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SPECIAL FEATURE Asia’s Yachting Leaders 2021
ASIA’S O
ne of Yacht Style’s signature annual features, our
listing of the top yachting leaders in Asia recognises
those personalities developing and shaping the
yachting industry in the region along with newcomers
trying to break new ground and make things happen.
YACHTING
For 2021, we’ve reduced the list from the 150 featured last year
due mainly to Covid’s impact on races and regattas, and a quietening
in yacht sales in several countries and regions, although Hong Kong
was the most notable exception to the rule for both racing and
general yachting activity.
LEADERS
We highlight leaders from as far west as the UAE and India across
to Japan in the east. However, the spread of countries is generally
reflective of Yacht Style’s main territories across Greater China and
Southeast Asia, and is dominated by personalities from Hong Kong,
China, Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines
and Vietnam. The countries listed after the entrants’ names typically
reflect their main residence.
Overall, our aim continues to be recognising people driving active
Yacht Style unveils the 2021 edition of its annual list of dealerships, brokerages, charter and insurance companies, leaders
Asia’s Yachting Leaders, highlighting those driving the of national or regional organisations, shipyard owners and leaders,
marina investors and operators, high-profile yacht owners, successful
boating industry forward across the region. sailors and those bringing new brands and trends into the region.
©BOAT LAGOON YACHTING
94 95
SPECIAL FEATURE Asia’s Yachting Leaders 2021
RICHARD ALLEN MOHAMMED TENGKU AMIR SHAH OLIVIER BESSON ADAM GEOFFREY BOND
(HONG KONG) ALSHAALI (UAE) (MALAYSIA) (HONG KONG) BLACKMORE (THAILAND)
Allen has been Group General Alshaali is Chairman of Gulf Craft, HH The Crown Prince of Besson is founder and CEO of Asia (HONG KONG) Bond is the founder of Rawin
Manager at Simpson Marine since which he co-founded in 1982 and Selangor, Tengku Amir Shah Yachting, which represents Monte Commercial Director of Management and Chairman of
2018, having previously held the developed into the Middle East’s most Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah is Carlo Yachts and Prestige in Hong Asiamarine and Broker for Project Ocean Cleanup. Under Rawin
roles of Beneteau Group Sales prolific superyacht builder. He has Honorary Life Commodore of the Kong, Macau, Indonesia, Malaysia, Fraser, Blackmore had a Management, he established Asia’s
Manager and then Group Sales held many international roles including Royal Selangor Yacht Club, which Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, strong 2020 in his primary largest private fleet of Sunseekers
Director since his arrival in Hong ambassador to the USA, ambassador celebrated its 50th anniversary in where the company opened an role with Fraser, selling four in 2019. As well as working with
Kong in 2012. Allen effectively to the Security Council, representative October 2019. An active sailor, he office in 2020. It also represents 27m-plus yachts through the Sunseeker Thailand on management
holds the No. 2 position at Asia’s at the UN European Office in Geneva, frequently competes in the Raja Nautique in Hong Kong and the calendar year, representing of the fleet, he has organised lavish
biggest yachting dealership and and finally Minister of State for Foreign Muda Selangor International Regatta, Philippines, and Fountaine Pajot in buyer and seller in all cases. yachting events across Thailand,
ASIA’S YACHTING
helps manage over 100 employees Affairs before retiring in 2008 and a race founded in 1990 – the year he the Philippines, where it also has Working in the industry since Cambodia and Vietnam. Last year, he
in 12 offices and 10 service centres dedicating himself to Gulf Craft. Dealers was born – by his father, the Sultan an office. The Frenchman arrived 2007 and based in Asia since expanded into the superyacht scene,
in seven countries and regions in Asia include Farfalla Marine (Hong of Selangor. In May 2002, aged 11, in Hong Kong as an automotive 2013, he has helped hundreds designing and working on bespoke
around Asia. An experienced sailor, Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Tengku Amir was proclaimed Raja engineer in 2005 and two years later of clients buy and sell yachts. upgrades in the 40m-60m range in
LEADERS
the Brit previously worked for Laos), B Yachts (Singapore, Malaysia, Muda (‘Crown Prince’) of Selangor launched Asia Yachting, which has With many new central Europe and Southeast Asia. His first
Sunsail (2000-2003) and Ancasta Indonesia) and Go Boating Thailand (for and was formally installed in also developed strong brokerage and listings over 37m, he’s looking project is due for release and re-
(2003-2012). Silvercraft and Utility Series). October 2016. yacht-management divisions. forward to 2021. launch in mid-2021.
KIRATI JESUS ‘JUN’ NIGEL BEATTY
ASSAKUL AVECILLA (JAPAN) ALISTER MARIA VICTOR CHA
(THAILAND) (PHILIPPINES) Chairman of the Asia Pacific BRUNSKILL CARILLO (HONG KONG)
Khun Kirati hails Avecilla is co-founder of the Subic Superyacht Association (APSA), (SINGAPORE) (HONG KONG) Chairman of HKRI, Cha is
from a family of Sailing Club, which organises UK-born Beatty is former Brunskill is Country Head of Boat In over three decades at the mastermind behind the
long-time sailors. many of the country’s premier races Royal Navy and a superyacht Lagoon Yachting in Singapore and Club Marina Cove, Carillo refurbishment of Lantau Yacht
Following in the and regattas, and is dedicated to captain who came ashore in Head of Sales for Princess Yachts has helped organise 23 Club (LYC) in Discovery
footsteps of his late the development of sailing in the 2004 to start Super Yacht South East Asia. Brunskill said the editions of the Hong Kong Bay, Hong Kong’s first and
father Kris, founder Philippines including supporting Logistics (SYL) in the US, Japan Singapore office had a better 2020 International Boat Show, only custom-built marina
of the award-winning the new Europa Sailing School. and Australia. Several other than 2019, selling eight Princess as well as many more with berths tailor-made for
Ocean Marina Yacht ‘Jun’ helped establish the sailing companies followed such as yachts including a 30M superyacht. private shows organised superyachts. A yachting
Club in Pattaya, ‘Nim’ grassroots programme in Subic Fathom Supply, YOTFIX and Born in Indonesia, he has lived by individual dealers enthusiast, Cha has a vision
co-heads the Ocean Bay and actively promotes the Azure Yacht Crew Health, all in Southeast Asia for over 25 and brands. As Assistant to promote yachting in Hong
Group. Embracing his country’s maritime heritage. He of which are still successfully years. While in the UK, he worked General Manager, she Kong and strengthen the city’s
love of the sea, he was also spearheads the protection operating. As a licenced broker, for Princess for six years as its manages the clubhouse and position as Asia’s hub for the
co-founder of the Top of the oceans through the club’s he established Yachtzoo Japan International Sales Manager for the the marina, which represents leisure boating industry. As
of the Gulf Regatta environmental campaigns and the in late 2016, since when he Americas and APAC region. He has 1,500 members and nearly a lifestyle curator, Cha and
and is often found Plastic Free Waters project by IYFR has brokered yacht sales been successful in increasing the 350 boats. Carillo joined the his team have a proven track
piloting his Crowther (International Yachting Fellowship across Asia. Beatty is based brand’s market share in the region Sai Kung marina in 1990, record of leading premium
42 catamaran Sonic in of Rotarians), of which he’s a former in Yokohama (Japan) and the and in April 2019 also became a having previously worked in property developments and
the Gulf of Thailand. International Commodore. Cotswolds (England). Brokerage Representative for Burgess. the hotel industry. lifestyle projects.
