Latest news with #GulfCraft
Zawya
09-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Erwin Bamps returns as Gulf Craft CEO
Dubai, UAE – Gulf Craft announces the appointment of Erwin Bamps as its new CEO to support its next phase of development across key international markets. Bamps, who played a pivotal role in Gulf Craft's global rise in the early 2000s, brings extensive leadership experience and keen market insights across Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Americas—key regions shaping the industry, where the Group is now actively challenging the dominance of legacy shipyards. His return comes as Gulf Craft scales up production, broadens its model range, and accelerates its reach into both mature and high-growth markets. Underpinning Gulf Craft's growth strategy is a focus on high-tech composite construction, design innovation, and tailored customer experiences—areas where the company has steadily intensified its competition with traditional builders. 'Erwin's return comes at an important time for Gulf Craft, as we continue to focus on strengthening our presence across key global markets. He knows Gulf Craft well, understands the values that have shaped the company, and brings with him broader international experience that will support our future plans. We look forward to working closely together to build on the foundations we have set in place.' — Mohammed Hussein Alshaali, Chairman, Gulf Craft 'Gulf Craft is entering a defining era,' said Erwin Bamps. 'With an already solid global footprint and rising brand equity, we are poised to claim greater market share across the full spectrum—from long-range luxury explorers to fully customised superyachts. The opportunity now is to amplify our global presence, deepen relationships with our clients, and push the boundaries of what Gulf Craft can deliver, without losing sight of the Emirati values and vision that make us unique.' About Gulf Craft Group: Gulf Craft Group is a prominent global entity with multiple companies under its umbrella in the yacht and boat manufacturing industry. Our portfolio includes Gulf Craft, Gulf Craft Maldives, and Gulf Craft Services. Together, we deliver high-quality, personalised vessels for leisure and commercial pursuits to a diverse global clientele, along with exceptional service and support. At the heart of Gulf Craft Group is Gulf Craft, the parent brand that oversees prestigious names such as Majesty, Nomad, Oryx, SilverCAT, and Touring Passenger Vessels. These brands offer a wide range of yachts and boats, from 32 to 175 feet, embodying advanced technology, powerful engineering, timeless design, and world-class craftsmanship. Guided by visionary leadership and driven by a passionate global team, Gulf Craft continually pushes the boundaries of design and performance. This commitment is exemplified by the flagship Majesty 175, the world's largest composite-production superyacht. Since its founding in 1982, Gulf Craft has been at the forefront of innovation, solidifying its international presence through a robust dealership network. The Group operates state-of-the-art manufacturing and service facilities, including a 462,000 sq. ft shipyard in Umm Al Quwain and an additional facility in Ajman, UAE. Since 2002, Gulf Craft Maldives has also operated a 100,000 sq. ft manufacturing and servicing facility in the Maldives, with a brand new 800,000 sq. ft facility set to launch soon. To date, the company has built over 10,000 boats. Gulf Craft Group's unique integrated approach ensures comprehensive support and service for its customers worldwide, continually meeting and exceeding customer aspirations.
TimesLIVE
07-05-2025
- Business
- TimesLIVE
How SA is becoming a sailing mecca
We all love an investment we can enjoy while it also earns us money. It could be a classic car that appreciates in value while you are enjoying a summer's drive along the Garden Route or a guest house that doubles as your holiday home and a rental when you're not there. What about a yacht? Admittedly, that's a big-ticket item, but chartering is what many owners in Europe and the US do, and there are signs it could be growing in Southern Africa. I'm not talking about big superyachts, because vessels up to 25m represent the fastest-growing segment of the market in SA, with chartering predicted to rise by a compound annual growth rate of 5.1% every year until 2030. According to Grand View Research, that could see the market valued as high as $143m (R7.8bn), an impressive number when you consider Saudi Arabia, with its vast investment in superyacht infrastructure at Neom, is likely to have a charter market value of $276m (R15.1bn). The increase is being driven by demand for recreational yachting in SA and across the continent, specially in light of the increase in wealthy individuals. Further interest is coming from international visitors, eager to maximise their luxury experience. Even Generation Alpha is getting in on it as the children of the wealthy look for new ways to travel and new experiences. While many have looked at popular charter spots such as the Seychelles or Mauritius, SA is evolving as a destination for yachts. In 2024 marinas reported a 10% increase in visiting boats, including the glamorous superyachts that grabbed attention. Investment in marina and harbour facilities is making the South African coast more inviting, and the announcement of the Superyacht Hub in Cape Town is likely to attract more yacht owners. There's a wider market at play here too because the Middle East and Africa are fast becoming popular destinations for yachting, with the UAE leading the way. The decline in piracy issues in the Indian Ocean makes it easier for luxury yachts to cruise the eastern coast of Africa, starting or ending their journeys in SA, and there are many islands and cultural towns to visit along the way. It all points to a future where we could see more yachts off our popular coastal spots, and there are many options for new and pre-owned in the up to 25m sector. Naturally, if we're going to promote local you could buy local and SA is a world leader in luxury catamarans. Kinetic Catamarans, Two Oceans, Knysna Yacht Company and Xquisite Yachts are all renowned worldwide for their design and quality. You could combine sailing with electric propulsion with one of the latest vessels from Hop Yacht or go more tech with a foil-assisted twin-hull from Hysucraft. Alternatively look further afield and the choices grow with names such as Gulf Craft, Princess and Sunseeker. Gulf Craft is based in the UAE and has brands in its stable