Over the four days of the Monaco Yacht Show, a series of thought-provoking conferences took place, offering education and debate on the most pressing topics in the industry. The common thread across all of them was clear: evolution and innovation.
One highlight was the roundtable “Refit as a Path to Sustainability, Maximising the Potential of Existing Yachts”, featuring Monaco Marine’s Arthur Bohr, alongside Alberto Perrone Da Zara (Lürssen Refit) Gianni Paladino (Lusben), and Paolo Balzano (Palumbo Refit). The session was moderated by Enrico Chibber, journalist at Superyacht Times, which also sponsored the conference series.
The discussion centred on how refit yards are adopting sustainable approaches and what more can be done.
The panellists’ first observation is about the ISO:
Most shipyards should now be ISO certified, a proof of the yards’ dedication towards a better environment.
Monaco Marine is committed to sustainability and aims to minimise its environmental impact. The company has implemented various initiatives to promote clean energy, water treatment, and waste management, as well as energy efficiency.
Monaco Marine's shipyards have obtained several ISO certifications, including ISO 50001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001. These certifications demonstrate the company's commitment to quality, environmental management, and occupational health and safety standards.
The second observation is that there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution, especially when distinguishing yachts above or below 50 metres. Many of the problems are finding the space to adapt the yacht to some of the new energy efficiency technologies.
As Alberto noted, refits are often restricted by time and scope: “Sometimes we have projects with a sustainability angle, but it can quickly be constrained by the importance of the budget that comes with it.”
Paolo added that owners’ interest in ecological projects is growing, though challenges such as limited water depth in certain areas persist. Arthur emphasised Monaco Marine’s long-standing commitment: “The company has spent 3 years developing a guide of over 100 sustainable solutions applicable to refits. There are real, concrete and mature solutions; they just need to be shared through the industry. They also need to be adopted by captains, managements and owners.” He also highlighted the growing shift among owners toward year-round yacht use, which adds further layers of environmental responsibility.
Alberto showcased an exciting innovation: Liba, a fast-growing African tree that could replace teak. With similar properties but far greater sustainability, it offers a viable and responsible alternative for future refits.
All panellists agreed on the need to continue investing in research and developing new solutions to propose to clients. Arthur pointed out that legislation changes, such as the restrictions on cruising zones to electric-only vessels in specific zones. He points out: “ Such actions will inevitably accelerate innovation, forcing shipyards and engineers to adapt. When the laws kick in, we have no choice but to find solutions.”
As public perception of yachting remains under pressure, the industry must lead by example in driving sustainable change. Encouragingly, each participant confirmed ongoing efforts within their own organisations, from greener working practices, additional internal research or cleaner energy solutions.
Arthur concluded by mentioning: “ Monaco Marine’s partnership with SMEG, Monaco’s green electricity provider. It’s by integrating worldwide experts, mostly on land, that we can benefit from their expertise and apply it to our niche business of yachting and refit. This strategic partnership through intelligence and technology will allow Monaco Marine to perform data mapping on board yachts to offer targeted solutions to decrease yacht consumption.”
The session ended on an optimistic note, with panellists agreeing to reconvene before next year’s show, united by the goal of identifying even more ways to make yachting a truly sustainable industry.
Credit image: Muriel Barberi