96 97
SPECIAL FEATURE Asia’s Yachting Leaders 2021
SAM CHAN JULIAN CHANG FRANKIE CHAU JOHNNY CHUEH KEVIN CORFA DOUGLAS
(HONG KONG) (SINGAPORE) (HONG KONG) (TAIWAN) (HONG KONG) CULVERWELL (UK)
Chan is still going strong and finished Chang is Managing Director Chau is Managing Director of NextWave Johnny Chueh is Chairman and Head of Asia for Dufour sailing yachts Culverwell has been Sunseeker
third overall in last November’s Around of Raffles Yacht Group, which Yachting, a dynamic, well-rounded CEO of Ocean Alexander, one of and Fountaine Pajot catamarans since International’s Regional Business
The Island Race on his Flying 15 has representation in 18 offices dealership he co-founded in 2012 with Taiwan’s leading yacht builders 2018, Corfa oversaw an eventful 2020 Manager for the Middle and
Full Power. He also sails a Flying worldwide. He has been a Senior Howard Chen, William So, Raymond and a regular in the top rungs of for both brands. Dufour highlights Far East since 2016. Working
15, Freefire 20, in the UK and is a Advisor for Burgess in Asia since Sze and Conrad Chau, five friends who the Global Order Book, ranking included the first Asia sales of the 530 closely with Sunseeker Asia
Cowes Week regular, winning the 2019 2019 and is actively involved in the turned their love of life on the water into fourth in the 2021 edition. Based ‘performance’ (to Taiwan) and 470 (to to develop its dealer network,
Cowes Town Regatta at the age of 71. offshore industry. In late 2019, Chang a business. As well as being a dealer for in Kaohsiung with a sister facility China), models that debuted in 2020. he has overseen significant
In Asia, Chan has held many offshore joined ROKiT Asia as President; the likes of Pearl, Sealine, Chris-Craft, in Florida, Ocean Alexander Fountaine Pajot activity included the sales growth in the region, most
race records with various incarnations the parent company, a telco brand, Bavaria, Fjord, Vanquish and Heyday, builds motor yachts from 45-120ft arrival of Asia’s second Alegria 67, notably outside of Hong Kong,
of boats named FreeFire. The current is sponsor of the Williams F1 racing the company has strong brokerage and and last October held the world in Thailand, and two Elba 45s sold to the brand’s traditional hub in
ASIA’S YACHTING
FreeFire is a TP52 and a regular team. An active Board Director of The yacht-management divisions, which premieres of its 27 Explorer and Korea. Yacht Sourcing, a Fountaine Asia. Culverwell has worked in
competitor in Asian regattas, winning International SeaKeepers Society who both had their best year in 2020. The 32 and 36 Legend models at the Pajot dealer, began representing Dufour the boating industry since 1997
IRC Overall in the Royal Hong Kong heads its Asia chapter, Chang and company also has a strong charter Fort Lauderdale show. Chueh in Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore, with several leading brands in an
Yacht Club Nha Trang Rally in October team focus on creating awareness of division and represents water-toy has led the company since 2000, while Sun Hing Shipyard was appointed international capacity, including
LEADERS
2019, skippered by Russ Parker. On the threats to our oceans through their brands like Jetsurf, Lift Efoil, Seabob, succeeding his father Alex who for Dufour sales, after-sales and overseeing Asia and working in
shore, Chan is CEO of YGM Trading. non-profit organisation. Aquaglide and Belassi. founded it in 1977. commissioning in Hong Kong. the USA.
COLIN DAWSON OLIVIER DECAMPS MATHILDE
MARTIN CHEN KIT LAWRENCE CHOW (HONG KONG) (HONG KONG) DELFOUR
(CAMBODIA) CHOTITHAMAPORN (HONG KONG) Dawson is a specialist yacht Boasting over 40 years in the (HONG KONG)
Chairman of investment (THAILAND) Chow has been the Chairman of insurance broker with Expat industry, Decamps has been Nautor’s Delfour is coming up to her first
company M Capital Group, A Phuket native, Kit is Asia Regional the Hong Kong Boating Industry Marine. Based in Hong Kong Swan’s Regional Director for Asia year as Asia-Pacific Sales Director
Chen has represented Manager for Leopard Catamarans Association since 2019 and the since 1994, he looks after clients Pacific since 2017, selling yachts for Jeanneau and Prestige, having
Sunseeker in both and handles all Asia yacht sales Asia Representative of the ICOMIA predominantly in Asia-Pacific from Japan to Australia. The Belgian succeeded Paul Blanc following
Singapore and Cambodia for sister brands Sunsail and The Executive Committee since May and superyachts globally. A studied yacht design in the UK and his move to France to become
since 2018. While already Moorings, which form the world’s 2020. Last year, Chow and YP keen sailor, he is often seen worked for Camper & Nicholsons, Managing Director of Jeanneau.
a boat owner, he discovered largest charter company. Leopard Loke were the main organisers of on Moonblue 2. A creator and Wauquiez and Groupe Beneteau in Delfour developed her love for
Sunseeker while looking sales in Asia last year included two the Asia Boating Dialogue webinar, Founding Member of APSA as Europe. In 2004, he moved to Hong the sea, sailing and surfing along
for a larger yacht, and units of the new flagship 53 PC and co-organised by the Singapore well as a Director of the San Kong, working for Simpson Marine France’s west coast near Bordeaux.
his vision and passion one 43 PC, two 45 sailing cats and a and Hong Kong Boating Industry Fernando Race Foundation for and Jebsen Marine, and since 2008 Graduating from Kedge Business
for yachting quickly led Moorings 4000 sail cat through the Associations in conjunction with underprivileged children in the has represented Hanse Group with School, she joined Groupe
him into the industry. charter company’s yacht ownership ICOMIA. Raised in a family of Philippines, Dawson is also a his own company, Beaufort Marine. Beneteau’s sales and marketing
Chen and his team at programme. Kit began his yachting marine industry professionals, Chow passionate conservationist, setting He has sailed over 200,000nm, division in Annapolis, USA in 2012.
