Ben speaks with Hugo Jacquot, Managing Director at Fort Insurance, on how independent brokerage reshapes superyacht risk management. We unpack why involving insurance early in a sale or build prevents costly delays, how flag, ownership structure, and trading plans change market appetite, and what great claims handling looks like when the stakes are high. Hugo also outlines practical steps for refit and new build oversight, captain and manager coordination, and why cyber risk now spans vessels, family offices, and suppliers. Essential listening for managers, captains, brokers, and owners seeking better coverage, fewer surprises, and stronger outcomes in a tightening market.

Key Points

• Early insurance input de-risks sales and build timelines.
• Flag and ownership choices drive insurer appetite and pricing.
• Cyber exposures extend across vessels and shore-side partners.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now on the Ben Taylor Podcast.

Ben Taylor sits down with Jason Robertson, founder of MIMO Connect, to explore how next-generation connectivity is reshaping the superyacht industry. Drawing on his experience as an AVIT and ETO engineer, Jason explains how multi-link systems, cloud integration, and LEO satellite constellations like Starlink and OneWeb are revolutionising onboard communications. From server rooms to portable connectivity cases, this episode examines how yachts are closing the digital gap with corporate IT, enhancing reliability, cybersecurity, and guest experience at sea. A must-listen for captains, engineers, and technology leaders navigating the future of marine IT infrastructure.

Key Points:

• How multi-LEO systems redefine superyacht connectivity.
• Cloud migration reduces onboard IT complexity and footprint.
• Why redundancy and security are vital for seamless operations.

Ben talks with Sascha Kunze of Panoblu about a 360-degree thermal-IR camera purpose-built for superyachts. We unpack how full-sphere situational awareness supports close-quarters maneuvering, anchor watch, night navigation, and incident review - while respecting guest privacy with configurable zones and on-vessel data control. Sascha explains RAD - Range Awareness Display - for real-time distance overlays, fleet monitoring options, and an early adopters program shaping the roadmap. If you manage operations, safety, or guest experience, this episode clarifies where panoramic vision complements radar, AIS, and bridge systems to reduce risk and improve decision-making.

Key Points

• 360 thermal vision adds redundancy to bridge sensing.
• RAD overlays distances for precise maneuvering and anchoring.
• Privacy-first configuration keeps sensitive areas off-camera.

At IBEX in Tampa, Ben Taylor sits down with Brian Kane, CEO of GOST, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping security and surveillance across the yachting sector. From satellite-based vessel tracking and theft deterrence to GOST’s new Specter AI system integrating facial recognition, GPS, and machine learning, this episode unpacks how smart security is evolving for yachts and tenders alike. Kane discusses innovation, deterrence strategies, and the fine balance between privacy and protection on the water.

Key Points:

- Inside GOST’s AI-driven yacht surveillance and tracking systems
- How deterrence protects assets and lowers insurance risks
- The rise of satellite “toy management” with Ghost Kasper

In this special episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, filmed at IBEX, we explore the innovative partnership between Kristen Frohnhoefer of Sea Tow and Christophe Lavigne of Highfield Boats as they tackle the barriers to boating with cutting-edge on-water assistance solutions. Discover how this collaboration aims to mitigate the fears that could discourage potential boaters, thereby driving both growth and retention across the marine industry. By offering peace of mind similar to roadside assistance for vehicles, Sea Tow and Highfield Boats are laying the foundation for a new era of client experience, attracting and retaining a new generation of boating enthusiasts.

Key Points

• Sea Tow's Impact on Boater Confidence and Retention
• How Highfield’s Integrative Approach Drives Boat Sales
• Strategic Collaboration

🎧 Listen to the full episode now on the Ben Taylor Podcast.

▶️ Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, Ben speaks with Jelte Liebrand, CEO and Founder of Savvy Navvy - the app transforming navigation into a “Google Maps for Boats.” Recorded at IBEX in Tampa, the discussion explores how digital integration is reshaping the boating experience from “couch to helm.” Jelte unpacks how Savvy Navvy addresses barriers to boating, from complexity and intimidation to fragmented onboard systems, while partnering with OEMs to deliver smarter, safer, and more intuitive boating journeys. A must-listen for marine tech innovators, OEM leaders, and anyone shaping the future of recreational boating.

Key Points:

• How Savvy Navvy simplifies marine navigation for all boaters
• Tackling boating attrition through confidence and accessibility
• OEM integration driving smarter, data-rich boating experiences

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, we delve into how AI and robotics revolutionise the marine and superyacht industries as we explore Viam's innovative solutions under the leadership of CEO Eliot Horowitz. Discover how Viam's technology enhances the capabilities of sonar systems for precision fishing and introduces groundbreaking advances in robotic block sanding, addressing significant labor challenges for yacht manufacturers. This episode is essential for industry professionals intent on boosting production efficiency and maintaining quality without sacrificing workforce through innovation.

Key Points:
- AI-Based Sonar Systems Transform Decision-Making
- Robotic Sanding Solutions
- Achieving Higher Throughput Without Workforce Reduction

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, join Andrew Cook from Barantech at the IBEX show in Tampa as we delve into the revolutionary impact of Human Machine Interface (HMI) technology on the recreational marine and superyacht industry. Discover how piezoelectric systems are reshaping durability and aesthetics, providing sleek, reliable, and customisable solutions suitable for the challenging marine environment. This episode is pivotal for industry professionals looking to enhance vessel life span and customer satisfaction through innovative electronic design, ultimately reducing maintenance costs and boosting the market value of their offerings.

Key Points:

• Piezo-electronic switches enhance marine reliability and design.
• Customisable solutions meet specific boat builders' needs.
• Smart technology opens new opportunities in the refit market.

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast, we dive into the fascinating world of outdoor textiles with Sonya and Niamh from 3Beaches Textiles. Designed in Australia and manufactured globally, their fabrics are redefining durability and aesthetics in the recreational marine and superyacht industry. Discover how these textiles are not just innovative but essential for luxury settings exposed to harsh marine environments. Learn how the company has turned challenges into market uniqueness, setting a new standard for performance fabrics. This episode is a must-listen for industry leaders interested in sustainable growth and competitive differentiation through superior material solutions.

Key Points:
- Unique Designs and properties of outdoor textiles.
- Resilience of Fabrics for Marine Environment.

In this episode of the Ben Taylor Podcast we meet Andrea Bonini a yacht designer at Espen Oeino International. We explore the pioneering concept of solar trees - architectural marvels that seamlessly integrate solar panels into aesthetically appealing structures suited for marinas and urban environments. The discussion covers the strategic impact of these structures for the yachting industry, touching on sustainability, innovation, and infrastructural evolution. As marinas evolve from basic mooring spots into opulent resorts, the need for energy-efficient, elegant solutions has never been more pressing.

Key Points:
- Solar Trees
- How Modular Solar Solutions Drive Green Innovation
- The Business Case for Energy Solutions in Modern Marinas