCHLIST

E C O -T E C H B Y N AT U R E Conceived to live an immersive natural experience, the Azimut Seadeck Series delivers fun and eco-consciousness through a one-of-a-kind perspective. The surprisingly spacious and versatile stern area introduces the Fun Island: an unprecedented sea-level outdoor lounge for limitless contact with the water, designed to maximize one’s relationship with the ocean.

A holistic approach to yacht construction also further develops Azimut’s low-emission vision. Highly efficient hull designs, alternative propulsion systems, extensive use of carbon fiber to decrease yacht weight and, hence, fuel consumption, and sustainable materials on board combine to reveal an innovative and environmentally respectful spirit, offering a harmonious lifestyle all around.

S E A D E C K S E R I E S . G E N T L E AT S E A .

OFFICIAL DEALER | Azimut Yachts Malta - Esprit Yachting Ltd. Valdour Buildings,Triq is-Sebh, Qormi, QRM9055, Malta. sales@esprityachting.com - www.esprityachting.com

COMMANDING PRESENCE. UNMISTAKABLE PERFORMANCE.

P. 6

ISSUE 39

The art of moving slower There is a curious contradiction unfolding across

Editor

the Mediterranean this summer. The boats are

Anthony P. Bernard

bigger. The marinas are busier. The technology is

anthony@bemags.com

more advanced than ever. Yet the most experienced boaters seem to be searching for something

Design

remarkably simple. Time.

BE.

Time to linger at anchor a little longer. Time to

Print

discover destinations beyond the obvious hotspots

Print It

and to enjoy the freedom that first drew us to the sea.

Distribution As we prepared this Summer 2026 edition of Skipper, that theme surfaced repeatedly.

MaltaPost

Whether exploring the Mediterranean's changing routes, the evolution of marinas into lifestyle destinations, or the latest generation of yachts designed around outdoor living and connection with the sea, one message became clear: today's boating is less about rushing from one destination to the next and more about making every moment count.

For promotions and That spirit is perfectly captured in our cover story. Motor Yacht Kalani has become

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part of Malta's maritime landscape over the past quarter-century. While her elegant

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lines have made her instantly recognisable, it is her story that truly sets her apart. Her

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restoration, countless sea miles, and the memories created on board remind us that the finest yachts are defined not only by craftsmanship but also by the lives they enrich.

Elsewhere in this edition, we showcase the season's most exciting yacht launches, the destinations redefining Mediterranean cruising, and the personalities influencing modern boating culture. Together, they reflect an industry that continues to innovate

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while remaining rooted in the timeless appeal of life at sea.

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Summer boating has never been about the destination

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alone. It is about the moments in between. Wherever your summer takes you, I hope this edition inspires your

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next adventure.

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Skipper is exclusively distributed at the Birgu, Gardens Yacht Marina, Kalkara, Manoel Island, Marina di Valletta, Mgarr, Msida, Ta’ Xbiex (Creek), and Roland Marinas in Malta and Porto Turistico Marina di Ragusa in Sicily; all boating and sailing-affiliated businesses, embassies, five-star hotels and boutique guest houses, waiting areas, business centres and executive lounges, and sailing clubs.

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WORLD CL ASS SINCE 1979

X43 MKII

X46 MKII

X49 MKII

X56

X-Yachts Malta | Sailpower Ltd 45/11 Forrest Str | St Julian’s Malta Tel: +356 79094500 | Email: info@sailpower.com.mt

X-YA C H T S . C O M

RACING

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A MINI EVER

FOR YONE

P. 12

BERTHS, BOTTLES & BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE The Mediterranean’s 10 best

CONTENTS

14

IN REVIEW: » AZIMUT FLY 82 » THE X4 6 MKII » LAGOON 38

48

» DEANTONIO D42

marina restaurants and waterfront tables this summer

BOAT SHOWS AND LAUNCHES SET TO DOMINATE THE MEDITERRANEAN

€400 MILLION

18

AND COUNTING Behind Malta's booming

brokerage figures lies a story about

SUMMER THE ROUTES REDEFINING THE MEDITERRANEAN SUMMER

32

generational change, financial ingenuity and a small island's outsized ambition.

HEAT, SALT Mediterranean boating culture is shifting.

& SMART SEAS

Summer 2026 is less about overcrowded

COVER STORY AT HOME ON BOARD IN MALTA

22

58 62

hotspots and more about intelligent

From underwater drones

routes, slower luxury, and destinations

to floating LED systems, a new generation

that feel genuinely connected to the sea.

of gadgets is transforming Mediterranean boating. These are the products quietly

THE MARINA ECONOMY

From Antibes to Grand Harbour, Kalani's

38

reshaping how owners experience comfort, connectivity and lifestyle at sea in summer 2026.

journey has spanned decades, thousands

The modern

of sea miles and countless memories.

Mediterranean marina is no longer

Designer Derek Frost reflects on the

simply a place to berth a yacht. Today’s

restoration, evolution and enduring

marinas are increasingly built around

From tailored swimwear

appeal of a yacht that became far more

lifestyle, visibility and experience. In many

to timeless deck shoes,

than a boat.

destinations, the waterfront itself has

these essentials capture the relaxed

become the real product.

sophistication of Mediterranean living.

SKIPPER WATCHLIST: THE PERSONALITIES SHAPING 2026

26

WHY SMALLER BOATS ARE HAVING A BIG MOMENT

Mediterranean boating culture is quietly

44

reinventing itself. The people driving

Skipper explores why smaller boats

that transformation are no longer simply

are becoming the Mediterranean’s most

sailors or yacht builders. They are cultural

desirable status symbol, as owners

figures shaping how modern yachting

increasingly prioritise freedom and

looks, feels and behaves in Summer 2026.

lifestyle-driven experiences.

SEA CHANGE

64

P. 14

DOCKSIDE

BERTHS, BOTTLES & BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE The Mediterranean’s 10 best marina restaurants and waterfront tables this summer

Hvar remains one of the Adriatic’s great floating social scenes, and Gariful sits directly in the middle of it all.

8

DOCKSIDE

There are marina restaurants… and then there are marina restaurants.

P. 15

disappear first. Concierge relationships

1

matter here Website: laguerite-cannes.com

The kind where lunch quietly mutates into sunset drinks. Where the tender traffic

Nobody goes to La Guérite for a quiet

becomes part of the theatre. Where the

lunch. Reached mainly by tender from

reservation is less about food and more

Cannes, this island institution has

about access — to the right crowd,

evolved into one of the Mediterranean’s

the right atmosphere and the kind of

ultimate floating social scenes. DJs

Mediterranean summer people spend all

build slowly through the afternoon,

winter imagining.

magnums appear without warning and by 5pm, half the terrace is dancing. The

This season, the smartest waterfront

seafood is excellent, the people-watching

tables are not necessarily the most formal

is elite-level, and the atmosphere is

or Michelin-starred. They are the places

unapologetically excessive.

with pulse, that yacht owners reroute itineraries around. The terraces where

rosé. No overthinking. This is old-school

crews linger after charter turnaround and

Mediterranean glamour with just enough

where nobody checks the time after the

chaos around the edges.

3

second bottle of rosé arrives.

2. La Guérite From Saint-Tropez and Portofino to

Location: Île Sainte-Marguerite, Cannes,

Hvar and Ibiza, these are the marina and

France

waterfront tables defining summer 2026.

Price range: €€€€ Best for: Champagne-fuelled

1. Le Club 55

Mediterranean theatre

Location: Pampelonne Beach, Saint-

Best time to go: Book the later lunch

Tropez, France

sitting around 3pm

Price range: €€€€

Booking tip: Front-row sea tables

Best for: Iconic Riviera lunches that drift into sunset drinks Best time to go: 1pm for the classic lunch crowd, 4pm for peak Riviera energy Booking tip: Reserve weeks in advance for July and August. Sea-access arrivals still

3. NAMMOS Mykonos

carry social weight

Location: Psarou Beach, Mykonos, Greece

Website: club55.fr

Price range: €€€€ Best for: Peak Mediterranean summer

Still the undisputed monarch of Riviera

extravagance

Beach dining, Club 55 somehow

Best time to go: Before 1pm or after 6pm

continues to survive the hype. Yes, it is

Booking tip: August reservations should

expensive. Yes, half the terrace arrives

be made weeks in advance

by tender. But when the light hits the

Website: nammos.gr

beach around 4pm, and the atmosphere loosens, you remember why everyone keeps coming back. The trick here is simplicity. Crudités. Grilled fish. Cold

Nammos no longer pretends to be 2

understated — and honestly, that is why it works. Superyachts line the bay, luxury »

P. 16

DOCKSIDE

boutiques sit beside the dining room, and

without becoming pretentious, and the

champagne arrives with enough theatrics

harbour views after sunset are difficult to

to qualify as performance art. Yet beneath

beat anywhere in Croatia.

6

all the spectacle, the food remains genuinely strong. The sushi is excellent,

5. Langosteria Paraggi

the seafood is consistently fresh, and the

Location: Paraggi Bay, Portofino, Italy

service is surprisingly polished given the

Price range: €€€€

pace. This is Mykonos at full volume.

Best for: Italian Riviera, cool without trying too hard Best time to go: Late lunch drifting into

4

aperitivo hour Booking tip: Lunch reservations are easier to secure than dinner in peak August Website: langosteria.com Portofino remains one of the Mediterranean’s great summer stages, but Langosteria Paraggi feels slightly more

Best time to go: Around 2pm, once the

insider than the harbour-front classics.

earlier crowds thin slightly

The atmosphere is polished but relaxed:

Booking tip: Weekend sea-access

polished wooden tenders bobbing

reservations are essential

offshore, linen shirts permanently

Website: lascoglierapositano.it

half-unbuttoned and impossibly stylish

4. Restaurant 360

Milanese couples pretending not to

Built almost directly into the rocks, La

notice each other. Seafood dominates the

Scogliera captures the effortless charm

menu, particularly the raw crudo platters

the Amalfi Coast still occasionally gets

and lobster pasta. It is luxury without

right. After a morning anchored near

shouting.

Capri or Li Galli, this is the kind of place

Location: Dubrovnik harbour, Croatia

where boat shoes disappear under the

Price range: €€€

6. La Scogliera Positano

table and lunch stretches far longer than

Best for: Sophisticated Adriatic evenings

Location: Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy

intended. Grilled prawns, lemon pasta and

Best time to go: Sunset into blue hour

Price range: €€€

chilled Falanghina wine remain the order

Booking tip: Specifically request terrace-

Best for: Post-swim lunches straight off

of the day. Nothing complicated. Nothing

edge seating overlooking the marina

the tender

forced.

Website: 360dubrovnik.com 7. Bowa Dubrovnik has sharpened considerably

Location: Šipan Island near Dubrovnik,

over the past decade, and Restaurant

Croatia

360 reflects that evolution perfectly. Set

Price range: €€€

against the city walls overlooking the

Best for: Barefoot Adriatic luxury

harbour, it delivers one of the Adriatic’s

Best time to go: Long, lazy lunches

most elegant dining settings. Unlike many

Booking tip: Reserve one of the waterfront

waterfront hotspots, it still feels refined

cabanas rather than a standard table

rather than performative. The crowd is a

Website: bowa-dubrovnik.com

mix of yacht owners, architects, creatives and travellers who genuinely appreciate food. The tasting menus are precise

5

Bowa feels like someone designed a restaurant specifically for people trying

DOCKSIDE

P. 17

7

Best for: Younger Riviera energy

Booking tip: Prime summer tables

Best time to go: Saturday lunch for

disappear weeks in advance

maximum atmosphere

Website: casajondal.es

Booking tip: Tables close to the DJ are either the best seats in the house or your

Casa Jondal has quietly become

worst nightmare

one of Ibiza’s smartest waterfront

Website: bagatelle.com

reservations. Relaxed, elegant and deeply Mediterranean, it attracts the crowd that

If Club 55 is timeless Riviera glamour,

still appreciates Ibiza but no longer needs

Bagatelle is its louder, younger sibling.

