With nearly 500 charters booked so far in 2023, TJB Super Yachts has seen a 12 per cent year-over-year increase in UK clients and a 28 per cent year-over-year increase in USA clients in the last year alone, leading to office openings in Palm Beach in Florida and Capri in Italy.
And with the 2024 superyacht charter market anticipated to grow even more, Tim Johnson, TJB Super Yachts founder and CEO, shares his top five trend predictions for the year ahead.
Sharing superyacht charters for a slice of the billionaire lifestyle
As luxury hotel room rates soar, superyacht charter is becoming increasingly alluring to a wider affluent clientele searching for a taste of the billionaire lifestyle. Joining forces with friends and family for a unique superyacht charter gives aspirational consumers an unrivalled and exclusive luxury getaway.
“Charter fees start from approximately £40,000 (plus expenses) for a fully staffed yacht with four en-suite cabins. The experience is entirely tailor-made to the group, with Michelin trained chefs, esteemed personal trainers, massage therapists and dedicated water-sports instructors on board, providing a level of freedom, privacy, service and itinerary curation that is unmatched by even the most extravagant of hotels,” says Tim.
The revival of the sailing yacht
The most notable difference presented by the younger superyacht clientele is their more conscious attitude towards the environment and their interest in luxury sailing yachts. Powered largely by alternative fuel sources, sailing yachts bring a unique, exhilarating on-water sailing experience. This, coupled with high tech on board amenities and organic, local cuisine, creates an attractive proposition for a more eco-friendly escape on the water.
“The investment in and innovation of sailing yachts signifies the future of the industry – their eco-friendly advantage is undeniable and we’re excited by the increased demand we’re seeing from our clients,” explains Tim.
A new generation of water toys
Adventure enthusiasts are turning to water toys for more action packed days on the water. Increasingly sporty, thrilling and eco-friendly, no superyacht is complete without an arsenal of toys to make the experience even more unforgettable. One of the most popular of 2023 has been Seabob’s latest F5 SR model, an electronically powered diving scooter used to explore the ocean, with a top speed of 20 km/h and a diving depth of 40 meters.
“Water toys are regularly the highest priority for our charter clients when choosing a yacht and suitable charter destinations. The yacht is no longer the destination, it’s important that they offer opportunity for fun and action off-board too,” says Tim.
Exploring new frontiers
Superyacht culture is changing – whilst sipping Champagne under the sun in the port of St. Tropez is the ultimate status symbol, there’s an emerging scene of yacht charter clients embracing longer journeys in remote destinations – from the polar regions to the far corners of the Indonesian archipelago.
“Clients are getting more adventurous and choosing destinations typically not associated with private superyacht hire. From Papua New Guinea to the Norwegian fjords and Antarctica, we’re seeing an increased appetite for exploration in 2024 and looking forward to pushing the boundaries of adventure even further,” says Tim.
Hanse Explorer (pictured above) is one of the most sought-after expedition yachts for 2024 – her cruising locations for the next year include Melanesia, Antarctica, Patagonia, and The Falklands.
Taking remote working to the water
A new billionaire is created every 17 hours, 80 per cent of which are self-made and able to run their businesses from just about anywhere – including a yacht – often using them as a confidential space to broker deals and host clients. This trend is being recognised in yacht design and refurbishment, with luxury office space and on board meeting rooms becoming a clear priority.
“With technology and high speed Wi-Fi on board better than ever, we’re already seeing demand for longer charters in 2024 from our clients wanting to spend additional time on board to maximise hybrid working,” explains Tim.
TJB Super Yachts presents a departure from traditional superyacht brokerages by providing a transparent and educational approach to superyacht charter for the emerging market, guiding them through the process of choosing a yacht that is right for them. The team of charismatic young brokers arrange full concierge service from door to deck, and step foot on every superyacht before it’s recommended for charter.