Sunseeker Singapore have career in Asia over 15 years ago, is a passionate sailor and currently up The Elephant Foundation in made multiple ocean crossings In 2015, she joined Jeanneau in
driven the sales forward having developed his love for the oversees general operations for the 2014, which raises awareness and raced in the likes of the Rolex Hong Kong and was Asia-Pacific
very successfully, with 10 sea and boats at a young age through China Pacific Marine dealership through education of the plight of Sydney Hobart, Rolex Fastnet and Sales Manager for the brand until
boats being sold since the his father, an avid recreational while also practising in the field of Africa’s iconic animals and the Rolex Giraglia. her promotion in April 2020.
business was started. fisherman. architecture. communities around them.
98 99SPECIAL FEATURE Asia’s Yachting Leaders 2021
FABIOMASSIMO SAM DO (VIETNAM) DAI TU DOAN VIET YVAN EYMIEU XAVIER FABRE GORDON FERNANDES
DISCOLI Do is CEO of Saigon Yacht & Marina (VIETNAM) (THAILAND) (INDONESIA) (THAILAND)
(HONG KONG) (SYMC), a part of Samaser Holdings, Dai Tu heads Tam Son Yachting, one An avid sailor who has lived in Asia Fabre is Director of Sales for Yacht In 2008, Fernandes co-founded Asia
Discoli has headed Ferretti which has over three decades of of Vietnam’s leading yacht dealers, since 2005, Eymieu joined Aquila in Sourcing, which he co-founded Pacific Superyachts (APS) Phuket
Group’s Asia-Pacific operations experience in the marine industry. which has represented Beneteau and 2017 to expand the international sales with Boum Senous in 2016 before with Tanyuta ‘Jojo’ Singhmanee and
as its Sales & Marketing SYMC’s portfolio includes Aquila Lagoon from 2017, Zodiac Nautic network beyond its traditional hub of expanding in 2019 to Phuket, where co-founded the international APS
Director since 2018. Five powercats from China, UK builder since 2018 and Azimut from late North America. Today, about 50 per Nicolas Monges heads the Thailand company with Captain Charlie Dwyer
years earlier, he was among Princess and US brands Sea Ray, 2020. Based in Ho Chi Minh City, cent of Aquila’s annual production is company. Yacht Sourcing represents and Captain Scott Walker. As General
five employees from Italy who Monterey, Godfrey and Blackfin. the company opened the country’s for private owners in the US, 25 per Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing and Manager of APS, Fernandes oversees
relocated to Hong Kong when The company also provides yacht first yacht service centre in 2018, cent is for the MarineMax charter fleet Fountaine Pajot in Indonesia, as a regional network of offices in 13
Ferretti Group opened its management, maintenance and provides yacht management and and the rest of the world accounts for well as Dufour and Nuova Jolly for countries. Last year, APS Phuket
ASIA’S YACHTING
regional headquarters. Discoli crew certification. During the Covid charter, and operates the Vinhomes 25 per cent, compared to just a few Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore. and TYBA (Thai Yachting Business
has accumulated experience in pandemic, SYMC bought over Central Park Marina and Tam Son per cent in its first few years. Chinese The company also operates charter, Association) helped change the process
the yachting industry working Rinker Boats, a US boat builder Yacht Club at Swan Bay. Dai Tu shipyard Sino Eagle completed the brokerage, yacht management, for foreign-flagged superyachts to clear
for multiple brands in different founded in 1945. Do, who studied co-founded the Openasia investment 100th hull of both the Aquila 44 and agency and marina services, and has into the country and complete Covid-19
LEADERS
roles and markets, including as electrical engineering at University group in 1994 and set up Tam Son 36 powercats last year, while other a shipyard in Sulawesi, where builds quarantine aboard. Captain Jimmy Blee
Asia-Pacific area manager for of Washington, was a speaker in the International in 2005, building a models include the 32, 54 and 70, the have included the 55m Prana by and Thomas Taatjes of APS Indonesia
Pershing from 2003-2005. 2020 Asia Boating Dialogue webinar. solid portfolio in luxury retail. latter two launched in late 2020. Atzaro and 47m Maj Oceanic. played a similar role in Indonesia.
GAUTAMA DUTTA ERNESTO ‘JUDES’ ADAM ESSEX
(INDIA) ECHAUZ (HONG KONG) SCOTT FINSTEN ERIC FOK VIOLETTE FUNG
Dutta is Burgess’ Chief (PHILIPPINES) Essex has been General (THAILAND) (HONG KONG) (HONG KONG)
Representative, India and a President of the Philippine Sailing Manager - Asia Pacific Finsten has overseen the Commodore of Nansha Marina, Associate Director with Aon
founding member of the India Association, Echauz has long been a for Princess since March growth of Ocean Marina Fok conceived and executed managing its yacht insurance
Marine Federation. One of the regular on the Asian circuit on boats 2019. The Brit has a Yacht Club into Southeast China’s first Five Gold Anchor team, Fung is a familiar face in
country’s leading yachting figures, called Centennial. On his Sydney 46, wealth of experience in Asia’s largest marina and marina, which opened in 2011 Asian sailing and boating circles,
Dutta is also very knowledgeable ‘Judes’ won the Perpetual Cup Series the industry, starting the heart of boating in the and was upgraded to Platinum and a former broker with Simpson
about boating in Sri Lanka and in 1997 and the Rolex China Sea out with an independent Gulf of Thailand. He also status by the MIA in 2018. Host Marine. She has been building the
the Maldives, and will spearhead Race in 1998 and 2008. On his TP52, brokerage before joining helped to build the Top of of the Guangzhou stopover of Aon business using her experience
charter developments for Burgess he won the 2017 San Fernando Race UK-based Princess Motor the Gulf Regatta into the the 2017-18 Volvo Ocean Race, as a broker and sailor, and her
in the region. A former Asian and topped its IRC class in two China Yacht Sales, where he largest multi-class regatta the marina is located on the network within the luxury yachting
sailing medallist and round-the- Cups (2017, 2018) and the 2018 was a Senior Broker. of its kind in Asia and Pearl River Delta near where community. A Royal Hong Kong
world yachtsman, he commissioned Rolex CSR. On his Reichel/Pugh Essex has been based in launch the Ocean Marina the Opium Wars were fought. Yacht Club member, she has strong
and ran India’s Olympic Sailing 75, he won line honours in the 2019 Asia since 2014, formerly Pattaya Boat Show in 2012. Grandson of tycoon Henry Fok experience in inshore regattas
Centre in Mumbai. Dutta is also HK Puerto Galera Race. In 2018, he working for Princess Finsten formerly worked and son of Timothy Fok, Eric is and multiple offshore races to the
Executive Director of Marine bought 10 FarEast 28Rs for local use, Yachts South East Asia at the Cruising Yacht Club Vice-President of Fok Ying Tung Philippines and Vietnam, winning
Solutions, India’s leading yachting which helped the Philippines sailing in Thailand and then of Australia, home of the Group, Vice-Chairman of the the 2019 RHKYC Nha Trang Rally
company with offices in Mumbai, teams win three golds in the 2019 Camper & Nicholsons in annual Rolex Sydney Hobart Hong Kong Football Association on the TP52 FreeFire. Fung is also
Goa and Kolkata. SEA Games in Subic Bay. Hong Kong. Yacht Race (although not and on the Executive Committee of a member of the prestigious Royal
held in December 2020). the Asian Football Confederation. Ocean Racing Club.
