Source: Burgess

Reported By: Matthew Kennedy

Burgess, the global authority in luxury yachting, is setting the tone for the 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival with a showcase of its spectacular fleet of superyachts. From September 9 to 14, the French Riviera transforms into Europe’s largest in-water stage for innovation and elegance, marking the start of the international boat show season. Yacht enthusiasts will discover the epitome of design, craftsmanship, and performance as Burgess presents a curated lineup that includes STARBURST III, WILLOW, MAVERICK, NO DESTINATION, and the aptly named REGINE OF CANNES — each a testament to the artistry and engineering shaping the future of luxury yachting.

Today’s superyachts rival private estates in their design sophistication. Naval architects and designers are working with the same level of precision as those behind landmark residences, focusing on open layouts, expansive glazing, and curated interiors that reflect the individuality of each owner. These vessels are less about transport and more about identity — crafted to stand as architectural icons on the sea.

Customization has always defined luxury, but clients now expect deeper personalization than ever. Onboard finishes often include hand-stitched leathers, rare marbles, and sustainably sourced woods. This meticulous approach ensures that each yacht or vehicle becomes a true reflection of its owner’s vision and lifestyle philosophy.

Eco-consciousness is no longer a marketing afterthought — it’s a fundamental part of luxury design. From hybrid propulsion systems to solar-integrated superyachts, sustainability is now a mark of prestige. Boutique shipyards and automakers alike are investing in technologies that reduce emissions while preserving performance, appealing to a new generation of affluent, environmentally aware clients.

Luxury cars and SUVs are evolving into mobile lounges that mirror the serenity of yachts. Think panoramic skylights, adaptive lighting, and interiors engineered for wellness. The revival of heritage models with cutting-edge electric drivetrains highlights a growing synergy between classic design and future-facing technology — a balance today’s collectors highly prize.

Ownership in the luxury sector is shifting toward curated experiences that extend beyond the vessel or vehicle itself. Private regattas, bespoke rally tours, and exclusive members-only gatherings are redefining how clients engage with their investments. The emphasis is no longer solely on possession, but on the sense of community, lifestyle access, and unique moments that ownership enables.

The crossover between luxury hospitality and transport is flourishing. Collaborations between hotels, yacht builders, and automotive marques offer seamless lifestyle ecosystems. Guests may book a stay at a branded residence, enjoy concierge-led transfers in a custom vehicle, and step aboard a partnered superyacht — all under one unified design vision.

Prestige events — from Monaco Yacht Show unveilings to exclusive Concours d’Elegance gatherings — remain essential platforms for brands to showcase innovation. These occasions are less about spectacle and more about cultivating communities where craftsmanship, heritage, and aspiration converge. Each event reinforces the idea that luxury transport is not just a product but part of a cultural legacy.

As yachts, vehicles, and luxury events continue to evolve, the throughline remains clear: excellence is defined by personalization, sustainability, and connection. For those invested in the luxury lifestyle, transport has become less about reaching a destination and more about crafting a journey that resonates for generations.