Passing The Helm

As 2025 marks the first time in history that seven generations will travel simultaneously, the concept of luxury travel and yacht ownership is shifting. Far from being simple assets, today, yachts are used for forging relationships, nurturing passions, and experiencing meaningful adventures spanning generations. 

For many, a love for the yachting lifestyle and the ocean is more than a personal passion; it is a legacy often inherited and passed down through family trees. Many IYC fleet owners have long been tied to the ocean, whether as former captains, lifelong sailors, or those raised by the coast, all naturally drawn to time on the water. Such passion has taken on new meanings in today's ultra-connected and ever-busy world, where time together has become more valuable than ever before. 

Yachts have become retreats for high-quality, uninterrupted family time, offering a unique escape from daily distractions and allowing groups to unwind and connect. Take the Kourtesis' family yacht, the 108'11" (33.2m) XIPHIAS, "It is a family boat," says the owner, whose son discovered the yacht and recognized its potential. "We are using it with family and friends with a plan for everyone to use the boat as much as possible together." For the family, whose roots run deep in Andros Island's seafaring tradition, XIPHIAS represents more than a purchase but a continuation of their maritime legacy. 

This sentiment is increasingly reflected across the industry, where a generation of owners are approaching ownership with a fresh perspective. Richard Gray, IYC's Head of Sales UK, observes: "Over the years, we have noticed a shift toward a younger generation of buyers - well-informed about the market and clear on their preferences." These owners are bringing different priorities to the table, particularly regarding family-friendly design and sustainability. "There is a noticeable movement toward eco-conscious ownership, with more consideration given to how sustainable a yacht can be," Gray adds. 

Like XIPHIAS, the owner of the 126'4" (38.5m) NAIA has also embraced yachting to unite their family. Even the name reflects this bond, representing the initials of all family members. "Our daughters were raised close to the water, and we have spent summers in Mykonos every year since they were young," says the owner. Now 18 and 20, the children's busy schedules can make time together more challenging. "I want to enjoy the yacht with my kids, so NAIA has become an amazing excuse to get us all together."

Beth Hamilton, owner of the 141'1" (43m) SANCTUARY, shares similar thoughts. As part of a blended family, she sees the yacht as an ideal space where multiple generations can come together and share memories, regardless of age. More than just symbols of status and luxury, superyachts are now connected spaces designed to strengthen family ties across physical boundaries and generations. 

This focus on family functionality is consequently reshaping yacht design. Today's yachts are increasingly tailored for varying uses and feature multigenerational amenities, from children's playrooms to wheelchair-friendly access. "In recent years, there has been a growing demand for onboard elevators, allowing guests to move effortlessly between decks," notes Gray. "Recessed exterior doors have become a key feature, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor transition - especially important for families with young children or older guests." 

At just 30 years old, Antonio Ivanisevic showcases these generational bridges through his yachts at Croatia-based shipyard Tramontana Yachts. As the fifth generation of a seafaring family, he designs superyachts that honor traditional maritime principles while catering to modern family demands. "It is not just about aesthetics and technology, but we are maritime-focussed, and below the water line, we will always use traditional build techniques," he explains. 

With two young daughters himself, his approach to involving them in the business - having them wear crew t-shirts during visits - demonstrates how he aims to continue his yachting passion. Ivanisevic has built upon his family's yachting legacy with his five brothers and closest friends, continuing a people-focused strategy; he also involves Captains in the company's future. "The legacy of our yachts is not just for my family but for the people around us," he adds. 

Recognizing the evolving ways families use their yachts, designers are prioritizing flexibility. Many of the IYC fleet boasts modular layouts and convertible cabins that transform seamlessly - play areas become evening entertaining lounges and cabins to accommodate nannies or mixed guests. Exemplifying this, and in addition to being wheelchair friendly, the 213'3" (65m) ARTISAN also has a dedicated children's playroom onboard. 

As Ivanisevic notes when referring to 170'8" (52m) REPOSADO (for sale and for charter): "Parents can listen to Sinatra in the salon while kids have their own gaming party upstairs, and someone else can be resting down below - it's all about this connectivity." Such flexible usage, coupled with advanced technology, ensures that yachts simultaneously accommodate varying age groups and interests. 

With a growing emphasis on legacy, sustainability has naturally become a crucial factor for younger buyers looking to preserve not only the yacht itself but also the marine environment for future generations to enjoy. "Our yachts are super low-consumption, under 90L per hour; younger clients really appreciate this," notes Ivanisevic. 

Today's buyers are undoubtedly bringing fresh perspectives and priorities to the industry. Younger, more diverse owners are prioritizing experience over status. Yachts are no longer just simple assets but are evolving into these platforms for connection, designed to reflect their owners' values and aspirations for future generations. 

As the landscape continues to adapt to changing preferences, it is clear that the yachts of tomorrow will continue to be more than symbols of success; they will be ongoing legacies that nurture the yachting passion passed down for generations to come.

This article was featured in issue 13 of HORIZONS magazine. Read the full digital version HERE.