LET’S SHAPE THE FUTURE OF YACHTING — TOGETHER.
At TBSF25, your voice matters! This is your chance to step beyond the audience and become part of the conversation. We’re giving every attendee the opportunity to actively participate in shaping the future of our sector. No lectures. No spectators. Just 1 hour and 30 minutes of real conversations and solutions — built by the people who live the industry every day.
You’ll sit alongside fellow industry professionals to share your experience, discuss practical solutions, and help drive real change. All you have to do is choose the topic that resonates most with you from the list below, and join one of our 10 dedicated hackathon sessions. At TBSF25, your ideas have power. Bring your experience. Let’s build the future together.
CHECK OUT THE FANTASTIC TOPICS
Cost Transparency & Budget Optimization
“REFIT ROULETTE” NEEDS TO STOP
Refit budgeting in the superyacht sector has long been unpredictable, with owners and managers facing unexpected overruns and vague cost breakdowns. Unlike the aviation or hospitality industries, the yachting world still suffers from inconsistent invoicing and a lack of financial clarity, eroding trust between stakeholders.
This hackathon will explore how we can bring structure and accountability to the budgeting process. We’ll examine industry best practices for cost forecasting, ways to define project scopes in advance, and strategies to minimize unpleasant surprises at the final invoice stage.
Through collaborative discussion, participants will work towards frameworks that ensure transparency at every step — from initial quotes to final invoicing — helping build stronger, long-term relationships between shipyards, contractors, and yacht owners.
Expanding Superyacht Infrastructure
THE SPACE CRISIS NOBODY TALKS ABOUT
As yachts grow larger and more advanced, global refit and maintenance facilities are struggling to keep pace — particularly in the Mediterranean, where capacity is already stretched thin. Increasing wait times and logistical bottlenecks are forcing vessels to look further afield for service.
In this session, we’ll address the pressing need to rethink infrastructure strategies. From optimizing existing space and berth allocation to exploring sustainable shipyard expansions, participants will map out scalable solutions to meet growing demand.
We’ll also explore innovative approaches such as data-driven scheduling, temporary service points, and modular facility expansion. The goal: ensure that infrastructure growth keeps up with fleet evolution, safeguarding both service quality and industry sustainability.
Optimizing Subcontractor Management
FROM CHAOS TO COORDINATION
Refit projects rely on a web of subcontractors — from specialists in engineering and interiors to composite experts and electricians. Yet, without proper coordination, this complex network often leads to delays, disputes, and inconsistent quality.
This hackathon aims to bring order to the chaos. Together, we’ll discuss how shipyards can centralize subcontractor management, implement real-time communication tools, and create accountability systems that improve overall efficiency.
Participants will brainstorm solutions like performance tracking, streamlined invoicing, and better-defined workflows. The outcome? A roadmap for smoother refit operations and higher-quality outcomes for owners and managers alike.
Enhancing Customer Experience in Yacht Refit
LUXURY SHOULDN’T STOP AT THE SHIPYARD DOOR
For many yacht owners and captains, the refit process feels like a step down from the luxury service they’re accustomed to. Confusing updates, delayed timelines, and unclear costs disrupt what should be a seamless experience.
This hackathon will explore how we can elevate the client journey during refit projects. We’ll discuss real-time project tracking, automated updates, and tools for design visualization that keep clients informed and confident in the process.
We’ll also explore the shared responsibilities between clients and shipyards, aiming to align expectations from day one. The goal: redefine the refit experience to match the high standards of the superyacht lifestyle.
Cybersecurity in the Superyacht Industry
WILL THE FIRST BIG HACK BE A WAKE-UP CALL?
As superyachts become increasingly connected, they’re turning into attractive targets for cyberattacks. Navigation systems, onboard networks, and sensitive owner data are all vulnerable, and the industry still lacks consistent cybersecurity standards to protect them.