including Majesty, which we had a closer look at in Monaco last year. Its Majesty 60 is a fantastic option for those seeking the superyacht experience without the size or price tag, as are Gulf Crafts' Nomad range. Princess is, of course, a well-known name around the world and the British yacht builder has a number of options to choose from. One of our favourites is the S80, a sport bridge yacht with real presence, lots of deck space for entertaining and a sumptuous interior with accommodation for eight guests. Sunseeker has been a popular yacht name in Southern Africa and across the globe for years, and across its range it has something for everyone. Its most recent models include the Predator 55 and Ocean 156, but it has also updated its Manhattan 68, one of its most popular luxury yachts. Measuring little more than 21m, it has a new flybridge layout, perfect for enjoying the open air. The interior offers all the refinement of much larger yachts and it has up to four berths, including a spacious owner's cabin accessed by its own private staircase. Admittedly, most of these are going to cost more than the average classic car, in some cases more than many houses, but a luxury yacht opens up a world of possibilities — to explore, to create memories and stories. It also opens up the world, with the chance to travel anywhere with family and friends, or have the yacht sailed or transported to your next holiday destination. The option of chartering your yacht for private or corporate use further adds to the attraction.
Axios
17-04-2025
- Business
- Axios
Austin-based Saronic to build 150-foot drone boats
Austin-based defense startup Saronic purchased boatmaker Gulf Craft, securing it a Southern shipyard where it plans to produce a new unmanned warship, Marauder. Why it matters: President Trump has promised new ships "very fast, very soon" in a national address — and now an Austin firm is poised to play a big role. State of play: Last year, Saronic acquired a roughly 420,000-square-foot production and manufacturing facility in Austin to build autonomous vessels. Saronic's acquisition of Gulf Craft gives it 100 acres in Louisiana, at which it can construct larger vessels. Marauder will be 150 feet long — much larger than the 24-foot Corsair, its heftiest drone boat to date. What they're saying:"If we just say, 'Hey, we're going to go build ships the way they've always been built, and we're just going to recreate the workforce that existed 70 years ago,' we're not going to get there as a country," CEO Dino Mavrookas told Axios. "Our goal — our vision — is to have this product released within the next 12 months." He declined to share financial details of the Gulf Craft acquisition. The intrigue: Marauder is being developed "ahead of government contracting," according to Mavrookas. "We're investing private capital to build very, very quickly," he said. "We're not sitting around for three, four, five years waiting for requirements to be written." The vessel is expected to have a payload capacity of 40 metric tons and be able to travel up to 3,500 nautical miles. It has potential commercial applications, as well. Think port-to-port logistics and offshore resupply. Between the lines: Saronic counts among its investors Joe Lonsdale, the Austin billionaire venture capitalist who helped establish the Austin-based America PAC, through which his friend Elon Musk spent roughly $200 million to support Trump. What they're saying: Saronic's new project is a "critical step toward building our own supply chains and countering foreign competitors like China," House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) told Axios in a statement.
Zawya
26-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Iftar Onboard _ Gulf Craft hosts exclusive private viewing of the Majesty 112 terrace at Dubai Harbour Marinas
Dubai, UAE - Gulf Craft, the UAE's pioneering yacht builder, hosted an exclusive private viewing of the Majesty 112 Terrace at Dubai Harbour throughout Ramadan, following its remarkable showcase at the Dubai International Boat Show 2025. This intimate iftar experience offered clients and industry insiders the opportunity to explore the latest addition to the Majesty fleet in an elegant and serene setting of Dubai Harbour Marinas with a stunning sunset skyline as a backdrop. As a brand synonymous with innovation and craftsmanship, Gulf Craft continues to solidify its global leadership in yacht manufacturing. The Majesty 112 Terrace is a new trideck from the shipyard. Since the superyacht is semi-custom, buyers can choose up to six staterooms, plus arrange lounges as they wish. Additionally, a wide range of materials for wall panelling, soles, and furnishings is available. Similar to many yacht buyers these days, Majesty' clients are leaning towards natural materials and soothing tones and textures. They're further leaning toward open floor plans for the main deck. The ongoing private viewing provides discerning clients with the chance to appreciate the yacht's meticulous craftsmanship, expansive living spaces, and advanced engineering in a personalised setting. 'Ramadan is a time of reflection and meaningful connections, and we wanted to offer our clients a unique opportunity to experience the Majesty 112 Terrace in an intimate atmosphere. The overwhelmingly positive response at the Dubai International Boat Show reinforced our vision for the Majesty brand, and this private viewing allowed us to further engage with our valued clientele in a bespoke environment', commented, Mr Mohammed Hussein Alshaali, Chairman Gulf Craft Group. The Majesty 112 Terrace redefines contemporary superyacht living, featuring expansive deck areas, an optimised hull design for superior performance, and a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. With refined interior finishes and state-of-the-art technology, it is crafted to meet the evolving expectations of modern yacht owners who seek both luxury and efficiency. With a growing international presence and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Gulf Craft continues to elevate its global standing while staying true to its Emirati heritage. Hosting this exclusive private viewing throughout Ramadan at Dubai Harbour Marinas underscores the brand's dedication to offering unparalleled experiences that resonate with the lifestyles and traditions of its clientele. As Gulf Craft expands its footprint across key markets, the Majesty 112 Terrace stands as a testament to the shipyard's forward-thinking approach and unwavering pursuit of excellence in the yachting industry.
