Ben Taylor Podcast

VETUS Maxwell’s Chris DeBoy joins Ben Taylor at IBEX in Tampa to discuss how the company is developing complete boat systems rather than standalone components, and why earlier collaboration with boatbuilders can improve integration, reliability and the end-user experience.

The conversation explores VETUS Maxwell’s approach to system design across anchoring, thrusters and other onboard equipment, its close work with OEMs and engine manufacturers, and how the wider YANMAR Marine International group supports installation, service and global aftersales. Chris also discusses the company’s focus on product lifecycle, regional growth and long-term support for boat owners.

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Boats Group Head of Industry Relationships Alistair Martin joins Ben Taylor to discuss why the boating industry risks losing prospective customers before they ever make contact with a dealer or manufacturer.

The conversation explores how modern consumers increasingly expect to research and progress through most of the buying journey independently, why friction and missing information can push potential buyers out of boating altogether, and how Boats Group is working to create a more seamless, self-directed route to boat ownership.

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Ben Taylor joins Guidi’s Daniele Guidi at the company’s manufacturing facility in Italy to discuss the heritage, culture and manufacturing philosophy behind the family-owned marine components specialist.

The conversation explores Guidi’s history since 1968, why the company continues to manufacture in Italy, and how its focus on material quality, automation, testing and traceability supports consistent production standards. Daniele also discusses Guidi’s approach to sustainability, the importance of long-term supplier relationships and the company’s continued international growth, including the expansion of Guidi America.

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Jim Bungard, Sales Director at Global Services, returns to the Ben Taylor Podcast at the Monaco Yacht Show to discuss how the company has expanded its presence across Europe and strengthened its role in superyacht supply, refit and new-build projects. Jim explains why relationships remain central to the business, how Global Services has increased its presence in key Mediterranean markets, and how its Rotterdam operation allows the company to buy, store and distribute goods efficiently across Europe. The conversation explores the importance of warehousing and forward planning during refit periods, Global Services’ growing involvement in new-build projects, and how th...

Art Hill, founder of Rogue Marine Advisors, joins the Ben Taylor Podcast at Cannes Yachting Festival to discuss how marine brands can build better marketing strategies, strengthen their positioning and turn attention into commercial results. Art explains how his career in advertising and passion for tournament fishing led him into the marine industry, and why understanding exactly who a product is for and what problem it solves and should sit at the heart of any marketing plan. The conversation explores the cultural differences between marketing in Europe and the United States, when brands should use in-house teams versus external...

Ed Jones from Metpow joins the Ben Taylor Podcast at the Monaco Yacht Show to discuss how smart utility metering can modernise marina operations and give both operators and berth holders far greater visibility over electricity, water and other utilities. Ed explains how many marinas still rely on manual meter readings, trust-based systems and retrospective billing, and how Metpow replaces that friction with digital access, real-time usage data and remote management. The conversation explores how smarter metering can improve customer experience, reduce administrative workload, support more transparent charging and help marinas understand their true energy usage as demand continues...

Caroline Blatter, owner of Superyacht Services Guide, joins the Ben Taylor Podcast at the Monaco Yacht Show to discuss how SSG grew from personal recommendations shared between yacht crew into a trusted global directory of recommended superyacht services. Caroline explains how she and her late husband Andrew developed the guide from their own experience working onboard yachts, why recommendation and credibility have always mattered more than simply listing suppliers, and how the business has evolved from printed regional guides into a predominantly digital platform. The conversation explores SSG’s recommendation process, including the requirement for multiple endorsements from senior ya...

Erick, founder of Electrified Marina, joins the Founder Podcast Series to discuss how a real-estate opportunity unexpectedly evolved into what he describes as the world’s only dealership focused entirely on electric boating. Drawing on a background in the electric automotive sector, Erick explains how Electrified Marina moved from marina ownership and electric boat rentals into sales, servicing, repowers and multi-brand representation. The conversation explores why electric propulsion is already well suited to certain marine use cases, why specialist product knowledge and customer education are critical, and how Electrified Marina’s brand-agnostic approach helps match customers with the right elec...

Mat Hornsby, co-founder of Williams Jet Tenders, joins the Founder Podcast Series to discuss how a business that began in a garden workshop in rural Oxfordshire grew into one of the marine industry’s best-known tender brands. Mat explains how he and his brother John spent years building wooden boats, remortgaged their parents’ house to fund the business, and eventually identified an opportunity in the yacht tender market that would transform the company. The conversation explores the development of Williams’ early jet tenders, the importance of finding the right engine technology, raising investment, scaling production, and building relationships with major...

