In the second of two exclusive interviews with Sunseeker, The European sits down with Sean Robertson, Sales Director of Sunseeker International, to discuss its latest models and the brand’s next generation of intelligent, eco-friendly yachts that promise to redefine luxury on the water
The European: How has the Sunseeker brand evolved, and what key elements have remained constant?
Sean Robertson: Sunseeker has a rich history in luxury yacht manufacturing. As a heritage brand with more than 50 years of technical expertise and design integrity, customers feel assured of the high-quality craft that is expected when choosing Sunseeker. An in-house design team of naval architects, structural engineers, systems and electrical engineers all contribute to an industry-leading yacht built to last whilst providing the best in comfort, entertainment and privacy.
Sunseeker provides exceptional after-sales service, ensuring that customers receive support throughout the ownership of their yacht. This includes maintenance, upgrades and customisation services as well as access to Sunseeker’s global network of service centres. Sunseeker owners can also look forward to exclusive events and gatherings organised by the brand where they can meet fellow yacht enthusiasts and enjoy unique experiences.
Can you share any upcoming projects or new models Sunseeker is working on?
We’re really excited to launch two brand new models this year. The Predator 55 and the Ocean 156 are two new yachts in the Sunseeker range. They each possess inherent Sunseeker DNA – an optimised hull for exceptional performance – with their own defining features that will appeal to owners with varying aspirations.
Refinement and excitement converge in the Predator 55, defined by its renowned performance quality and luxurious expanse of three cabins and an open main deck. The Ocean 156, an 80-foot luxury yacht, represents a culmination of Sunseeker’s commitment to technical prowess and refinement. This beautiful yacht showcases the finest in advanced materials, new technologies and a bespoke design that promises a novel boating experience for its owners. The Ocean 156 is equipped with the latest in advanced navigation systems and marine technology. She boasts multiple decks for lounging and entertaining, a state-of-the-art sound and entertainment system and a sophisticated interior scheme that redefines comfortable cruising at sea. The model is an ambitious and beautiful addition to the Sunseeker range.
What should customers be excited about?
Sunseeker yachts are renowned for their meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each yacht is a masterpiece, blending cutting-edge technology with traditional craftsmanship. Customers can expect beautifully designed interiors with luxurious materials and finishes that offer both comfort and style.
Sunseeker offers a high degree of customisation, allowing prospective owners to tailor their yacht’s interior to their specific tastes and preferences. Whether it’s selecting unique materials, bespoke furnishings or custom layouts, Sunseeker ensures that each yacht reflects the owner’s personality and style.
Sunseeker offers a diverse range of models, from smaller sport cruisers to large superyachts – catering to different needs and lifestyles. Whether customers are looking for a yacht for day trips or extended cruising, Sunseeker has a model that fits their requirements, from the Hawk 38 up to the Ocean 182. For adventurers, Sunseeker’s yachts are equipped to handle long-range cruising and exploration with features like increased fuel capacity, robust construction, and enhanced storage. Customers can explore remote destinations with confidence.
What technological advancements in the yacht industry are you most excited about, and how is Sunseeker incorporating these into its future models?
The yacht industry is undergoing a technological transformation, and several advancements are particularly exciting. These innovations are reshaping the yachting experience by enhancing performance, sustainability and luxury. Sunseeker is actively incorporating these technologies into its future models. Here are some of the key technological advancements and how Sunseeker is integrating them:
High-speed internet, satellite communication, and advanced entertainment systems are now standard expectations in luxury yachts. These technologies ensure that owners and guests can stay connected and entertained, no matter where they are in the world. Sunseeker has integrated the latest of this technology into its yachts. This includes high-speed satellite internet, 5G capabilities and state-of-the-art audiovisual systems.
The pursuit of luxury and comfort drives constant innovation in yacht design. This includes advancements in climate control, noise reduction and bespoke interior designs that maximise space and opulence. Sunseeker is renowned for its luxurious interiors and is continuously innovating to enhance comfort and style. The company is incorporating advanced climate control systems, soundproofing technologies and customisable interior layouts. Future models are expected to push the boundaries of luxury with even more sophisticated designs and materials, ensuring an unparalleled experience for owners and guests.
With the rising popularity of explorer yachts, advancements in technology are enabling yachts to venture further and stay at sea longer. This includes improved fuel efficiency, water desalination systems and enhanced storage capacities. Sunseeker is developing yachts with increased capabilities and optimised use of space for extended cruising. The company is focusing on improving fuel efficiency and integrating systems that support longer voyages, such as advanced water treatment systems and expanded storage for provisions. These features will be central to Sunseeker’s future models.
With increasing awareness around environmental sustainability, how is Sunseeker addressing this within its yacht designs and operations?