The DJs start early, the rosé flows aggressively, and the atmosphere escalates quickly. Yet beneath the party

10

reputation, the kitchen performs better than many expect. The grilled fish is to escape crowded marina culture.

excellent, and the truffle pizza remains

Accessible mainly by boat, this low-key

strangely addictive after a few glasses

Adriatic gem combines rustic simplicity

of wine. It is chaotic in the best possible

with genuinely serious food. Think

way.

octopus under peka, grilled lobster, local wines and shaded wooden cabanas

9. Gariful

directly beside the water. It is relaxed,

Location: Hvar harbour, Croatia

discreet and beautifully unhurried.

Price range: €€€ Best for: Front-row yacht watching

8. Bagatelle Beach

Best time to go: After 8pm, when the

Location: Pampelonne Beach, Saint-

harbour lights up

Tropez, France

Booking tip: Edge-of-terrace tables are

Price range: €€€€

worth requesting well ahead of time Website: gariful.com Hvar remains one of the Adriatic’s great

table service until 4am to prove it. The

floating social scenes, and Gariful sits

seafood is exceptional, the soundtrack

directly in the middle of it all. The terrace

restrained, and the atmosphere

practically functions as a live runway

effortlessly cool. Anchored yachts

of arriving tenders, charter guests and

offshore complete the picture.

polished superyachts. Tourist-heavy?

Slightly. Fun? Completely. Order oversized seafood platters, local white wine, then

Skipper’s insider tip

settle in for the evening spectacle.

The best marina lunches rarely happen at

8

10. Casa Jondal

peak lunch hour. Book late. Arrive slowly.

Location: Cala Jondal, Ibiza, Spain

Stay longer than planned. Because in the

Price range: €€€€

Mediterranean, the perfect waterfront

Best for: Ibiza after growing out of the

table is never really about the food alone.

nightclub scene

It is about timing, atmosphere, who walks

Best time to go: Long lunch into sunset

in unexpectedly, and whether the second

drinks

bottle arrives before anyone asks for it.

P. 18

PREMIERES

BOAT SHOWS AND LAUNCHES

SET TO DOMINATE THE MEDITERRANEAN SUMMER As the Mediterranean season reaches peak

The 2026 edition is expected to be dominated by:

summer mode, the focus of the yachting world now

•

outdoor-first layouts

shifts towards the industry's biggest late-season

•

oversized beach clubs

showcases. From Cannes to Monaco, the coming

•

hybrid-ready propulsion

months will unveil the yachts, design trends and

•

performance day yachts

lifestyle concepts set to define the future of luxury

•

younger owner demographics

boating.

•

"villa on water" design concepts

This year, one theme dominates nearly every launch: yachts are becoming beach clubs. Across Europe's major shipyards, formal interiors are shrinking while outdoor living spaces, sea terraces and social layouts take centre stage. Owners increasingly want yachts that feel relaxed, effortless and connected to the water — and the builders are responding fast.

Here are the boat shows and launches every Mediterranean boating enthusiast should have on their radar this season.

Cannes Yachting Festival → Cannes, France | 8–13 September 2026 Still the most important launch platform in Europe for production yachts, Cannes is where the Mediterranean boating season truly accelerates into high gear. Spread across Vieux-Port and Port-Canto, the festival attracts the industry's biggest shipyards, most anticipated premieres, and strongest sales activity.

PREMIERES

P. 19

For many builders, Cannes has become less about showing boats and more about selling a lifestyle.

Monaco Yacht Show → Monaco | 23–26 September 2026 If Cannes is where trends begin, Monaco is where the industry shows off its ambition.

Held inside Port Hercule, the Monaco Yacht Show remains the world's most important superyacht event, bringing together the largest launches, boldest concepts and highest-profile owners in yachting.

The atmosphere is unlike any other boat show: less boating exhibition, more floating luxury theatre.

Expect:

This is where the next generation of ultra-luxury

•

world premieres

boating is revealed.

•

multi-million-euro superyachts

•

futuristic tenders

•

designer collaborations

•

private client networking

•

major charter announcements

The hottest launches of the season Azimut Seadeck 9 ↓ Azimut's Seadeck 9 may ultimately become the yacht that defines where Mediterranean boating is heading next. Unveiled ahead of Cannes, the 26-metre flagship represents a major shift inside one of Italy's most influential shipyards, moving away from rigid formality and towards softer, experience-led luxury.

Blending hybrid-ready propulsion, lower-emission technology, natural materials and more residential interiors, the yacht strongly embraces open-air living and connection with the sea. »

P. 20

PREMIERES

Its defining feature is the aft "Fun Island" concept — a cascading social terrace that feels closer to a Mediterranean beach club than a conventional stern arrangement. The fluid transition between inside and outside creates a calmer, more relaxed onboard atmosphere, perfectly suited to the way modern owners increasingly want to experience the water.

Rather than traditional luxury, the Seadeck 9 prioritises atmosphere, wellbeing and effortless entertaining.

territory. Making its first major public appearance ahead of Cannes, the yacht sits between the X80 and flagship X95 Vista while introducing a more architectural approach to onboard living.

What immediately stands out is the sense of openness throughout. Curved patio doors, dropdown balconies and panoramic glazing create an atmosphere closer to a contemporary waterfront villa than a traditional motor yacht. At the same time, the single-level main deck dramatically improves onboard flow and liveability. ↑ Wallypower50X Few boats arriving on the Riviera this season capture

The X90 also introduces Princess' new Hybrid

attention quite like the Wallypower50X. Sharp,

Progressive-Planing hull concept, reflecting the wider

minimalist and instantly recognisable, the yacht

industry's movement towards cleaner, more efficient

continues Wally's reputation for producing some of

cruising solutions.

the industry's boldest modern designs.

Combining high-performance outboards with expansive social decks and an aggressive stealthinspired silhouette, the Wallypower50X feels built specifically for Mediterranean day boating. Ibiza weekends, beach clubs, fast island hopping and owner-driven cruising are clearly part of its DNA. Instead of chasing sheer interior volume, the yacht focuses almost entirely on lifestyle, usability and visual impact — exactly the direction younger Mediterranean owners are increasingly moving towards.

Princess X90 → With the debut of the X90, Princess is pushing its "super flybridge" concept into far more ambitious

8

PREMIERES

P. 21

For Cannes, the yacht feels perfectly timed —

luxury: easier entertaining, cleaner propulsion

combining Riviera-scale luxury with the more

systems, less dependence on crew, and yachts that

relaxed, experience-driven lifestyle modern owners

feel effortless to use. The emphasis has shifted away

increasingly favour.

from formality and towards experience, lifestyle and flexibility.

← Sanlorenzo SX120 Sanlorenzo's new SX120 continues the shipyard's

And judging by the launches set to dominate Cannes

hugely successful crossover philosophy, but on a far

and Monaco this year, the world's leading shipyards

more ambitious scale. As the largest SX model ever

are responding exactly to that demand.

produced, the yacht blends explorer-style practicality with the elegance and openness expected from contemporary Mediterranean luxury.

The standout element is the vast aft beach-club zone, designed to dissolve the boundaries between yacht and sea. Expansive terraces, informal lounge areas, and uninterrupted exterior flow shape the entire onboard experience, while the interiors draw more on contemporary architecture than on classic nautical styling.

The SX range has already influenced much of the industry, but the SX120 elevates the concept even further. Less traditional superyacht, more floating luxury loft: it feels purpose-built for long Mediterranean summers between Cannes, SaintTropez and Portofino.

The trend shaping the Mediterranean in 2026 Across nearly every major launch this season, one thing has become increasingly clear: owners no longer want traditional yachts — they want floating beach clubs.

Formal salons are shrinking, while oversized swim platforms and open social terraces are becoming the centrepiece of modern yacht design. Outdoor living now takes priority over rigid interior layouts, with shipyards focusing heavily on relaxed entertaining, stronger connections to the sea and spaces designed for long Mediterranean days spent outside rather than indoors.

Today's Mediterranean owner is looking for simpler

P. 22

COVER STORY

AT HOME ON BOARD IN MALTA From Antibes to Grand Harbour, Kalani's journey has spanned decades, thousands of sea miles and countless memories. Designer Derek Frost reflects on the restoration, evolution and enduring appeal of a yacht that became far more than a boat.

In the mid-1990s, shortly before closing

on the construction of a technically

me to work on a second nautical design

my interior design business, I was

groundbreaking 40-metre sloop,

project, one that continues to this day.

invited to work with a brilliant team of

Philanderer, in Thailand. Adding this

The boat in question was not new, having

naval architects and related specialists

project to my design portfolio allowed

been launched in 1971. Her name is Kalani.

Photography: Derek Frost & Edouard Duprat/TWW Yachts

COVER STORY

P. 23

The following spring, Kalani arrived in Malta, an island centrally located in the Mediterranean, boasting spectacular harbours and, to this day, her home. On arrival, the owners instigated a change of captain, who remains her excellent master and is essential to the safe and effective running of the boat.

Over subsequent seasons, further improvements have been made. New engines, generators, stabilisers, timber decks, air conditioners and a water maker, plus the installation of black and grey water tanks, including an upgrade to all plumbing and entirely remodelled interiors. Kalani is most certainly in better condition now than at any time since her Today, more than a quarter of a century

repainting all metal surfaces, repairing

launch some 55 years back.

after arriving in Malta, Kalani has become

the failed engines and much else besides.

one of the most recognisable classic

Little time or budget was then available to

Initially white, another friend, a successful

yachts in Maltese waters. Her distinctive

consider work on her interior.

naval architect, advised that a hull colour

profile, elegant lines and unusual green

darker than the superstructure lends

hull have made her a familiar and much-

a boat a sleeker line. Kalani's owners

admired sight throughout the islands.

followed this advice, and she became dark beige and cream until she was

Kalani's Maltese story began in 2001. Her

awarded her distinctive colour, likely the

new owners, good friends, bought her in

colour she will remain, the superstructure

Antibes, France, that year. Having found

still cream and the hull a green that some

her a captain and crew, they cruised

call eau de nil.

along the southern coast of France before heading to Corsica and on to Italy. They

It is an unusual choice that has won

intended to bring their boat to Malta, but

Kalani, already much admired for her »

by the close of that first cruising season, near Naples, her engines failed, and she would go no further.

It was in Naples that I first saw Kalani and where I took on the job of overseeing her first major upgrade.

There was much work to be done, including replacing a large number of the steel plates that make up her hull, installing a new signal mast, extending the top deck aft, sandblasting and

P. 24

COVER STORY

classic lines, additional attention and praise.

The greatest compliment, often repeated, occurs when captains of some of the world's larger private yachts have told Kalani's captain how much they admire her by saying, "That's exactly the sort of boat we'd like to have if we had a boat of our own."

At a time when yacht ownership increasingly focuses on size, technology and complexity, classic yachts such as Kalani offer something different. They possess character earned over decades, stories woven into their structure and a sense of permanence that cannot be manufactured. Their appeal lies not simply in how they look, but in the lives that have been lived aboard them.

Unlike most impersonally styled private boats, Kalani has truly become a home for her owners. Her interiors, her light-filled saloon and spacious cabins with ensuite heads, now substantially upgraded, are

At a time when yacht ownership increasingly focuses on size, technology and complexity, classic yachts such as Kalani offer something different.

filled with paintings, books, objects, maps

and guidebooks related to the many sea miles she has travelled and ports she has visited both in and outside the Mediterranean since she first came to Malta.