100 101SPECIAL FEATURE Asia’s Yachting Leaders 2021
PAUL GRANGE VIANNEY GUEZENEC FRANKLIN HENG TOMMY HO MARTIN HOLMES STUART HU
(HONG KONG) (HONG KONG) (HONG KONG) (HONG KONG) (THAILAND) (CHINA)
With business partner Thomas Woo, Guezenec has worked for Groupe Heng is Chairman of Asia Yachting, Tommy Ho is CEO of Voyager Risk Originally from the UK, Holmes A consultant of Sanya Central Business
Grange is the co-founder of Marine Italia Beneteau for a decade including over which represents Monte Carlo Yachts and Solutions, which he founded in is the long-time General District Administration (SYCBDA),
(2015), Asia’s leading Azimut Yachts five years in Hong Kong, where he Prestige in Hong Kong, Macau, Indonesia, 2018 in Hong Kong, later adding an Manager of Lee Marine, having Hu’s international profile rose in 2020
dealer, covering Hong Kong, Macau, has been Managing Director Asia- Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and office in Singapore. Born in a family joined Joshua Lee in 1997 as as Hainan became a Free Trade Zone.
southern China, Taiwan and Singapore. Pacific since March 2020, having been Thailand, Nautique in Hong Kong and with a strong sailing and boating the company’s first employee. He made presentations on Hainan in
The company had one of its best years Director Asia-Pacific for Beneteau, the Philippines, and Fountaine Pajot in background, he has over 20 years of Introduced to boats at an early the online Asia Boating Dialogue and
for sales in Hong Kong in 2020, while Lagoon and Excess. Last year, he the Philippines. After graduating from the experience in yacht insurance and age, he held various roles in the Macau Yacht Show’s Asia-Pacific
arrivals included a Grande 35 Metri, oversaw Boating Rendez-Vous events University of Cambridge, Heng qualified his clients represent many of the the UK, continental Europe Yacht Industry High-Level Forum,
its biggest sale so far. Formerly Head in Sydney featuring Beneteau, Lagoon as a chartered accountant in London world’s leading luxury yacht brands. and Australia before moving to revealing the island’s five-year plan to
of Azimut for Simpson Marine (2012- and Excess, then Hong Kong with then worked in the finance industry. His A Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club Asia. Lee Marine is a long-time encourage private boat ownership and
ASIA’S YACHTING
2015), Paul has a successful history Beneteau and Lagoon models. With love of boating started with the use of member for over 25 years, Ho is a representative of Ferretti Yachts, the development of marinas, charter,
of representing the brand across Asia. his team, he looks after 35 distributors his bank’s yacht and he later turned his long-time boat owner, consultant of Pershing, Riva and Custom Line and yacht building and maintenance.
Grange and Woo also represent Absolute from Vladivostok in the Russian Far passion into business at Asia Yachting the Hong Kong Cruise and Yacht of Italy’s Ferretti Group, as well Hu is a former Secretary of Sanya
Yachts and Four Winns, and operate East all the way to New Zealand. An with partner Olivier Besson, instituting Industry Association, and Chairman as Australia’s Riviera, and is Yachting Association and was a
LEADERS
their own independent shipyard, experienced sailor, Guezenec regularly the professional culture of the of the Hong Kong Ocean Economy also the Asia representative of coordinator of the first and second
Marinetec, in Hong Kong. races in regattas around the region. banking industry. Chamber of Commerce. Northrop & Johnson. editions of the Hainan Rendez-Vous.
EDWIN HO RENE HO ANDY HUANG GORDON HUI KENTA INABA
DANG HIEU (HONG KONG) (CHINA) (JAPAN)
(VIETNAM) (TAIWAN) (HONG KONG)
Edwin Ho is the founder and Rene Ho is General Manager of A sailor since his youth, Inaba is
One of Vietnam’s tourism Huang is President of Johnson A passionate, long-time
President of Starship Yachts Haikou HTCH Marina Management President of Super Yacht Logistics
pioneers, Dang Hieu is CEO Yachts, founded in 1987. One of Sunseeker client and
(1994), which represents most (part of Haikou Tourism & Culture Japan and runs Yachtzoo Tokyo,
and founder of AnaMarina Taiwan’s leading yacht builders one of the region’s most
Ferretti Group brands (Ferretti Investment Holding Group) and while his work promoting the
in the coastal city of Nha and among many based in successful yacht dealers,
Yachts, Pershing, Riva, Custom manages the Haikou National superyacht industry in Japan
Trang. Designed by Camper & Kaohsiung such as Horizon and Hui created Sunseeker
Line, Itama, Mochi Craft), as Sailing Base Public Marina, Asia’s includes easing regulations for
Nicholsons Marinas, AnaMarina Ocean Alexander, Johnson has Asia in 2003 and quickly
well as Cranchi, in Hong Kong largest public marina with 611 visiting yachts. In his 20s, he
is set to accommodate up to 220 about 250 staff and builds models expanded the brand
and Macau. He sold a Riva 110’ berths (8-50m). Having represented moved from Japan to Florida,
yachts. Hieu is also the founder from 70-115ft, with all designs across the region. To
Dolcevita and a Custom Line Royal Huisman, Mangusta, where he was involved in
of Focus Vietnam Holdings by Brit Bill Dixon and most date, Sunseeker Asia has
Navetta 33 that both arrived Sevenstar Yacht Transport and designing the Lauderdale Marine
(2000), which focuses on tourism units sold to the US. In 2019, it sold well over 200 units,
in Hong Kong in late 2020, Vripack in China, Ho has extensive Centre before earning an MBA
and hospitality. Businesses debuted its new 80, which joined with about two-thirds
while other large yacht sales experience in various marine at the University of Miami. On
include Indochina Sails (2008), 93 and 110 models, while its into Hong Kong. Most
in recent years included the business operations. Prior to joining returning to Japan, he worked
operating Mekong cruises newest models are the 70 and recently, Hui has focused
first units of both the Riva 100’ HTCH Group, he was one of the for insurance and financial
between Vietnam and Cambodia. flagship 115. The builder has on larger Sunseekers,
Corsaro (2017) and Pershing founding members of Martello companies, most recently Morgan
In 2011, Focus Vietnam set up strong representation around the selling two 118 Yachts
140 (2019), as well as a Riva Yachting and Wooyacht Charters, Stanley in Tokyo. Inaba sails
charter-flight tourism to Nha world, with dealers for the US and a 131 Yacht. The
90’ Argo (2019), and multiple specialising in superyacht services regularly on two Scallywag yachts,
Trang, which has proved hugely west coast, US east coast, Europe, first 116 Yacht is now in
Ferretti Yachts models. and management. the 100ft supermaxi and Orma 60
popular in Russia and China. Japan, Southeast Asia, Australia Hong Kong, with the 131
racing trimaran.
and New Zealand. Yacht to follow this year.