In this hackathon, we’ll address how to integrate cybersecurity protocols into both new builds and existing yachts, manage third-party access, and promote continuous monitoring to detect threats early. Crew training, layered network security, and alignment with insurance and regulatory frameworks will all be on the table for discussion.
The goal is clear: protect owners, guests, and crew by building a cyber-resilient yachting industry before the inevitable first major attack forces action. Let’s work together to close the gaps and stay ahead of the threat.
Next-Gen Antifouling & Environmental Compliance
THE INDUSTRY’S BIGGEST SUSTAINABILITY CHALLENGE
Anti-fouling solutions balance between performance and environmental impact and this fine line is getting tighter.
As the ocean temperatures rise and biofouling hull colonization increases, superyacht anti-fouling performance finds itself at a tipping point: reaching a balance between efficacy, sustainability, and human health.
This hackathon will explore the current regulatory landscape — from the European Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) to IMO guidance — and its implications for manufacturers, shipyards, and yacht owners. With all anti-fouling formulations locked by the BPR until at least 2029, the challenge is clear: maintain effectiveness in harsher marine conditions.
Participants will discuss: the current anti-fouling technologies, emerging solutions, parameters for tailored coating schemes, maintenance and how can we collectively drive a shift that balances environmental responsibility, performance expectations, spread of invasive species and commercial viability.
This is not just a regulatory challenge, it’s a test of the industry’s commitment to reach the balance between sustainability and efficacy.
Upskilling the Superyacht Workforce
THE TALENT CRISIS WON’T WAIT
The superyacht sector faces an acute talent shortage. As experienced professionals retire and new technologies emerge, the need for skilled workers has never been more urgent.
This hackathon focuses on solutions to attract, train, and retain the next generation of talent. From revitalizing apprenticeships to forging partnerships with technical schools and establishing clear career pathways, we’ll map out a strategy to future-proof the workforce.
We’ll also explore how to position the sector as an attractive career option for young professionals, offering modern workplace culture, growth opportunities, and continuous learning.
Enhancing Communication & Marketing in the Sector
WHY ARE WE SO BAD AT THIS?
Despite its craftsmanship and innovation, the yachting industry struggles to communicate its true value. Public perception often focuses on excess rather than economic impact, job creation, or sustainability efforts.
This session will dive into how we can reshape the narrative. We’ll explore proactive storytelling, community engagement, and modern marketing tactics that go beyond luxury clichés.
Participants will collaborate on ways to promote the technical excellence and positive contributions of the sector, creating a unified voice that resonates with policymakers, media, and the wider public.
Eco-Friendly Marinas & Renewable Energy Solutions
REIMAGINING MARINAS AS ENERGY HUBS
Marinas consume enormous amounts of energy, yet many rely heavily on outdated, fossil-fuel-based systems. As hybrid and electric yachts gain traction, the gap between sustainability goals and marina capabilities widens.
In this session, we’ll explore how marinas can become energy self-sufficient, integrating solar, wind, and smart grids to reduce emissions and operational costs.
We’ll discuss practical steps like expanding shore power infrastructure, developing hydrogen or biofuel bunkering, and creating business models that attract eco-conscious yacht owners. The future marina is more than a docking point — it’s a clean energy hub.
Improving Waste & Water Management in Marinas
SOLVING THE INDUSTRY’S “DIRTY SECRET”
Water waste and pollution remain some of the most critical — and overlooked — challenges in marina operations. From excessive potable water use to poor waste segregation, the current approach is neither sustainable nor efficient.
This hackathon will explore scalable solutions such as seawater filtration, rainwater harvesting, and smart monitoring systems to improve environmental compliance.
We’ll also tackle better waste management systems for greywater, bilgewater, and hazardous materials. The objective is clear: move marinas from reactive to proactive environmental management, ensuring long-term sustainability and regulatory alignment.
2
DAYS
300
ATENDEES
15
NETWORKING HOURS
+50
IMPACTS
