The latest news from around the world on mergers, acquisitions and exits across all sectors of the boating industry.
Mergers, Acquisitions & Exits
IBI office closed for long Bank Holiday weekend
Normal service will resume on Tuesday, May 26
Horizon Yachts holds global premiere of new Lexus LY680
The 68ft model was built by Horizon’s Vision Shipyard division
Forte Yachts strengthens international network with Adaly Yacht
The Italian shipyard targets growth across key European and Caribbean yachting markets
Southern Wind launches sixth SW96 hull in Cape Town
Performance-focused Fortissimo features racing-oriented deck layout and lifting keel, with Mediterranean and Caribbean sailing programme planned
EU Commission publishes guidance on recreational craft customs and VAT
The publication follows continued engagement by EBA and EBI, which have consistently called for clearer, more practical and harmonised interpretation of EU customs rules
ExploMar expands into France with SAS Opensea
The partnership targets growing demand for electric marine propulsion across France and the Caribbean
Gemini Marine exports rescue RIBs to flood-hit Queensland
South African RIB builder confirms order for 10 shallow-draft flood-rescue craft as demand for emergency response boats grows
Catana appoints Australian distributor for Bali and YOT brands
d’Albora Yacht Brokers will handle distribution and representation across Australia
Finnish boat designer Sakari Mattila: a man of mystery and success
Finnish boat designer Sakari Mattila has spent decades quietly reshaping the industry, creating some of its most recognisable brands while challenging convention with bold ideas and an unconventional path to success
People on the Move this Week
New appointments at Ancasta, Buckler’s Hard, GOST and more
Ferretti Group takes three honours at Blue Design Awards 2026
Ferretti Yachts 800 recognised as Best Motoryacht under 24m, while Riva receives awards for brand excellence and advertising creativity at the Blue Design Summit in La Spezia
Northstar enters South American market with Ecuador dealer appointment
The Turkish RIB builder has partnered with Luxury Marine to establish its first presence in South America
Tigé Boats appoints brand experience manager and pro team lead
Blue Springs Marine closes after more than 60 years in business
2026 Australian Marine Industry Award winners announced
Century Boats to relaunch
Valhalla Yacht Sales opens North Carolina location
Santasevera 52 new imagery unveiled as sales reach 10 units
Independent study validates WATCHIT collision-prevention system effectiveness
Two Weeks to Go: IBI Summit 2026’s US Market Intelligence and M&A Strategy session offer critical insights as industry faces pivotal moment
Off The Hook Yachts to rebrand as NextBoat
Australian industry association launches Marine Brokers Accreditation Program
Mediterranean Superyacht Forum outlines five priorities for regional competitiveness
Garmin selected as an official supplier for Luna Rossa
Sailfish Boats founder Paul Hoppes Jr dies
Majesty previews 145 superyacht in UAE despite regional tensions
RWB Marine secures exclusive Australian distribution for AquaAmp wireless charging
Brazilian builder targets 50% export share with $8m infrastructure investment
ICASA blocks ministerial push to relax BEE rules amid mounting Starlink pressure
Yachting Ventures to host IBEX Start-Up Pavilion for third year
Flexiteek reports strong first year at US fabrication facility
Ferretti Group reports Q1 revenue decline amid softer market conditions
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