At the Palm Beach International Boat Show 2025, we were joined by Steve Myers, Founder and CEO of YATCO, from their SkyLounge overlooking the vibrant event. While shows like Monaco and Fort Lauderdale often take center stage, Palm Beach is quickly rising as a global hotspot for luxury yachting. In this exclusive update, Steve shares insight into the explosive growth of the show, YATCO’s expanding international footprint, and how technology—including AI and real-time data—is reshaping the future of yachting.
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Uniting the Industry Through Technology
As the Tech and Connect of Yachting™, YATCO is leveraging its ecosystem of five brands—YATCO, ACREW, Triton News, BoatDeck, and YachtAndBoat (Y&B)—to bring the global yachting community together. The goal is clear: empower professionals through data and connectivity. That means enabling brokers, builders, and crew to reach their audiences through social media, websites, email marketing, and event activations—all powered by real-time digital infrastructure.
A Global Presence with Local Roots
Though headquartered in Palm Beach, YATCO has expanded its footprint to 11 countries, with 76 team members and an active presence at 50 boat shows globally. With partnerships across 20 shows, YATCO is deeply integrated into the industry. Its network includes thousands of yachting professionals—from shipyards and brokerages to crew training organizations. Palm Beach remains the company’s home base, but its impact stretches far beyond U.S. borders.
Real-Time Data Driving Real-World Results
At the core of YATCO’s mission is its technology. In the past year alone, over 90 million data queries were processed through YATCO’s APIs—connecting real-time information on yachts for sale and charter directly to the professionals who need it. The platform also generated more than 80,000 custom brochures, helping brokers present listings to qualified buyers with just a few clicks. From events to marketing campaigns, this real-time infrastructure powers the visibility and reach of thousands of listings daily.
Building Community Through Experiences
Beyond the digital, YATCO is investing heavily in community-driven experiences. Their Triton events attract over 2,000 captains and crew, while the ACREW Crew Awards and upcoming first annual YATCO Awards—bring together top brokers, charter crews and leading industry stakeholders for celebration and recognition. These initiatives go beyond networking—they foster collaboration, strengthen industry relationships, and promote professional excellence.
AI and the Next Wave of Innovation
Looking ahead, Artificial Intelligence is poised to transform yachting just as it is reshaping other industries. YATCO is already exploring AI applications across its ecosystem—from enhancing search functions to powering predictive tools for brokers and buyers. But innovation isn’t just about future breakthroughs—it’s also about continuous, incremental improvement. YATCO remains focused on refining user experience and building tools that are practical, efficient, and impactful.
Anchored in Innovation, Powered by Community
From Palm Beach to ports around the world, YATCO’s mission is clear: use data, technology, and shared experience to move the yachting industry forward. As boat shows grow, AI matures, and new markets emerge, the company’s commitment to connection and innovation is helping professionals thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.
