Inside the 2025 U.S. Superyacht Summit: A Vision for the Future of Luxury Marine

1. Branding & Marketing: The Shift Toward Influence and Visibility

The opening panel, moderated by Diane M. Byrne of MegaYacht News, featured branding leaders Kelly Downey (Shamin Abas), Patrick Knowles (Patrick Knowles Design), and CMG's own Michael Schweiger, discussing how the superyacht industry must evolve its communication strategies.

"Social media is not optional—it's the new front door to the luxury market." – Michael Schweiger, CMG

The panel agreed on one key theme: The industry must embrace social storytelling to connect with a younger, highly affluent demographic. The use of influencers, immersive video content, and lifestyle branding was highlighted as essential in repositioning yachting from a static asset to a dynamic experience.

At CMG, this conversation validated our ongoing mission—to help luxury marine brands integrate seamlessly into the world of UHNWIs through elevated branding, digital innovation, and exclusive experiential campaigns.

2. Legislative Landscape: Navigating the Future of Waterways

The second panel, led by Julie Berry (CBRE Marina), Gene Moran (Capital Integration), Duncan Smith, and Matt Dacco, addressed pressing regulatory challenges. From waterway access to environmental policy, the conversation centered on the importance of unified representation in Washington, D.C.

With legislation impacting everything from marina development to natural resource usage, it's clear that the future of superyachts will be shaped not only on the water—but in policy rooms as well. CMG recognizes the value of aligning luxury marine development with sustainable, forward-thinking advocacy.

3. From the Owner’s Perspective: Passion Meets Practicality

Moderated by Graeme Lord, the Superyacht Owners Panel featured Chris Stacey of M/Y Tortuga (Tortuga Music Festival) and Craig Jackson of M/Y Driven (Barrett-Jackson), offering an intimate look at the joys and responsibilities of yacht ownership.

From the importance of elite crew management to the nuanced challenges of yacht purchasing vs. private aviation, the panel delivered raw insights.

"Buying a yacht is not just a purchase—it’s a commitment to a lifestyle. Choose wisely, and invest in experience." – Craig Jackson

For CMG, these stories reinforce our belief that luxury yachting isn’t about the vessel—it’s about the ecosystem around it. That’s why we create bespoke experiences, private events, and brand integrations that support yacht owners and elevate the value of ownership.

Looking Ahead: The Future Is Collaborative

The momentum continues with the next major event in Savannah this April, where further discussions will build on the Summit’s themes. CMG will remain at the forefront—offering creative strategies, branding support, and elite access to ensure the superyacht industry continues to evolve with vision, elegance, and cultural relevance.

Whether it’s branding for shipyards, curating high-profile yacht events, or creating platforms that bring together UHNWIs and luxury brands—CMG is here to shape what’s next.