102 103SPECIAL FEATURE Asia’s Yachting Leaders 2021
LYU KAMIKAGE TRAUGOTT BART KIMMAN DR PETER LAM CARMEN LAU JEAN-JACQUES
(JAPAN) KAMINSKI (HONG KONG) (HONG KONG) (HONG KONG) LAVIGNE (SINGAPORE)
With 36 years in the (HONG KONG) Kimman has been Commercial Chairman of Camper & Lau is Business Development Director Lavigne, who moved to Singapore
yachting industry and widely ‘TK’ heads The Italian Sea Director of Camper & Nicholsons Nicholsons International, at Camper & Nicholsons International in the late 1990s, is CEO of Asia
acknowledged as an industry Group in this region as CEO Asia since 2018. Based in Hong Dr Lam is also the and a Board Director at Camper & Superyacht Development (ASD),
leader in Japan, Kamikage of T.I.S.G.-Asia, which he Kong since 1985, he enjoyed Chairman of Lai Sun Nicholsons Asia. She started the latter’s which represents marine-equipment
represents Ferretti Group founded in 2016. Kaminski a successful career in the Group, which consists Hong Kong headquarters in 2017 and suppliers and offers consultancy
brands Ferretti Yachts, entered the yachting industry financial industry. In 2003, he of five listed companies helped expand charter, management services, refit project management,
Pershing and Riva, and has as CEO of Sunseeker China pursued one of his passions by on the Hong Kong Stock and brokerage services to Asia-based brokerage and charter. In 2020, ASD
run the Burgess office in Tokyo in 2003, with media billing becoming a yacht broker and Exchange, with businesses customers around the globe. C&N became the Asia representative for
since 2010. For Burgess, him as the ‘Godfather of five years later founded the first ranging from property opened an office in Phuket in 2018 and Yachtalia, which distributes, installs
ASIA’S YACHTING
he principally focuses on yachting in China’. The German global yacht brokerage in Asia. and hotel development, appointed brokers in Australia, New and services products from the likes
yacht charter and sale and represented Sanlorenzo in A MYBA member, the multi- to restaurants, media and Zealand, China and Malaysia in 2019. of Besenzoni, Cantalupi, Gallinea,
purchase, and is also involved Greater China from 2013-15 lingual Kimman has a wealth of entertainment. He enjoys Lau has worked in the superyacht GOST, H&B Technics, Naviop, Nemo
in marketing and PR events before establishing T.I.S.G.- experience and an established golfing and boating, being sector since 2004, overseen superyacht and Opacmare. ASD represents many
LEADERS
locally. He represents several Asia to exclusively represent track record in yacht sales, yacht a yacht owner in both the builds as an owner’s representative, other brands including Volvo Penta,
other yachting companies the Admiral and Tecnomar charter and yacht management, Mediterranean and Hong worked for a top Italian shipyard in Vision Systems, Stable, RMP Marine,
including Yachtalia. brands in Asia. with a focus on superyachts. Kong. Asia and run her own consultancy. Navaltecnosud and CMC Marine.
NINO KRISNAN KARL KWOK LESTER LAM
(INDONESIA) (HONG KONG) (HONG KONG) JOSHUA LEE ALLEN LENG JAMES LI
Krisnan is Technical Director Kwok owns and races two Beau Lam was appointed a member (THAILAND) (CHINA) (CHINA)
of SKAYR Yachts, which he Geste yachts including a Mod of the Board of Directors Lee is Managing Director Leng is Chairman and co-founder Li is the founder of Speedo
co-founded last year with Firman 70 trimaran that smashed the of Camper & Nicholsons of both Lee Marine and of Heysea Yachts, mainland China’s Marine (2003), one of China’s
Santoso and Raul Renanda, and Rolex China Sea Race record in International in October 2016 Northrop & Johnson Asia. most prolific superyacht builder leading yachting agencies.
which is scheduled to launch 2018 then set multiple records and Chairman of Camper & After founding Lee Marine in and a fixture in the top 30 of the Headquartered in Shenzhen,
the 40ft SK Renanda One in the following year in Australia Nicholsons Asia in May 2017. 1997, he quickly established Global Order Book since 2014, the company has multiple
2022. Krisnan is a practising and New Zealand. His TP52 Son of Dr Peter Lam, he is it as one of the region’s ranking 17th in 2021. Since 2018, sales and service centres
naval architect, a boat and yacht won several regattas in the US CEO of Lai Fung Holdings leading yacht dealerships. he has been Vice-Chair of the ISO’s along the coast. Speedo
designer, and Secretary General in 2019 and is now in Europe. and Executive Director of The company represents Large Yachts division (Technical Marine represents Ferretti
of Community for Maritime Racing since 1975, Kwok is Lai Sun Development, eSun Ferretti Yachts, Pershing, Committee 8, Subcommittee 12). Yachts, Pershing and Riva
Studies Indonesia (CMSI). the only Chinese skipper to Holdings and Lai Sun Garment Riva and Custom Line of Leng majored in naval architecture from Italy’s Ferretti Group,
He is the founder and CEO of win the Rolex Sydney Hobart (International), all part of Lai Italy’s Ferretti Group, as and ocean engineering at the Prestige and Jeanneau from
Kakanoo Marine (1999), which on handicap (1997) and a Sun Group. His passion for well as Australia’s Riviera. Huazhong University of Science France’s Beneteau Group, and
is focused on marine vessel former President of the Hong yachting was developed over Lee’s superyacht sales have and Technology (1983-1987). From catamaran builders Fountaine
design, building, repair and Kong Sailing Federation. In the past two decades as owner included the 69.5m custom- 1995, he lived in New Zealand Pajot of France and Sunreef
maintenance-related services. recognition of his contributions, of several yachts in both the built Feadship, Samaya, for for four years before returning to of Poland. Late last year, the
Owner of a Corsair F27 trimaran, the Government has awarded Mediterranean and Hong Kong an Asia-based client. China, working in the IT industry company delivered the first
he sails her often in the company him a Medal of Honour (2011) for which he obtained related before forming Heysea in 2007 80 Sunreef Power in Asia to a
of other sailors and enthusiasts. and Silver Bauhinia Star (2019). licences and certifications. with two partners. client in China.