This personal expression of home and story overlays interior spaces that are finely crafted to withstand the repeated rigours of life on the high seas, concealing generous storage and easy access to multiple technical installations.

Timber Venetian blinds in the saloon shade harsh light, provide privacy and hold their position in rough water. The

COVER STORY

P. 25

TECH TALK Year

Length

1971

25M

Displacement

Hull

99T

STEEL Engines

2 X CATERPILLAR 3406C Cabins

Crew

3

2

colour of the sea and the hull is repeated on the walls, upholstery, and carpeted floor. Polished stainless steel tubing, reflecting the boat's period, is repeated externally on the guardrails and the top-deck sunshade, and internally on the furniture supports and balustrades.

Above the saloon's sofa, there's a painting that captures the joyful, carefree life she and her family lead on the water — loving family and friends at leisure, enjoying some of the best and happiest moments of their lives.

Kalani is a home which continues to see great joy.

Aft of the saloon, a substantial teak table,

secure marina. As a result, she enjoys

more than twenty-five years, she has been

in place when the boat was purchased

unparalleled views across the water

part of Malta's maritime landscape and

in 2000 and surrounded by stacking

towards Valletta, encircled by two of the

part of the lives of those fortunate enough

chairs supplied by Satariano, continues to

island's other historic cities. Motor Yacht

to call her home.

provide excellent service both for meals

Kalani is a spectacular floating home

and throughout those many lazy sunny

enjoying one of the finest addresses in

Let us hope her next chapter continues to

days spent on board.

Malta.

be written in Malta.

Home for Kalani, her permanent berth, is

With regret, and conscious that time

For more information and technical

the first row on the Grand Harbour side

eventually catches up with us all, her

specifications, contact yacht broker Matthew

of Malta's premier pontoon and best-run

owners have now decided to sell her. For

Gusman at matthew@twwyachts.com.

P. 26

WATCHLIST

SKIPPER WATCHLIST The personalities shaping 2026

Somewhere between Porto Cervo and Palma, between the dockside restaurants of Saint-Tropez and the race villages of Barcelona, Mediterranean boating culture is quietly reinventing itself. The industry is becoming younger, sharper, more visible and more commercially sophisticated.

The people driving that transformation are no longer simply sailors or yacht builders. They are cultural figures shaping how modern yachting looks, feels and behaves in Summer 2026.

The Mediterranean’s new power circle

a boat show. But beneath the familiar

behave like luxury brands. Marina

glamour, the culture itself is changing.

developments resemble hospitality

The old image of Mediterranean yachting

Today’s boating world is increasingly

still exists, of course. Monaco remains

shaped by visibility, crossover luxury

a polished theatre. Capri still thrives on

culture, sustainability pressure, media

And the people influencing that shift are

spectacle. Cannes still operates as the

literacy and experience-led lifestyles.

no longer operating quietly behind the

industry’s annual catwalk disguised as

Owners are younger. Racing teams

scenes.

ecosystems. Sailors are becoming personalities.

WATCHLIST

P. 27

Ambrogio Beccaria

Marta Maggetti

Patrizio Bertelli

Few names currently feel more aligned

If Mediterranean sailing has historically

Few individuals have influenced modern

with sailing’s future than Ambrogio

struggled with visibility beyond its core

Mediterranean sailing culture more

Beccaria. The Italian offshore racer

audience, Marta Maggetti represents part

profoundly than Patrizio Bertelli.

has become emblematic of a new

of the solution.

Mediterranean sailing identity — intensely

What Luna Rossa achieved under his

competitive but socially relatable,

The Italian Olympic sailor belongs to

vision extends far beyond America’s Cup

technically respected without carrying

a generation of athletes increasingly

competition. The team helped reposition

the old elitist image that once dominated

comfortable operating both competitively

elite sailing as something visually

the sport.

and publicly. Technically respected within

sophisticated, culturally aspirational and

elite sailing circles, she also understands

globally marketable.

Around regattas stretching from

modern visibility in ways many older

Palermo to Saint-Malo, Beccaria’s

sailors never needed to. That duality

Before Luna Rossa, much of professional

rise has attracted growing attention

matters enormously in 2026.

sailing still looked trapped between

because he reflects something younger

tradition and corporate sponsorship.

audiences increasingly want from

Sponsors now expect athletes to carry

Afterwards, the sport became sharper,

sailing: authenticity. He looks less like

narratives, audiences and identity

cleaner and unmistakably more luxurious

a traditional yacht club product and

alongside results. Sailing, once

in presentation.

more like a modern endurance athlete

deeply resistant to personality-driven

navigating a globally connected lifestyle

storytelling, is slowly adapting to the

Today, that influence can be seen

culture. That distinction matters.

reality that visibility drives investment.

everywhere — from marina fashion culture in Porto Cervo to the branding

As brands search for personalities

Maggetti’s growing profile reflects a

strategies surrounding modern regattas

capable of bridging sport, travel,

broader evolution in Mediterranean sailing

in Barcelona and Palma.

sustainability and media appeal,

culture — particularly in women becoming

sailors like Beccaria suddenly become

more visible within elite competition

Bertelli understood earlier than most that

commercially valuable far beyond racing

rather than simply adjacent to it.

sailing was no longer simply competing

itself.

against other sports.

And across yacht clubs from Naples

“The new Mediterranean sailing star is no

to Palma, that shift is beginning to feel

longer defined purely by trophies, but by

structural rather than symbolic.

relevance.”

It was competing for cultural attention.

And in 2026, cultural relevance may be the industry’s most valuable currency. »

P. 28

WATCHLIST

Max Sirena

Guillaume Verdier

Alberto Galassi

If Bertelli built the vision, Max Sirena

Among serious yacht designers and

There may be no more influential

became the face capable of translating it

racing insiders, Guillaume Verdier

commercial figure in Mediterranean

into modern sailing mythology.

commands a level of respect bordering

yachting right now than Alberto Galassi.

on reverence. Yet his importance in 2026 There are technically brilliant sailors, and

extends beyond performance alone.

Under his leadership, Ferretti Group has mastered something many legacy brands

then there are figures who define an era’s atmosphere. Sirena increasingly belongs

Verdier’s influence increasingly reflects

still struggle to balance: preserving

in the latter category.

where the wider yachting industry is

prestige while adapting to a younger,

heading: lighter, smarter, more efficient

more international luxury audience.

Under his leadership, Luna Rossa evolved

and more technically intelligent.

into something that feels far bigger than

As environmental scrutiny around

The modern yacht owner increasingly

a racing team. Around Mediterranean

Mediterranean boating intensifies,

wants flexibility over formality, experience

marinas, the brand now operates

particularly around overcrowded

over ceremony and lifestyle integration

somewhere between elite sport, Italian

destinations like Capri, Ibiza and the Côte

over rigid status signalling. Ferretti’s

design statement and luxury lifestyle

d’Azur, the conversation around yacht

recent positioning reflects a sharp

symbol.

design is changing rapidly.

understanding of that reality.

Few people currently sit more comfortably

Efficiency is no longer simply engineering

Across Monaco, Cannes and Athens, the

at the intersection of racing credibility

language. It has become a cultural

company’s visibility now extends beyond

and contemporary Mediterranean image

language too. The smartest shipyards

boating circles into wider luxury culture

culture.

understand that sustainability messaging

itself.

without meaningful technical innovation And importantly, Sirena understands

now feels hollow to sophisticated buyers.

And that matters because yachting is no longer operating inside an isolated

the psychology of modern visibility. In a social-media-driven era where perception

Verdier matters because his work

ecosystem. It now competes within the

increasingly shapes sponsorship,

represents a genuine advancement

same aspirational economy as luxury

investment and audience engagement, he

rather than a superficial repositioning.

hospitality, fashion, architecture and high-

represents a version of sailing leadership

And in today’s Mediterranean market,

end travel.

that feels current rather than institutional.

audiences are increasingly able to spot the difference. “Modern yacht design

Galassi appears to understand this more

That is rarer than many inside the industry

is shifting from spectacle towards

clearly than most. »

realise.

intelligence.”

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P. 30

WATCHLIST

A different Mediterranean future The most revealing thing about Summer 2026 is not necessarily the yachts themselves.

It is the changing psychology surrounding them. The Mediterranean boating culture is becoming more public, more lifestyle-oriented, and far more culturally interconnected than previous generations ever imagined. The marina is evolving into Giovanni Soldini

Lorenzo Bertelli

In an industry often criticised for excess,

If Summer 2026 has a defining theme,

architecture, sustainability and digital

Giovanni Soldini remains one of the rare

it may be the collapse of traditional

visibility increasingly collide.

figures whose credibility feels almost

boundaries around boating culture.

a hybrid social ecosystem where racing prestige, luxury branding, hospitality,

Some veterans see over-

untouchable.

Fashion now influences marina

commercialisation. Others see evolution.

Part sailor, part innovator, part

identity. Hospitality shapes waterfront

philosophical counterweight to modern

development. Social media impacts yacht

boating spectacle, Soldini continues to

desirability. Luxury branding increasingly

command respect because his authority

dictates the visual language of elite

But whether in Monaco, Malta, Barcelona,

comes from experience rather than image

sailing itself. Few figures represent that

Porto Cervo or along the Croatian

management.

convergence more clearly than Lorenzo

coast, one reality now feels undeniable:

Bertelli. As Prada deepens its involvement

the future influence of Mediterranean

What makes him especially relevant

within competitive sailing and luxury

yachting will belong not only to those who

now is his ability to bridge traditional

sporting culture, Bertelli has become

build or own yachts, but to those capable

seamanship with future-facing marine

symbolic of a younger Mediterranean

of shaping the culture around them.

innovation. Sustainability conversations

power structure — globally connected,

in Mediterranean yachting are becoming

image-aware and culturally fluent.

unavoidable, but they often risk collapsing into marketing-speak. Soldini gives those

Traditionalists sometimes dismiss

discussions substance.

this crossover between fashion and sailing as superficial branding. They are

His long-standing focus on intelligent

misunderstanding the shift entirely.

navigation, efficiency and technological experimentation increasingly feels aligned

Younger audiences increasingly discover

with where serious yacht design and

boating culture through aesthetics,

offshore sailing are heading.

events, apparel, hospitality and digital storytelling long before they ever charter

For many younger sailors entering the

a yacht or enter a marina.

sport today, he represents something increasingly valuable: authenticity without

The boating world is no longer simply

nostalgia.

selling access to the sea. It is selling identity.

Both are probably right.

JOIN THE CLUB

day.mt

P. 32

The

CRUISING

SUMMER DRIFT The routes redefining the Mediterranean summer From Sicily and the Aeolian Islands to quieter Cycladic anchorages and the evolving Adriatic, Mediterranean boating culture is shifting. Summer 2026 is less about chasing overcrowded hotspots and more about intelligent routes, slower luxury, and destinations that still feel genuinely connected to the sea.

At around 6.30pm in Porto Cervo, the temperature finally begins

sustainability concerns and social media saturation are all

to ease. Dockhands move with increasing urgency as another

quietly redrawing the map of Mediterranean boating culture.

50-metre yacht edges stern-first into the marina while guests gather along the promenade holding oversized sunglasses, linen

The classic circuits still matter. Saint-Tropez will always be filled.

shirts and impossibly cold spritzes. Across the Mediterranean,

Capri will always attract attention. Ibiza will always pulse. Yet the

the same ritual is unfolding in different forms — in Valletta’s

most interesting movement this summer is happening between

Grand Harbour, on the terraces of Hvar, beneath the cliffs

the established icons — in the emerging corridors, quieter

of Capri, inside hidden bays off Bodrum, and along Sicily’s

anchorages, secondary marinas and culturally richer cruising

increasingly magnetic coastline.

routes that now feel more aligned with how people actually want to spend time at sea.

