NEWS

• The $1.5 Billion MarineMax Acquisition: In a historic consolidation shakeup, Blackstone-owned Safe Harbor Marinas entered an all-cash agreement to acquire MarineMax for $1.5 billion. Expected to close by the end of 2026, this megadeal completely reshapes marina networks and superyacht brokerage holdings.

• Sunseeker Restructuring: Sunseeker confirmed structural changes with the appointment of Scott Millar as CEO following its transition to new ownership, stabilizing the prominent British builder.

Market Surge & Mid-Year Data

• Massive July Growth: Data from BOATPro shows an 89.3% increase in yacht sales value for July 2026 compared to July 2025. Total transactions reached €762.4 million across 52 sales.
• Record First Half: The global superyacht brokerage market recorded €4.05 billion in sales during H1 2026, marking one of its strongest historical stretches and a notable leap from €3.61 billion in H1 2025. The average asking price for yachts over 24 meters climbed to €14.4 million.
• Listing Fragmentation: Brokers are facing a decentralized digital marketplace. Following steep listing price hikes by traditional single platforms (like Boats Group), firms are increasingly diversifying inventory across alternative channels like AYB Yachts and specialized forums to catch fragmented buyer audiences.

From 1 September, the MCA began issuing electronic Flag State Endorsements/Certificates of Equivalent Competency (E-FSE) certificates under Regulation I/10 of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).

“This change represents an important step in the MCA’s wider digital transformation programme, supporting our ambition to modernise services, improve customer experience, and provide more efficient, secure and accessible digital services to seafarers and the maritime industry. 

The move to electronic certificates does not change the legal status, validity or acceptance of UK FSEs. Electronic certificates will continue to provide evidence that the United Kingdom recognises a Certificate of Competency issued by another STCW Party in accordance with Regulation I/10. 

During a transitional period of up to 5 years and 6 months, both physical and electronic FSE certificates may remain in circulation. Existing certificates will remain valid until their expiry date and will be replaced through normal endorsement, certification or revalidation processes. 

The introduction of electronic certificates is the first stage in a broader programme of certificate digitisation, designed to make MCA services easier to access while maintaining the high standards of security, compliance and international recognition expected by the maritime sector. “

Further details can be found in the MCA Publication MIN 655 Amendment 1: https://lnkd.in/eV_KPNHs

Zero Emissions Project: The world’s first “fossil-fuel-free” production sailing yacht, Zero, hit the water, establishing a new green benchmark for the sub-30m sailing category