104 105SPECIAL FEATURE Asia’s Yachting Leaders 2021
LI QUANHAI ROGER LIANG HANS LO PETER MAHONY CHANYO MATTHEW
(CHINA) (HONG KONG) (HONG KONG) (HONG KONG) MANAKULSAWASD NA NAGARA
Li was elected President of World Liang is the CEO of Kingship Deputy Director of CL Yachts, Hans General Manager of Benetti Asia (THAILAND) (THAILAND)
Sailing last November and will serve a Marine, which he founded Lo is a fifth-generation member of since 2017, Mahony oversees Since mid-2019, Chanyo has been Matthew is Chairman of the Thai
four-year term until the 2024 General in 2004. The shipyard is in the family that has owned Cheoy Lee, sales, client relationships, after- Country Manager of Lee Marine, Yachting Business Association. TYBA
Assembly. He was formerly a Vice- Zhongshan, north of Macau with the shipyard his playground sales and marketing for the Italian the Thailand dealer for Ferretti raised its international profile in 2019
President (2013-2020), International and a 90-minute ferry ride while growing up. Having studied civil superyacht builder in this region. Yachts, Pershing, Riva, Custom by organising the first Thailand Charter
Judge (1998-2012) and Council northwest of Hong Kong, where engineering in Canada, Lo returned to Two of the first 12 sales of Benetti’s Line and Riviera. An engineer, he Week and last year was instrumental in
Member (2006-12). Li spent over the company has its marketing Hong Kong in 2010 to work at Cheoy Oasis 40M that debuted last started his career with Caterpillar establishing Covid quarantine measures
two decades in the Chinese Yachting and operations office. Drawing Lee as a Production Manager. After year are to Asia, while upcoming and after five years joined MTU to allow foreign yachts to again enter
Association as Secretary General on his father’s experience of years in manufacturing, he moved into deliveries include a 65m custom as Sales and Marketing Manager, Thailand. Matthew and his father,
building commercial craft and marketing and in 2018 helped launch build to China. Mahony’s three supplying marine engines. He Surgeon Admiral Suriya (RTN), head
ASIA’S YACHTING
(1997-2005) then Vice-President
(2005-2018) and was heavily involved acquiring shipyards, Liang was CL Yachts, the company’s new brand. decades in marketing and sales was Thailand Country Manager the development of Port Takola Yacht
in the 2008 Olympics competition in involved in Italian shipyard After releasing the CLA76 and CLB72, includes working in the UK for for Emerson, a manufacturer of Marina in Krabi, which expanded by 25
Qingdao. During that period, he was Baglietto in the 1980s and the company premiered the CLB88 at both Sunseeker and Princess then industrial products, for seven berths last year. Port Takola is eventually
also the Asian Sailing Federation’s Green Bay Marine in Singapore last year’s Fort Lauderdale show and is also for both British shipyards in years before joining the luxury expected to feature 280 berths and be
LEADERS
Vice-President (2006-08) and then in the 1990s before creating scheduled to debut the flagship CLX96 Singapore before his move to yachting industry in 2015 with the focal point of a low-density, low-rise
President (2008-10). Kingship. at this year’s edition. Hong Kong. Azimut Yachts Thailand. residential and commercial complex.
DUC THUAN HUU HON ERIC NOYEL
MARTIN LO YP LOKE JOHN LU NGUYEN NGUYEN (HONG KONG)
(HONG KONG) (SINGAPORE) (TAIWAN) (VIETNAM) (VIETNAM) Noyel is the founder and CEO
A Director of Cheoy Lee and its Loke is the long-time Chairman Lu is President of Horizon In 2017, after 17 years in the Hon Nguyen is the head of of Asiamarine (2013) and
new luxury motor yacht brand, of the Singapore Boating Yachts, which he co-founded shipbuilding industry, Thuan SR Media, publisher of the Managing Director of Fraser
CL Yachts, Martin Lo is one of Industry Association and last in 1987 in Kaohsiung, where established Vietyacht, the Vietnamese edition of Yacht Hong Kong since early 2018.
Asia’s most knowledgeable and year co-organised the two-part it has four sites including a exclusive dealer of Jeanneau, Style since 2020, Luxuo Asiamarine also has offices
experienced boat builders. A Asia Boating Dialogue webinar marina. Since entering the 80ft Prestige and Fountaine Pajot in Vietnam and WOW (World in Thailand, Philippines,
graduate of the Rhode Island with the HKBIA and ICOMIA. market in 1994, the builder Vietnam. Soon after, he founded Of Watches) Vietnam, and Vietnam and Singapore. The
School of Design, Lo is one of He helped create the series, has produced more than 200 VietyachtClub to provide charter renowned for organising company represents Galeon, Bali
eight brothers who are Directors which was held in Singapore in yachts over 24m, establishing services in Halong Bay, led by a lavish yachting events from Catamarans, Wellcraft and Tige
at Cheoy Lee and the fourth 2015 as ICOMIA – The Asian itself as one of Asia’s most fleet of Jeanneau motorboats which the Mekong Delta to Halong in multiple markets, and Ferretti
generation of the family that Dialogue and subsequently prolific superyacht builders berth in Tuan Chau Marina. In Bay. Hon is closely monitoring Yachts in the Philippines, and has
founded the business in Shanghai. promoted as the Asia Boating and a regular in the Global 2019, he launched a 1,000sqm yachting developments in brokerage, charter and yacht-
Among three brothers based at Forum. Loke is a member of the Order Book’s top 10, ranking indoor-outdoor showroom in Ha Vietnam, supporting the management divisions. Noyel grew
the Doumen shipyard, west of ICOMIA Marinas Group and seventh in the 2021 edition. Long City, site of the head office, growing number of yacht up in the south of France and
Hong Kong, Martin has long been was an ICOMIA Vice-President Horizon is the only Asia-based which is supported by sales dealers representing the word’s learned sailing from age of seven.
a key figure on the production until last year. A naval architect member of SYBAss (Superyacht branches along the coast, and major leading luxury yachts A regular on the social scene in
side, even helping Lloyd’s with by training, he heads Spinnaker Builders Association), and its founded LuxYacht as the exclusive builders, and promoting the Hong Kong, Noyel speaks French,
its fibreglass quality-assurance International, which consults on key markets are North America, dealer of Ferretti Yachts, Pershing new marinas set to open along English, German, Cantonese and
programme in the 1980s. boating and marina matters. Australia and Europe. and Riva in Vietnam. the coast. Mandarin.