The Mediterranean’s future is no longer simply about glamour.

It is increasingly about access, atmosphere and intelligent movement.

Malta and Sicily: the central Mediterranean corridor comes of age Few routes have gained momentum as quickly as the Malta– Sicily corridor. Once viewed primarily as a practical repositioning stretch between western and eastern Mediterranean itineraries, Porto Cervo remains Mediterranean summer royalty

it has evolved into one of the season’s defining cruising regions.

Part of the appeal lies in geography. Distances are manageable,

But summer 2026 feels different. Not because the Mediterranean

fuel consumption is relatively efficient, and the variety packed

has become less desirable — quite the opposite — but

into a short itinerary is difficult to match elsewhere. Within days,

because the routes defining the season are shifting. Charter

yachts can move between Valletta’s urban intensity, the Aeolian

clients are travelling differently. Owners are demanding more

Islands’ volcanic drama, Taormina’s theatrical glamour and the

privacy, shorter but richer itineraries, and experiences that feel

increasingly refined marina culture emerging across Sicily’s

less manufactured. Marina congestion, soaring berth prices,

northern coast.

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P. 33

The Aeolian Islands anchor Mediterranean luxury

More importantly, Sicily itself has changed. The island has

warm, but marina pressure softens. Motor yachts between

become noticeably more sophisticated in its hospitality offering

20–35 metres dominate here, although sailing catamarans are

over the past five years. Boutique hotels, design-led restaurants,

increasingly visible among younger charter groups prioritising

upgraded marinas and a younger international crowd have

slower itineraries and fuel efficiency.

shifted perceptions. Taormina remains dominant, but places like Syracuse, Cefalù and Riposto are drawing more serious attention

The Aeolian Islands remain the emotional centrepiece. Arriving

from yachting circles.

beneath Stromboli at sunset still feels cinematic in a way few Mediterranean experiences can replicate. Yet even here, the shift

For Malta, the route reinforces its role not only as a stopover but

is noticeable. Guests are spending longer at anchor and less

also as a strategic Mediterranean hub. Grand Harbour marinas

time chasing crowded beach clubs. Simplicity is quietly returning

continue attracting large yacht traffic, while Malta’s restaurant

as a luxury.

scene and accessibility make it increasingly attractive for shorter charter rotations.

The ideal timing for this route is late May through early July

Croatia and Montenegro: from party route to premium circuit

or September into early October, when temperatures remain Croatia’s repositioning continues.

What was once marketed aggressively as a high-energy Adriatic playground has matured into something considerably more polished. The region still delivers nightlife and social energy, particularly around Hvar, but the tone has shifted upwards.

Luxury villa development, upgraded marina infrastructure, and higher charter prices have gradually altered both the clientele and expectations.

Montenegro’s rise has accelerated this transition. Porto Montenegro and Portonovi now anchor a cruising corridor that feels increasingly tailored towards superyacht culture.

Slower Adriatic itineraries continue gaining momentum

The Adriatic’s calmer waters, relatively short cruising legs and dramatic landscapes make it particularly attractive for newer »

P. 34

CRUISING

yacht owners and family charters seeking a less operationally

Mallorca, meanwhile, continues to evolve into one of the

demanding summer route.

Mediterranean’s most complete yachting destinations. Palma’s marina infrastructure, international flight connections, and

There is also growing fatigue around overcrowded Western

growing luxury hospitality sector make it an ideal charter base,

Mediterranean hotspots. Clients who once defaulted to the

particularly for mixed itineraries that balance nightlife and

Balearics are increasingly experimenting with Adriatic itineraries

relaxation.

that offer similar social energy but greater navigational ease and stronger value relative to the western Med’s escalating costs.

The Balearics also reveal another defining trend of summer 2026: shorter itineraries. Rather than two-week charters,

That said, Croatia’s popularity is becoming a challenge in its own

many clients are now booking highly condensed four- or

right. Hvar in August can feel less like an island and more like a

five-day escapes focused on one region done properly: better

floating traffic system. Marina reservations now require almost

restaurants, better anchorages, fewer miles. Fuel costs are part

military-level planning during peak weeks, and berth pricing has

of the equation. So is time. High-net-worth travellers increasingly

risen sharply across premium locations.

want quality over nautical mileage.

The smarter move in 2026 is to treat Croatia less as a single destination and more as a layered coastline. Vis, Šibenik, and

The quieter Cyclades

parts of the Kornati archipelago are attracting more experienced crews looking to avoid the obvious routes while retaining access

The Greek islands remain one of the Mediterranean’s great

to strong restaurants and marina support.

emotional experiences, but even here, behavioural shifts are redefining routes.

June and September are now arguably the Adriatic’s sweet spots. The weather remains exceptional, while the atmosphere

Mykonos and Santorini still dominate visibility, but experienced

feels considerably more balanced.

crews are increasingly treating them as brief stopovers rather

The Balearics beyond Ibiza Ibiza still matters. It always will.

But the most interesting Balearic conversations in 2026 are happening away from the island’s predictable social-media geography. The real shift is towards slower, more curated Balearic itineraries that combine Ibiza with Mallorca’s northern coast, Menorca’s calmer anchorages and lesser-known sections of Formentera.

Clients are increasingly tired of performative luxury. They still want beach clubs and nightlife, but not necessarily every day. There is a greater appetite for mornings spent at anchor, for smaller waterfront restaurants, and for less conspicuous experiences that still retain exclusivity.

Menorca is benefiting enormously from this transition. The island offers a calmer rhythm that feels increasingly valuable in a Mediterranean market dominated by overstimulation. Its coves remain comparatively protected from mass yacht traffic, while its culinary scene has matured significantly.

Greek island routes continue drawing sailing charters

CRUISING

P. 35

than centrepieces. The Cyclades’ quieter islands — Sifnos,

coastline, protected anchorages, and lower-density atmosphere

Folegandros, Serifos and Milos — are benefiting from growing

offer a compelling contrast to the increasingly saturated Riviera

demand for authenticity without sacrificing style.

circuit. Bonifacio continues to dominate visually, but smaller ports and anchorages along the island’s western coast are

These islands feel more aligned with where luxury travel

quietly becoming some of the Mediterranean’s most desirable

is moving globally: understated, visually striking and less

summer stops.

algorithmically exhausted.

The sailing culture here also remains distinct from much of the western Mediterranean. Wind patterns, longer passages and more technical conditions continue attracting serious sailors rather than purely lifestyle-focused charter guests.

Catamarans and performance sailing yachts dominate these itineraries, particularly in June and September when Meltemi conditions remain manageable without becoming overly aggressive.

The Cyclades also expose the Mediterranean’s growing infrastructure pressures. Smaller ports are struggling with increasing seasonal traffic, while waste management and water

Sardinia offers Mediterranean luxury without excess

supply remain sensitive issues across several islands.

Sustainability conversations are becoming impossible to ignore

There is a noticeable increase in owner-operated yachts

in Greek waters, not necessarily in the performative corporate

throughout this corridor as well. Experienced Mediterranean

sense, but in the operational sense. Owners are paying closer

boaters are rediscovering routes that prioritise seamanship and

attention to fuel planning, anchoring practices and local

scenery over visibility.

restrictions, particularly in environmentally sensitive bays.

Late June and early September remain ideal here. August The Mediterranean is beginning to understand that preserving

congestion around northern Sardinia can become overwhelming,

exclusivity increasingly means protecting the environments that

particularly during peak Italian holiday periods.

create it.

The route suits both sailing yachts and explorer-style

Corsica and Sardinia: the return of understated luxury For years, Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda represented one of the Mediterranean’s most overt expressions of wealth. It still does.

Yet summer 2026 suggests a more nuanced evolution.

motor yachts exceptionally well. Distances are manageable, anchorages are spectacular, and the region still delivers a feeling increasingly rare in parts of the Mediterranean: escape.

Amalfi and Capri: still irresistible, increasingly difficult

The ultra-visible superyacht culture remains concentrated around Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo. Still, many owners

No matter how many people claim Capri has become too

are now using Sardinia differently — moving faster through

crowded, too expensive, or too exposed to social media, the

the social hubs and spending more time exploring the island’s

island still exerts a gravitational pull on Mediterranean yachting

southern coastline or crossing into Corsica.

culture. The same applies to the Amalfi Coast. The route remains visually unmatched. Sunrise arrivals beneath Positano’s cliffs still

Corsica, in particular, feels increasingly relevant. Its dramatic

create moments people remember for years. But operationally, »

P. 36

CRUISING

attractive alternatives for clients seeking strong service standards, excellent cuisine and comparatively good value against western Mediterranean pricing.

The region also suits slower cruising exceptionally well.

Distances between anchorages are manageable, provisioning standards remain strong, and the hospitality culture feels naturally aligned with boating life.

There is less urgency here—less performance. Traditional gulets remain part of the landscape, but modern motor yacht charters Mediterranean glamour still flows through Amalfi

are growing steadily. Boutique hotel development and marina investment are also elevating the region’s luxury profile without stripping away its character.

this has become one of the Mediterranean’s most difficult summer corridors.

The Turkish coast particularly appeals to repeat Mediterranean clients who have exhausted more traditional western routes

Berths are limited. Day traffic is relentless. Restaurant

and now prioritise atmosphere over status. In many ways, that

reservations now often require weeks of planning. Tender

may be the defining behavioural shift shaping summer 2026

congestion around Capri during August can feel absurd.

altogether.

Yet demand remains extraordinary. Why? Because the Amalfi Coast still delivers one thing many newer luxury destinations struggle to manufacture: atmosphere. Real atmosphere. The

Where Mediterranean boating culture is heading next

layering of chaos, glamour, history, beauty and theatre that defines Mediterranean summer mythology.

The Mediterranean is not becoming less glamorous. It is becoming more selective. The routes defining summer 2026 are

The smarter approach in 2026 is tactical timing. June and

not necessarily the loudest ones. They are the routes balancing

September offer better experiences than peak August dramatically. Many experienced captains now encourage clients to treat Amalfi as a shorter high-impact segment rather than an extended itinerary.

Combine it with Sicily. Pair it with the Aeolians. Use it as part of a broader southern Italian route rather than the entire journey. The coast remains iconic. But increasingly, the best Mediterranean itineraries are those that understand when to leave the icons behind.

The Turkish Riviera’s quiet resurgence One of the Mediterranean’s most intriguing developments is the gradual return of the Turkish Riviera to premium charter conversations.

Turkey’s quieter coastline is rising again Bodrum, Göcek and Marmaris are re-emerging as highly

CRUISING

P. 37

beauty with practicality, social energy with privacy, and luxury

operational costs are all reshaping how people move through

with authenticity.

the region.

There is also a growing emotional shift underway. People are

The boat itself is changing too. Hybrid systems, slower cruising

tired of travelling purely for visibility. The most sophisticated

speeds, improved efficiency and more conscious itinerary

itineraries now prioritise rhythm rather than checklists. Long

planning are becoming part of mainstream conversations rather

lunches instead of endless crossings. Better marinas instead of

than niche sustainability talking points.

busier ones. Smaller islands with stronger identities rather than destinations overwhelmed by their own success.

And perhaps that is where Mediterranean boating culture is ultimately heading — towards something slightly calmer, slightly

At the same time, pressure on the Mediterranean is intensifying.

smarter and considerably more intentional.

Marina expansion, overtourism, environmental strain and rising

Not less luxurious. Just less obvious.