Rob Corrigan, founder of Blue Water Index, joins the Founder Podcast Series to discuss how his own experience buying a boat exposed a major issue in the leisure marine market: the lack of transparent, evidence-based vessel valuations. Drawing on around 30 years of experience in technology, data and AI, Rob explains how Blue Water Index is using data science and statistical modelling to give buyers, sellers, brokers, lenders and insurers a clearer view of what a boat is actually worth. The conversation explores why asking prices alone can be misleading, how independent valuations can support brokers rather than replace their...

Joris, founder of B-Craft, joins the Founder Podcast Series to discuss how a lifelong passion for boating led to the creation of a new kind of luxury day boat combining elegant design with serious watersports capability. The conversation explores the story behind the B-Craft Akoya, its patented folding watersports rig, the challenge of balancing styling with functionality, and how Joris and his father have built the business around complementary strengths. Joris also explains why B-Craft works with established Dutch yacht-building partners, how customer feedback is shaping the larger Tahiti model, and why community, sea trials, and direct customer relationships...

David Kneen, director and head of crew employment at Cornerstone Crew Management, joins the Ben Taylor Podcast to discuss why professional crew management is far more than payroll. The conversation explores superyacht crew employment, HR support, contracts, SEAs, travel, visas, insurance, repatriation, crew welfare, and the risks owners face when employment decisions are handled incorrectly. David explains why captains need specialist support, how independent crew management protects owners and crew, and why strong HR processes can improve retention, reduce operational risk, and create a better onboard culture. For yacht owners, captains, managers, and family offices, this episode highlights the...

Tytti Sirola, CEO and co-founder of Bluet Floating Solutions, joins the Founder Podcast Series to discuss how floating infrastructure can help marinas, waterfront developers, hospitality operators, and coastal cities solve one of their biggest constraints: lack of land. The conversation explores floating pools, spas, saunas, beach clubs, event platforms, utilities, crew facilities, and wellness-led marina development. Tytti also explains why floating construction requires serious engineering, how permitting and stakeholder education shape each project, and why modular floating solutions can create long-term commercial value without the environmental impact of fixed or piled structures. Bluet is a Finnish company specialising in...

David Rose, founder of LOOKOUT, joins the Founder Podcast Series to discuss how AI, computer vision, augmented reality, and sensor fusion could transform marine navigation and collision avoidance. The conversation explores why boats have lagged behind cars in safety technology, how LOOKOUT detects vessels, debris, swimmers, whales, and other hazards, and why the future helm experience may feel more like Tesla-style software than traditional marine electronics. David also shares lessons from building partnerships with trusted marine brands, integrating with existing onboard systems, and using AI to make boating safer, clearer, and more intuitive. LOOKOUT develops AI-powered marine vision technology...

Nicolo Pasini, founder of Pasini Yachts, joins the Founder Podcast Series to discuss how automotive engineering, integrated technology, and customer-led design could reshape yacht ownership. Drawing on experience at Automobili Lamborghini, BMW Group, and Automobili Pininfarina, Nicolo explains why Pasini Yachts is building electric Smart Yachts around a proprietary integrated platform designed to simplify maintenance, improve reliability, and give owners more time on the water. The conversation explores product-market validation, stealth-mode entrepreneurship, the difference between building a boat and building a platform, and why the future of yachting may depend on making technology feel invisible. Pasini Yachts describes its...

Jack Molyneux, founder of IDOSY, joins the Founder Podcast Series to discuss the future of luxury yacht charter and why the industry needs a more digital, transparent route to booking. The conversation explores IDOSY’s live pricing, live availability, instant booking model, and how its marketplace could open yacht charter to a new generation of clients. Jack also shares his journey from wooden boatbuilder and master mariner to founder, why charter has lagged behind other luxury travel sectors, and how crew insight can improve the post-booking guest experience.

This Founder Podcast Series is produced in collaboration with Ya...

In this Founder Podcast Series episode, produced in collaboration with Yachting Ventures and Marine Industry News, Ben Taylor and Gabriella Richardson speak with Thomas Frizlen, founder of Swiss Ocean Tech, the company behind AnchorGuardian. Filmed onboard the beautiful M/Y ON TIME, hosted by Boatsters Black, this conversation explores how a sailor’s personal frustration became a proactive anchor monitoring system for superyachts. Thomas discusses hardware and software development, fundraising, product-market fit, captain adoption, certification, distribution, and the shift from startup promise to operational traction. Essential listening for marine professionals tracking safety technology, superyacht innovation, sustainability, and founder-led growth. 