106 107SPECIAL FEATURE Asia’s Yachting Leaders 2021
OH KEAN SHEN FRANK PONG JEAN-MARC MIKE SIMPSON TANYUTA ‘JOJO’ LIES SOL (THAILAND)
(MALAYSIA) (HONG KONG) POULLET (HONG KONG) SINGHMANEE An experienced sailor and Board
Oh is the founder and A passionate sailor since 1975, Pong (SINGAPORE) Mike Simpson is a pioneer of Asia’s (THAILAND) Member of the Thai Yachting
Managing Director of Pen is one of Asia’s best-known big-boat Former Senior Partner yachting industry and has played a Jojo is Managing Director of Asia Business Association, Sol has been
Marine (1998), Malaysia’s skippers, having raced various yachts with McKinsey & Co, leading role in the growth of the yachting Pacific Superyachts Phuket, a Retail Charter Broker and Charter
best-known dealership, named Jelik with notable success. Poullet joined Burgess lifestyle across the region since he which she co-founded with Manager for Northrop & Johnson
which represents Ferretti Now in his mid-70s, he has been less in 2015 as Chairman founded Simpson Marine in 1984. He Gordon Fernandes in 2008. She (SEA) since May 2019, having
Group brands Ferretti Yachts, active in Southeast Asia in recent for Asia. Under his developed Simpson Marine into the has helped arrange the visits of formerly worked for the global
Riva, Pershing and Custom years, but continues to be a mentor leadership, Burgess largest new-yacht sales, brokerage and many of the biggest superyachts to brokerage in a different franchise from
Line, as well as Jeanneau, to sailors especially in China. When expanded in Asia with service company in Asia, now with over enter Thailand and last year was 2013-2018 before a year with Camper
Leopard, Grand Banks and he competed in his 13th successive offices and partnerships 100 staff in 12 offices across seven instrumental in obtaining permission & Nicholsons, also in Thailand. From
ASIA’S YACHTING
Heesen. It also has brokerage China Cup in 2019, his crew included in Singapore, Hong Kong, countries. A distributor for Sanlorenzo, for foreign-flagged yachts to check 1989, she worked on large yachts for
and charter divisions, and Horace Chen, a SailGP and Volvo Japan, Thailand and Bluegame, Fairline, Beneteau, Lagoon into the country again. Jojo, who 15 years in the Caribbean, Florida,
operates a chandlery. After Ocean Race sailor. Pong was the first India. An experienced and Aquila, the company also has has a Master’s degree in Human Bahamas and Asia-Pacific. Moving
three decades of promoting Chinese Commodore of the Royal yachtsman, he owns a 33m dedicated superyacht and charter Resources Management from UMDC ashore, she worked in Phuket as a
LEADERS
yachting in Malaysia, he Hong Kong Yacht Club and his family yacht and has cruised divisions. Mike is passionate about flying University in Phuket, maintains PR Manager for a resort and a yoga
partnered Jean Bernard business owns UK Sailmakers’ biggest extensively throughout vintage planes and sailing, buying a strong connections with marine and instructor, organised regattas and
Boura to form Pen Aviation. production loft, situated in Tuen Mun. Southeast Asia. Beneteau Oceanis 46.1 last year. government authorities in Thailand. sailed in an all-women’s team.
JERRY ROLLIN FIRMAN SANTOSO TRESNO SEERY NICK STRATTON
(PHILIPPINES) (INDONESIA) (INDONESIA) VINCENT EDWARD TAN
A World Sailing-appointed Santoso is Managing Director A naval architect, Tresno (HONG KONG) TABUTEAU (SINGAPORE)
International Race Officer of SKAYR Yachts, which he Seery is the CEO of Working for Simpson Marine (THAILAND) Tan has been with
co-founded last year with naval prestigious private charter in Asia since 2010, Stratton A pioneer of Thailand’s yachting Hong Seh Motors since
(IRO), Rollin is currently
architect Nino Krisnan and operator Silolona Sojourns, has been the Sales Manager for industry, Tabuteau is founder and 1997 and, upon his
Secretary General of the
architect and artist Raul Renanda. the company founded by the the Sanlorenzo Asia division CEO of Asia Marine (1989), one of graduation from the
Philippine Sailing Association
Santoso comes from a maritime late Patti Seery. The launch since 2017. Last year, his role Southeast Asia’s longest-established University of Denver,
and Chairman of the Philippine
family, which in 1982 founded of their phinisis, Silolona expanded to include Sales marine tourism companies. The served as Executive
Inter-island Island Sailing
a marine tourism and charter and Si Datu Bua, changed Manager for Bluegame Asia company’s services include charter Director of Hong Seh
Foundation (PHINSAF), as
operation in Jakarta that expanded the face of private charter after Simpson Marine started (motor, sail and super yachts), central Company from 2000.
well as the Philippine Hobie
to Bali and Lombok. A real-estate yachting, setting the bar in representing Sanlorenzo’s sister charter agency, yacht management, In 2008, he started
Challenge. He has officiated
consultant, architect and urban Southeast Asia. Originally brand in Asia. Formerly the brokerage and new yacht sales as a Hong Seh Marine to
at dozens of different events
planner, Santoso is active in from the US, Bali-based company’s Country Manager dealer for Galeon, Bali and Wellcraft. diversify the business.
across Asia including the King’s
Community for Maritime Studies Seery played a key part in for Singapore, Stratton has As a partner of Hong Kong-based The marine division
Cup, Raja Muda, Boracay
Indonesia whose programmes the design and build of Si sold more than 200 yachts in Asiamarine, Tabuteau has been of Hong Seh Company
Cup and Chairman’s Cup
promoting affordable sailing Datu Bua, redefining safety, Asia. Before moving to Asia, he the Managing Director of Fraser represents Ferretti
(President’s/Commodore’s Cup).
and maritime awareness. CMSI comfort and style. The worked in the yachting industry in Thailand since 2018. He is also Yachts, Pershing and
In December 2019, he was the
organised the Indonesia Boating design and build elements in the UK including as a Yacht Vice President of the Thai Yachting Riva of Italy’s Ferretti
Competition Manager for the
Gathering at the 2019 Indonesia are areas Seery hopes to Brokerage Manager for Ancasta Business Association, organiser of the Group, as well as Boston
30th Southeast Asian Games
International Motor Show. grow in the future. from 2004-2009. Thailand Charter Week. Whaler.
sailing competition at Subic Bay.
108 109SPECIAL FEATURE Asia’s Yachting Leaders 2021
VINCENT TAN TAN XUGUANG ARTHUR TAY TANCHANOK WANG JIANLIN ADAM WATERS
(MALAYSIA) (CHINA) (SINGAPORE) VAJARODAYA (CHINA) (HONG KONG)
Founder of Berjaya Corporation, a Tan is Chairman of the SHIG- As Chairman of the SUTL group of (THAILAND) One of China’s wealthiest men, Waters has been General Manager of
diversified conglomerate listed on Weichai Group, which in companies headquartered in Singapore, Tanchanok ‘Omi’ Vajarodaya is Co- Wang is founder and Chairman Princess Yachts Greater China since
the Malaysian stock exchange, Tan 2012 acquired a controlling Tay is also CEO and Executive Managing Director of Blue Voyage of the Wanda Group, which 2015. A joint venture by Hong Kong-
is the co-owner of Asean Lady, the interest in the Ferretti Group Director of SUTL Enterprise, a marina Thailand, which she co-founded acquired ownership of Sunseeker based conglomerates Dah Chong Hong
88m proa-hulled megayacht built by with a total investment of developer and operator, and owner of with her husband Titawat ‘Ping’ International in 2013 in a deal and Chow Tai Fook, the company is
Brian Chang’s Yantai Raffles. Tan, €374 million as he became the ONE°15 brand. Since the flagship Vajarodaya. The luxury charter worth GBP320 million. Founded the British yard’s dealer in Hong Kong,
who entered the Forbes billionaire Chairman of Ferretti S.p.A. property at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa company frequently hosts local and in Dalian and headquartered mainland China and Macau, also
list in 2010, started amassing his The Ferretti Group retained Cove launched in 2007, the brand international celebrities on its dozen in Beijing, Wanda Group has offering brokerage and charter. In 2020,
fortunes after buying the McDonald’s its key management team, has expanded to the USA, China, or so yachts, which include sailing strong footprints across China, Waters also became General Manager
headquarters and production Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. Tay, catamarans, motor yachts, traditional Europe and the US, and provides of Williams Tenders Greater China,
ASIA’S YACHTING
franchise for Malaysia in 1980
when just 28. His business interests bases in Italy. Today, the who owns an Azimut 116, is a driving boats and the 32m Astondoa For strong financial and strategic representing the brand across Hong
include property, hospitality, Ferretti Group’s luxury yacht force behind the Singapore Yacht Show. Your Eyes Only, one of Thailand’s backing for Sunseeker. The Poole Kong, Macau and mainland China.