The Mediterranean marina pressure map

destinations. June and September have effectively become the new “high season” for many seasoned owners seeking

Summer 2026 is exposing a reality most captains and brokers

the same atmosphere without the operational headaches.

have quietly acknowledged for years: the Mediterranean’s infrastructure is struggling to keep pace with demand.

The new operational reality

Across the western Med, berth prices continue climbing

Captains are increasingly encouraging:

while availability tightens dramatically during peak weeks. In

•

slower cruising speeds to reduce fuel consumption

destinations like Capri, Porto Cervo, Ibiza and Saint-Tropez,

•

longer anchorage stays

securing prime marina positions in August increasingly

•

flexible itineraries

requires months of planning, long-standing relationships, or

•

earlier marina reservations

extremely flexible itineraries.

•

shoulder-season charters

•

secondary marina usage

The result is changing cruising behaviour. Experienced crews are now building routes around secondary marinas

The Mediterranean is not becoming inaccessible. But it is

and smarter timing rather than simply chasing headline

becoming far more strategic.

Destination

Peak pressure period

Main issue

Smarter alternative

Capri

Late July–August

Tender congestion and berth scarcity

Procida or Aeolian Islands

Porto Cervo

August

Extreme berth pricing

Southern Sardinia

Ibiza Town

July–August

Marina saturation

Menorca

Hvar

August

Overcrowded waterfronts

Vis or Šibenik

Mykonos

July–August

High charter density

Serifos or Sifnos

Positano

August

Day-tourism overflow

Salerno base itineraries

P. 38

WATERFRONTS

THE MARINA ECONOMY

How marinas became lifestyle ecosystems

The modern Mediterranean marina is no longer simply a place to berth a yacht. From rooftop bars and wellness clubs to branded residences, designer retail and curated social scenes, today’s marinas are increasingly built around lifestyle, visibility and experience. In many destinations, the waterfront itself has become the real product.

There was a time when a marina’s

Today, from Port Adriano to Porto

In many parts of the Mediterranean,

role was straightforward. Provide safe

Montenegro, from OneOcean Port

the marina is no longer merely where

berthing, fuel, electricity, showers, and

Vell to Yas Marina, the marina has

boats stay. It is where people go to be

perhaps a decent waterfront restaurant

evolved into something far larger than

seen. Walk through Ibiza Magna on a

nearby. Boats arrived, crews stocked

nautical infrastructure. Modern marinas

summer evening, and the shift becomes

up, and by morning, most were already

increasingly operate as fully curated

impossible to ignore. The yachts remain

planning the next crossing. The marina

lifestyle ecosystems — blending

spectacular, but the real energy often

itself was rarely the destination. It was

hospitality, dining, retail, wellness,

unfolds ashore. Waterfront tables fill

simply part of the journey.

entertainment, real estate, concierge

with visitors who may never step aboard

services, nightlife, and social culture

a vessel. DJs perform beside designer

The Mediterranean has changed

into one carefully monetised waterfront

boutiques. Beach clubs spill into cocktail

dramatically.

environment.

terraces while supercars idle outside restaurants charging Monaco prices for sushi and rosé.

The marina itself has become the product.

This transformation has been unfolding quietly for nearly two decades. As berth demand intensified and competition among Mediterranean destinations grew fiercer, marina operators began to recognise a commercial truth: profitability was no longer tied solely to mooring fees. The real value lay in creating environments where affluent visitors would linger, spend, socialise, invest, and return repeatedly throughout the year.

Porto Montenegro

The modern marina economy is now built around dwell time.

WATERFRONTS

P. 39

That single concept explains much

itself as both a superyacht gateway and a

flow, outdoor seating, public art, wellness

of what has happened across the

lifestyle extension of Monaco. OneOcean

terraces, and curated public spaces are

Mediterranean waterfront. Restaurants,

Port Vell embraced high-end hospitality

now planned with the same attention

wellness clubs, branded gyms, luxury

and event culture within one of Europe’s

once reserved for fuel docks and

retail, co-working spaces, rooftop bars,

most dynamic urban waterfronts.

technical facilities.

are no longer secondary features. They

Even marina architecture itself has

Experience has become infrastructure.

are central components of a marina’s

changed radically.

private events, galleries, and beach clubs

business strategy.

This shift is also being driven by The contemporary marina increasingly

generational change. Younger yacht

A yacht owner who spends three nights

resembles a luxury retail district or

owners and charter clients increasingly

aboard but dines ashore every evening,

boutique resort rather than a traditional

expect lifestyle integration rather than

books wellness treatments, shops in

harbour. Lighting, landscaping, pedestrian

isolation. They want gyms, beach clubs,

marina boutiques, entertains guests, and attends waterfront events is considerably more valuable than one who plugs into shore power and disappears below deck.

The marina, in effect, has adopted the logic of a luxury resort.

The influence of Monaco remains impossible to ignore. Port Hercules demonstrated long ago that marinas could function as social capitals for the wealthy rather than purely operational spaces for sailors. But newer developments have further refined that formula by integrating real estate, hospitality, architecture, and lifestyle

OneOcean Port Vell, Barcelona

branding into a single ecosystem.

Porto Montenegro perhaps remains the

social energy, fast digital connectivity,

clearest example of this evolution. What

wellness facilities, nightlife, and highly

emerged there was not simply a marina,

visual environments that blend seamlessly

but an entire waterfront district built

into modern luxury travel culture.

around luxury living. Residences, designer retail, restaurants, schools, wellness

The new marina client often behaves

facilities, private clubs, and hospitality

more like a luxury hotel guest than a

brands transformed the marina into an

traditional sailor.

economic anchor for an entirely new urban identity.

Social media has accelerated this transformation even further.

The same philosophy now echoes across the Mediterranean. Limassol Marina fused residential property with berthing infrastructure. Cala del Forte positioned

Mediterranean marinas now function as Limassol Marina

visual currencies within the global luxury economy. Sunset aperitivos overlooking »

P. 40

WATERFRONTS

superyachts, rooftop DJ sessions,

Dubai’s influence is also visible beneath

forecasts exchanged over beers, crews

designer waterfront promenades, and

the surface. While culturally different from

sharing local knowledge, modest tavernas

marina-side dining have become highly

the Mediterranean, Dubai demonstrated

packed with sailors comparing routes

shareable experiences feeding directly

how waterfront districts could function as

and mechanical problems late into the

into aspirational digital culture.

self-contained luxury environments built

evening.

around hospitality, entertainment, retail, The marina has become content.

This is particularly evident in destinations

and status-driven real estate. Elements of

Some of that atmosphere still survives

that philosophy are increasingly visible in

in smaller Mediterranean ports. But in

newer Mediterranean marina projects.

heavily curated lifestyle marinas, it can

such as Port Adriano, where Philippe

feel increasingly diluted beneath luxury

Starck’s design influence helped

But not everyone welcomes the

branding, event programming, and

reposition the marina as a sophisticated

transformation.

polished hospitality concepts.

lifestyle destination rather than a conventional nautical facility. Here, architecture, atmosphere, hospitality, and branding feel intentionally choreographed.

Increasingly, marinas compete not only on berth quality but also on lifestyle prestige.

And with that comes a far more aggressive commercial mindset.

Operators are now under pressure to create year-round activity in what remains a highly seasonal industry.

Restaurants, branded residences, events, wellness offerings, retail, and hospitality

Porto Adriano, Mallorca

partnerships provide financial stability beyond transient summer yacht traffic.

Many long-time sailors argue that parts

One experienced captain recently

Real estate has become especially

of the Mediterranean marina scene have

described certain marinas as “floating

significant. Waterfront apartments

become overly commercialised and

lifestyle malls”. Brutal perhaps, but not

connected to premium marinas command

increasingly detached from authentic

entirely inaccurate.

extraordinary prices because buyers

boating culture. Some waterfronts now

are purchasing more than views and

feel less like maritime communities and

The tension between traditional boating

berths. They are buying access to a

more like luxury shopping villages with

culture and luxury lifestyle positioning

curated ecosystem — concierge services,

yachts positioned outside as decorative

is becoming more visible each season.

restaurants, social visibility, security,

props.

Some yacht owners actively avoid highly

beach clubs, and hospitality experiences wrapped into one lifestyle package.

curated marinas altogether, preferring It is difficult to dismiss the criticism

quieter ports where boating still feels

entirely.

central rather than secondary to social

In many developments, the marina itself

theatre and real estate marketing.

now acts as the catalyst for surrounding

Traditional marina culture once revolved

property investment rather than the other

around practicality and spontaneity

Yet economically, the industry’s direction

way around.

— dockside conversations, weather

appears clear.

WATERFRONTS

P. 41

Modern marinas are no longer competing

modern Mediterranean shift toward

Few places in the Mediterranean

purely on nautical services. They compete

urban-integrated marina living — where

combine historic scenery, compact

on architecture, hospitality, culinary

restaurants, nightlife, waterfront culture

geography, climate, urban density, and

reputation, retail appeal, digital visibility,

and hospitality become part of the

maritime culture as effectively as Malta.

social energy, and the ability to create a

boating experience itself. Yet compared

Properly developed, its marinas could

desirable lifestyle narrative around the

to the more aggressively curated

evolve beyond functioning merely as

waterfront itself.

ecosystems emerging in Montenegro,

practical yachting hubs and become fully

Barcelona or parts of the Balearics,

realised lifestyle destinations capable

Malta sits in an interesting position within

Malta’s marina scene still feels more

of competing with the Mediterranean’s

this evolving marina economy. The islands

organic than orchestrated — sometimes

strongest waterfront ecosystems.

already possess many of the ingredients

charmingly so, sometimes limiting

needed to compete more aggressively in

commercially.

But doing so will require a vision that extends beyond pontoons and property sales.

Because the marina’s role has fundamentally changed.

Historically, marinas were designed around departure. They existed to facilitate movement — temporary stops before the next crossing, next island, next season. Increasingly, however, modern marinas are designed around permanence. Around encouraging visitors to stay longer, spend more, socialise more deeply, and consume the waterfront itself as an experience.

Marina di Valletta The yacht still matters, of course. It remains the symbolic centrepiece of the this space: strong yachting infrastructure,

That distinction matters.

fantasy.

growing superyacht industry, excellent

Malta understands boating infrastructure

But increasingly, it feels like just one

natural harbours, and an increasingly

well. What it has not yet fully mastered is

element inside a far larger luxury lifestyle

international audience.

experiential waterfront placemaking at a

machine built around hospitality, visibility,

Mediterranean luxury level.

entertainment, real estate, and curated

strategic Mediterranean positioning, a

Grand Harbour Marina remains one of the

social identity.

Mediterranean’s most visually striking

Too many local marina environments

superyacht settings, while Portomaso

remain operational rather than immersive.

And perhaps that is the most revealing

Marina successfully integrates urban

The integration between hospitality,

transformation of all.

hospitality and waterfront living.

wellness, design, retail, pedestrian culture, and year-round social programming still

Because in parts of the modern

Malta is already beginning to move in

feels fragmented compared to leading

Mediterranean, boating no longer appears

this direction. Marina di Valletta, together

international examples.

to be the sole reason the marina exists.

Yet the opportunity remains enormous.

It may simply be the excuse.

with developments around Birgu and Portomaso, increasingly reflects the

P. 42

PROMO

Porto Turistico Marina di Ragusa

Porto Turistico Marina di Ragusa is a

include reception, meeting rooms, ATMs,

available. The yard is also a Volvo Penta-

welcoming marina in the centre of the

laundry facilities, beach access, and

authorised service centre and an official

Mediterranean; it offers modern facilities,

vehicle rentals. VAT of 10% applies to

Raymarine dealer.

a well-equipped boatyard, mooring

berthing and services.

assistance, and 700 berths for yachts up to 55m.