Brought to you by Superyacht Services Guide, this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast features Marcel Herrera of Coast Insurance, recorded on board MY SHEERGOLD at the Palma International Boat Show. Marcel explains how yacht insurance is moving beyond static policies and manual underwriting toward smarter, data-led risk management. The conversation covers Coast Insurance, CompareYachtInsurance.com, dynamic underwriting, smart vessel monitoring, broker relationships, owner experience, and the future of usage-based marine insurance. For yacht owners, brokers, underwriters, and marine professionals, it is a practical look at how technology can reduce claims, improve transparency, and create a stronger partnership between...

Filmed at the Palma International Boat Show, this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, brought to you by Superyacht Services Guide, features Peter Bresnan of OneSails Palma. Peter explains how the loft supports yachts from Optimists to 60-metre superyachts with sailmaking, rigging, composites, design, engineering, and urgent repair work. The conversation explores superyacht sail servicing, rapid-response repairs, and the development of the IFS Multi Tradewind Sail, a DAME-recognised innovation designed to simplify downwind sailing. For captains, owners, yards, and marine businesses, it highlights how specialist expertise, sustainability, and customer-led innovation can reshape performance cruising and superyacht operations.

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In this episode, Wade Pearce breaks down the true dynamics of the Southeast Asia yachting market, drawing on a decade of experience building boat shows and industry networks. The conversation explores fragmented regulation, emerging marina and shipyard infrastructure, and the rise of local ownership across Thailand, Indonesia, and Singapore. For marine and superyacht professionals, this episode highlights the strategic importance of long-term market entry, dealer network alignment, and regional partnerships. It also examines how the Southeast Asia Yachting Conference is driving industry collaboration, regulatory progress, and investment visibility in one of the world’s most discussed - yet misunderstood...

In this episode, Ben Taylor speaks with Emma Deal of MedAire at the Superyacht Technology Show, exploring how proactive medical planning underpins safe and seamless yacht operations. From global risk management and emergency response to real-time vital signs monitoring, the discussion highlights how data, preparation, and clear owner expectations shape outcomes onboard. The conversation also addresses crew welfare, mental health support, and the operational impact of medical incidents. For superyacht professionals, this episode provides a strategic look at mitigating risk, improving decision-making, and aligning medical capability with guest expectations in remote and high-risk cruising environments.

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In this episode, Ben Taylor speaks with Erna Rusi, CEO of Saxdor Yachts, on scaling a disruptive boatbuilding brand from startup to 700 boats annually in six years. With a background in telecom, Rusi shares how structured leadership, decisive portfolio management, and disciplined manufacturing strategy have driven Saxdor’s global growth. She explains the brand’s design-led positioning, focus on serial production, and commitment to long-term supplier partnerships. Recorded shortly before Saxdor’s acquisition by Malibu Boats, this conversation offers valuable insight into growth strategy, product segmentation, risk management, and the future of performance day boats and adventure yachts.

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In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, Lou Clark of Centtrip explains how fintech is transforming financial management across the superyacht industry. From escrow payments and charter accounting to expense management and crew payroll, Centtrip streamlines complex global payment workflows for captains, senior crew, and charter managers. With operations spanning Amsterdam, London, and Fort Lauderdale, the platform delivers compliant, multi-jurisdictional financial solutions tailored to yacht operations. Lou’s 15-year yachting background brings operational credibility to fintech innovation, bridging ship and shore. For superyacht professionals managing high-value, multi-currency transactions across the Mediterranean and Caribbean, this episode explores how technology re...

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, Mark Perry, Director of Yachting at Centtrip, explains how fintech is transforming superyacht financial management. With over 2,300 vessels onboarded globally, Centtrip delivers multi-currency spend management, virtual crew cards, APA account structuring, and seamless API integration with yacht accountancy software.

The discussion explores charter season cash flow pressures, complex ownership structures, KYC compliance, and why traditional banks often struggle with yacht operations. Mark outlines how real-time reporting, digital receipts, and global card issuance reduce administrative burden for captains and crew - while improving transparency for management firms, central agents, and...

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, Maurice Belgrave of Maurice Underwater Services (Antigua) explains the behind-the-scenes work that keeps superyachts moving - from untangling anchors in crowded harbours to hull scrubs, propeller changes, zinc anode replacement, and emergency salvage response. Maurice breaks down the real risk below the waterline, including lift-bag anchor breakouts, night operations, and why commercial diving is a career built on discipline, not shortcuts. You will also hear how a simple act of help connected Maurice with Super Yacht Publications and the Superyacht Service Guide. Essential listening for captains, engineers, and fleet managers operating...

