At the World Yachting Summit, a panel of leading voices in the yachting and tourism industry—David Seal, Matty Zadnikar, Ra’anan Ben-Zur, and Laurent Pérignon, Head of Development and Content at WYS—offered a fresh perspective on the future of nautical tourism. The message was clear: successful cruising today is all about climate, convenience, and curated experience.
Weather First: The Foundation of a Good Cruise
Weather is a critical factor when choosing where—and when—to cruise. From sea conditions to temperature, the climate shapes the overall guest experience. As such, high-end charters tend to follow the sun: Mediterranean summers, Caribbean winters, and Southeast Asian getaways during dry seasons. Comfortable, predictable weather is no longer a bonus—it’s a baseline expectation.
Ports with Purpose: Location Drives Desirability
The panel emphasized that ports and marinas must be located close to commodities, nightlife, and cultural attractions. It’s not enough to dock in a beautiful but isolated bay. Today’s yachting clientele expects easy access to fine dining, shopping, vibrant local scenes, and curated excursions. A lively, well-connected harbor is now a key asset in the guest journey.
The 3-Hour Rule: Less Time Cruising, More Time Enjoying
Matty Zadnikar highlighted a crucial insight: most guests don’t want to cruise more than three hours a day. The modern yachting lifestyle prioritizes leisure, discovery, and comfort over long transits. This shift challenges cruise designers to craft shorter, more meaningful routes that balance sea time with immersive onshore experiences.
Experience is Everything: A New Direction for Nautical Tourism
Laurent Pérignon concluded that yachting is becoming less about luxury in isolation and more about meaningful, flexible, and locally grounded experiences. Today’s travelers want authenticity—local flavors, cultural exchanges, and unique adventures. The yacht is no longer the destination itself, but a vessel for curated exploration.