Entertainment options encompass The marina is protected from prevailing

dedicated restaurants, a lounge bar, a

winds and provides weather forecasts

gelateria, grocery shopping, jewellery

Amenities include free fibre-powered

upon request. A nearby bicycle lane

shops, retail outlets, and a hair salon.

Wi-Fi, water and electricity connections,

offers access to attractions. The

Porto Turistico Marina di Ragusa is

which can now be managed remotely,

boatyard provides technical assistance,

close to the seaside village of Ragusa,

parking, surveillance, a helipad, and a

shipbuilding technologies, and a 160-ton

a UNESCO World Heritage Site known

24/7 fuel station equipped with a self-

travel lift. Services such as maintenance,

for its well-preserved Sicilian baroque

service machine. Additional services

carpentry, rigging, and refrigeration are

architecture.

Porto Turistico Marina di Ragusa, Via Livorno, Marina di Ragusa T: +39 0932 230301 | E: info@portomarinadiragusa.com | W: portoturisticomarinadiragusa.it Radio: VHF 74 Latitude: 36° 42' 52'' N, longitude: 14° 32' 48'' E

P. 44

LIFESTYLE

Why smaller boats are having

A BIG MOMENT Skipper explores why smaller boats are becoming some of the Mediterranean’s most desirable status symbols, as a new generation of owners increasingly prioritises freedom, spontaneity, social boating and lifestyle-driven experiences over sheer size and operational excess.

There was a time when Mediterranean boating culture revolved

less like a traditional cruiser and more like a floating beach

around one simple principle: bigger meant better. Longer yachts

club designed for modern island-hopping culture. That is

secured the prime marina berths. Towering superstructures

precisely the point. The way people use boats today is changing

projected status across harbours from Porto Cervo to Antibes.

dramatically. Long static summers spent permanently moored

Owners competed quietly through size, crew numbers and

in Saint-Tropez or Porto Cervo are no longer the only aspiration.

increasingly extravagant onboard amenities. The yacht itself became the destination, a floating villa designed as much for display as for navigation.

But this summer across the Mediterranean, some of the most desirable boats are no longer necessarily the largest ones in the marina. Instead, attention is shifting towards premium day boats, performance RIBs and compact cruisers designed around something modern luxury increasingly values far more than scale: freedom.

From Ibiza and Formentera to Malta, Sardinia, Croatia and the Amalfi Coast, smaller boats are having a very big moment. And importantly, this is not simply a cost-saving trend. Many of the buyers driving this movement could easily afford significantly larger yachts. Some already own them. Yet increasingly, they are choosing boats that offer spontaneity, simplicity and a far more active relationship with the sea.

That shift has helped transform models such as the Saxdor 400 GTO into some of the most talked-about boats in Mediterranean marinas right now. With fold-down terraces, oversized social areas and aggressive contemporary styling, the Saxdor feels

Candela C-8

LIFESTYLE

P. 45

Owners increasingly want movement. Lunch in Formentera.

managing an 80-foot yacht with escalating marina fees, staffing

Sunset drinks in Capri. A quick weekend crossing from Malta

pressures and growing operational complexity.

to Sicily without requiring weeks of planning, multiple crew members or complicated operational logistics.

That reality is rarely discussed openly inside traditional yachting circles, but it is reshaping ownership behaviour across the

In many ways, boating is becoming active again. Few boats

Mediterranean. The rise of sophisticated walkaround models

represent this evolution better than the Axopar 37 Sun-Top,

such as the Pardo 38 perfectly captures this shift. With elegant

which has quietly become one of the defining boats of modern

Italian styling, luxurious outdoor lounges and layouts built almost

Mediterranean boating culture. Fast, practical and visually sharp

entirely around social living, boats like the Pardo feel designed

without trying too hard, it appeals to owners who value usability

for how people genuinely spend time onboard today.

and social flexibility over traditional yacht formalities.

This newer generation of boats is also changing the psychology of ownership itself. For decades, boating success was largely measured through size. Bigger yachts projected wealth, permanence and status. But modern luxury increasingly operates differently. Across hospitality, fashion and automotive culture, buyers are moving away from overt excess towards curated experiences, mobility and lifestyle integration.

Boating is following the same trajectory.

De Antonio D36 Many owners are quietly discovering that a highly specified 38- or 40-foot boat often delivers more actual enjoyment than The emphasis is no longer on formal interiors hidden below deck. It is about the outdoor atmosphere, movement and connection with the sea. Beach-club-inspired layouts, folddown terraces, modular seating and hidden outboards have transformed smaller boats into highly sophisticated lifestyle products. Many now deliver the visual drama and premium finishes once reserved exclusively for superyachts.

The De Antonio D36 Open is a perfect example. Its hidden outboard configuration creates an unusually clean silhouette, while the onboard layout feels more like a contemporary rooftop lounge than a traditional sports cruiser.

This evolution has also fuelled the rise of what could best be described as “micro luxury” — highly refined boating experiences delivered in smaller, easier and more flexible formats. And nowhere is that trend more visible than in Mediterranean day-boating culture itself. Across Ibiza, the South of France and increasingly Malta, owners are using boats differently. Instead of extended seasonal cruising programmes, many now favour shorter, more spontaneous escapes built around beaches, restaurants, swimming spots and social experiences. »

P. 46

LIFESTYLE

The boat becomes part of a broader lifestyle ecosystem rather

operation and futuristic Scandinavian styling, it feels radically

than a standalone status object.

different from traditional Mediterranean boating — yet perfectly aligned with modern conversations around sustainability and

Social media has accelerated this dramatically. The aspirational

intelligent luxury.

boating image today is no longer centred around formal dining tables and polished teak. Instead, it revolves around

Environmental awareness is also quietly influencing buyer

movement, energy and accessibility. A stylish centre-console

psychology. Smaller boats naturally consume less fuel,

drifting off Cala Jondal with friends onboard often projects a far

require fewer resources and create less operational waste.

more contemporary version of luxury than an oversized yacht

Increasingly, owners want their boating lifestyle to feel lighter,

permanently tied stern-to in Monaco.

more responsible and less excessive without sacrificing style or enjoyment.

That has been hugely beneficial for brands such as Saxdor, Axopar, De Antonio and SACS, all of which have successfully positioned smaller boats as aspirational products rather than entry-level compromises.

At the sharper end of the spectrum, high-performance models such as the Technohull Alpha 40 are attracting buyers who want adrenaline, speed and emotional engagement rather than floating real estate.

This is another important shift quietly happening within modern boating culture. Many owners increasingly value

Saxdor 400 GTO

how often they use a boat rather than its size. A fast, stylish 40-footer that gets used every weekend often delivers far greater lifestyle value than a larger yacht that requires crew

And perhaps that is the biggest shift of all. Because what is

scheduling, technical preparation and extensive planning every

happening across the Mediterranean right now is not simply

time it leaves the berth.

about boat size. It is about a changing definition of luxury itself.

Time itself has become one of the defining luxury currencies of

The boating world spent decades convincing owners that bigger

modern boating. Smaller boats offer lower operational stress,

automatically meant better. Bigger yachts, bigger crews, bigger

easier docking, simpler maintenance and significantly greater

marina footprints and bigger operational ecosystems became

spontaneity. Owners can decide to head to Comino, Capri or

symbols of success. But modern buyers increasingly seem

a hidden Sardinian anchorage almost instantly. That flexibility

unconvinced by that equation.

fundamentally changes the ownership experience.

Today, many value freedom over obligation. Simplicity over Technology is also helping drive the movement further. Smart

complexity. Mobility over permanence. Authentic experiences

helm systems, joystick docking, stabilisation systems and

over the dockside theatre. Smaller boats reconnect owners with

advanced navigation interfaces have dramatically reduced the

something the Mediterranean has always represented at its best:

intimidation factor traditionally associated with boating. Boats

movement, spontaneity and the simple pleasure of escaping

that once required an experienced crew can increasingly be

towards open water without friction.

comfortably owner-operated.

And that may ultimately explain why this segment feels so Meanwhile, electric and hybrid propulsion is beginning to

culturally relevant right now. Smaller boats are no longer being

reshape the category again. The Candela C-8 has become

viewed as stepping stones towards “real” yachts. Increasingly,

one of the clearest symbols of where premium boating may

they are becoming the smarter, sharper and far more liberated

be heading next. With hydrofoiling technology, near-silent

version of modern boating itself.

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P. 48

REVIEW

AZIMUT FLY 82 A new flagship joins Azimut Charter Club Malta

There is something unmistakably Azimut

significant addition to one of the island's

At almost 25 metres in length, the Fly 82

about the Fly 82. Long before you step

most exclusive charter collections.

strikes an impressive balance between

aboard, its flowing profile, expansive

Operated by Azimut Yachts Malta, the

size and intimacy. She comfortably

glazing and sculpted superstructure

club allows guests to experience the

accommodates up to eight guests across

announce that this is a yacht designed

latest generation of Italian-built yachts

four beautifully appointed cabins, while

to turn heads. Yet beneath the elegant

without the commitment of ownership.

separate crew quarters ensure discreet,

styling lies a yacht built just as much for

The arrival of the Fly 82 further elevates

attentive service throughout every

living as for making an entrance.

that offering, bringing flagship comfort,

charter.

contemporary design and superyachtNow joining the fleet of Azimut Charter

inspired living to the heart of the

Natural light floods the interior through

Club Malta, the Fly 82 represents a

Mediterranean.

expansive glazing, transforming the

REVIEW

P. 49

TECH TALK Length

Beam

24.79M

5.87M

Displacement

63.2T Engines

3 x VOLVO PENTA IPS 1200 (3x900hp) OR IPS 1350 (3x1,000hp) Fuel

Water

5,700L

1,100L

saloon into an elegant, open-plan living

Performance is another area where

For the local charter market, the Fly 82

space that feels constantly connected to

Azimut continues to innovate. Rather

fills an important niche. She delivers the

the sea.

than relying on conventional shaft drives,

volume, sophistication and amenities

the Fly 82 is powered by triple Volvo

expected of a much larger yacht while

The exterior is equally impressive. The

Penta IPS pod drives. Besides delivering

remaining perfectly proportioned for

aft cockpit naturally becomes the social

speeds approaching 32 knots, the system

exploring Malta, Gozo, Sicily and the

significantly improves manoeuvrability, reduces vibration and frees up additional interior volume by positioning the engines further aft. Docking becomes remarkably intuitive, while guests enjoy a quieter, smoother cruising experience.

As with many of Azimut's latestgeneration yachts, carbon fibre is used extensively throughout the superstructure. The lighter construction hub while at anchor, flowing seamlessly

enhances efficiency, lowers the yacht's

wider central Mediterranean. Whether

into the saloon through wide sliding

centre of gravity and contributes to

entertaining clients, celebrating an

glass doors. Forward, generous sunpads

greater stability without compromising

occasion, or enjoying an extended-family

provide a more secluded retreat, while the

structural strength.

escape, she offers effortless luxury with

expansive flybridge is where the Fly 82

unmistakable Italian flair.

truly comes into its own. Complete with

Combined with optional Seakeeper

multiple lounging areas, alfresco dining,

stabilisation, the result is a yacht that

a wet bar, and a second helm station,

remains composed whether cruising

For more information,

it serves as an outdoor living room,

between Malta and Sicily or relaxing

email the Azimut Yachts Malta team

perfectly suited to long Mediterranean

at anchor in the crystal-clear waters of

at sales@esprityachting.com, call

afternoons.

Comino.

(+356) 9944 2122, or visit esprityachting.com.