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, brought to you by Superyacht Services Guide, Ben Taylor speaks with Francois Vandame of Cadogan Tate about the specialist world of fine art and high-value logistics for superyachts. From newbuild coordination to moving vessels with tight port windows, Francois explains why art, furniture, and collectible logistics demand precision planning, contingency thinking, and global in-house control. The discussion explores risk mitigation, customs strategy, and why treating logistics partners as an extension of the yacht team is critical for protecting owner assets and onboard experience. Essential listening for captains, yacht managers, designers, and...

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, Ben sits down with Lumitec to explore how advanced marine lighting has evolved from a commodity into a strategic system. The discussion covers smart LED lighting, digital lighting control, and why system-level thinking now matters for boatbuilders, OEMs, and superyacht professionals. From harsh-environment testing and IP-rated durability to POCO4 digital control and next-generation underwater lighting, this conversation highlights how lighting impacts efficiency, safety, build quality, and owner experience. A practical insight-led episode for marine leaders focused on innovation, reliability, and long-term value.

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In this episode, Ben Taylor speaks with Nikita Achkasov, CEO of Bespoke Projects, to explore how his Barcelona-based team delivers high-precision interior and exterior solutions for the superyacht sector. Nikita reveals how the company evolved from specialist teak decking into a full-spectrum interior engineering partner, supporting refit and new build yards across Europe. The conversation unpacks their use of CNC machining, 3D scanning, advanced finishing, multi-material fabrication and emerging 3D printing applications that unlock new design possibilities. Marine professionals will gain insight into how engineering-led craftsmanship, adaptive workflows and cross-material expertise can elevate refit quality, reduce risk and deliver...

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, brought to you by Garmin, we explore EmpirBus and its role in shaping the modern smart yacht. Recorded live at METSTRADE on the Garmin stand, the discussion unpacks how distributed electrical systems connect lighting, climate, entertainment and safety into a single, intuitive onboard experience. Learn how EmpirBus integrates with NMEA 2000, Garmin OneHelm and third-party systems to simplify operation, improve situational awareness and meet rising owner expectations. From automation and modes to robustness, weight reduction and OEM collaboration, this episode offers practical insight for yacht builders, integrators and marine decision-makers navigating the...

Recorded in the Garmin Sound Room at METSTRADE, this episode explores how Garmin is redefining marine audio through its Fusion and JL Audio brands. Kevin Lott explains how purpose-built marine sound systems are engineered for harsh environments, complex hull designs, and evolving owner expectations. The conversation dives into OEM collaboration, real-world acoustic tuning, and how advanced DSP, NMEA 2000, Empire Bus, and Garmin MFD integration create a seamless onboard experience. From sports boats to 70-foot cruisers, this episode shows how audio, lighting, and user interfaces now work together to elevate performance, usability, and customer satisfaction across the marine industry.

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, Gareth Evans of Lumishore explains how intelligent lighting is reshaping onboard experience and system integration. Recorded in the Garmin Sound Room, the discussion traces Lumishore’s evolution from high-power underwater lights to fully integrated above and below-water lighting controlled through Garmin MFDs. Gareth outlines how intuitive UI design, zoned lighting, scene control, and sensor integration enable owners, designers, and builders to create adaptable moods across the vessel. He also shares why UK-based manufacturing, premium components, and Garmin’s engineering culture are central to reliability, innovation, and future product development for the mari...

Vitters Services' Bas Peute joins Ben Taylor to discuss the evolution of Vitters Shipyard and its commitment to large custom sailing yachts. Bas explores the yard’s deep specialism in advanced sailing systems, complex engineering, and lifecycle service support, before revealing details of Project Zero - a 69-metre fossil-fuel-free sailing superyacht. The conversation highlights the technical breakthroughs enabling fully electric propulsion, onboard energy generation, and extreme efficiency design. Bas also outlines trends shaping the next generation of superyacht builds, including hybrid propulsion, electrified sailing systems, and digital helm interfaces. A focused, insight-led episode for marine professionals seeking clarity on su...

