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International delegation praises Superyacht UK organised Tour of Excellence

A total of 60 UK companies showcased their businesses to a delegation of 20 international industry leaders last week. The annual Tour of Excellence, now in its 7th successful year, is organised by Superyacht UK (SYUK), an association of the British Marine Federation and aims to highlight a growing sector which boasts a value of £410m and employs over 3,600 people.

International Project Managers, Captains, Brokers, Naval Architects and Purchasing Managers enjoyed a busy four day itinerary which included site visits, evening showcases and dinners at locations spanning the south coast. A tailored approach to elements of the schedule saw delegates visiting companies of specific interest to their businesses, which helped to generate a number of excellent conversations and form beneficial new relationships.

Darrell Bell of Ariadne Yacht Management commented: “The whole event was extremely valuable and I know the connections made will be priceless!”

Companies featured on the tour included Wolfson Unit, Sunseeker International, Southampton Yacht Services, Ocean Safety, Dixon Yacht Design, Design Unlimited, Lewmar, Oceanair, Transas, Trafalgar Wharf, Solent Refit, Pendennis, Devonport and Cockwells Modern and Classic Boatbuilding.

Jo Cockwell at Cockwells Modern and Classic Boatbuilding, recognised the value of being part of the tour: “Thanks for bringing the delegates to Cornwall. It is much appreciated by us as we realise it would be difficult to entice such a number of international delegates down otherwise.”

Two showcase exhibitions proved real highlights of the tour: 20 UK suppliers of superyacht equipment featured at an event, sponsored by E-Tech Group, at Botley Park Hotel in Hampshire, with a further 15 companies at an evening at the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth. The latter also played host to the ‘Pendennis Bucket’ model yacht regatta, co-sponsored by Pendennis Yachts and Devonport.

Ludo Clerici of Lupo Yacht Services said: “For me and my small company, this was an excellent experience and a great opportunity to improve my knowledge of the UK facilities, meet with UK suppliers and develop relationships with colleagues based all over Europe.”

S Chevier of Couach Yachts added: “This tour gave a chance to meet delegates from many horizons and an opportunity to share experiences and points of view. I was pleasantly surprised by the number of exhibitors and their variety. I think this is a good means to promote the quality and activity of your industry. May this event have a long life.”

SYUK would like to extend its thanks to UK Trade and Investment and Land Rover for their support of the tour.