12 February 2026
‘Indiana Jones of the Deep’ to headline must-attend industry event in London this March – Secure your place today!
Superyacht UK is delighted to announce that Mensun Bound, world-renowned maritime archaeologist, explorer and author, will deliver the keynote presentation at the Superyacht UK Technical Seminar 2026, taking place on Thursday 19 March 2026 at the Union Jack Club, London.
Known globally as the “Indiana Jones of the Deep”, Bound will take delegates on a remarkable journey behind one of the greatest maritime discoveries of modern times, the 2022 discovery of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s lost ship, Endurance, lying almost 3,000 metres beneath the Antarctic ice. Drawing on his latest book, The Ship Beneath the Ice: The Discovery of Shackleton’s Endurance, Bound will share extraordinary insights into the technology, teamwork, leadership and perseverance required to achieve the seemingly impossible.
His keynote provides a powerful and inspiring conclusion to a day dedicated to technical excellence, innovation and future-focused thinking, reinforcing why the Superyacht UK Technical Seminar has become a firm fixture in the global superyacht calendar.
We are delighted to welcome Mensun Bound as our keynote speaker for the 2026 Technical Seminar. His extraordinary career and the discovery of Shackleton’s Endurance represent the very best of exploration, innovation and determination, qualities that strongly resonate with the superyacht sector.
Michael Beattie Manager at Superyacht UK
A keynote that perfectly complements a must-attend technical programme
Now in its 15th year, the Superyacht UK Technical Seminar has established itself as one of the most respected technical events in the global superyacht calendar. Bringing together regulators, designers, builders, engineers, surveyors and senior technical specialists for a full day of expert-led presentations, regulatory updates and practical discussion, equipping delegates with the knowledge and connections needed to navigate an increasingly complex industry landscape.
Chaired by Ben Geary, Döhle Yachts and Chair of Superyacht UK, the 2026 agenda tackles the most critical developments shaping the future of superyacht design, build and operation, including:
- REG Yacht Code – Regulatory Update. With a detailed focus on shell doors and openings, Julian Smith, Regional Director (Europe, Middle East & Africa), Cayman Islands Shipping Register, will provide essential clarity on recent changes and what may be coming next.
- MCA updates on Cadet Training and Modernisation programme and pathways to unlimited Certificates of Competency. Lars Lippuner, Director of UK Customer Maritime Services provides crucial insight into the MCA’s modernised training programme and new routes designed to support superyacht crew career progression.
- IMO developments and decarbonisation updates. Lorenzo Pollicardo, Technical and Environmental Director, SYBAss, and Patrick Hemp, Technical Director, ICOMIA, will explore current IMO workstreams and the evolving decarbonisation schedule and what it means in practice for superyacht operations.
- Corrado Musso, Lead Specialist-Yacht Centre of Expertise at Lloyds Register and Matteo Magherini, Head of North Europe Yachting Centre at RINA will be discussing the Yacht Safety and Environment Consortium (YSEC), why it was formed, how it benefits the industry, the YSEC’s loadline clarification and what comes next.
- The panel discussion on post-build and refit warranty works, will bring together experts from across the sector to examine how warranty issues are managed, common pitfalls and best practice approaches. The panel will include Howard Lowe, Managing Director at Mayfair Marine; Tim Woollard, Senior Associate - Yachts Team at Hill Dickinson and Michelle Van der Merwe - Superyacht Group Manager-Mediterranean, Pantaenius.
- AI and intellectual property – ownership and innovation in the era of AI. Harry Strange Beng PhD CPA EPA, Partner at Withers & Rogers, will explore how businesses can protect innovation and IP as AI becomes increasingly embedded across the industry.
- Rupert Mills, CEO of Krome Technologies Ltd will provide the Cyber security update, he will examine what superyacht businesses should be doing now to protect themselves against growing digital threats.
More than just a seminar
In addition to a packed technical programme, the event offers extensive opportunities to network with peers, regulators and decision-makers throughout the day.
- A networking lunch provides time to connect with colleagues and industry leaders
- A drinks reception, kindly supported by Laurent Giles, offers a relaxed setting to continue conversations
- An optional evening networking dinner at the Union Jack Club (ticket required) provides an exclusive opportunity to extend discussions in a more informal environment
Previous delegates have praised the seminar for its relevance, insight and connections:
The Technical Seminar was a very valuable event. The agenda was extremely relevant to the pressures and issues facing the superyacht sector and was a great showcase of the talent and expertise that the UK superyacht community has to offer.
Douglas Hynd, RWD.Book your place today
Spaces for this year’s seminar are limited - and filling up fast, so early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.
Prices:
- Member price - £208 incl. VAT / Member price with dinner - £311 incl. VAT
- Non-Member price - £376 incl. VAT / Non-Member price with dinner - £479 incl. VAT
- Dinner only - £105 incl. VAT (From 19:30, Union Jack Club, London)
For full event details and to book your place, visit: https://www.britishmarine.co.uk/events/superyachtuk-technical-seminar-2026
For further information, please contact Michael Beattie, Superyacht UK Manager – MBeattie@britishmarine.co.uk
The Superyacht UK Technical Seminar 2026 is kindly supported by:
- Networking Partner: Laurent Giles.
- Event Partner Sponsors: DEFENDA, Dohle Yachts, English Braids, Kongsberg, Mayfair Marine, Pendennis and Withers & Rogers.
Learn more about Superyacht UK by visiting www.superyachtuk.com