P. 50

REVIEW

The

X4⁶ MKII Evolution done right

The X46 MkII builds upon an already accomplished platform, introducing carefully considered refinements that enhance comfort, usability and the overall sailing experience.

Updating a successful yacht is often harder than designing a new one. Expectations are higher, owners quickly notice unnecessary change, and there is always the risk of fixing something that was never broken. With the X46 MkII, X-Yachts has taken a measured approach, focusing on refinement rather than reinvention.

The original X4.6 established itself as one of the standout models in the premium performance-cruiser segment, balancing engaging sailing characteristics with the practicality required for extended cruising.

The MkII builds upon those strengths with a series of thoughtful enhancements aimed at improving life both under sail and at anchor.

Among the most notable changes is a redesigned cockpit. Longer benches, extended coamings and a wider aft opening create a more sociable and comfortable environment without detracting from functionality. A revised German mainsheet system brings sail controls closer to the helm stations, making trimming more intuitive, particularly for

couples or smaller crews sailing short-handed.

The updated model also adopts X-Yachts' distinctive S-bow styling, lending the yacht a sharper, more contemporary profile while integrating practical benefits, including improved anchor handling and cleaner deck lines.

Below deck, the Scandinavian influence remains evident. Larger hull windows increase the amount of natural light entering the saloon and cabins,

REVIEW

P. 51

epoxy-infused hull construction, galvanised steel grid structure and lead keel continue to underpin the yacht's reputation for strength and offshore capability. These are qualities that matter just as much on a coastal cruise as they do during more ambitious passages.

The X46 MkII is not a revolutionary yacht, nor does it attempt to be. Instead, it reflects a mature understanding of what owners value most: better ergonomics, improved comfort and incremental gains that enhance the overall ownership experience.

contributing to a noticeably brighter atmosphere.

Updated upholstery options, refined detailing, and improved ventilation further enhance onboard comfort, particularly for owners who intend to spend In an industry where dramatic redesigns often

prolonged periods aboard.

dominate the conversation, the X4 6 MkII serves Importantly, the fundamentals that have defined

as a reminder that evolution can be every bit as

X-Yachts for decades remain unchanged. The

compelling as revolution. For sailors seeking a wellrounded performance cruiser with a proven pedigree, it represents a thoughtful update to an already respected platform.

TECH TALK Length

Beam

13.87M

4.27M

Draft

Displacement

13.87M

4.27M Engines

YANMAR 57HP Fuel

Water

340L

430L

For more information, contact Sailpower Ltd at (+356) 7949 4500, email info@sailpower.com.mt, or visit sailpower.com.mt.

P. 52

REVIEW

LAGOON 38 Built for the miles, not just the marina

David Anastasi puts the new Lagoon 38 through a far sterner test than a typical sea trial, discovering a cruising catamaran that delivers confidence, comfort and surprising offshore capability.

Most new catamaran reviews are written

stable, forgiving and without any

after a few hours sailing in settled

nervousness at the helm. The broad

conditions, usually with clean decks, full

beam and volume that make the boat

polish and a photographer’s breeze. My

so comfortable in harbour also give it a

first proper impression of the new Lagoon

settled, planted feel offshore. In stronger

38 came in a very different way: a winter

following conditions, the priority is not

delivery of around 700 nautical miles from

drama or speed; it is confidence, and the

Gruissan to Malta.

Lagoon delivered that well.

That route is a useful test for any cruising

Equally revealing was the experience of

catamaran. It includes the Gulf of Lions,

motoring into winds of up to 30 knots.

especially when punching into a short

the run past Sardinia, open water, short

This is where smaller cruising cats can

sea. The Lagoon 38 did not pretend to be

seas, cold nights and enough changeable

sometimes feel light, noisy or inefficient,

a heavy displacement passagemaker, but

winter weather to expose whether a boat is merely comfortable at anchor or genuinely reassuring at sea. Many reviewers have already described the Lagoon 38 as spacious, practical and family-friendly. All of that is true, but what impressed me most was how composed the boat remained when the delivery became less gentle.

Downwind, in 4-metre waves and winds touching 40 knots, even under bare poles the boat felt safe, predictable and easy to keep under control.

This was not performance sailing in the racing sense, and the Lagoon 38 is certainly not trying to be that kind of catamaran. But as a cruising platform, it behaved exactly as one would hope:

REVIEW

P. 53

it kept moving steadily and comfortably.

self-tacking headsail favours simplicity

The twin engines gave good control, the

over power, and anyone buying the boat

boat remained dry enough to be practical,

for private cruising should seriously

and the interior never felt like a place

consider the additional reaching sail.

you wanted to escape from. On a long

The helm position offers good visibility,

delivery, that matters.

The great strength of the Lagoon 38 is the

TECH TALK

way it combines seagoing usability with genuinely impressive living space. The cockpit and saloon work almost as one

Length

Beam

area, making watch changes, meals and

13.12M

6.65M

Displacement

10.24T Engines

2 x YANMAR 29HP DIESEL sense of space normally associated with larger cats. Access around the boat is simple, boarding is easy, and the layout

Fuel

Water

400L

500L

feels as if it were designed by people who understand how cruising boats are general life on board very easy. The cabins

actually used.

are generous for a boat of this length, and the owner’s version in particular gives a

but, like most raised-helm catamarans, it is a compromise among sailing control,

There are compromises. The standard

docking visibility, and cockpit integration.

The Lagoon 38’s purpose is to make cruising simple, comfortable and confidence-inspiring for families, owners and charter guests.

After 700 winter miles, including strong downwind sailing and hard motoring into breeze, my impression is that the Lagoon 38 is more capable than its “holiday catamaran” label suggests. It remains, first and foremost, a comfort-oriented cruising catamaran — but it can take a proper delivery in its stride.

For more information, contact the Mediterranean Yacht Sales team by email at info@medyachtsales.com or on (+356) 2134 6461.

TECH. IDEAS. BUSINESS. TECH

|

IDEAS

|

BUSINESS

POWERED BY ISSUE 6

COVER STORY

BOUTIQUE, BOLD, AND MADE IN MALTA 18 Inside Religa’s rise from a focused start-up to a live-casino and RegTech innovator making waves across Europe.

THE AGE OF CO-INTELLIGENCE

FROM ORBIT TO THE HIMALAYAS

SURVEILLING THE REPUBLIC

34 EY-Parthenon’s Theo Dix on why AI agents aren’t just supporting business, they are the business.

22 Prof Joseph Borg’s bold missions take Maltese bioscience to the edge of space and beyond.

40 How Malta’s quiet shift to biometric IDs and ANPR cameras is rewriting the rules of citizenship.

ISSUE #7 OUT AUGUST Read on bemags.com

POWERED BY

REVIEW

P. 55

DEANTONIO D42 Minimalism with muscle

The DeAntonio D42 is proof that striking

sunpad uncluttered, giving the yacht one

combining confident handling with the

design and everyday usability can coexist.

of the cleanest profiles in its class.

efficiency and convenience that outboard

With its plumb bow, clean sheerline

owners appreciate.

and concealed outboard engines, the

Below deck, the D42 is more practical

Spanish-built dayboat delivers the sleek

than its sporty looks suggest. Two

What sets the D42 apart is its balance.

appearance of an inboard-powered yacht

sleeping areas, a well-proportioned heads

It offers contemporary styling without

while retaining all the benefits of modern

compartment and good natural light

sacrificing functionality, delivering the

outboard propulsion.

create comfortable accommodation for

versatility to entertain, cruise or spend

TECH TALK Length

Beam

12.60M

3.99M

Displacement

7.6T Engines

3 x SUZUKI DF350 DUOPROP (1050hp) Fuel

Water

1,300L

250L

The 12.6-metre walkaround layout makes

weekend escapes without compromising

a few nights aboard in genuine comfort.

excellent use of space. Wide side decks

the primary role of a premium day cruiser.

In a crowded premium dayboat market,

provide easy movement around the

the DeAntonio D42 remains one of the

boat, while the generous beam creates

Power comes from triple Suzuki DF350

most distinctive and intelligently designed

impressive entertaining areas. A spacious

duoprop outboards producing 1050hp.

options available.

bow sunpad, flexible cockpit seating

Performance is exhilarating, with a

and twin folding dining tables make the

top speed approaching 46 knots and

D42 equally suited to relaxed cruising or

an effortless cruising pace in the high

For more information, contact

hosting family and friends. The signature

twenties. More importantly, the D42 feels

Strand Marine Ltd on +356 2147 2337 or

hidden-engine arrangement keeps the aft

composed and predictable underway,

info@strandmarinemalta.com.

P. 56

PARTNER FEATURE

RANGE ROVER SV ULTRA From marina to mountains

In a world where luxury is often measured by

From the outside, the changes are subtle yet

excess, the new Range Rover SV Ultra takes a

significant. A new Titan Silver Gloss finish, infused

different approach. It is quieter, more deliberate

with real aluminium flakes, gives the bodywork a

and meticulously crafted – a flagship designed not

liquid-metal appearance that shifts beautifully under

merely to impress, but to elevate every moment spent

changing light. Satin Platinum Atlas details, Silver

behind the wheel.

Chrome accents and distinctive 23-inch alloy wheels complete an exterior that is unmistakably Range

Described by the British marque as the pinnacle of

Rover, but with an added layer of exclusivity.

Range Rover luxury and technology, the SV Ultra represents the most sophisticated interpretation

Inside, the SV Ultra reaches another level altogether.

of the iconic SUV to date. It is a vehicle that blurs

Traditional ideas of luxury are challenged by the

the boundaries between automotive engineering,

use of innovative materials, including Ultrafabrics

contemporary design and sensory wellbeing.

upholstery finished in elegant Orchid White and

PARTNER FEATURE

P. 57

Cinder Grey tones. Intricate mosaic perforations and laser-etched detailing showcase the craftsmanship synonymous with the SV badge.

Yet it is the technology that truly sets the SV Ultra apart.

At the heart of the experience lies the world-first SV Electrostatic Sound System. Designed to recreate concert-hall quality within the cabin, the system uses ultra-responsive electrostatic speakers to deliver extraordinary clarity and precision. Combined with Range Rover's Body and Soul Seats and Sensory makes you feel. It is a sanctuary designed for those who value craftsmanship, comfort and effortless capability in equal measure.

Powertrain options include a potent V8 and a plug-in hybrid. At the same time, a fully electric SV Ultra is expected to follow, ensuring that the flagship remains relevant in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape.

Range Rover has long occupied a unique space between utility and luxury. With the SV Ultra, it moves even further into the realm of bespoke living.

Haptic Floor technology, occupants do not simply

It is not simply transportation. It is a statement that

hear the music – they feel it. The result is an

true luxury is no longer about being louder or faster.

immersive environment that transforms long journeys

It is about refinement, serenity and experiencing the

into moments of relaxation and escape.

journey in a way that few others can.

For Skipper readers, the appeal is obvious. Much like a beautifully appointed yacht, the SV Ultra is less about outright performance and more about how it

P. 58

BUSINESS

€400 MILLION AND COUNTING

Two hundred yachts, four hundred million euros, five years. Behind Malta's booming brokerage figures lies a quieter story about generational change, financial ingenuity and a small island's outsized ambition.

There is a particular kind of confidence that comes from being small and quick rather than large and slow. Malta has built an entire industry on it. While bigger jurisdictions wrestle with sprawling bureaucracies and glacial legislative timelines, this island of barely half a million people has spent the past two decades quietly assembling one of the Mediterranean's more improbable success stories: a yachting and yachtfinance hub punching several weight classes above its size.