Jim Bungard from Global Services joins Ben Taylor at Metstrade 2025 to unpack how early-stage procurement shapes successful superyacht new builds and refits. Jim explains how Global Services supports shipyards, project managers, and new build captains from concept through delivery, managing thousands of specialist components and leveraging long-standing supplier relationships across Europe. The discussion highlights why outsourcing procurement optimises build efficiency, fit-out quality, and lifecycle continuity as vessels transition into operational service. Essential listening for marine professionals seeking to streamline project complexity, reduce procurement risk, and strengthen supply chain resilience in the expanding superyacht sector.

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In this episode, Ben Taylor speaks with Marcus Hamilton, CEO of Propspeed, to explore the business thinking behind the company’s recent expansion and product diversification. Marcus outlines how disciplined channel strategy, transparent partner engagement, and real field data have shaped Propspeed’s growth over the past five years. The discussion examines why the team moved beyond its core Propspeed coating to develop Foulfree - a broader foul-release solution engineered for multiple substrates and a significantly larger vessel market. Marine and superyacht professionals gain insight into long-term product strategy, sustainable coating technology, and how Propspeed is building scalable, partner-led grow...

In this episode, Ben Taylor speaks with John Shinske of Teakdecking Systems, exploring the company’s expanding role in superyacht deck manufacturing, sustainable maintenance products, and distribution across Europe. John shares how TDS integrates R&D, logistics, and installation expertise to support shipyards, refit yards, and captains seeking durable, environmentally responsible deck solutions. From vacuum-bonded systems to non-caustic cleaning products and extended warranties, the discussion highlights how material reliability, supply planning, and ecological compliance shape today’s yacht builds and refits. A focused conversation for marine professionals navigating evolving deck technologies, long-term maintenance strategies, and high-stakes procurement decisions.

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This episode explores Dometic's entry into the gyro stabilisation market with the new DG3 Gyro Stabiliser, introduced by Steve Watson at Metstrade. We break down the DG3's fully electric actuator, low-RPM flywheel architecture, and integrated 48-volt spin battery that reduces power draw, accelerates spin-up, and enables regenerative braking. Steve explains how Dometic delivers active stabilisation in inconsistent sea states, improves installation reliability, and supports OEMs and retrofit dealers with a complete systems package. For marine and superyacht professionals, this episode highlights how next-generation stabilisation technology supports efficiency, safety, and a more refined onboard experience.

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In this Metstrade interview, Ben Taylor speaks with Emeric from Dometic to explore the award-winning CSX refrigeration system - a compact, fully electric unit designed to turn any compartment into a reliable cold-storage space. Ideal for boatbuilders and refit teams, the CSX offers tool-light installation, no gas connections, modular configurations, and full ISO-compliant durability for harsh marine environments. Emeric outlines how Dometic integrated modern design language, a digital thermostat, low-GWP refrigerant, and flexible installation options that scale from small craft to superyachts. This episode is essential for marine professionals evaluating new refrigeration technologies that strengthen sustainability, ease installation, and...

Ben Taylor speaks with Justin Celauro from Dometic at Metstrade to explore the brand's latest self-contained marine air conditioning system. Designed as a true global unit with 115 and 230 volt compatibility and 50-60 Hz support, it simplifies procurement for OEMs and distributors while improving efficiency for superyachts and recreational craft. Justin breaks down how variable capacity, high static blowers, and pure zero-startup technology deliver quieter operation, reduced generator load, and significant energy savings, particularly vital for electric and battery-dependent vessels. The discussion highlights how Dometic's compact two-part-number lineup streamlines sizing, installation, and global deployment for boatbuilders.

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In this episode, Ben Taylor speaks with Quinton Pullinger of Barantech to explore how advanced piezo switch technology is reshaping control systems aboard luxury yachts and leisure craft. Quinton explains how Barantech delivers durable, fully sealed human machine interfaces engineered for harsh marine environments, and why compatibility with NMEA 2000, EmpirBus, and hybrid analog-digital systems is central to modern boatbuilding. The discussion covers customisation, integration, refit opportunities, and the rise of multi-channel control through panels, MFDs, and the Cruzo app. Essential listening for marine professionals focused on reliability, user experience, and next generation vessel design.

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This episode explores how Open Water Solar is making high-reliability, marine-grade solar a practical energy source for all boaters and boatbuilders. CEO Simon Angus explains why conventional panels fail in marine environments and how composite-encapsulated solar technology solves microcracking, shading losses, and durability issues that limit performance on yachts of any type. We discuss solar decking as a new category of usable, non-slip, fully integrated energy surfaces that give OEMs and refit yards greater design freedom and dependable onboard power generation. Essential listening for builders, naval architects, captains, and owners seeking long-life, low-maintenance solar that enhances autonomy and reduces...