The National
27-02-2025
- Business
- The National
'Competition is fierce': UAE yacht maker on taking business global amid billionaire boom
Boat building and maritime life have been key parts of Emirati culture for generations, with the modern manufacture of luxury yachts the latest iteration of this in the UAE. Gulf Craft rose from a small, local boat building yard in 1982. Four decades on, the company is taking on international heavy hitters in the luxury yachting market, and bringing its unique, bespoke approach to ship building. From its 43,000-square metre shipyard in Umm Al Quwain, the company has built more than 10,000 boats, with the most luxury model known as the Rolls-Royce of the seas. At 56 metres, Gulf Craft's flagship Majesty 175 is the world's largest composite-production megayacht. What's more, a new 74,000-square metre facility is due to open in the Maldives, complementing its existing 9,300-square metre manufacturing yard in the atolls. More than 300 people will build the Majestic 175 over a three-year period. Costas Eliopoulos, chief process officer at Gulf Craft, said boat building can be broken down into a series of steps on a production line, with forensic attention to detail providing customers with the yacht of their dreams. 'Boat building is still craftsmanship,' said Mr Eliopoulos. 'It's like buying traditional shoes. With most expensive shoemakers, you cannot machine them, and they always have to be handmade. Rolls-Royce, is another example: even though a lot of the components are done by machines, as we are also doing, the final touch is always by hand.' The first stage is to create a mould for the model of yacht to be built. A cast is dropped into water and then laminated with layers of fibreglass to form decks and the ship's hull. Once the yacht is released from its mould, it is moved to a production line where most of the work begins. Inside the giant air-conditioned warehouse are several yachts side by side, bow to stern. Each has its own production team of engineers and craftsmen who work together to build the finished product over months, and sometimes years. Joiners and carpenters put together the woodwork and interior panels of each yacht once the metalwork – including the piping and tanks – is completed. Once the frame, figures and fittings are in place, electrical components are installed in modular stages after being tested. It is then these yachts are moved outside for the first time to begin trials on water. The sea trials include a detailed check for faults, with interaction from the buyer and their prospective crew, to check for any last-minute adjustments or customisation. 'It is then we'll do the handover sea trial according to the specification,' said Mr Eliopoulos. 'The vessel is tested, validated by the customer and signed off. Training is done for the crew, so they know how to operate it, and then we have a dispatch. Initially, the curve is low of the manpower demand you have. Then gradually, as you go into the assembly line, it becomes a huge effort and a lot of man hours, and a ramp-up in that curve. For a smaller vessel we may have 6 to 12 people, and then on a larger vessel, it can be over 300.' The Majesty 175 has a range of around 4,420 nautical miles or around 8,185km. It has seven state rooms across four decks, an owners' suite on the upper level, a private swimming pool and an outdoor lounge. There is also a saloon, dining area and several decks for al fresco entertaining. The UAQ shipyard also produces long-range Nomad Yachts, the luxury catamaran SilverCat and smaller Oryx Cruisers, monohull vessels designed for those with a lighter budget who still want to enjoy a taste of luxury at sea. Mohammed Hussein Alshaali, chairman of Gulf Craft, said new buyers want to spend more time at sea, and want more space and specifications as a result. 'The main change in the international yachting industry is where, before it was only in Europe and the US, now it's all over the world,' Mr Alshaali told The National. 'What is changing is the way people use their boats, and the way they are designed. Now they are more related to lifestyle rather than just used to go fast from one place to another. People are now enjoying them, so we have more space inside and outside the boat – people are living on the yachts.' Costs range from $2 million per vessel to $40 million, with an average of about 200 boats manufactured each year at the UAE yard, 30 of them luxury superyachts. Gulf Craft sells vessels in Europe, the US, Australia and South-east Asia. The global yacht market is experiencing robust growth. A report from Emergen Research estimates it will reach $21.16 billion by 2032 – up from $11.2 billion in 2022. 'The Emirati people are linked to the sea – we are a nation of seafarers,' said Mr Alshaali. 'In the Emirates, we have two communities: those who live in the shores and beaches, and those who are seafarers, traders, fishermen and pearl divers. We are all related to the water, one way or another. But it's a fierce market, so it takes time, hard work and quality to prove yourself.'
