The Superyacht Forum returns to RAI Amsterdam on 16-17 November 2026, bringing together the industry's most influential decision-makers during Metstrade week. The event has established itself as the premier thought leadership platform for senior figures across the global superyacht sector, from owners' representatives and builders to designers, suppliers and innovators.
The Superyacht Forum's timing during Metstrade week is strategic. The conversations that begin at The Superyacht Forum - around innovation, operational challenges and industry evolution - continue directly onto the Metstrade show floor, where delegates can connect with the suppliers, technology providers and innovators capable of turning those discussions into practical solutions.
This year's Forum is built around the theme "Accelerate the Evolution". Rather than simply discussing the industry's future, delegates will be challenged to actively shape it, moving beyond conversation toward actionable change.
A programme designed to challenge convention
The Superyacht Forum's 2026 programme is intentionally structured to push beyond traditional industry thinking. By combining in-depth discussions on superyacht construction, operation and marketing with keynotes and breakout sessions that draw on expertise from outside the yachting world, the event aims to introduce fresh perspectives and identify opportunities for meaningful transformation.
The programme is curated in collaboration with the Superyacht Industry Advisory Council (SIAC), which brings together key associations - including SYBAss, MYBA, IAMI, ICOMIA, PYA and IYBA under the Superyacht Alliance umbrella - to ensure content directly addresses the sector's most pressing needs.
Opening the 2026 edition, Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, former NATO Secretary General and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, will deliver a keynote exploring geopolitical influences and the critical role of leadership in uncertain times.
"In times of uncertainty, leaders need more than answers to today's challenges; they need a deeper understanding of the forces shaping tomorrow,” de Hoop Scheffer explains. “Drawing on my experience leading NATO through a period of significant geopolitical change, this keynote will explore how organisations can navigate uncertainty, strengthen resilience and make informed decisions in an increasingly complex world. These insights are as relevant to the superyacht industry as they are to governments and international institutions."
Adding a data-driven perspective, Erik Floor will present key findings from the latest SYBAss (Superyacht Builders Association) Annual Economic Report. His keynote will examine the global economy, the evolution and geographic distribution of wealth and developments within the ultra-high-net-worth population.
Breakouts, brainstorms and think tanks
Beyond the main stage, the two-day programme features a range of presentations, discussions and breakout sessions covering topics central to the industry's future, including safer yacht designs informed by operational experience, using technology to reduce operational complexity, and securing industry talent in the coming decades.
Four dedicated brainstorm sessions will focus on how the superyacht industry can attract and retain future talent while preserving institutional knowledge and experience. The outputs from these sessions will be carried forward by Superyacht Alliance Think Tanks throughout the year, helping to shape industry strategy and thinking over the long term.
The Superyacht Forum is evolving beyond its two-day format into a year-round platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration and industry development. The goal is to sustain important conversations throughout the year and support ongoing transformation across the sector, rather than confining progress to a single annual gathering.
Networking at the core
Meaningful connection is a defining feature of The Superyacht Forum, with more than half of the programme intentionally designed to facilitate networking. Generous breaks between sessions and end-of-day gatherings provide ample opportunity for delegates to connect.
New for 2026, clearly marked matchmaking zones and informal lounges will further encourage business and social interactions, creating space for conversations that lead to collaboration and innovation.
Simplified ticketing for 2026
The Superyacht Forum has introduced a streamlined ticket structure for 2026. A single all-inclusive delegate ticket, priced at €675 (ex VAT), provides full access to the complete programme and includes networking drinks at the close of both days.
Register for The Superyacht Forum here.
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