Conscious boating is becoming more prevalent. We prioritise giving customers the power of choice and we are engaged in a robust Research and Development programme that seeks to reduce our product’s environmental footprint. Among our priorities, we are testing new environmentally conscious materials and sourcing reduction-enabling technology on board. We are engaged with engine suppliers in the development of alternative power options, and we remain receptive to the viable options available in the marine industry. All our current engine providers have approved the use of HVO fuel which typically produces 90 per cent less lifecycle CO2 emissions compared to diesel. These are among other projects in the company’s manufacturing footprint that seek to reduce Sunseeker’s overall environmental impact. Sunseeker has also appointed a dedicated Sustainability and Environmental Manager as part of its wider commitment to long-term sustainable development. This year, Sunseeker achieved ISO 50001 certification which is awarded to organisations committed to addressing its impact, conserving resources and improving the bottom line through efficient energy management. The ISO 50001 certification positions Sunseeker as one of the early adopters within the leisure marine sector of improving energy use through the development of an energy management system. The implementation of ISO 50001 enables Sunseeker to optimise energy use across all its operations, identify significant energy-saving opportunities, and ensure continuous improvement through regular monitoring and evaluation. This systematic approach is vital in addressing the challenges of rising energy costs and stringent environmental policies. It aligns with global efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of maritime activities and supports international climate action goals.
Sunseeker has been certified to the ISO 14001 International Environmental Management System for over 10 years. ISO 14001 is an international standard for environmental management systems that plays a significant role in Sunseeker’s broader sustainability strategy. Incorporating ISO 14001 into a comprehensive sustainability plan helps Sunseeker address environmental aspects, reduce its environmental impact, and improve the company’s overall sustainability performance. Over the course of a decade, Sunseeker has implemented several value-driven environmental initiatives. These include biomass boilers at two production facilities in Poole and Portland which utilise wood offcuts to provide a source of renewable heat, with potential savings of up to 1,200 tonnes of carbon each year. The 20-year agreement seeks to reduce Sunseeker’s reliance on fossil fuels at production sites, in addition to emission reduction throughout the wider supply chain.
What trends are you observing in the global luxury yacht market, particularly regarding customer preferences and demands?
We see trends towards a desire to connect with the outdoors whilst having the comfort of a cool interior that has enough space for hosting guests and entertaining. In response to these global market trends, we have introduced a new range of yachts that caters exactly to offering more space and more connectivity, the Ocean range. As market demand shifts towards heightened functionality and adaptable spaces, the Ocean range responds with innovative design solutions that seamlessly blend indoor luxury with expansive outdoor decks. Sunseeker yachts are designed to maximise outdoor living spaces. Customers can enjoy expansive decks with lounges, dining areas, and sun pads, perfect for soaking up the sun, entertaining guests, or enjoying stunning sea views.
More time is being spent on board, with owners treating their yacht as a private home away from home. Sunseeker has responded with more flexibility to the inside spaces, a significant increase in floor-to-ceiling glazing that allows natural light in and clever design configurations that enable guests and crew to operate independently for extended cruising. Having the option to select loose furniture that reflects their personal style is more prevalent and we have adapted our interior designs to maximise open spaces that can be furnished with statement furniture pieces. This also allows customers to refresh their interior to suit their evolving tastes. A yacht is an emotional and personal purchase and the interior design is an opportunity to showcase the owner’s personality and style.
What are the key characteristics of the “yacht of the future”?
The yacht of the future is expected to embody a combination of cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices, luxurious design, and enhanced versatility. As yacht design and engineering continue to evolve, these key characteristics are likely to define the next generation of luxury yachts. The interior and exterior spaces of future yachts will be highly customisable, with modular designs that allow for different configurations depending on the owner’s needs. This could include reconfigurable living spaces, convertible cabins, and multi-purpose decks. The considerable interior volume spanning three decks is something new, the Ocean 182 is designed to offer flexible entertainment and lounging spaces. The entire main deck is a dedicated space for socialising. With a luxury penthouse feel, the layout can be customised with different furniture arrangements and styles.
The floating spiral staircase on the main deck adds an interesting architectural feature to the interior and this helps to create a light and airy feel. The daylight is naturally maximised with large windows. The architectural and decorative lighting are selected to work in balance with the interior design to create a personal and inviting ambiance.
The interior has elements inspired by nature with curved lines, soft shapes and natural materials. The master stateroom has a sweeping curved bulkhead adjacent to the upholstered headboard, with soft curves in the bespoke vanity desk and bedside tables.
How might these differ from today’s models?
We are working on yachts now that will launch in 2026 and beyond. We are ahead of the curve and foresee future trends in our current New Product Development programme.
In response to the growing demand for green technologies, customers are now seeking yachts with eco-friendly features such as hybrid propulsion systems, solar panels, and advanced waste management systems. Sunseeker is incorporating sustainable materials, like recycled or low-impact materials, in its construction. Clients are more interested in reducing environmental footprint, leading to a rise in demand for yachts with minimal environmental impact.
How is Sunseeker incorporating intelligent technologies into its yachts?
In response to the market trends towards owners spending extended time aboard, we have integrated connectivity technologies to support owners achieving their business needs – not only have we configured our interior spaces with large windows that allows natural light into the lower deck spaces and created desk spaces with ample storage, but we also have Starlink available as an option.
We continually assess how to make our yachts as comfortable as possible. In our 2024 model range, we are fitting the very latest stabilisation to reduce rolling by up to 95 per cent. In unique cases, we will fit a gyro stabiliser and stabilisation fins which significantly reduces roll reduction at anchor.
Similarly, our yachts are fitted with Dynamic Positioning System which automatically holds the yacht in position without the need to drop an anchor, therefore protecting the seabed from any damage beneath.
You can read our first interview with Christopher Head of Sunseeker London, here.
Images: Belters News/Sunseeker International