gaming, education and financial brands comprise Ferretti He studied in the US at the University largest charter yachts. Blue Voyage shipyard employs about 2,000 Before moving to Asia, he managed his
services. He is also the owner of Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, of California, Berkeley, Golden Gate operates from Andaman Sea bases in people and each year produces own dealership in Australia for over a
LEADERS
Cardiff City and other football clubs Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line University and University of San Phuket and Krabi, and in the Gulf of around 150 boats (38-161ft), with decade and represented Fairline in Asia
in Europe and the US. and Wally. Francisco. Thailand from Pattaya and Samui. about 95 per cent exported. Pacific for just a year.
THOMAS WOO MARK DR SAMUEL YIN
TEE TZER-YU ANIL THADANI HWEE TIAH (HONG KONG) WOODMANSEY (TAIWAN)
(TAIWAN) (SINGAPORE) (SINGAPORE) Woo founded Absolute Marine in (HONG KONG) Dr Yin is the owner of the new
A qualified naval architect, Tee Thadani is an explorer, a Tiah has been promoted Hong Kong in 2014 and is one Based in Hong Kong since 81m Sea Eagle II, the world’s
co-founded Amal Yachting in photographer of wildlife – to Head of Charters, Asia of Absolute’s most successful 2003, Woodmansey joined largest aluminium sailing yacht
2014 and quickly developed it especially polar bears – and for Burgess, having joined dealers. Woo is also Managing Burgess in 2015 and in 2019 at 1,100GT and Royal Huisman’s
into one of Taiwan’s leading yacht motoring enthusiast, as well as the global brokerage in Director of Marine Italia, which he was promoted to Head of biggest build to date. Designed by
dealers, representing the likes of Chairman of Symphony Asia December 2015. Now co-founded with Paul Grange in Brokerage, Asia. He enjoyed Dykstra and Mark Whiteley, the
Leopard Catamarans from South Holdings. An experienced scuba in Singapore again, she 2015 and is the exclusive Azimut standout years in 2018 and three-masted schooner delivered
Africa, Absolute motor yachts of diver and skipper, he cruised worked in Hong Kong for Yachts dealer for Hong Kong, 2019, helping three clients in 2020 is five times the volume
Italy, Sweden’s Delta Powerboats through the Northwest Passage two years before returning Southern China, Macau, Taiwan to buy or sell 50m-plus of his first Sea Eagle, a 43m sloop
and Axopar adventure boats from in both 2014 and 2015 on his home in late 2019. After and Singapore – and the Italian superyachts including two delivered in 2015, also built by
Finland. In 2019, Amal joined 45m Latitude. In 2016, he graduating from National builder’s leading dealership top-10 brokerage transactions Royal Huisman and featuring
the wide distributor network of circumnavigated the Svalbard University of Singapore in Asia. The pair also set up globally. The Brit worked on naval architecture by German
Italy’s Ferretti Group as it became archipelago in the Norwegian with a Bachelor of their own shipyard company, private and charter sailing Frers and an interior by Rhoades
the exclusive dealer in Taiwan Arctic, celebrating his 70th birthday Business Administration Marinetec, in Shau Kei Wan in yachts in the Mediterranean Young. Dr Yin heads the Ruentex
for Ferretti Yachts, Pershing and on an ice floe 400 miles from the degree, she worked in 2016. An avid yachting fan, Woo and Caribbean before moving Group and is the founder of the
Riva. North Pole. In 2019, he did a 30-day senior positions within is very hands on and technically to Hong Kong, where he spent Tang Prize, modelled on the Nobel
cruise through the Forgotten Islands, the shipping and marine minded, and enjoys boating with over a decade with Simpson Prize.
the Spice Islands of the Banda Sea, insurance industries before friends and clients. Marine.
ending up in Raja Ampat. joining Burgess.
110 111SPECIAL FEATURE Asia’s Yachting Leaders 2021
VRIT YONGSAKUL AMBROUS YOUNG JOE YUEN
(THAILAND) (HONG KONG) (HONG KONG)
Group Managing Director of Boat Young is one of Asia’s most Yuen, the founder of JW
Lagoon Yachting (1994), Vrit has renowned superyacht owners, Marine, is Chief Representative
developed the company into one although he has listed his 65m - Hong Kong and Macau
of Asia’s largest yacht importation, Ambrosia for sale though Camper & for Burgess. Born in Hong
distribution and after-sales organisations, Nicholsons. Launched in 2006 and Kong, he spent many years in
operating across Thailand, Singapore, with a full refit in 2017, the 213ft Florida where he graduated
Malaysia, Indonesia and Maldives. megayacht is his third Benetti after with a Bachelor’s degree.
A Princess dealer since 1994, the 45m and 55m models of the same After returning to Hong
company also represents Jeanneau and name. Prior to his Benettis, Young Kong in 2002, he has been
Sacs, and invests heavily in bringing bought a 30m Azimut Jumbo (1990) involved in yacht brokerage
new models to the region. In early 2019, and soon after purchased shares in and management. Since 2012,
the company partnered with Burgess the Azimut-Benetti Group. Young, he has also been an active
in Thailand, expanding Boat Lagoon who splits his time between Taiwan committee member of the Asia-
Yachting’s operations into the superyacht and Hong Kong, is a founding Pacific Superyacht Association
sector. Vrit became Burgess’ Chief member of The International (APSA), promoting Asia as a
Representative, Thailand. SeaKeepers Society. yachting destination.
wishes readers a
Happy New Year and
Happy Boating in 2021
ANGEL ZHOU
(CHINA)
Zhou has been Simpson
Marine’s China General
Manager for over a decade
and played an
instrumental role in the
growth of the Chinese
operations across the
company’s Shenzhen
and Sanya offices. A key
figure in Simpson Marine’s
successful large yacht and
superyacht sales team, she
is also heavily involved
with the yacht management
department. Zhou speaks
fluent Mandarin, Cantonese
and English, and specialises
in customer care.
©BENETTI
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