As a sponsor of this inspired new event, Burgess was delighted to attend the inaugural Superyacht Gathering in Auckland, the City of Sails
The Superyacht Gathering is a bright new idea being given light by two passionate yachting industry professionals, Linda Berry and Ellie Brade. Held over three days in March, its aim is to create a new kind of forum for people and ideas, one that its organisers hope will 'inspire, ignite and engage in an authentic and relevant way.'
As sponsor Burgess was invited to deliver its own message of inspiration, and we chose the theme of innovation because it's been at the heart of everything Burgess does since the very beginning.
Burgess - Industry Innovators
Since Burgess’ beginnings the company has built a reputation for innovation, and for driving many of the superyacht industry’s most important changes. The first CA listing, the first charter brochure, founder members of MYBA, the first Technical department, the first full-service offering, the first series build with Amels, the first office in Asia and more… truly, their mark has been left on the industry in so many positive ways.
Today, innovation and thinking in new ways is still at the heart of all that Burgess does. “We have been leading the superyacht industry for over 40 years and it’s a theme that still drives us, with recent forward-thinking projects including the hybrid propulsion system on board our recently delivered new build, 109m BRAVO EUGENIA,” says Jonathan Beckett, CEO of Burgess.
This approach includes thinking of new and positive ways for owners to enjoy their boats, with one avenue being Burgess’ championing of eco and conservation charters, particularly in the South Pacific. Helping to preserve the oceans for future generations, while interacting with the water in a meaningful way, has become a speciality of the Burgess charter team. London-based Burgess broker Sophie Holmes has been a particular supporter of this, working together with ocean conservation charities and creating low-impact yet spectacular experiences. These include taking charter clients on diving excursions with the not-for-profit company SeaLegacy, letting them enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences with a range of extraordinary marine life, while also learning about measures being taken to ensure their protection and survival.
“Burgess is a big advocate of raising awareness and support for the preservation of our beautiful oceans,” says Sophie Holmes. “The Burgess Blue Oceans programme has actioned several initiatives in the way we work and the messages we send, such as going plastic-free at boat shows; our Technical Services team is making significant improvements to help construct more eco-friendly yachts and the Charter team is actively promoting inspirational eco-friendly charters.”
Just like The Superyacht Gathering’s experience-based approach, Burgess understands how important it is to many of their clients to have meaningful and important experiences that give back and do good as well as providing enjoyment. “Forward-thinking charter clients are not only looking for first-class service and luxurious on-board amenities, they are showing a growing awareness of the need to preserve the natural beauty of our oceans,” explains Sophie. “Increasingly clients appreciate not just the majesty, but also the fragility of the ecosystem at the heart of our industry. We need to find ways to protect it without losing the ability to enjoy it and to share the wonder we all feel.”
Once again Burgess is leading the charge for positive change within the industry. The Superyacht Gathering is proud to be on this journey with the Burgess team.