The numbers, when they surface, tend to raise

the past five years. It is not a

Tauss Holdings, and who has

if we missed 10%," he said,

eyebrows. Roughly 200

figure conjured for effect. It

spent enough time inside

addressing a Malta Business

yachts, worth an estimated

comes from Nicholas Travers

these transactions to know

Network audience earlier this

€400 million, have passed

Tauss, who heads Fraser

where the soft edges of an

month — a rare moment of a

through Maltese hands over

Yachts' Malta office and leads

estimate lie. "I'd be surprised

broker putting a number on an

BUSINESS

P. 59

industry that usually prefers discretion to disclosure.

What makes the figure interesting is not simply its size, but what sits beneath it. An average transaction value of around €2 million sounds almost restrained for an industry synonymous with excess, until you understand why: mid-sized vessels dominate by volume, quietly pulling the average down while headline-grabbing superyachts skew the public imagination upward. Malta's yachting economy, it turns

fortune in tech and treats a

That legal infrastructure, in

Underlying all of it is a

out, is built less on trophy

yacht as one asset among

turn, has shaped a distinctive

market that, if anything, has

assets than on a steady

many, to be optimised rather

financing culture. Willem

undershot its potential.

churn of serious, mid-market

than enjoyed.

Steenkamer of St Julian's

ownership.

Finance described a resilient

Dr Galea pointed out that the

Malta's response has been

market above the €2 million

pandemic years produced the

That ownership profile is itself

to lean into exactly the trait

mark, though he was candid

industry's strongest two-year

shifting beneath everyone's

that built its shipping registry

about the tension building

run on record, and that the

feet. Dr Anthony Galea of AG

decades ago: nimbleness.

beneath the surface: can

surge in demand it triggered

Advisory, opening the MBN

"Malta's dominance has

Malta actually absorb more

has never fully unwound.

panel, drew on public sources

been about being quick to

growth? Many clients, he

He estimated that 20 to 30

and industry estimates to

adapt to changes in the

noted, prefer not to appear

Maltese families alone could

point to a demographic

frameworks," Travers Tauss

on a yacht's registration at

currently afford a €10 million

transformation few outside

told the panel, and it is hard

all, opting instead for leasing

yacht — a startling figure for

the sector have clocked: the

to argue with the logic. Where

arrangements in which the

a market often assumed to

average superyacht owner

larger jurisdictions require

finance house retains formal

be driven entirely by foreign

is now around 45, down

years to amend legislation,

ownership. This structure suits

capital.

from a traditional 60. It is a

Malta has repeatedly moved

privacy-conscious owners

shift with consequences far

in months. Dr Tonio Fenech,

but adds another layer of

For an island this size to

beyond birthdays. Younger

the advocate and MBN

complexity to an island already

matter this much in a global

owners charter differently,

director who moderated the

stretched thin in berths and

industry says something about

finance differently and

discussion, noted how Maltese

regulatory capacity. Angie

the value of moving fast while

expect different things from

legislative developments in

Vassallo of Bank of Valletta

everyone else is still filing

a jurisdiction — digital-first

asset finance have tended

confirmed the bank finances

paperwork. The next test,

service, flexible structuring,

to anticipate market practice

both Maltese and foreign

as growth presses against

faster turnaround. A 60-year-

rather than trail behind it — a

owners, tailoring solutions

Malta's physical and regulatory

old buyer with inherited wealth

subtle but crucial distinction in

across jurisdictions, evidence

limits, will be whether that

and a fondness for tradition

an industry where ownership

that Malta's appeal now

same agility can scale without

is a very different client from

structures evolve faster than

reaches well beyond its own

losing what made it work in

a 45-year-old who built a

most regulators can track.

shoreline.

the first place.

P. 62

GEAR

HEAT, SALT &

SMART SEAS From offshore internet and underwater drones to AI translation earbuds and floating LED systems, a new generation of gadgets is transforming Mediterranean boating. These are the products quietly reshaping how owners experience comfort, connectivity and lifestyle at sea in summer 2026.

By sunset somewhere off

boats and tenders to remain

scooters are transforming

connected far beyond marina

swimming and snorkelling into

has become its own floating

range. Remote working,

something far more immersive,

ecosystem. A sea scooter

streaming and island hopping

particularly among younger

drifts beside the tender.

now happen with surprisingly

owners and charter guests.

Floating LED lights illuminate

little compromise. Maritime

Few gadgets currently capture

the water. Guests recharge

package

the modern Mediterranean

devices through a magnetic

€1212 plus €250 monthly /

boating aesthetic better.

power hub while a smart

starlink.com

€1399 / sublue.com

1

Panarea, the swim platform

cooling box quietly keeps drinks ice-cold beneath the aft

2

4. Dometic smart cooling box

seating.

2. Timekettle AI translation

Cooling has become one of

earbuds

the biggest onboard priorities

Mediterranean boating in

Mediterranean cruising has

during increasingly brutal

2026 feels smarter, calmer

always been multilingual. AI-

Mediterranean summers.

and more connected than ever

powered translation earbuds

Dometic’s app-controlled

before. And unlike many past

are now making marina

cooling systems allow

marine trends, these gadgets

arrivals, fuel stops and local

owners to remotely manage

are not simply gimmicks.

interactions dramatically

temperatures while consuming

They are genuinely changing

easier across Italy, Greece,

less power than traditional

how owners cruise, relax and

Croatia and beyond. And

experience long summers at

for once, the technology

sea.

1. Starlink Mini portable

3

genuinely feels natural rather than gimmicky. €279 / timekettle.co

satellite internet Possibly the single biggest

3. Sublue underwater sea

shift in boating lifestyle tech

scooter

right now. Compact offshore

One of the fastest-growing

internet systems like Starlink

luxury boating gadgets on the

Mini are allowing even smaller

market. Compact underwater

4

GEAR

P. 63

5

8. SunFriend wearable UV

10. Fliteboard eFoil

officially overtaking outright

monitor

The Fliteboard eFoil has

performance as the new luxury

One of the most quietly

quickly become one of the

onboard.

relevant gadgets entering

standout luxury gadgets

€550 / maltacampingear.com

boating culture. UV exposure

in Mediterranean boating

trackers reflect how wellness

culture. Quiet, emission-

marine coolers. Comfort is

5. DJI Power magnetic charging ecosystem Modern boats now function

6

8

as floating charging stations.

Phones, drones, cameras, smartwatches and speakers all compete for power, making clean charging infrastructure essential. DJI’s modular magnetic charging systems offer a far more elegant solution than the cable chaos

across the Mediterranean.

is becoming part of modern

still found onboard many

€2500 starting / shibli.com

life at sea, particularly as

boats. €699 / dji.com

10

Mediterranean summers grow 7. EcoFlow ultra-thin solar

hotter and more physically

charging mats

demanding every season.

6. Orca thermal imaging

Portable solar technology

€40 / amazon.com

monocular

is finally becoming stylish

Thermal imaging is rapidly

enough for luxury boating.

9. Blueye underwater drone

moving from superyachts

Ultra-thin charging mats

Underwater drones are no

into mainstream cruising

now appear naturally

longer niche toys. Owners

culture. Compact monocular

across tenders, beach clubs

now use them for anchor

free and visually futuristic,

systems dramatically improve

and flybridges, helping

inspections, seabed

the electric hydrofoil allows

low-light navigation and

reduce generator use while

exploration, diving support,

riders to glide above the

anchoring visibility while

supporting increasingly tech-

and the creation of cinematic

water without waves or wind,

adding a surprisingly futuristic

heavy onboard lifestyles.

underwater content. They

making it hugely popular

dimension to night boating

€499 / dickens.com.mt

add an entirely new layer of

around Ibiza, Sardinia and the

exploration beneath the boat

South of France. Unlike jet

itself.

skis, Fliteboards are quieter,

€28000 starting /

cleaner, and easier to store

blueyerobotics.com

on board, fitting perfectly into

7

the modern premium boating 9

lifestyle. €8500 starting / eu.fliteboard.com Because ultimately, the smartest gadgets in 2026 are not about showing off. They are about making life at sea feel effortless.

P. 64

FASHION

SEA CHANGE From tailored swimwear to timeless deck shoes, these summer essentials capture the relaxed sophistication of Mediterranean living.

[All items available from mrporter.com]

RALPH LAUREN PURPLE LABEL Silk and linen-blend polo sweater €1,750 MASTERPIECE Lightning leather-trimmed nylon-twill and CORDURA® tote bag €270

RALPH LAUREN PURPLE LABEL Straight-leg stretchJACQUES MARIE MAGE

cotton twill shorts €700

+ Rocky Mountain featherbed Teewinot aviator-style acetate sunglasses €1,105

SEBAGO Portland Artisan suede boat shoes €220

FASHION

P. 65

ORLEBAR BROWN Bulldog mid-length swim shorts €275 MR P. James straight-leg linen drawstring trousers €245

JIL SANDER Silk shirt €1,190

Rolex certified pre-owned arrives at Edwards Lowell Edwards Lowell, Malta's long-standing

offering clients an official and trusted way

official Rolex retailer, has introduced the

to purchase pre-owned Rolex timepieces.

Rolex Certified Pre-Owned programme,

Eligible watches undergo rigorous authentication and servicing by Rolex and are sold with a two-year international guarantee, assuring both authenticity and performance. The initiative strengthens Edwards Lowell's decades-long relationship with Rolex while providing collectors with greater confidence and peace of mind. The Rolex Certified PreOwned collection is available exclusively at the Zachary Street boutique in Valletta and online at elcol.com

P. 66

NEWS

Restored — and rebuilding After 20 months of support tickets, regulatory escalation and legal intervention, BE. has regained control of its digital assets — but recovery doesn't end with restoration.

Readers of MONEY may recall our earlier feature exploring the realities of platform dependency and the challenges businesses face when access to critical digital assets is suddenly lost. The

still being boosted, visibility and client-

The recovery demonstrated that

affected assets included the Money,

facing activity were largely maintained.

persistence matters. What appeared

Skipper, Femme, Foodist, and Techmag

Externally, the disruption was barely

impossible for much of the process

brands, as well as the company's

visible — internally, it was anything but.

was ultimately resolved through documentation, escalation and patience.

advertising account and associated Facebook profile.

Getting to this point wasn't straightforward. The process spanned a

There were moments when it felt as

The assumption is that once access is

year and eight months, involving multiple

though the pages, the advertising

restored, everything simply returns to

support attempts, formal complaints,

account and the profile were gone for

normal. It doesn't.

and escalation through the Malta

good. They weren't.

Communications Authority and Coimisiún While the assets are back, there is still

na Meán in Ireland, and an EU-recognised

It's also a reminder of how dependent

a period of adjustment as advertising

dispute resolution process via ADROIT.

businesses have become on digital platforms. Relying on a single admin is no

systems, audience signals and internal A key turning point came with Chetcuti

longer enough. Business accounts, pages

Cauchi Advocates' involvement. Their

and advertising assets require shared

The experience also reinforced the

direct engagement with Meta's legal

access, clear ownership and built-in

value of having workarounds in place.

representatives helped move the matter

redundancy. Additional safeguards have

Alternative pages, including Money

beyond standard support channels and

now been implemented across all key

Features and Skipper Hub, remained

into a formal legal process, ultimately

assets.

active throughout, ensuring content

leading to the restoration of the affected

continued to reach audiences. With posts

assets.

workflows settle back into place.

Operations are fully back on track.

Looking back, the experience reinforced a simple truth: digital assets deserve the same protection as any other business asset. Getting access back is one thing.

Making sure it doesn't happen again is the real work.

Editor's note: This article follows MONEY's earlier feature, "When Meta Breaks: A Maltese Publisher's Account Vanishes, Support Collapses and the Fight Begins", published in issue 88.

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