Has the charter market turned a corner? Insights from MYBA

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Welcome to Yacht Charter Market, the weekly newsletter dedicated to the world of yacht charter.

In today’s newsletter:

• Top story: Gunes Aysun on the MYBA Charter Show 2025

• Latest charter yacht updates: Okko for last minute availability, Edmiston offering a Feadship in June, a charter on the Amalfi Coast with Northrop & Johnson, sail at the Cyclades Cup with Fraser

• YachtEye: How YachtEye can help you prepare for this charter season

• Charter photo: @edmiston shared a great video of Lady Victoria

TOP STORY

San Remo returns to the spotlight 

Gunes Aysun on the evolution of the MYBA Charter Show and the state of the yacht charter market

With a long-standing career in the yachting industry, Gunes Aysun, owner of Galeo Yachting and a board member of MYBA, is no stranger to the dynamics of organising a successful charter show. Following this year’s MYBA Charter Show, which saw the event return to San Remo for the first time in decades, Francesca Webster sat down with him to discuss the move, its impact, and what it reveals about the state of the charter market.

How long have you been involved with MYBA and how did you take on the responsibility for the show?

I was elected to the MYBA board in 2024. Given my background, particularly with the TYBA Yachting & Brokers Association in Turkiye where I previously led the shows committee and served as president, it was a natural step for me to take responsibility for the show. When I joined MYBA, the association was already evaluating options for relocating from Genoa after a one-year agreement and I became closely involved from the outset.

How did the decision to return to San Remo come about?

San Remo holds historical significance, as the early MYBA shows were hosted there before moving to Genoa and then Barcelona. When we surveyed members following the Genoa last show, an overwhelming 85 per cent expressed a preference for San Remo. The marina’s management was also keen, especially as they were actively developing the infrastructure to welcome larger yachts. It was a collective wish from both the membership and the city and once the recommendation reached the board, we moved forward. Of course, it was not without its challenges – the marina is under new management and with the MYBA HQ team we did  several winter visits there  to iron out details. But the cooperation was excellent and in the end, I think the show was a success.

This year’s show seemed to have a particularly strong turnout, both in terms of yachts and attendees. Can you share some of the figures?

Indeed, San Remo's strategic location played a part. We had 84 yachts confirmed, with 81 attending, including two at anchor due to space constraints. There was even a waiting list. The fleet ranged from a 54-foot catamaran to seven yachts above 70 metres, the largest being 90 metres in length. We also welcomed approximately 750 brokers and central agents, which I believe is a record for MYBA. There were close to seventy exhibitors, and I expect that number will grow as confidence builds.

What was the mood on the ground? Did you sense optimism in the charter sector after some turbulent seasons?

Absolutely. The sentiment was noticeably positive, perhaps the most optimistic I have felt in recent years. I believe this season will surpass last year, especially in popular regions such as Greece and Italy, while new destinations like Southeast Asia are attracting attention. One trend we are observing is that clients are booking later, but they are still booking. The luxury charter market is robust, with plenty of fleet availability and seamless logistics for clients arriving by private aviation. It is a more ‘wait and see’ approach, but the demand is certainly there.

In terms of the show itself, how is MYBA evolving it to ensure it remains relevant to the industry?

We aim to improve while respecting MYBA's legacy – this was our 35th show, after all. While no drastic changes are planned, we are focusing on areas such as environmental responsibility and deeper community engagement. It remains a show by the industry, for the industry and MYBA’s platforms like YACHTFOLIO and the forthcoming YACHTFOLIO Router continue to support the charter sector. Crew engagement has become increasingly important, and initiatives such as the ‘All Hands on Deck’ competition, where I served as a judge, help showcase how vital crew interactions are to the charter experience. Guests now expect more than just the yacht – they seek immersive culinary, wellness and service-led experiences.

Do you think the move to San Remo contributed significantly to the show’s renewed energy and attendance?

Yes, it certainly did. People were curious and excited to experience a new – or rather, a historic – location. Registrations were strong from the moment they opened. A large and diverse fleet attracts brokers and the yachts present were all of high calibre. The timing also helped; we returned to MYBA’s traditional slot, which creates a seamless flow with the Greek and Turkish shows. It gives brokers flexibility and allows them to plan effectively.

Looking ahead, is San Remo set to be MYBA’s long-term home?

We currently have a one plus one year agreement with the marina’s management, so while we hope to continue in San Remo, this will depend on mutual discussions and the feedback we have just begun to gather from exhibitors and attendees. Personally, I see value in establishing consistency by staying in one location for some time. It allows for improvements year on year and avoids the complexities of constantly shifting venues. But of course, any decision will be collaborative between MYBA and the marina.

Finally, do you feel this year’s show highlighted the wider potential of these events to support local economies and the industry as a whole?

Very much so. The local authorities, including the mayor, were involved in the opening and the captains’ dinner. The marina made significant investments, including infrastructure upgrades to accommodate larger yachts. Events like these do not just benefit the yacht industry – they bring business and attention to the entire region. From what I heard, everyone – from captains to crew to brokers – felt it was a warm, well-executed, and enjoyable event. The weather certainly helped as well!

LATEST CHARTER UPDATES

🚀 Okko with last minute availability in August with Large Yacht Corp 

Reach out to the Large Yacht Corp team now

🌅 Final June availability with Lady Britt with Edmiston 

Find out more about the exclusive offer here

☀️ Charter Synthesis 66 on the Amalfi Coast this summer with Northrop 

See her walk-through video here

⛵ Charter Burrasca during the Cyclades Cup 12-15th June

Find out more on the Fraser website here, and reach out to her broker.

🏝️ Fraser offers Amore for end of May availability in the Bahamas

Find out more here

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