1 March 2024
by British MarineSuperyacht UK, a membership only association representing the interests of the UK Superyacht industry in the UK and overseas, is thrilled to announce the launch of the 2024 Superyacht UK Young Designer Competition. This prestigious event offers a unique platform for young designers from universities across the country to showcase their creativity and innovation in yacht design.
Following the resounding success of last year's competition, which saw Oliver Rommelrath from Staffordshire University crowned as the winner, the 2024 competition promises to be even more exciting. With the event taking place at the Southampton International Boat Show from 16-18 September 2024, participants will have the opportunity to present their designs to an international audience and industry experts.
Ben Geary, Chair of Superyacht UK commented: “Superyacht UK has a focus to help young talent enter our awesome industry. Many of us in the industry started out at institutions like Solent University or Warsash Maritime School, and through the encouragement of peers, or inspiration from mentors, have gone on to be leading members of the Superyacht community. The Superyacht UK Young Designer event is a great opportunity for students to see, first hand, more of this world, to show off their talents, all whilst developing great contacts within the industry. “
To get the competition underway, Superyacht UK, British Marine and Sunseeker International will be hosting an official launch event on 14 March 2024 at Sunseeker International’s client Showcase Suite in Poole. University Design Department Heads and staff are being invited to attend the event to learn more about the competition and what it offers their students. There will be presentations from British Marine and Sunseeker International on the requirements for students covering conceptualisation, design, engineering, interiors etc.
As well as being a great opportunity to visit one of the world's leading designers and manufacturers of luxury performance yachts, guests will also be given the opportunity to explore Sunseeker's state-of-the-art Design and Technology Centre and main shipyard.
Ewen Foster, Chief Technical Officer (CTO) at Sunseeker International, emphasised the importance of developing new talent: "Nurturing talent has been essential to the success of Sunseeker for over 50 years. It is critical that we engage with the young designers of tomorrow who will shape inspirational designs to delight and excite a global audience. For many students, this competition may be their first opportunity to connect with future employers and for those that may end up working with us, their creativity will be at the forefront of our business in the years ahead."
This year's competition introduces two categories for entry: category 1 for 2nd and 3rd year students, and category 2 for Master’s students. A total of 12 places are available, with participants required to hand draw their designs to specific briefs during the two day event at the Southampton International Boat Show in September.
Winners and runners-up in each category can look forward to great prizes, with further details to be announced. Entries require nomination by a tutor/lecturer and the completed entry form must be submitted to Superyacht UK by 19 April 2024.
To register an entrant please use this form: https://forms.office.com/e/W4unaKAi8g
Once all entries have been considered, Superyacht UK will notify the successful candidates.
“The 2023 competition highlighted the immense talent amongst university students, with Oliver Rommelrath's win underlining the high standard of design and creativity among participants. The competition not only provides a platform for emerging designers but also fosters connections with leading figures in the yacht design industry”, explained Lesley Robinson, CEO, British Marine.
University Design Department Heads and staff interested in joining us for the launch event or for more information about the competition that continues to inspire and challenge the next generation of yacht designers, please contact Liv Whetmore at
If you are interested in supporting this year’s Superyacht UK Young Designers competition as an event sponsor, please contact for further information on the opportunities available.